If you could turn any item into a contactless way to pay, what would it be? A new survey by Barclaycard reveals the top ten possessions that British consumers would like to be payment-enabled.
The research coincides with the launch of the payment company’s bPay loop — a contactless chip holder that slides onto items and can be used to make payments without the need to carry a wallet.
Top of the list is a watch, with 62% of consumers saying they would like to use a modern, old or vintage watch to make convenient payments. That’s followed by inherited jewellery (21%) and wedding rings (19%).
The dog’s lead took fourth place, while other popular choices included a comfy jumper, sunglasses and favourite hat. Rounding off the top ten were cufflinks, a vintage handbag and a pocket watch.
With almost a fifth of all card purchases in the UK now made using contactless technology, spending has increased by 247% year-on-year to £1.9bn per month.
Tami Hargreaves, commercial director for digital consumer payments at Barclaycard, said:
“Consumers have taken contactless payments to their heart and they are now making seven million transactions a day using it. Whether it’s your watch, bracelet, dog lead or pair of sunglasses, paying using your favourite item isn’t as far-fetched as it seems, as bPay loop can help turn everyday items into a quick, easy and secure way to pay.”
Barclaycard’s bPay loop is designed to fit straps with an opening buckle measuring up to 22mm wide. It can be used for transactions of £30 and under, wherever contactless payments can be made.
