Synovus unit to promote Visa check cards.

SAN FRANCISCO - Visa U.S.A. said it entered into a "marketing partnership" with Total System Services Inc. to promote Visa check cards, formerly called Visa Debit.

The effort is similar to one previously announced with First Data Corp., parent of the leading independent processor of bank cards.

Total System, the No. 2 processor, is 81% owned by Synovus Financial Corp. of Columbus, Ga. Its customers will have access to systems and programs designed to speed card issuance and usage.

Visa and Total System are planning workshops and seminars for Visa check card issuers. Such marketing pushes "have boosted Visa check-card activation and usage rates anywhere from 10% to 30%," said Rosalind Fisher, executive vice president, Visa U.S.A.

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