Barcode Plastic Cards: Scannable Custom Cards for Your Business
Welcome to Plastic Card ID: Your Trusted Source for Barcode Plastic Cards
Every great brand leaves a mark - something people can hold, scan, and remember. At Plastic Card ID, we have spent over 25 years crafting high-quality barcode plastic cards that do exactly that. From loyalty programs to membership credentials, our cards connect businesses with the customers who matter most.
We ship nationally, reaching businesses of every size across the country. Whether you need 500 cards or 500,000, our team is ready to deliver. Our process is simple, our quality is outstanding, and our support is always just a phone call away at 800-835-7919.
Barcode plastic cards are more than just a piece of plastic. They are a powerful business tool that drives loyalty, boosts sales, and creates real connections. We know this because we have helped over 100,000 businesses - and sold more than 50 million cards - proving that this technology works.
What Makes Barcode Plastic Cards So Powerful?
A barcode plastic card puts your brand in your customer's wallet. Every time they reach for it, they see your name. That kind of exposure cannot be bought with a digital ad. Our barcode cards are built to last, resist wear, and scan reliably every single time - making them a smart, long-term investment for any business.
We produce cards with 1D barcodes, 2D QR codes, and even combination formats depending on what your point-of-sale system requires. Our printing team works closely with clients to ensure perfect compatibility from day one. The result is a card that works flawlessly on the floor and looks stunning in hand.
Industries We Proudly Serve
Retailers, gyms, restaurants, healthcare providers, schools, and entertainment venues all rely on our barcode plastic cards every day. We understand that each industry has unique needs, and we take pride in tailoring our products to fit those specific requirements without making the process complicated or expensive.
Our team brings deep experience across dozens of market segments. We have seen what works and what does not, and we use that knowledge to guide every client toward the best possible solution. With us, you are not just ordering cards - you are gaining a strategic partner who genuinely wants your business to succeed.
Ships Nationally - Fast and Reliable
No matter where your business is located, we ship barcode plastic cards right to your door. Our national shipping network means that businesses from coast to coast can count on timely delivery without added hassle. We pack every order carefully to ensure cards arrive in perfect condition, ready to distribute.
Speed matters in business, and we take that seriously. Our production timelines are designed to keep you moving forward without delays. Rush options are available for time-sensitive orders, and our team communicates clearly every step of the way so you always know where your order stands.
The Science Behind Barcode Technology on Plastic Cards
Barcode technology transforms a simple plastic card into a smart data tool. When a customer presents their card, a scanner reads the unique code in milliseconds, pulling up account information, tracking purchases, or granting access. This happens quietly and efficiently, making the experience smooth for both staff and customers.
We engineer our barcode plastic cards to meet the strictest scanning standards. Whether your system uses laser scanners, CCD readers, or smartphone-based apps, our printed barcodes are crisp, accurate, and reliably readable. We test every batch to make sure performance never disappoints.
Types of Barcodes We Print
Not all barcodes are the same, and choosing the right format matters. We offer a wide range of barcode types to match your existing systems or help you design a new one from scratch. Our technical team can advise you on the best format based on your industry, software, and customer experience goals.
- Code 39 - widely used in retail and logistics
- Code 128 - compact and highly versatile
- EAN-13 - standard for retail product identification
- QR Codes - scannable by smartphones for added engagement
- PDF417 - ideal for ID cards and government applications
- Data Matrix - small footprint, high data density
Each barcode format serves a specific purpose, and we print all of them with exceptional clarity. Our equipment produces sharp, high-contrast barcodes that scan perfectly right out of the package. This is not a detail we overlook - it is a quality standard we insist on for every single order.
Sequential Numbering and Variable Data Printing
Many barcode card programs require each card to carry a unique number. We specialize in sequential numbering and variable data printing, meaning every card in your order can have a completely different barcode, name, or number printed on it. This capability is essential for membership cards, loyalty accounts, and secure ID credentials.
Our variable data system integrates smoothly with your database or spreadsheet. You send us the data file, and we handle the rest. There is no need for complicated software on your end - we manage the technical side so you can focus on running your business.
Encoding Options for Added Functionality
Beyond printed barcodes, we also offer magnetic stripe encoding, RFID chip programming, and smart card encoding. These technologies work alongside or instead of visual barcodes to give your plastic cards even greater capability. A card with both a printed barcode and a magnetic stripe, for example, can work with multiple systems at once.
