About us

The concept behind Citycard originated with its Founder, an Edinburgh resident, who first proposed offering discounts from local businesses to public sector workers, including key staff in hospitals and schools, in 1999. The idea was to help these essential workers stretch their wages further and alleviate financial constraints when going out, while also fostering improved community relationships and enhancing competition among service providers.

Despite presenting the idea to Edinburgh Council’s Corporate Services, the Founder received no support or funding. The Council did, however, publish a few advertisements in their newsletters.

In 2000, the Founder moved to London and sought support from local boroughs, who expressed approval but did not provide financial backing.

By 2007, it was discovered that Edinburgh Council had appropriated the original idea, rebranded it, and launched it to public sector workers, eventually making it available to the general public and other boroughs.

The Founder subsequently pursued legal action against Edinburgh Council, which, along with Westminster Council, withdrew their Citycard in 2007.

The Founder subsequently pursued legal action against Edinburgh Council, which, along with Westminster Council, withdrew their Citycard in 2007.

Now, the Founder aims to expand the Citycard concept nationally and beyond, allowing more people to benefit and make regular savings.

Citycard will support both local and national charities, be eco-friendly by reducing junk mail, and continually seek innovative ways to promote the products and services offered.

The Founder is proud to introduce the digital Citycard, which eliminates the need for physical cards, thereby reducing the environmental impact associated with printing and distribution.

The Citycard, initially launched as an “Edinburgh loyalty card” in 2000, has proven popular and continues to evolve.