Payless Lodging Offers Members Credit Card Processing Savings

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.--May 28, 2002--Payless Lodging, an innovative online distribution and marketing network of independent lodging properties, offers a new member benefit that allows most independent hotel operators the opportunity to save an average of 10 to 18 percent on credit card processing costs. Avalon Global Group, Inc., parent company to Payless Lodging, recently announced the joint partnership with First Credit Card Corporation to form Payless Processing.
    "Payless Lodging is committed to building partnerships that truly create value for independent owners," said Meredith Bishop, president, Payless Lodging. "Through savings achieved by Payless Processing, we help the independent owner drive money to the bottom line and increase cash flow."
    There are 47 different classifications for credit card transactions. Processing fees can vary greatly based on how the transaction is entered into the system and the way it is processed. Simple changes in this process can offer substantial savings. Not only will members achieve bottom line savings, in most cases they also cover the Payless Lodging membership fee.
    "Hotel owners will receive the same service for less money without having to change equipment or management systems," said John Ziglar, president, First Credit Card Corporation. "With about 80 percent of a hotel's bookings secured through a major credit card, processing fees directly impact gross revenue."
    As a Payless Lodging member, signing up for the Payless Processing benefit is simple. Members log on to the Payless Processing Web site to request the service and verify membership. A representative contacts the member and explains the process and requests a copy of the hotel's typical merchant statements. Payless Processing analyzes the statements and provides a detailed breakout of what is being charged and the savings that can be achieved through minor adjustments.
    "Payless Lodging understands that reviewing credit card processing charges is confusing and not a top priority. This service will save time and money for the members," added Ziglar. "The Payless philosophy is all about service and savings, and we are excited to be a part of the Payless team."
    Payless Lodging is a partnership of mid-priced independent motels, hotels, bed and breakfasts, condominiums and vacation homes that provides travelers online Internet access to reserve accommodations worldwide.
    For more information about becoming a Payless Lodging member, to make reservations, or for more information about career opportunities visit the Payless Lodging Web site at http://www.PaylessLodging.com or call (727) 328-7565.

    NOTE TO EDITOR: Meredith Bishop Headshot - High resolution, downloadable photo is available at: http://www.paylesslodging.com/Home4.html