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First Data Corp. plans to introduce Go-Tag contactless-payment technology Monday at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, the transaction processor announced today. The Greenwood Village, Colo.-based company intends to provide thousands of convention delegates with a contactless-payment device designed as a commemorative pin, each loaded with $10 in value that can be tapped for purchases at concession-stand payment terminals at Denver's Pepsi Center. Each plastic pin measures about one inch square. First Data earlier this year announced plans to roll out the Go-Tag prepaid contactless-payment technology following tests at two corporate cafeterias. Go-Tag usually is a sticker about one inch square that consumers can attach to mobile phones. First Data executives tell CardLine sister publication Cards&Payments that Go-Tags work like any contactless card but are designed to help consumers get into the habit of using their phones as mobile-payment devices before Near Field Communication-equipped mobile phones become widely available. The company also can incorporate Go-Tags into employee badges, wristbands and key fobs, the company says. So far, Go-Tag is limited to prepaid contactless applications. First Data says it hopes eventually to announce partnerships with retailers interested in harnessing prepaid Go-Tag contactless applications for loyalty-based programs and promotions.
