UK Centurion Update
This post is for all the UK readers. If you are a current Centurion UK member, you have likely heard about an update to the program or a benefits refresh. I heard from a reader that Amex told him the update was coming this September. That probably translates to sometime in Q4, since this stuff almost always comes out delayed. Some things you can likely expect are:
- Increased benefits
- Raised annual fee
- Tougher joining requirements
- Titanium cards
This refresh is long over due according to the UK members I have talked to. One thing to think about as well, is this could be American Express’ first step to a worldwide standard for Centurion members, as right now there are large discrepancies. Any thoughts from the UK readers?
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Comments
Well said, REAL Money. It’s similar here in the U.S. as well. Some folks are getting this card from spending a lot of money that the majority of isn’t there’s to begin with. It kind of makes sense however, because AMEX is known these days for upgrading their clients based on what they spend on an existing AMEX card, not necessarily what their net worth is. *Not saying this always the case but it is an important factor people might not realize.*
Eddie
REAL Money - that’s the IEC product you have. The UK card is £650 currenty. Your’s is serviced out of the UK, but has already had its benefit line-up refreshed, hence the jump from a €1000 annual fee, to the new €2800 fee.
Not really sure I see you logic on eligibility though - what do AmEx really care if someone is prepared to pay the annual fee and is spending large amounts each month (regardless if it’s their money or company expenses) - AmEx is still getting its cut of merchant fees, and potentially the more lucrative travel commission.
UK Refresh - I’ll believe it when I see, it has been ‘due’ for at least 2.5 years now. One thing is for sure, I can see the annual fee significantly increasing as it is out of line compared to Centurion in other markets.
And as a separate note to anyone thinking of Centurion for status and recognition - forget it. In 9 years (and 10k+ transactions with me present), I can count the number of instances of people actually knowing what the card is in the single digit range, and the majority of those are in the US. The UK benefits have dwindled, and service has been on a downward spiral for years. The MO benefits and insurance coverage have been its saving grace.
I have a UK based Titanium card (no chip on the face.. but there’s a funny chip-like bulge that reveals itself on an angle, just beneath the magnetic stripe at right) .. It’s a new card (just arived in June). My fee was 2800 euro this year. No mention of benefits changes yet, but I will avoid using points for the moment, pending the update. If they’re sincere about it, I think it’s probably best that they’re toughening the joining requirements. Too many people who can’t actually afford this card milk the benefits such as companion tix and spoil it for everyone else. Here’s to hoping Amex follows through on that or invents yet another card for those who spend like they truly deserve it.