DUBLIN, Tuesday July 3, 2012. AIB Merchant Services (www.aibms.com), a merchant acquiring joint venture between First Data Corporation and Allied Irish Banks p.l.c, today announced the successful rollout of a tax-free service in conjunction with Tax Free Worldwide, enabling Irish businesses to offer VAT (Value Added Tax) refunds to customers visiting Ireland from outside the European Union.

The service automatically identifies customers eligible for tax-free shopping at the point of sale, generating a printed VAT reclaim form in seconds through an AIBMS point of sale terminal.

Patagonia, the outdoor clothing company located on Exchequer Street, Dublin, is one of the many stores that have already introduced this service. “We invest in innovative technologies and welcome initiatives like this that will make it easier for customers to shop in our store,” said Aisa Cooper, Store Manager at Patagonia Dublin.

Customers who are entitled to tax-free shopping are conveniently provided with the refund form instantly instore which can be completed and returned in the customer’s own time, ensuring better service for visitors.

Nigel Motyer, General Manager, AIBMS commented: "We are delighted to offer retailers the facility to add value to their customers’ shopping experience. Any services that improve efficiency and convenience for tourists at the point of sale, is good for the retail sector in Ireland.”

According to Tourism Ireland, in 2011 approximately 7.3 million overseas visitors came to the island of Ireland, contributing approximately €3.4 billion with overseas tourism business accounting for 59% of all tourism revenue.

-ENDS-

About Tax Free Worldwide
Founded in 2003, Tax Free Worldwide is an international financial services company specialising in Value Added Tax (V.A.T.) refund and tourist payment services for merchants and retailers.

About AIB Merchant Services
AIB Merchant Services (AIBMS) is one of Ireland's largest providers of card payment services. The company employs more than 80 people in Republic Ireland and the UK. AIBMS is a joint venture between AIB plc and First Data Corporation, a global leader in electronic commerce and payment services.

If you would like more information please contact:

Cathy Riordan
Managing Director, PR Wise
Tel:     +353 1 400 7528
Email: cathy.riordan@prwise.ie

Louise Durning
Marketing Manager, AIB Merchant Services
Tel:     + 353 1 2182149
Email: louise.durning@aibms.com