Contactless Payments in Ireland: Trends and Benefits for Retail & Hospitality

In just a few years, Ireland has gone from chip-and-PIN to tapping as the default way to pay. Whether it’s a coffee on the go or settling a dinner bill, customers now expect speed, convenience, and security — and contactless payments deliver all three.

According to recent figures from the Banking & Payments Federation Ireland, contactless now accounts for more than 60% of all card transactions. For businesses in retail and hospitality, this shift isn’t just a trend — it’s an opportunity to serve customers faster and stand out from the competition.

Key Benefits of Contactless Payments for Retail & Hospitality

1. Faster Checkouts

Tapping a card or phone takes seconds, reducing queues and helping you serve more customers in less time — especially during busy lunch hours or weekend rushes.

2. Improved Customer Experience

No fumbling for cash, no slow card inserts. The smoother the payment process, the more likely customers are to return — and spend more.

3. Higher Transaction Values

Studies show that customers tend to spend slightly more when paying contactlessly, as it feels effortless compared to counting out cash.

4. Enhanced Security

With tokenisation and secure chip technology, contactless payments are as safe — if not safer — than traditional methods. Plus, there’s less cash on-site, reducing theft risks.

5. Better Hygiene

Contactless means less physical handling of cash and cards — something customers value even more post-pandemic.

Trends Shaping Contactless Payments in Ireland

• Higher Contactless Limits – The €50 cap introduced years ago is now €100, making it suitable for more transactions like grocery shops and restaurant tabs.
• Digital Wallet Growth – Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other mobile wallets are growing rapidly, especially among younger consumers.
• Multi-Channel Integration – Retailers and restaurants are combining in-store contactless with online payment links for a seamless customer journey.
• Portable & Mobile Terminals – Demand is rising for portable card machines that can be brought to the table or taken on the go, keeping the payment experience smooth anywhere.

How Truepos Helps Businesses Go Contactless

At Truepos, we provide portable and mobile card machines designed for fast, reliable contactless payments — perfect for both retail counters and restaurant tables.

Our popular Castles S1MINI2 and PAX A920 Pro terminals are:

• Fully contactless-enabled
• Equipped for chip & PIN and mobile wallets
• Portable with 4G and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Available with no rental fees and next-day payouts

Whether you’re serving coffee, selling clothes, or managing a busy restaurant floor, Truepos has the right terminal at the right price to keep your payments quick and your customers happy.

Final Takeaway

Contactless payments in Ireland aren’t just a payment method — they’re a competitive advantage for retail and hospitality businesses. With faster checkouts, happier customers, and secure transactions, there’s never been a better time to upgrade your payment system.

Talk to Truepos today and start accepting fast, secure contactless payments tomorrow.

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