Life After COVID Might Be Contactless

The COVID-19 crisis could accelerate the growth of contactless payments in the U.S. and worldwide as payment firms increase contactless transaction value limits.

Shifting preferences in the U.S. – Consumer Demand for Contactless

Contactless payments were increasing before COVID-19, with an overall rise of 150 percent since March 2019.  Implementing or expanding a contactless payment card program might become more of a necessity for financial institutions post COVID-19.

According to a study from Mastercard^®, roughly a third of U.S. consumers say they are using their contactless card more than other cards in their wallets. In addition, 56% of respondents plan to continue using contactless after the crisis subsides.

Explore your options for contactless with dual interface cards – Unique materials differentiate

Dual interface cards are an attractive option to implement or expand on a current card program.

• With momentum behind more eco-focused products, payment cards are now available with sustainable-focused materials – such as recovered ocean-bound plastic and upcycled post-industrial plastic (up to 98% depending on the design).
• Adding a status play, like dual-interface metal is an option. With advancements in card manufacturing technology, dual interface encased tungsten and encased steel is a viable choice for an issuer’s portfolio.  Encased metal dual-interface cards have the added benefit of the full design capability of PVC.
• Instant Issuance cards are dual-interface capable and help issuers fulfill consumer demand for convenience with less wait. A digitally provisioned card can go hand in hand with instant issuance, as a companion to the physical card.
• Adding dual-interface to traditional PVC payment cards provides the security of EMV while offering customers the speed of wave and go.
• There are a variety of treatments and materials available to you that will enhance your card design, while adding dual interface capability.

The shift towards contactless is gaining momentum, and COVID-19 might be the tipping point.  Whether you are looking to provide a more touchless customer experience, build your product portfolio or stand out against the competition with an innovative contactless card program, you can choose from a robust list of options.  If you do not offer a dual interface contactless card or payment program, now is a great time to launch one.

To see more about dual-interface card options click here.

^{Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.}