STRATEGIC PARTNERS
September 20, 1999
GEMENOS, France -- Gemplus, a large smart card solutions provider, plans to dispense smart cards to organizers of Jubilee of the Year 2000 to smooth potential logistical obstacles stemming from the throngs of people expected to travel to the holy cities. Decreed by Pope Boniface VIII in the 14th century, the Jubilee is an official international holy year that occurs every 25 years. Event organizers chose Gemplus because its production facilities enable quick delivery of large volumes of cards in a short period. In an effort to maintain order and manage crowds, the smart cards would be distributed to the estimated 12 to 20 million pilgrims who will travel to Rome for the Jubilee. Local dioceses and travel agents will give individuals the cards to allow them access to certain areas as Vatican City, Gubbio and Assisi. The Jubilee committee has already accepted delivery of one million new "pilgrim" cards from Redwood, Calif.-based Gemplus. Event organizers are implementing the solution in partnership with Setefi, a computer services subsidiary of the Cariplo bank, which will personalize cards and install the network of card readers.
