We love our pubs in the UK. Check out the best card machines to take speedy payments.

We know that bar staff in pubs are more often on the move taking payments to customers. Especially with the recent covid pandemic pubs and bars around the UK had to adjust to ensure that groups of people were socially distanced. Where does the card machine fit into this you may wonder? Well in this article we will discuss the best card machine for pubs.

Taking card payments in pubs offers a range of benefits for both the pub owners and their patrons. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Increased Sales: Customers are more likely to spend more when they’re not restricted by the cash they have on hand. Offering card payments can lead to higher ticket sales.
2. Convenience: Card payments provide convenience for customers who might not carry much cash. It’s especially handy for larger group bills where splitting the check is easier with cards.
3. Faster Transactions: Contactless payments, in particular, can be much quicker than counting out cash and waiting for change, speeding up service especially during peak times.
4. Enhanced Customer Experience: Offering multiple payment options, including card payments, enhances the overall customer experience, making it more likely for patrons to return.
5. Safety and Security: Handling less cash can reduce the risks associated with theft or mismanagement. Card transactions are traceable and can be more secure when managed with proper payment systems.
6. Hygiene: Especially in a post-COVID-19 world, contactless payments are seen as a more hygienic option than handling cash, which can pass through many hands.
7. Record Keeping: Electronic payments can help in maintaining clearer financial records, aiding in accounting and inventory management.
8. Tapping into Trends: With the increasing trend towards cashless societies, offering card payments ensures that pubs remain relevant and cater to modern customer preferences.
9. Boosting Tips: Electronic point-of-sale systems often prompt customers to add a tip, potentially increasing the amount of tips for the staff.
10. Reduced Banking Fees: Less cash handling can mean fewer trips to the bank and reduced banking fees associated with depositing cash.
11. Attracting Tourists: For pubs in tourist areas, accepting card payments can cater to tourists who might prefer not to carry or exchange large amounts of local currency.

There are three types of card machines that are great for pubs:

Countertop card machine for pubs

This is great if you have a fixed till or point of sale you want to take payments from behind the bar. The only issue with a countertop card machine is that it needs the customer to come over to the bar and make the payment. If you have a large bar space and are pouring a drink a few meters away from your terminal, you can’t take it with you as it is fixed. These are recommended for retail, although great for pubs also there are probably some better options such as the portable card machine and the mobile card machine.

Portable card machine for pubs

A portable card machine gives you the freedom to move within your business premises and take payments directly to your customer’s table. Convenient for both staff and customers they are an excellent “no-brainer” choice for pubs, bars, and restaurants. You can accept card payments in the pub or outside the beer garden. The card machines are wireless, and connect via Bluetooth or 3G so you will always be connected enabling you to take speedy payments.

Mobile card machines for pubs

Mobile card machines are fitted with an integrated SIM card with internet access enabling you to take payments anywhere in the UK with internet coverage. Again, being able to take your card terminal to customers at their table makes it ideal and gives the customer a 5-star service. And hopefully, they will be happy enough to tip.

How can I get a card machine for my pub?

So, to conclude, both portable and mobile card machines are great for pubs, bars, restaurants, and cafés. If you operate mainly indoors go for a portable card machine. They usually come with a 100m Bluetooth range, and long-lasting battery life, are compact and highly portable, and more importantly simple and easy to use.

We work with some of the leading providers in the UK for card machines so if you are looking for your first payment solution for your business or want to switch providers, we can help with a free quote today.