Big Issue seller introduces contactless payments and sales soar!

If you are a business owner who is becoming increasingly despondent with missing sales in an increasingly cashless society, you may take inspiration from one intuitive individual’s story below.

An enterprising and creative Big Issue Seller felt he needed to move with the times and introduced contactless payments a few months ago and has seen the number of customers buying the Big Issue rocket

Robin Fabian, 50 from Bristol introduced a contactless payment facility and amended the way he was selling after noticing his regular location was becoming increasingly saturated with other sellers close to the University of Bristol.

The contactless card machine was introduced by Mr Fabian at the back end of 2017 and the introduction has seen “about 200 extra issues sold by having that on me”

One of the aspects to drawing the extra business is actively displaying the fact he is able to accept contactless card payments so potential customers can see it.

Back in February and when interviewed, Mr Fobian believed he was the only seller adopting this practice locally and it was giving him an advantage.

What is a Contactless payment?

Contactless payments deliver a fast alternative to both business owners and customer alike compared to the traditional Chip and PIN process, delivering customers an easy and efficient way to pay for goods for the value up to £30.

Why Contactless payments?

Contactless technology has reached into almost every aspect of our daily lives, it is advertised up and down every UK high street. In December 2016, it was reported that almost one in two Britons are now opting to pay by this method at least once a month. It was also reported that back in August last year, debit cards overtook cash to become the number one payment method, with industry experts citing the growth in contactless enable technology being a factor behind the rise.

How do I know whether a customer’s card is Contactless enabled?

If you are a business owner and you’re not sure whether the customer card is contactless enabled there is an easy way to check. When you look at the card, you will see a symbol on the debit or credit card that resembles four small waves. If this features on the card then you are able to process a sale for the value of upto £30.

Is Contactless technology secure?

A question we frequently get asked by businesses. The Contactless technology uses secure encryption (the same as a Chip and PIN transaction). For added protection, from time to time, you may be asked to enter your PIN to verify you are the genuine card holder.

How does contactless technology work?

It’s important to remember that all contactless card machines technology is the same. Each Contactless credit card machine device contains an antenna so that when it is touched against a contactless handset, it securely transmits purchase information.

My business is looking to accept contactless payments, what do I need to do?

We always recommend choosing a reputable and reliable supplier. It is always worth doing some back ground checks on the company and learning more about the card machines each company is offering to ensure it fits within the needs of your business. We strongly recommend using an Ingenico terminal. If you’d like to learn more about contactless enabled card terminals get in touch with a member of the team from Wireless Terminal Solutions and we will be happy to support any questions you may have.