This level of flexibility is what sets us apart. We do not offer a one-size-fits-all product. Instead, we work with you to build a card that fits your exact technical requirements while still looking sharp and professional. That combination of function and form is what our clients keep coming back for.
| Card Type | Best Use | Common Barcode Format |
|---|---|---|
| Loyalty Cards | Retail, Restaurants, Gyms | Code 128, QR Code |
| Gift Cards | Retail, Hospitality | Code 39, EAN-13 |
| Membership Cards | Clubs, Associations, Healthcare | Code 128, PDF417 |
| ID Badge Cards | Corporate, Schools, Events | QR Code, Data Matrix |
| Access Control Cards | Hotels, Offices, Casinos | RFID, Magnetic Stripe |
Gift Cards and Loyalty Cards That Drive Real Results
Here is a fact that might surprise you: businesses that switch from paper gift certificates to plastic gift cards often see sales jump by as much as 100%. That is not a small improvement - that is a transformation. Our barcode plastic gift cards look professional, feel premium, and motivate customers to spend more and return more often.
Loyalty cards are equally powerful. Studies consistently show that loyalty programs using physical barcode cards can boost sales by 35-50%. Customers who carry your card are psychologically more committed to your brand. They come back, they spend more, and they tell their friends. That cycle of loyalty starts with the card in their wallet.
How Gift Cards Increase Average Transaction Size
When a customer pays with a gift card, they tend to spend beyond the card's value. This phenomenon, known as "overspend," means your average transaction size grows automatically. A beautifully designed, barcode-equipped plastic gift card encourages this behavior far more effectively than a paper voucher ever could.
Our gift cards are designed to impress from the moment they are handed over. Full-color printing, custom shapes, and durable PVC material make your card feel like a premium product. That perceived value motivates customers to purchase them as gifts, which drives new customers into your store. It is one of the smartest marketing moves a business can make.
Building Customer Loyalty That Lasts
A loyalty card program backed by our barcode plastic cards keeps customers engaged long after their first visit. Every scan records a transaction, rewards a purchase, and reinforces the habit of returning to your business. This creates a data-rich relationship that helps you understand your best customers and serve them better over time.
We have helped businesses in retail, food service, fitness, and personal care build thriving loyalty programs that deliver measurable results. Our cards are the physical anchor of those programs - reliable, attractive, and always ready to scan. When loyalty is on the line, the quality of your card matters more than most people realize.
Custom Carriers and Packaging for Your Cards
A card without a carrier is a missed opportunity. We offer custom-printed card carriers, sleeves, and mailers that complement your barcode plastic cards and reinforce your brand at the moment of delivery. Whether you are handing cards to customers at the register or mailing them directly to homes, presentation matters enormously.
Our packaging solutions are fully customizable with your logo, colors, and messaging. We can even handle the affixing and mailing for you, turning the entire fulfillment process into a smooth, hands-free operation. This full-service approach saves you time and ensures consistency across every single card that goes out the door.
Membership Cards, ID Badges, and Credential Cards
Membership and identity cards do more than identify a person - they create a sense of belonging. When a new member receives a beautifully designed card with their name and a unique barcode, they feel officially part of something. That emotional connection drives engagement, reduces dropout rates, and builds community in a way digital apps simply cannot replicate.
We produce membership cards for associations, alumni groups, unions, fitness clubs, trade organizations, and healthcare networks. Each card is crafted with precision and customized to reflect the character and values of the organization it represents. From the design to the barcode encoding, we handle every detail.
Employee ID and Security Badge Cards
A well-designed ID badge card does two important jobs at once. First, it identifies an individual clearly and professionally. Second, it controls access to secure areas using barcode scanning, magnetic stripe swiping, or RFID technology. Our employee ID cards meet both of these needs with a single, durable product.
We understand that businesses need ID cards that hold up under daily use. Our cards are printed on high-quality PVC stock that resists bending, fading, and surface scratches. Add a clip, lanyard slot, or badge reel, and you have a complete credential solution that serves your staff efficiently for years.
Alumni and Association Cards
Alumni organizations, professional associations, and clubs use our barcode membership cards to recognize members, track attendance, and control access to exclusive benefits. A plastic card with a scannable barcode gives the cardholder a credential they can be proud of - something they are likely to keep and show others.
