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Letter from the editors

oday's merchant level salespeople (MLSs)
can deliver a suite of payment options
that, not very long ago, would have been
T the stuff of science fiction. And the ability
to provide merchants faster, safer more flexible pay-
ment vehicles ‒ coupled with access to data and other
features that enhance business operations ‒ has led
to a transformation in the role of the MLS. The job no
longer ends when a merchant account is signed; that
moment is now the start of what can become a long-
term, mutually beneficial partnership.

This issue's lead article, the second in a series on part-
nerships in payments, focuses largely on the MLS/
merchant relationship: the ways in which it is chang-
ing, the tremendous capabilities now at merchant's
fingertips, and how to become a trusted adviser who
helps merchants make sense of current technologies
so they can harness them in ways that are tailored to
their distinct businesses needs.

The MLS is always central to the Street Smarts SM col-
umn, which beings the Education section of each is-
sue. The current column takes us back in time to when Bridge the Gap
the term MLS was coined, as well as when the notion
of professional certification was first broached. Then between your
it brings us up to the present with thoughts and ques-
tions on the best working models for ISOs and MLSs. advertising dollars
Join GS Online's MLS Forum (www.greensheet.com/fo-
rums) to participate in the ongoing Street SmartsSM and bottom line.
conversation.

Other contributing writers in this magazine delve into Customized advertising campaigns
the ongoing challenges faced by cybersecurity profes- to fit any size company and budget.
sionals striving to protect systems and networks un-
der relentless attack; how MLSs are well-positioned to • Spotlight Innovators’ Pages
take on the influx of payment facilitators; the multiple
benefits of cash discount programs; and the ins and (frequently updated content)
outs of surcharging in states where the practice is now • Print (various size options)
legal.
• Resource Guide listing
Highlights from a number of recent news stories are (print/online/front page (option))
also provided, including updates on retail spending;
consumer security concerns about biometric payments; • Email Blasts (to GS readership)
a new AmEx-GreenSky partnership; preparations for
the Western States Acquirers Association's upcoming • Online (website/twice month newsletter)
show; Kroger's battle with Visa over interchange; the
Treasury Department's easing of restrictions pertain- • Video
ing to key financial services sectors; and a report on • Bundle advertisng campaign discounts*
U.S. vulnerability to cybercrime. And you'll find our
popular new product and company profile features.

Have you been sending press releases to Danielle Thorpe
press@greensheet.com? We draw substantially from AVP Media Partnerships
your news for updates on industry appointments,
partnerships, acquisitions, awards and more. Do 707-284-1686
you have questions or comments? Please email us
at greensheet@greensheet.com.

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