During Late 2025In the closing months of 2025, Bank of Ireland experienced a remarkable uptick in contactless payment activity, marking new highs in both digital wallet usage and traditional tap-and-go methods. This growth reflects a broader shift toward seamless, cashless transactions among consumers, driven by convenience and technological advancements.
According to recent data, eCommerce transactions via contactless cards—including popular digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay—jumped by 10% compared to the same period in 2024.
Meanwhile, in-person tap-and-go payments increased by a solid 4%, underscoring the enduring appeal of quick, touch-free purchases.
The holiday season amplified this trend, with December 23, 2025, setting a new benchmark for daily tap-and-go activity.
On that day alone, customers completed over 2 million such transactions, fueled by last-minute Christmas shopping rushes.
Similarly, November 28, 2025, emerged as a peak for online spending, recording more than 1.1 million eCommerce contactless card payments in a single day.
These figures not only highlight seasonal spending patterns but also illustrate how digital payment options have become integral to everyday financial habits, from grocery runs to online retail splurges.
Beyond the raw numbers, Bank of Ireland‘s progress in 2025 was bolstered by significant enhancements in payment security and efficiency.
The introduction of SEPA Instant payments allowed for euro transfers to complete in under ten seconds, available around the clock to any bank across Europe.
This was complemented by new features like Verification of Payee (VoP), which confirms recipient details before funds are sent, and Fraud Payment Interrupt (FPI), designed to halt suspicious activities in real time.
Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning, the bank analyzed roughly 1 billion card transactions throughout the year, successfully averting approximately €9.7 million in potential fraud losses.
These measures have not only safeguarded customers but also built greater trust in digital banking platforms.
On the lending front, the institution invested in digital tools to streamline processes for small businesses and agricultural clients.
This resulted in expedited loan approvals, with some applicants receiving decisions and accessing funds within just 24 hours—a game-changer for time-sensitive operations.
Bank of Ireland plans to roll out innovative services such as Zippay, a mobile-to-mobile payment system, alongside a revamped mobile banking app.
These developments aim to further simplify user experiences and integrate digital technology into routine banking.
Ciarán Coyle, the bank’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the strides made last year:
“In the coming months, we’ll unveil our new strategic plan, which includes additional investments in digital capabilities to empower our team in delivering exceptional support.”
This surge in contactless adoption aligns with global trends toward a cashless economy, where speed, security, and accessibility are paramount.
As consumers increasingly favor digital methods, banks like Ireland‘s are adapting by prioritizing innovation.
While specific regional breakdowns weren’t detailed, the overall data suggests widespread uptake across the country.