We print alumni and association cards with stunning full-color artwork, school colors, organizational logos, and personalized member data. Sequential numbering and variable data printing make it easy to produce large runs where every single card is unique. Our team handles production efficiently so even large organizations receive their full order on time.
Union and Trade Credential Cards
Union members carry their credential cards as a mark of professional pride. We produce union and trade credential cards that are durable, secure, and printed to exacting standards. Barcode technology on these cards can link directly to member databases for instant verification, making them both functional and trustworthy.
Our experience with union and labor organizations means we understand the importance of accuracy and reliability in credential printing. Every card we produce for these organizations is checked against the provided data to ensure there are no errors. When a member's credentials are on the line, precision is not optional - it is essential.
Card Printers and Refill Supplies Shipped Nationally
We are not just a card printer - we are a complete card solution provider. That means we also supply the card printers, ribbons, blank card stock, and accessories you need to print cards in-house. Whether you are setting up a new printing station or restocking your current one, we have everything you need shipped directly to your location nationwide.
In-house card printing gives businesses the flexibility to issue cards on demand, update designs quickly, and avoid minimum order requirements. We carry a broad selection of desktop and professional-grade card printers to fit any budget and production volume, from small offices to high-traffic enrollment centers.
Popular Card Printer Models We Carry
Our catalog includes single-sided and dual-sided card printers from leading manufacturers. We can match you with the right printer based on your monthly volume, card type requirements, and budget. Whether you print 50 cards a month or 5,000, there is a printer in our lineup that fits perfectly.
- Entry-level single-sided printers for small offices - starting around $300-$500
- Dual-sided desktop printers for medium-volume needs - typically $500-$900
- High-volume production printers for large organizations - ranging from $1,000-$3,500
- Retransfer printers for edge-to-edge printing on specialty cards
- RFID encoding printers for smart card programs
Each printer we sell is backed by manufacturer support and our own knowledgeable customer service team. We help you set up, troubleshoot, and maintain your equipment so downtime is minimized and productivity stays high. Call us at 800-835-7919 and one of our specialists will help you find the right printer for your exact situation.
Ribbons, Overlaminates, and Blank Card Stock
Running out of supplies at the wrong moment can bring your card issuance process to a grinding halt. We keep a full inventory of printer ribbons, holographic overlaminates, blank white PVC cards, and cleaning kits so you can reorder quickly and keep operations running smoothly without unnecessary delays.
Our supplies are compatible with all major card printer brands, and we stock both color YMCKO ribbons and monochrome options for different printing needs. Bulk pricing is available for organizations that go through supplies quickly, making it cost-effective to keep a healthy stock on hand at all times. Restocking is easy - just reach out and we handle the rest.
Accessories That Complete Your Card Program
Great card programs require more than just the card itself. We offer a full range of accessories including lanyards, badge holders, card reels, slot punches, and lamination pouches. These items complement your barcode plastic cards and help your staff manage and display them professionally in any setting.
Bundling accessories with your card order is a smart way to ensure everything arrives together and is ready to deploy immediately. We can package accessories with your cards or ship them separately as needed. Our goal is to make your card program as complete and convenient as possible from the very first day.
Specialty Cards: Clear, Custom Shapes, and Metal Cards
When a standard card just will not do, we offer specialty card options that command attention and leave a lasting impression. Our clear plastic cards, custom-shaped cards, and luxury metal cards are designed for brands that want to stand apart from the competition in a bold, unmistakable way.
These specialty cards are not gimmicks - they are strategic tools. A metal loyalty card communicates exclusivity. A custom-shaped card gets remembered. A clear plastic card lets your artwork or background design take center stage. Each format serves a specific purpose and elevates your brand perception significantly.
Clear Plastic Cards That Make a Visual Statement
Our clear and frosted plastic cards are a favorite among brands in fashion, beauty, hospitality, and nightlife. These cards allow for creative designs that play with transparency, making the card itself part of the visual experience. A barcode can be printed clearly on the card without disrupting the overall aesthetic, keeping functionality intact.
