AAA Program Marks First Decade with $2.5 Billion in Member Savings

    ORLANDO, Fla.--May 1, 2003--Since its founding 10 years ago this week, AAA's Show Your Card & Save(R) program has saved its members more than $2.5 billion and grown to include many of America's preeminent brands.
    "Whether they've been staying in hotels and renting cars on vacation or buying tires and eyeglasses close to home, many AAA members have saved more than enough to pay for their membership with the Show Your Card & Save program," said Tom Wilt, managing director, AAA Partnership Programs.
    "The program helps stretch vacation dollars and adds another layer of value to AAA memberships," said Wilt. Show Your Card & Save is a benefit for AAA's 46 million members in the United States and Canada.
    AAA members saved a record $396 million last year with 65 national brands including Hertz, Marriott, Amtrak, Lenscrafters, Penske Truck Rental and Casual Corner Group. The program also includes thousands of regional and local merchants.
    "In the current economy, American families have again become highly budget conscious and seek savings wherever they can find them," said Wilt. "Show Your Card & Save puts instant savings right at consumers' fingertips at the retailer's or service provider's cash register or Web site."
    So far in 2003, seven new national Show Your Card & Save program partners have signed agreements with AAA including the Charthouse and Muer's restaurant chains, Boston Coach executive limousines, Hickory Farms and the Hard Rock Vault attraction in Orlando.
    "We are continually looking to connect our members with savings on the major brands that they know, want and trust," said Wilt.
    In addition to adding new partners in 2003, AAA plans to expand its national merchant database, Search for Savings, on http://www.aaa.com and to expand its savings network of international reciprocal partner clubs in Europe, Mexico and Asia.
    As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides its 46 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.

    AAA news releases are available from http://www.aaa.com/news