Large British supermarkets limit cash payments

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 09. 09. 11:23

A growing number of British supermarket chains are deciding to limit cash payments in some of their stores or services, thus prioritizing digital and contactless transactions. Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury’s have also introduced these changes in some of their units, their aim is to ensure a faster, more efficient payment process, Express.co.uk wrote.

In August 2023, Tesco announced that it will phase out cash payments in its 40 UK cafes on an experimental basis. In these units, customers can place their orders through digital self-service screens and pay only by credit card or mobile phone. Asda took similar steps when it rolled out cashless payments at nearly 270 petrol stations, citing that more than 90% of customers at these locations already used cards or contactless solutions.

Sainsbury’s has also started restricting cash payments in some of its stores, although specific figures on how many units will not accept cash have not been released. The company said that it is still possible to pay with cash in most of their stores and gas stations, but they are open to expanding digital payment options.

Although some supermarkets are moving to cashless operations, several chains such as Aldi, Morrisons, Waitrose and the Co-Op continue to give customers the freedom of choice. They accept both cash and card payments in all their stores.

A crackdown on the use of cash is dividing British consumers. According to fact-checking organization Full Fact, supermarkets have the right to refuse cash payments in the UK. The concept of “legal tender” only applies to the settlement of debts, shops are free to choose which payment methods they accept.