FMI and Catalina Marketing Release Consumer Privacy Program Implementation Guide

               WASHINGTON, DC – January 4 , 2001 — Reflecting their mutual commitment to protecting consumer privacy, Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and Catalina Marketing Corporation (NYSE:POS)announce the release of Consumer Privacy Program Implementation Guide – a set of “best practice” guidelines for retailers in the development of loyalty marketing programs and in the collection and use of consumer purchase data.

“FMI and our member companies are dedicated to protecting the privacy of consumers, as shown by our recently updated Policy Statement on Consumer Privacy,” said Dagmar Farr, FMI’s group vice president,legislative and consumer affairs. “FMI’s consumer privacy guidelines will assist retailers in reassuring the shopping public that the protection of customer privacy is fundamental to all marketing programs.”

“We felt compelled to work with FMI to develop these guidelines because we know how important the issue of privacy is with consumers, especially as technology improves to allow one-to-one communication,” said David Diamond, president of emerging businesses and chief vision officer for Catalina Marketing. “Together we established an advisory committee of key players to ensure that all sides were represented. We believe these guidelines will help retailers understand the issues to develop responsible programs for their customers.”

Produced in consultation with FMI member companies, privacy experts, market research organizations and consumer groups, the 16-page guide is presented in two sections. The first
provides an overview of Fair Information Practices and their applicability to data-driven merchandising programs in grocery stores – particularly those involving loyalty or frequent shopper cards. The second section offers implementation guidelines for retailers who are considering the implementation of loyalty programs or seeking to strengthen existing ones.

The guide includes samples of loyalty card applications, disclosure forms and privacy statements. It also lists information about organizations that offer Privacy Seal certification programs.

To obtain a complimentary copy of Consumer Privacy Program Implementation Guide, or for more information, please visit the FMI Web site (www.fmi.org/gr/consumeraffairs.htm) to download the complete document or contact FMI’s Consumer Affairs department at (202)220-0620 to request a printed copy .