How are contactless payments changing local commerce?
October 25, 2024
Since the COVID-19 pandemic and the increase in the contactless payment limit from 30 to 50 euros, the use of this payment method has grown significantly. A study highlights this trend, revealing that 86% of French people have used to contactless payment in 2022, versus 79% in 2021. This increase reflects the growing adoption of this payment method, encouraged by sanitary measures and technical adjustments that have made transactions more convenient. fast and secured in a context of health crisis.
The rise of contactless payments: a revolution for local commerce
What is contactless payment?
Contactless payment is a technology allowing you to pay for purchases simply by bringing a bank card, cell phone, connected watch or other compatible object close to a payment terminal (TPE). Unlike traditional payments, it is not necessary to insert the card or enter a PIN code for amounts of less than 50 euros. This payment method encompasses various solutions such as Apple Pay, prepaid cards, or electronic kitty.
The rise of these technologies has led to the gradual disappearance of cheques and cash payments, which are now more convenient and more convenient. slow and less practical, especially for everyday, small-value purchases.
Why is contactless payment so popular?
The success of contactless payments is based on several key factors: speed, safety and practical. Whether in restaurants, boutiques or convenience stores, consumers appreciate ease of use. No need to search for coins or type in a code, the bill or purchase is settled in the blink of an eye.
The figures bear witness to this popularity: in 2022, a majority of transactions in France are contactlessFor retailers, it's a godsend: time to checkout is reduced to a minimum. For retailers, it's a godsend: time spent at the checkout is considerably reducedThis means you can serve more customers in less time, while avoiding the errors associated with cash handling.
An ecological solution: the digital ticket
With the increasing digitalization of services, it is now easier for retailers to offer an ecological alternative by replacing paper tickets with digital ones. Customers can now choose to receive their ticket directly on their mobile by e-mail or via an application, thus avoiding paper waste. This digital solution is part of an ongoing eco-friendlyFor restaurateurs and convenience stores, this transition to digital ticketing not only helps to reduce the ecological footprint, but also simplifies receipt management. For restaurants and convenience stores, this transition to digital ticketing not only helps to reduce the ecological footprint, but also simplifies receipt management.
Digitized payments offer a smoother, more eco-friendly experience - what more could you ask for to combine business with pleasure?
The concrete benefits of contactless for local retailers
The adoption of contactless payments offers tangible benefits for retailers. By making checkout more fluid, it contributes to reduce queuesThis increases the flow of customers throughout the day. In addition, by eliminating cash transactions, it reduces the risk of cash register errors or theft.
A lever for increasing the average basket
The adoption of contactless payment, combined with digital ordering, not only makes transactions more fluid, it also has a direct impact on an increase in the average basket. Simplicity and speed of use encourage impulse buying, particularly online or via control terminalswhere customers can add additional items without even realizing it, thanks to the product push principle.
The fact of not handling physical money also attenuates the perception of spending, thus encouraging purchases. more frequent or on a larger scale.
Contactless payment boosts tips
The growing adoption of contactless payment has also had a positive impact on restaurateurs, notably by making it easier to increased tipping. With contactless payments via card or smartphone, customers are more inclined to leave a tip when settling the bill. This ease of use means customers can add an extra amount in seconds, without having to search for cash or do the math.
For restaurateurs, this development is a major asset: on average, tip amounts increase with the use of these modern payment solutions, as customers find it easier to complete their bill with a small gesture of gratitude.
Contactless payment is not only a practical innovation for customers and restaurateurs, it also enhances the overall experience and supports the local economy.
"Tips can be configured in percentages, a system you've probably used if you've been to our American neighbors, or in euros. In France, consumers are more accustomed to using a cash system. We therefore advise you to use this configuration. "Expert opinion
Benefits for end customers
Contactless payment transforms thecustomer experience. This mode of payment makes the act of purchasing more fluid and pleasant, while reassuring consumers about the security of their transactions.
Consumer comfort
Customers no longer need to search for change, handle cash or write a cheque. Payment is made instantly, whether in a restaurant or a store. Some digital fidelity synchronize with these contactless payments, allowing consumers to collect points and benefit from awards.
"Via the contactless payment system, we can also introduce prepaid cards, which can, for example, offer 55 euros of credit for every 50 euros spent, boosting the appeal of this system."Expert opinion
Perception of payment security
Security is one of the main drivers behind the popularity of contactless payments. Consumers have more and more confident in this technology, thanks in particular to reinforced protections around personal data (RGPD). These guarantees ensure data protection and minimize the risk of fraud, contributing to the widespread use of this payment method.
A lever for sustainable transformation of local commerce
To remain competitive, retailers need to be ready for this new trend. increasing digitalization and anticipate regulatory changes. By combining online and physical channels, local businesses can offer solutions such as click and collect or loyalty programs synchronized with contactless payments.
The rise of digital platforms has profoundly transformed the foodservice sector. Today, online ordering is more than 30 % on the market, a great opportunity for restaurateurs. This trend underlines the importance growing digital solutions integration to meet consumer expectations and optimize sales.
Integration with digital and omnichannel services
Retailers need to adapt to the expectations of consumers, who want to be able to pay online and pick up their products in store.
Click and collect
The click & collect system is the best way for a restaurant to reduce queues and smooth customer flow. And thanks to its system integration, you can track the number of orders received live. You don't have to do a thing: orders arrive automatically on the interface. Meanwhile, you can concentrate on other tasks: time-saving for everyone!
And for stocks, don't panic: stocks are updated regularly. directly on your software.
Control terminals
Control terminals are another concrete example of this approach. digital transformation. Not only do they streamline the customer journey in-store, but also fromimprove order management and facilitate impulse buying.
Kiosks and digital loyalty systems are invaluable tools for meeting this growing demand.
By integrating these digital and omnichannel solutions, retailers can not only improve their day-to-day managementbut also to offer a payment experience simplified, secure and adapted to the new buying habits of French consumers.
Data-driven service personalization
The use of data collected via contactless payments transforms the management of your restaurant. By analyzing your customers' consumption habits, you can personalize your offers and increase customer loyalty. For example, it's child's play to offer special promotions for birthdays, or exclusive benefits for your best customers. Thanks to this information, you can optimize your loyalty programs and offer a unique experience, boosting customer satisfaction.
Want to find out more?
At Obypay, our mission is to designing innovative solutions to digitalize your business. We offer restaurateurs a complete range of omnichannel services, adapted to the expectations of modern consumers and the management needs of the French restaurant industry. Our tools enable you to maximize your sales andimprove the customer experiencewhether at the table or online.
Thanks to Obypay, you have everything you need to progress and stand out from the crowd.
And if you'd like to continue developing your restaurant (digital menu, payment at the table, order terminals, click & collect...) and offer a service that meets the expectations of the French restaurant industry, click here!
→ Catering: How to boost tips?
→ 7 advantages of digital loyalty cards in the restaurant business
