Payment processing platform Klarna announced on Tuesday it is introducing Google Pay for in-store purchases in the US. Klarna reported that Sephora, Journeys, and rue21 are among the first Klarna merchant partners to offer Google Pay, in addition to Apple Pay, for in-store purchases. The option is claimed to offer even more payment flexibility to consumers along with the safety and security that contactless payments provide.
While sharing more details about the offer, David Sykes, Head of US at Klarna, stated:
“We’re focused on providing all of our users with a seamless, contactless shopping experience as stores reopen and the pandemic continues to affect communities across the nation. At the same time, it’s critical we help our retail partners drive business growth, both online and offline, to give them a competitive advantage at a time when margins are tight. We’re excited to introduce this safe and secure option to consumers who use Android devices to ensure we provide them with a smooth and convenient shopping experience, end to end.”
Klarna also revealed that it is extending the contactless payment options it offers at a time when consumers’ use of touch-free payments is rising due to concerns about health and safety. The overall use of contactless payments in the US has grown by 150% since March 2019.
Founded in 2005, Klarna offers products and services to consumers and retailers within payments, social shopping, and personal finances. It enables consumers to make open payments quickly, easily, and securely; immediately, delayed, or in installments. Klarna works with over 205,000 retailers including in Germany H&M, Spotify, MediaMarkt, Expedia, Nike, and Deutsche Bahn.