We produce clear cards in full transparent and frosted semi-transparent finishes, and we can combine clear sections with opaque printing areas for maximum design flexibility. The result is a card that genuinely surprises people when they first hold it - and that kind of reaction is exactly what a premium brand wants to create.
Custom-Shaped Cards That Break the Rectangle
Die-cut custom shaped cards free your brand from the standard credit-card rectangle. We can produce cards in virtually any shape - rounded corners, key tags, loyalty fobs, and fully custom die-cut profiles that match your logo or product. These shapes naturally draw attention and become conversation pieces on their own.
Key tag cards are especially popular for loyalty programs because they attach to a keychain and stay visible every day without taking up wallet space. This keeps your brand in front of your customer constantly. Barcodes work just as well on key tag format cards, so there is no sacrifice in functionality when you choose a custom shape.
Luxury Metal Cards That Command Respect
Our metal cards are crafted from stainless steel, brushed aluminum, and gold-finish materials that feel genuinely impressive in the hand. These cards are perfect for VIP membership programs, exclusive loyalty tiers, corporate gifting, and premium brand experiences where the card itself is part of the message you want to send.
Metal cards carry a weight - both literally and figuratively - that plastic cards simply cannot match in certain contexts. When a customer receives a metal membership card, they understand immediately that they are valued. We laser-engrave barcodes directly onto metal cards to ensure perfect scan accuracy while maintaining the premium look that makes these cards so special.
Access Control Cards: Hotels, Casinos, and Secure Facilities
Security and access control are areas where the quality of your plastic card directly impacts your operations. A card that fails at the door creates frustration and risk. Our access control barcode plastic cards and RFID smart cards are engineered for reliability in high-use environments where scanning happens dozens or hundreds of times daily.
We supply access control cards to hotels, casinos, corporate offices, healthcare facilities, universities, and government buildings. Our expertise in this area means we understand the technical requirements, the security standards, and the practical demands of high-traffic access management better than most suppliers ever could.
Hotel Key Cards and Guest Experience
A hotel key card is often the first branded item a guest touches after check-in. It sets the tone for their entire stay. Our hotel key cards are available with magnetic stripe encoding, RFID technology, and full-color custom printing that reflects your property's unique personality and brand standards.
We produce hotel key cards that integrate smoothly with all major property management systems. Durability is built in - our cards withstand the repeated wear of pocket storage and reader contact across many guest rotations. Whether you manage a boutique inn or a large resort chain, we can supply the key cards your operation needs without interruption.
Casino Player Cards and Loyalty Integration
Casino player cards do double duty - they identify the player and track their activity for rewards purposes. Our casino cards are printed with stunning graphics that match the visual energy of a casino floor, while the embedded barcode or magnetic stripe links seamlessly to your player management software for accurate, real-time tracking.
We understand the casino industry's need for speed and accuracy in card fulfillment. Programs are always evolving, promotions change frequently, and the demand for new card issues can spike without much warning. Our production capacity and national shipping network mean we can respond quickly to keep your program running at full speed.
RFID and Smart Cards for Contactless Access
Contactless access control is rapidly becoming the standard in corporate and institutional environments. Our RFID smart cards, including MIFARE DESFire and other contactless formats, give your facility a modern, touchless entry experience that is both convenient and secure. These cards can also store encrypted data for multi-application use.
We program RFID cards to your facility's specific reader configuration and encode them with the credentials your system requires. The process is straightforward on your end - we handle the technical complexity behind the scenes. From single-door offices to multi-building campuses, our contactless card solutions scale to fit any access control challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Barcode Plastic Cards
We hear a lot of great questions from new and returning clients alike. Answering them clearly and honestly is part of how we build the kind of trust that keeps businesses coming back to us year after year. Below, we address some of the most common questions about ordering barcode plastic cards from our team.
If you have a question that is not covered here, the fastest way to get an answer is to call our team directly. We are always happy to walk you through options, pricing, turnaround times, or any technical detail you need to make a confident decision before placing your order.
How Quickly Can I Receive My Cards?
Our standard production time for custom barcode plastic cards is typically 7-10 business days from artwork approval, with shipping time added based on your location. Rush production options are available for orders that need to move faster. We have fulfilled urgent orders in as little as 3-5 business days when the timeline required it.
We ship to all 50 states via reliable national carriers. Tracking information is provided so you always know where your order is. For large or ongoing orders, we can discuss staggered delivery schedules that match your distribution timeline and keep inventory management simple on your end.
