Leipzig in digital change: Card payment conquers the shops!

Leipzig modernizes: digital payments are increasingly accepted, while cash payment remains important.
Leipzig modernizes: digital payments are increasingly accepted, while cash payment remains important. (Symbolbild/NAG)

Leipzig in digital change: Card payment conquers the shops!

Leipzig, Deutschland - More and more people in Leipzig are relying on digital payment methods. Even if cash is still very important, card payments, especially contactless payments via smartphone or smartwatch, have long since become a standard in many shops. According to ahoi-leipzig.de increasingly accept cafés, bars, organic shops and even pop-up-down card payments where they were still rare.

But the challenges for smaller dealers should not be underestimated. In addition to the ongoing fees for the card readers, there are technical hurdles such as unstable WLAN and old cash register systems that make it difficult to keep up with digital development. These uncertainties press the mood, especially when it comes to the personal character of the small shops, such as citiesinsider.com

changed customer requests

The expectations of the customers, especially younger age groups, are increasing. Events in Leipzig are increasingly relying on cashless payments - be it at city festivals or festivals. At street food stands, QR code payment systems are common, and many event organizers offer digital ticket sales for snacks and drinks.

Leipzig start-ups such as buyer, Payla and Cashlessnow Experiment with new models and test, for example, NFC chips on bracelets for easier payment processes. The city of Leipzig also promotes digitization in public areas, for example with parking columns that enable app connections, or digital donation boxes and contactless payments at citizens' offices.

cash remains relevant

Statista , about 50% of all transactions are paid in cash. A mix of cash and digital payment methods has proven to be practical to be prepared for all eventualities.

The most widespread payment method is the Girocard, with over 7.5 billion transactions in 2023. Credit cards, on the other hand, lose popularity, and mobile payment is less common with a user share of around 22% in Germany than in other countries, such as China, where the proportion is around 40%.

required trust in digital payment systems

Despite the increasing digitization, there are concerns about data protection and trust in digital payment systems. The uncertainty about the use of personal data remains a topic that could put a strain on the acceptance of digital payment methods. It is therefore important to offer independent information offers and digital educational formats that promote understanding of these systems.

Leipzig is in a area of ​​tension between tradition and digital departure. The mixture of openness to new and awareness of the advantages and risks of cash shapes the development of a modern payment landscape in the city.

Details
OrtLeipzig, Deutschland
Quellen