Western Union customers can transfer up to $50 for a $5 fee

The Western Union Company, a leader in the money transfer segment of global payments, found in a recent survey that nearly half of America will travel less this holiday season due to the economy. With fewer people traveling, 52 percent expect to send holiday gifts to family and friends.

To facilitate long-distance gift giving needs, Western Union today announced the launch of "$50 for $5," its new U.S. holiday promotion. Starting today through December 26, 2009, consumers can send up to $50 to loved ones in the U.S. for a $5 fee.

"Affordability is a top priority for all gift givers this year, and with that in mind, Western Union is pleased to offer '$50 for $5' just in time for the holidays," said Stewart A. Stockdale, executive vice president and president of The Americas, Western Union.

"Retailers are likely to see consumers place greater emphasis on practical gift giving ideas - this year - such as '$50 for $5,'" added Stockdale. "Our holiday promotion is a quick and easy alternative to shopping and shipping wrapped presents."

The Western Union survey, conducted in conjunction with GfK Roper, also revealed that while consumers plan to send gifts this holiday season, 6 in 10 Americans say high shipping costs are too high.

Western Union is offering this year consumers the ability to also send cash on a Western Union^(R) branded prepaid gift card.

As part of its prepaid gift card offerings, Western Union recently unveiled the Western Union^(R) Wyclef Jean Visa^(R) prepaid gift card featuring the artist's name and image.

The Western Union Wyclef prepaid gift card follows the recently introduced Western Union MoneyWise and Gold Card reloadable prepaid cards.

Western Union prepaid gift cards are available online at www.westernunion.com.

Source: The Western Union Company