Halifax goes contactless
Tuesday, 13 Nov 2007 18:09
Halifax is to issue its first contactless debit cards.
The new Visa payWave debit cards will be issued to around 25,000 existing customers in London – following the launch of touch-free payments cards from Royal Bank of Scotland and Barclaycard.
The new card can be used as a standard debit card, for payments and at cash machines, or to swipe without giving Pin number/signature for payments under £10.
The Visa payWave system is now live at around 1,000 shops, petrol stations, bars and restaurants around the City of London, including McDonald's, Coffee Republic, Yo! Sushi and Threshers.
The scheme will be rolled out across the UK from mid-2008 – by which time some 10,000 retailers will be signed up.
Paul Marriott-Clarke, head of banking at Halifax, said, "We're delighted to be at the forefront of this scheme.
"Contactless payment through Visa payWave is quick and convenient – ideally suited to busy cities like London as it is the fastest and most convenient way for customers to pay for their small everyday purchases."