What Is the Minimum Order Quantity?
Our minimum order quantities are designed to be accessible for businesses of all sizes. Most custom barcode plastic card orders start at 100-500 cards, depending on the card type and features selected. Larger quantities unlock better per-card pricing, making bulk orders an excellent value for businesses with high card distribution needs.
We work with startups placing their very first card order as comfortably as we work with established enterprises reordering millions of cards annually. Our team will work with you to find the quantity and configuration that makes the best business sense for your situation - no pressure, just honest guidance.
Can I Reorder With the Same Design?
Absolutely - and reordering is one of our smoothest processes. We store your approved artwork and card specifications on file, so reordering is as simple as confirming your quantity and any updates you want to make. Many of our clients reorder regularly, and we make that experience as fast and frictionless as possible.
If you want to update your design, add a new barcode range, or change card elements between runs, our design team is available to help make those adjustments efficiently. We treat every reorder with the same care as the original - because consistency in your cards means consistency in your brand's impression on customers.
Do You Work With Small Businesses?
Small businesses are among our most valued clients, and we genuinely enjoy helping them compete with larger brands through the power of professional plastic cards. A beautifully designed barcode loyalty card levels the playing field considerably and gives small businesses a marketing tool that rivals what large retailers use every day.
We offer guidance on design, barcode formats, and program strategy for small business owners who are building their first card program. Our team is patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in helping your business grow. Starting a card program does not need to be complicated or expensive - we make it accessible and rewarding from day one.
Case Studies: Real Results With Barcode Plastic Cards
The most convincing evidence that barcode plastic cards work is the real-world success stories from businesses just like yours. Over the course of 25-plus years and more than 50 million cards produced, we have collected compelling proof that this product delivers measurable, meaningful results across a wide range of industries and business types.
The following examples illustrate how different types of organizations have used our barcode plastic cards to solve real problems, capture more revenue, and build stronger customer relationships. These results are not outliers - they represent patterns we see consistently across our client base.
Retail Boutique Doubles Gift Card Revenue
A regional women's clothing boutique came to us after struggling with paper gift certificates that were easy to counterfeit and hard to track. We designed a beautiful set of barcode plastic gift cards with sequential numbering that connected directly to their POS system. Within six months, their gift card revenue had nearly doubled compared to the same period the previous year.
Beyond the revenue increase, the boutique owner reported that customers frequently commented on how professional the cards looked. Several customers bought cards as gifts specifically because the card itself felt like part of the present. That intangible quality lift - the feeling of receiving something premium - had a direct, measurable impact on sales volume and customer perception of the brand.
Fitness Club Cuts Cancellations With Loyalty Cards
A growing fitness club was facing high membership dropout rates after the first three months. We partnered with them to design a barcode loyalty card program that rewarded attendance milestones with points redeemable for merchandise, training sessions, and guest passes. Members scanned their cards at every visit, making tracking automatic and effortless.
Within the first year of launching the card program, the club reported a significant reduction in early cancellations and a noticeable increase in average member tenure. Members who carried the loyalty card attended more frequently and were more likely to upgrade to premium membership tiers. The card created a habit - and that habit created lasting loyalty that directly improved the club's bottom line.
University Alumni Association Modernizes Credentials
An alumni association with over 15,000 members was still using paper membership cards that faded, tore, and failed to impress. We produced a full run of barcode plastic alumni cards with variable data printing, giving each member a uniquely numbered, personalized card bearing their name, graduation year, and a crisp scannable barcode linked to the alumni database.
The response from members was overwhelmingly positive. Renewal rates improved measurably in the year following the card upgrade, and the association credited the new cards as a significant factor in re-engaging lapsed members. A card that people are proud to carry has a way of deepening their connection to the institution it represents - and that emotional pull has real financial and organizational value.
Why Choosing the Right Card Partner Matters More Than You Think
Not all card suppliers are the same. The difference between a partner who simply takes your order and ships boxes versus one who genuinely understands your goals and helps you achieve them is enormous. We have built our entire business model around being the kind of partner that clients trust, return to, and recommend to others.
