Marked Preference for Card Payments in Ireland Driven by Security, Speed and Convenience
Payments Europe, the voice of the payments industry in Europe, has published new research on the Irish payments landscape. Based on a survey of consumers and merchants in Ireland, the research highlights the value, cost and place of cards in Ireland’s economy. The report also reveals a dynamic and vibrant payments landscape, driven by a rapidly transforming market that is increasingly competitive, digitalised, and shaped by evolving merchant and consumer preferences.
The report clearly shows that cards are the preferred payment method by both Irish merchants and consumers. It highlights, for example, that 88% of Irish consumers surveyed believe their payment needs are met, while 73% trust cards over all other payment methods. While 89% of merchants in Ireland are satisfied with the payment solutions available to them. 78% of Irish merchants also prefer cards over all other payment methods, which is slightly ahead of merchant preference levels across Europe (77%).
85% of merchants surveyed believe that the benefits of card payments outweigh the associated costs, with 98% citing the guaranteed payment aspect as a significant advantage for their business. 96% say that card payments have helped them boost sales, with 82% of merchants welcoming the growing use of alternative payment options, such as digital wallets and mobile apps. The importance of offering variety is also clear—88% of merchants believe that accepting a wide range of payment methods has positively impacted their sales. This growing preference highlights the evolving expectations of consumers and the need for businesses to stay agile in their payment offerings.
Robrecht Vandormael, Secretary General of Payments Europe, commented: “Our latest market research on Ireland shows that that cards are the preferred payment method by both Irish merchants and consumers, offering safety, security, and speed of transaction. From a merchant perspective, it is clear that cards provide a secure, reliable, and efficient payment method that facilitates their growth, supporting the wider economy. This is augmented by a diverse range of payment options, reflecting a healthy and competitive market for consumers. As we’ve seen in other markets, businesses that offer consumers choice are best positioned to be long-term structural winners.
As the Irish payments landscape rapidly evolves with technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences, government policy will play a crucial role in addressing gaps in financial and digital inclusion. This will ensure an inclusive digital journey through the provision of accessible, secure, and user-friendly payment solutions, while supporting efforts to combat fraud, financial abuse, and scams