Global fintech platform Adyen (AMS: ADYEN) has teamed up with Starling Bank. Announced recently this month, the partnership introduces seamless tap-to-pay functionality directly within Starling’s mobile banking app, enabling business owners to accept contactless card payments using just their smartphones. This new capability allows Starling’s SME clients to receive payments from customers anytime and anywhere, without investing in extra hardware like traditional card terminals.
By embedding Adyen’s advanced payment technology straight into the bank’s app, users can handle transactions entirely within one familiar environment. Setup is quick, and once activated, merchants can start processing payments in minutes.
Funds from sales typically settle in the business account the following day, providing a much-needed boost to cash flow management.
The system relies on near-field communication (NFC) technology, making it straightforward for customers to pay by simply holding their physical card or digital wallet close to the merchant’s phone.
For added convenience and security, options include PIN entry on the device itself.
Importantly, no sensitive card data or transaction details are stored on the phone or Adyen’s servers, leveraging built-in device protections for maximum safety.
Later in 2026, the collaboration will expand further. Starling plans to integrate card payment links into its existing free invoicing feature.
This will let SMEs send invoices and collect payments via card or mobile wallets with minimal effort, streamlining the entire billing and collection process.
Nicole Olbe, UK Managing Director at Adyen, highlighted the transformative potential: the technology eliminates many longstanding obstacles to card acceptance by converting everyday smartphones into reliable, secure payment tools.
The integration of Adyen’s global expertise with Starling’s robust UK banking platform helps bridge the divide between payment processing and everyday financial operations.
SMEs gain greater flexibility to accept payments on the go, supported by two established financial institutions they can trust.
Sami Kade, Director of Customer Solutions at Starling Bank, echoed this sentiment.
Starling’s mission centers on helping small businesses receive payments faster and with less hassle.
Adding tap-to-pay—and eventually payment links—equips customers with practical tools to manage their finances more effectively.
By easing the administrative burden of getting paid, business owners can focus their efforts where it counts: expanding operations and delivering value to their clients.
The offering comes with a transparent pricing structure: no monthly subscription fees apply. Businesses only incur a modest flat transaction fee when the feature is used.
All sales activity, including tracking and refunds, remains fully visible and manageable within the Starling app.
This partnership underscores broader trends in financial technology, where embedded payments and mobile-first solutions are empowering smaller enterprises to compete more effectively.
Adyen, known for enabling end-to-end payment solutions for global brands, continues to expand its reach among UK businesses through such integrations.
Starling Bank, a fully regulated digital bank headquartered in London, has built its reputation on delivering smarter, more user-friendly banking alternatives. For UK SMEs, the launch represents a practical step toward modernizing payment acceptance, reducing costs, and improving operational efficiency in an increasingly cashless economy.
