COMMENTARY: How Payments Have Boosted the Customer …

When you’re pressed for time, there’s probably a handful of neighborhood stores where you shop regularly. You can depend on them in those hurried moments, whether it’s the small retailer that stocks your favorite items, the local coffee shop that knows just how you like your coffee, or the mobile groomer that does wonders with your energetic pet. As different as all these small businesses are, they likely have something in common: modern payment solutions that get you in and out and let you pay your way.

In this article, I’ll explore how small merchants’ adoption of modern payment technology to keep up with consumer demand for speed and convenience helps keep them competitive by offering a positive customer experience and strengthening customer loyalty.

Yazdian: “The evolution of payment methods in local shops … enables businesses to streamline their operations, level up their marketing initiatives, and better serve their customers overall.”

Our 2022 consumer research shows that most customers still pay in cash for small-ticket items, such as pastries from a bakery. However, with the proliferation of digital technology and increased demand for speed and convenience at the checkout, the shift to card payments among consumers in the U.S. has accelerated over time. That’s leading more merchants to implement modern point-of-sale systems.

In fact, as enhancements in checkout technology become more accessible, many small merchants both understand the value of the developments and are actively putting them to use. In a separate study released earlier this year, we found that 70% of merchants plan to incorporate new payments technology within the next 12 months. That study surveyed more than 200 U.S. brick-and-mortar businesses.

In the same study, we learned that the most sought-after enhancements ranged from the availability of actionable customer insights to payment terminals that enable contactless payments, or tap to pay, via a mobile device or contactless chip card. Merchants that have integrated a POS solution are accepting payments more than doing any other function, but many also use these platforms for accounting services, inventory management, gift cards, and mobile loyalty programs. They’re even leveraging internal customer data to drive social promotion and marketing campaigns.

Efficiency and maintaining greater control over the business are the two benefits that many merchants cite most frequently when asked how an integrated POS helps their business build an improved customer experience. Small businesses are also embracing traditional payment methods alongside the acceptance of alternative payment solutions, such as digital wallets and eCash. Their aim is to give their customers the option to pay using the most convenient and efficient method for them.

Modern payment methods have made paying for errands more convenient, efficient, and rewarding for customers and small businesses alike. The key to mastering the checkout is to offer simple and modern approaches that help create a positive and quick payment experience. This starts by partnering with a payments provider that can offer both insight around the POS and tech that works best for the business model.

This will then lead to broadening payment acceptance to include a diverse mix of solutions at the point of sale. Local businesses have also begun to offer loyalty programs through apps that allow customers to accrue points for their purchases. These loyalty programs not only incentivize customers to return, but also provide businesses with valuable insights into their customers’ purchasing habits and preferences.

By using data from these apps, coffee shops can personalize their marketing efforts and create a more engaging and rewarding experience for their most loyal customers. Pet shops can remind customers about upcoming grooming services, send coupons and samples, or invite pet owners to bring their furry family members to try new treats they may be selling. The evolution of payment methods in local shops has not only made purchasing products and services more convenient.

It also enables businesses to streamline their operations, level up their marketing initiatives, and better serve their customers overall.

By embracing modern payment technologies and enhancing loyalty programs, coffee shops, pet salons, and businesses of all processing volumes can create a more efficient and engaging experience for their customers, leading to increased loyalty and repeat business.

–Afshin Yazdian is president, Merchant Solutions, at Paysafe Ltd.

easyspace listed on couponmatrix.ukember-inns listed on couponmatrix.ukeqvvs listed on couponmatrix.ukhurleys listed on couponmatrix.ukjarlo-london listed on couponmatrix.ukjones-bootmaker listed on couponmatrix.uk
easyspace listed on couponmatrix.ukWhether you’re creating an online CV or launching the next big thing, you need a website to seal the deal. Enter Easyspace, the web hosting company that makes saving money on domain names, hosting plans and email services a breeze. Get your website up and running and look for an Easyspace promo code from Groupon to save money on SSL certificates, domain names and more. Find the perfect plan for you and your business at a really affordable price with Groupon’s help. If you’re looking for a web hosting package, domain name or a website built from the ground up, Easyspace has you covered. Check out the web hosting plans available in tiers from entry, standard and premium to specific WordPress packages, so you can choose exactly what you need. At Groupon, we’re always searching for ways you can save money on all aspects of your website, so keep checking back for the latest Easyspace vouchers and deals. One of the most popular services is Easyspace web hosting, which lets you bundle a domain name, email, bandwidth and SSL certificate into one affordable package. Options start from just £2.99 per month for the entry package, but you could get this hosting plan for even less with an Easyspace discount code from Groupon. Whatever you need to make your website shine, you can get it for an affordable price at Easyspace.
ember-inns listed on couponmatrix.ukLonging for a proper, local pub that serves nothing but great food, real ale and a selection of other drinks in a warm, friendly setting? If so, look no further than your local Ember Inn. Now, with your Ember Inns voucher you can get even more out of your visit thanks to discounted food and drinks offers. So, whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, can’t wait for a glass of fizz on the weekends, or just want somewhere to relax with a pint, you’ll find it all at Ember Inns.
eqvvs listed on couponmatrix.ukIf youre a big fan of the high street but fancy heading upmarket then you've found the perfect solution with EQVVS, the clothing company bringing men near and far designer fashion at great prices! With a EQVVS discount code from us you can expect to make incredible savings across these ranges of smart wear and casual looks from big names like Versace, Paul Smith and Armani to name but a few.
hurleys listed on couponmatrix.ukOur Hurley discount codes can help fashion-savvy customers bag some hefty discounts on all sorts of big-name designer items. Grab a Hurley discount code to help pick up some savings on an array of big-name brands and the latest styles. Hurley is a fantastic retailer offering a great range for men, women and children from brands such as Armani Jeans, Boss, Ted Baker, Barbour and more.
jarlo-london listed on couponmatrix.ukJarlo is a London-based brand that creates beautiful clothing. Combining elements of nostalgia with contemporary fabrics and intricate detailing to create something unique. We believe that fashion should be fun, and our Jarlo discount code is the perfect way to save on your next order! Whether you're looking for a new dress or a statement piece, we've got you covered. At Groupon, we know that saving money is important to our customers. That's why we work hard to find the best discount codes and deals for Jarlo. We want you to be able to get the most out of your purchase, and our team is constantly on the lookout for ways to help you save. So be sure to check back often for the latest Jarlo discount code to get the best deal possible! Thanks for shopping with us! One of the best-selling products is the Mika Cowl Front Maxi Dress, with strappy back detail, perfect for formal occasions. If you're looking for a discount on Jarlo, then you've come to the right place! We've got a great selection of Jarlo products at amazing prices. And with our Jarlo London discount code, you can save even more! So what are you waiting for? You don't want to miss these offers!
jones-bootmaker listed on couponmatrix.ukOriginally established in 1857 by Alfred and Emma Jones in Bayswater, London, Jones Bootmaker has continued to create high-quality and stylish boots and shoes ever since. Given the number of branches and their online presence, the company is understandably proud of their customer service as well as the level of aftersales care they can provide. A Jones Bootmaker discount code from our collection here at Groupon can help you to save when picking up some new footwear, with plenty of ways to be supported through your in-store or online purchase.