Freedom To Pay campaign promotes the use of cash in stores
Posted on in Business News , Cycles News
Which? is developing a voluntary cash pledge campaign to advertise cash acceptance in commercial premises.
The Freedom to Pay campaign is based on the belief that cash is a necessity millions couldn't live without, and a backup for everyone when online systems fail. But with banks and free-to-use ATMs disappearing at an alarming rate, Which? have voiced concerns that some people may be left behind.
"We're heading in the direction of being a cashless society, but there are still barriers out there for a lot of people. It's really important people don't get left behind - and I'm trying my hardest not to be." - Gem Turner
Gem is not alone.
Small business owners. Some people living with disabilities. Rural and isolated communities. People who have to live on tight budgets. All sorts of people up and down the country rely on cash.
1.9 million people rely on cash for nearly every transaction they make. And 8 million people would struggle in a cashless society.
Retailers will be able to sign up to the pledge by committing to accept cash as a payment method and communicate this in store. Pledging will allow retailers to signal cash-friendliness to customers, including for those unable to pay using other methods.The pledge is focussed on retailers selling essential goods and services, is not tied to a specific time period and requires not showing a preference between cash and other payment methods. Retailers signing up will be able to use Which? ‘recommended provider' communications tools and promoted under the Freedom to Pay campaign.