The subject keeps popping up every couple of months here probably BECAUSE many think the MPC is in need of reform. I just browsed the swiss website after they renamed Qualifier to "SWISS Travelclub". Just an example of what I think are some neat ideas:

SWISS Travelclub GOLD

We reward your loyalty with 3,000 bonus miles credited automatically to your account for every 10,000 Club miles you earn.

You collect 80,000 Club miles within 12 months (residents of Switzerland) or 70,000 Club miles (residents of other countries). To extend your membership for another year, you need 60,000 Club miles (residents of Switzerland) or 50,000 Club miles (residents of other countries) within one calendar year.

The idea of lower maintenance for the retention of membership is a good idea, methinks. So is the differentiation of locals and non-locals to internationalize the club (something CX/Asiamiles has repeated failed at, it's all still very Hongkongocentric).

and there is the SWISS Circle, very reminiscent of PPS Club, but something Cathay hasn't done yet - and shouldn't do I think:

SWISS Circle

Within 12 months you collect at least 200.000 Club miles, two thirds of which are in Business or First Class. To extend your membership you need to earn 150.000 Club miles or more within one calendar year.

The other perks are all very similar, and so are the general mileage requirements and benefits -- which leads me to the assumption that Swiss is gearing up for oneworld compliance. But then again, *A/oneworld club structures aren't really that different in the first place.

Last but not least I LOVE the idea of bonus miles. Silver gets 20%, Gold and Circle 30% bonus miles.

Here's the link for the curious:
http://www.swiss.com/travelclub


[This message has been edited by mhtaipei (edited 09-13-2002).]