Ana Maria Canseco & Western Union to capture Real Stories throughout U.S.

Western Union has extended its relationship with Hispanic celebrity and Univision Network host, Ana Maria Canseco. Following a successful promotion last December, Canseco will be joined by a video crew to capture “real” Western Union consumer stories at national retail locations in major US cities, as part of a new global marketing effort that will showcase the power of Yes! and the value behind money transfer services.

“So many people say YES! to their loved ones everyday by helping them make their dreams come true, put food on the table, or put someone through school. With a tough economy and uncertain times, Western Union realizes every dollar counts. For this reason, we are rewarding receiving consumers in the region with unique advantages such as discount coupons at many retailers in Central America and the Caribbean , where consumers can save on everything from food, to pharmaceutical products and even education” said Raul Duany, director of communications for Western Union .

Canseco will travel the country to get real people’s stories, comments and testimonials which will then be posted on a micro site and other Western Union materials. Canseco will kick off the campaign in Miami, March 20. She will then interview consumers in April in Los Angeles , New York , Houston and Washington , D.C.

Canseco was selected based on her past relationship with the Brand, the fact that she herself is a Western Union Yes! Story and for her open, down-to-earth style. “She is a star who can relate very well to our consumers of all ages, who represent all countries of origin, and all walks of life,” said Duany.

“I am a product of Western Union services,” acknowledged Canseco. “It is hard to go home and visit family as often as I’d like. Fortunately, I am able to send them what I can through Western Union whenever I want. Even though I’m not able to be there in person, I am still able to lend a helping hand.”

Canseco first collaborated with Western Union during the 2008 holidays. As a part of the “Cash, the Perfect Gift” national campaign, she met with consumers in several cities as Western Union gave cash gifts to consumers, shared the gift of knowledge in the form of financial literacy workshops, and unveiled long lasting reminders of Western Union’s commitment to consumers—artistic community murals.