UK retailers combat coronavirus with contactless payments
The contactless limit for in-store card transactions is increasing from £30 to £45.
This is in response to the coronavirus epidemic, with the aim of reducing the need for physical contact with PIN-Entry Devices (PEDs) at points of sale.
The new limit will be operational at some stores across the UK from 1st April, but may take some time before it can be applied everywhere, for instance, at retailers who are currently operating at peak capacity.
“The last contactless limit increase to £30 took two years to implement but, given the extraordinary circumstances we face today, this new £45 limit will be rolled-out from next week,” says BRC Head of Payments Policy, Andrew Cregan.
“Some shops will take longer to make the necessary changes, given the strain they’re under. In the meantime, most customers can continue to make contactless payments for higher amounts using their smartphone.”
Stephen Jones, CEO at UK Finance, comments: “The payments industry has been working closely with retailers to be able to increase the contactless payment limit to help customers with their shopping at this critical time for the country.”
“This will give more people the choice to opt for the speed and convenience of purchasing goods using their contactless card, helping to cut queues at the checkout. The industry continues to work closely with the government and regulators to support customers impacted by Covid-19 and ensure that they can pay in a way that suits them.”
