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.

Written by: Jack Jania, VP of Product Management and Innovation for Secure Cards at CPI Card Group.