Contactless card usage skyrockets to new heights in UK
- A record 94.6% of eligible in-store card transactions in the UK were contactless last year, according to data from Barclays.
- The average person used contactless payment technology 236 times in 2024, resulting in approximately £3,800 spent per individual.
- This trend highlights the growing importance of convenience in payment methods while reaffirming the necessity of human interaction in customer service.
In the United Kingdom, an impressive trend has emerged in the use of contactless payments, as reported by Barclays. Last year, a record 94.6% of eligible in-store card transactions were contactless, further solidifying the payment method's place in the modern financial landscape. According to data from Barclays, the average contactless transaction amounted to £16.10, reflecting a significant adoption of this technology among consumers. Additionally, each individual utilizing contactless payments engaged with the technology approximately 236 times throughout the year, culminating in an estimated total spending of around £3,800 per person. These figures represent a notable increase from these statistics in 2023, where 93.4% of eligible transactions were contactless. This upward trend showcases how contactless technology has become increasingly integral to everyday transactions in the UK. A particularly interesting demographic insight reveals that for the fourth consecutive year, the fastest-growing group of contactless users is individuals over the age of 65, with 84.1% within this age group embracing this payment method. This growth among older consumers indicates a broader acceptance and understanding of contactless technology among a demographic previously considered less technologically savvy. Karen Johnson, who heads retail at Barclays, emphasized that the driving force behind widespread adoption of contactless payments is convenience. She noted how the rise of self-service screens across various retail and hospitality venues contributes to the overall user experience. This seamless transaction process highlights the need for businesses to prioritize convenience, as it directly impacts customer satisfaction and loyalty. Despite the increasing reliance on contactless transactions, Johnson stressed that these transactions should not negate the value of human interaction in consumer-facing businesses. She pointed out that while contactless payment systems are certainly beneficial for efficiency, in-store staff presence continues to play a vital role in building customer relationships and trust. As technology evolves, businesses must find the right balance between operational efficiency and meaningful customer engagement, as the two elements are essential for long-term success.