Abstract: A method of processing a purchase card transaction includes receiving a transaction request at a host computer system from a point-of-sale device of a first merchant. The transaction request comprises transaction details relating to a purchase from the first merchant using a private label purchase card relating to a second merchant and an issuer. The first merchant and the second merchant are different merchants. The transaction details comprise at least an identifier relating to the first merchant, an amount, and an account identifier relating to the private label purchase card. The method further includes evaluating at least a portion of the account identifier, recognizing that the account identifier relates to the issuer, routing at least a portion of the transaction request to the issuer, and facilitating a payment from the issuer to the first merchant.

Abstract: A method of providing a postcard presentation instrument for use in a transaction includes applying an information storage medium to a postcard to create a postcard presentation instrument, delivering the postcard presentation instrument to a destination via a distribution system, and settling a transaction involving the postcard presentation instrument. A system for providing a postcard presentation instrument for use in a transaction includes a processing system for applying an information storage medium to a postcard to create a postcard presentation instrument, and a host computer system that receives a request to activate the postcard presentation instrument.

Abstract: A method of including a gift card in a mailing to a customer includes receiving a request to include gift cards in mailings to each member of a group comprising one or more customers. The group includes the customer. The method also includes preparing the mailing. The mailing includes the gift card and the gift card is inactive. The method further includes sending the mailing to the customer and receiving a request from the customer to activate the gift card. The request includes an identifier of the gift card and payment for an amount of value to be assigned to the gift card. The method further includes settling a transaction involving the gift card and a recipient of the gift card. The recipient and the customer are different.