Our reputation was not built overnight. It was earned through consistent quality, honest communication, and a relentless focus on client success over 25-plus years of operation. When you work with us, you are not dealing with a faceless factory - you are working with a team that knows your industry, understands your challenges, and cares about your outcomes.
Quality Control You Can Count On
Every order we produce goes through a rigorous quality check before it ships. We inspect print quality, barcode scan accuracy, encoding integrity, and card dimensions against your approved specifications. If anything falls short of our standards, we correct it before it ever reaches your door - because arriving right the first time saves everyone time and frustration.
Our printing equipment is regularly calibrated and maintained to deliver consistent color accuracy and crisp barcode output across every single run. We do not cut corners on materials either - our PVC card stock is sourced to meet industry-standard thickness and durability specifications. The cards you receive will perform exactly as expected, every time, without exception.
Expert Design Support for Every Client
A great barcode card starts with great design, and not every client comes to us with production-ready artwork. Our in-house design team works with clients at every stage - from rough concept sketches to polished, print-ready files. We offer templates, design reviews, and creative consultations to ensure your card looks as impressive as the brand it represents.
We also provide dieline templates and pre-press services to help clients working with outside designers. Our goal is to make the design-to-print process as smooth as possible regardless of where your artwork starts. A card that scans perfectly but looks mediocre is still a missed opportunity - we make sure yours does both jobs brilliantly.
Transparent Pricing With No Surprises
We believe in straightforward, transparent pricing. When we quote a job, we include all relevant costs up front - setup fees, encoding charges, and shipping - so there are no unexpected additions when your invoice arrives. This honesty is one of the simplest things we do, and yet it is something clients mention repeatedly as a reason they choose to stay with us long-term.
Our pricing scales sensibly with quantity, and we are happy to walk through options that fit different budget levels. Whether you are working with a tight budget or investing in a large-scale card program, we will find the most cost-effective path to a high-quality product that meets your goals. Great cards should not require a financial surprise to obtain.
Ready to Order? Contact Plastic Card ID Today
Call us right now at 800-835-7919 to speak with a card specialist who is ready to help you build, improve, or expand your barcode plastic card program. We ship nationally, we respond quickly, and we bring 25-plus years of expertise to every conversation. There is no obligation - just genuine help from people who know cards.
Whether you need barcode loyalty cards, gift cards, membership credentials, ID badges, hotel key cards, or a full suite of in-house printing supplies, Plastic Card ID has the products, the knowledge, and the national shipping infrastructure to serve your business efficiently and affordably. From your first order to your thousandth reorder, we are here every step of the way.
Thousands of businesses across the country have trusted us with their card programs, and they keep coming back because we deliver - on quality, on timing, and on the kind of personal service that makes a real difference. Now it is your turn to experience what working with a true card partner feels like. Reach out to PCID now and let's get started.
Your Next Step Is Simple
Getting started is as easy as picking up the phone. Call 800-835-7919, tell us what you need, and our team will guide you through design options, quantities, barcode formats, and delivery timelines without any pressure or confusion. We make the process simple because we respect your time and want to earn your business.
You can also start the conversation by gathering your design ideas and thinking about how many cards you will need in your first order. Our team will help you refine everything once you connect with us. There is never a bad time to launch or upgrade a card program - and there is never a better partner to do it with than Plastic Card ID.
Ongoing Support After Your Order Ships
Our relationship with clients does not end when the cards ship. We are available for questions about card deployment, printer setup, barcode troubleshooting, and reorder planning. If anything about your order needs attention after delivery, our team responds quickly and works to resolve the issue without delay or bureaucratic friction.
We have built long-term relationships with clients who have been ordering from us for a decade or more. That kind of loyalty on their part reflects the consistent effort we put into earning it on ours. When you choose Plastic Card ID, you are not making a one-time transaction - you are beginning a partnership that grows more valuable with every order you place.
Get the Most From Your Card Investment
A barcode plastic card program is one of the highest-return investments a business can make in customer engagement and brand visibility. The physical card creates a daily reminder of your brand, drives repeat visits, and builds emotional loyalty that digital tools simply cannot replicate at the same depth or consistency over time.
Let us help you design a card program that delivers real, measurable results for your business. With our expertise, our national reach, and our commitment to quality, the path from idea to outstanding card is shorter and smoother than you might expect. Call 800-835-7919 today and take the first step toward a stronger, more connected brand identity.
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