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Diners Club
Frank McNamara |
In 1949, Frank McNamara dines in
a New York restaurant and discovers that he cannot pay for the meal because he
has forgotten his wallet. Although his wife rescues him from his dilemma, he
resolves never to face this embarrassment again. |
In 1950 with his attorney, Ralph Schneider, Frank McNamara
creates Diners Club. The first charge card is offered to 200 people, most of
whom are personal friends and acquaintances. Fourteen New York restaurants
agree to accept the card. The business expands so rapidly that Diners Club has
to change its offices three times. The business begins on the 24th floor of the
Empire State Building, and then expands to the 32nd, and finally to the 77th
floor.
By the end of the year, 20,000 people carry Diners Club cards.
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