MUMBAI: Selected EMI artists are coming together and offering young fans an alternative way to get their hands on their album covers – through chip and PIN cards.

In an exclusive and first of its kind deal with NatWest and EMI Music UK and Ireland, label artists including Lily Allen, Athlete, The Thrills and Supergrass are allowing their album artwork to be used on chip and PIN cards for teenagers.

Holders of the NatWest Adapt account can log-on to the account website to customise their chip and PIN card with an image of their choice. 

The account, open to 11-18 year olds, has an extensive library of images to choose from, including current album artwork as well as some of EMI’s iconic label logos, including Parlophone, Positiva and NOW! Further album covers from the music label are to be added shortly with account holders also able to upload their own photographs to use as the card design.

NatWest Head of Youth Banking, Mark Worthington stated, “Along with personalising phone ringtones, Facebook pages and clothes, now young people can show their individuality by putting a favourite image on their bankcard, making having a current account more fun.”

EMI Music Head of Music and Brands, Giles Harris added, “We’re thrilled to be working with NatWest and particularly with their Adapt account holders. EMI has been behind some of the most eye-catching and memorable album covers, and it’s great that with this account young people have the opportunity to carry them around with them wherever they go.”

The NatWest Adapt account’s chip and PIN card is enabled by Solo which means it can be used in cash machines and shops but does not allow the holder to spend money that is not already in their account.  The card can be personalised with images at a charge of £5.

The account itself is free of charge and can be managed via branch and cash machines and, if over 16 years old, by telephone and online. Further offers include discounts on Young Persons Railcards, mobile phones and top-up and cinema tickets.