As digital wallet usage accelerates, international payments provider Blackhawk Network and Magstar Inc., an ERP software provider for midsized retailers, have teamed up to expand digital wallet acceptance and improve virtual payments options in-store.
Through this relationship, merchants and retailers are able to conveniently expand payment access beyond conventional payment methods “without adopting an entirely new POS system to meet the needs of shifting digital payment preferences for consumers.”
Research from Blackhawk reveals that of the digital wallet growth seen last year, nearly 60% of surveyed consumers have been using their virtual wallets more frequently than before the COVID-19 crisis began.
Digital wallet acceptance may also “lead to increased shopper loyalty as 63% of respondents report they are more likely to shop at a retailer if they accept the digital payments they use, and 73% of respondents say they want to be able to pay the same way they pay online and in-store,” the announcement noted.
“As payments through smartphones become more accepted and ubiquitous, consumers are looking to bring the same convenience and habits of online shopping to in-store experiences, including a seamless payment experience,” stated Brett Narlinger, head of global commerce at Blackhawk Network.
Brett added:
“With many consumers trying omni-commerce solutions for the first time, they still maintain their existing expectations of the highest levels of service and functionality. We’re proud to deliver on those expectations alongside Magstar.”
“Our partnership with Blackhawk brings extremely simple integration and ease-of-use in digital wallet purchases to our clients,” noted Steven Greenwood, President of Magstar.
Steven also mentioned:
“We felt that it was important to give our customers the right tools to enable them to meet the changing demands of their customers in today’s COVID reality. Consumers have shifted their mindset around contactless payments and mobile wallets over the past year, and the integration of seamless digital wallets purchasing will be a critical tool for retailers to adopt.”
With mobile payments on the rise, it’s not simply about consumers accessing easy payment options, it’s also about “ensuring that retailers and consumers are confident in using new payment tools and technologies,” the update noted while adding that Blackhawk and Magstar can “equip retailers with a compelling way to reach target audiences, while also giving consumers the value-added payment experience they’ve come to expect.”
Known for being a pioneer in bringing together different payments and commerce services, Blackhawk is a key force in innovating future digital experiences.