How to select the perfect in-store payment solutions for commercial success

Modern payment solutions are no longer just transaction tools; they’re integral to enhancing the shopping experience and meeting the seamless expectations of modern consumers. The right solution—whether a terminal or Tap to pay—should align with the brand experience a business wants to deliver, from the personalized touch of a boutique to the speed-driven environment of a large retailer.

With the right payment solution, businesses can ensure seamless, secure transactions that enhance both customer satisfaction and operational efficiency—making it an essential part of any unified commerce strategy.

There are many types of payment solutions available, each one catering to specific uses. Here are some of the common types:

Countertop Terminals

Countertop terminals offer high security and reliability in busy environments. Built to withstand constant use, they ensure durability for long-term operations. Beyond payments, modern countertop terminals equipped with customer-facing displays create a more interactive experience, enabling shoppers to review purchase details, loyalty points, and complete on-screen surveys—turning checkout into a moment of engagement.

Customer-facing displays also allow for personalized offers and product suggestions, enhancing the experience with targeted promotions. For instance, if a shopper qualifies for a discount, it’s highlighted instantly on the screen, adding value to the purchase. Integrated smoothly with in-store systems, these terminals deliver a consistent, unified experience across all channels, helping retailers deepen customer engagement right at the counter.

Mobile Payment Solutions

Mobile payment solutions play a key role in creating flexible, customer-friendly transactions in today’s retail spaces. Three main solutions stand out: mobile terminals, tap-to-pay technology, and card readers. Each offers unique benefits that cater to different business needs and setups, helping businesses of all sizes make payments easier and more convenient.

Ideal for flexible payment scenarios, mobile terminals enable payments anywhere in the store, reducing wait times and enhancing in-store convenience. With long battery life, receipt printing, and cellular connectivity, these compact devices support a seamless experience on the go. They can also be customized with additional applications and optional barcode scanners, making them a versatile solution for smaller businesses and pop-up stores.

Tap to Pay adds another layer of mobility by turning compatible smart devices into payment terminals with no additional hardware required. For example, Tap to Pay on iPhone and Tap to Pay on Android transform smartphones into fully capable payment terminals, allowing businesses to accept contactless payments leveraging existing hardwares. This solution is particularly beneficial for businesses seeking scalability and flexibility, enabling secure, convenient payments in various settings. 

Card readers provide a simple and efficient way for businesses to accept payments on the go,whether through chip-based or contactless methods. These compact devices connect via Bluetooth to smartphones or tablets, allowing retailers to process transactions anywhere—perfect for market stalls or pop-up shops. With their secure payment capabilities and easy setup, card readers are a popular choice for small businesses looking to streamline payments without complex hardware.

Unattended Terminals

Meeting the demand for self-service options, unattended terminals provide customers with a fast, autonomous checkout experience. These terminals enhance convenience, catering to consumers’ growing preference for self-checkout, while ensuring secure and reliable transactions across various self-service environments.

When selecting a payment solution, businesses must consider several key factors:

• Best-in-Class Customer Experience: Start by defining the experience your brand aims to deliver. Your new payment terminals should align with your brand strategy and fit seamlessly into your store layout. For example, if your goal is to boost shopper engagement or strengthen brand presence, a multimedia terminal can enhance your existing strategies and open new possibilities with full customization options.

• Flexibility: As consumer preferences evolve, the terminal must be adaptable to new payment methods and technologies, ensuring that a business can meet customer demands both now and in the future.

• Compatibility and Scalability: Ensure the terminal integrates smoothly with your current systems and can scale to support future growth and technological advancements. It should work effortlessly with other technologies, such as POS systems and inventory management, to create a cohesive and efficient operational environment.

Choosing the right in-person payment solution is crucial for your business's success, and Adyen stands out with its industry-leading offerings. With one of the most comprehensive product portfolios available—from mobile solutions to countertop terminals—Adyen can meet a wide variety of business needs, all powered by a unified tech stack. Take a look at our latest innovation, the SFO1, or explore the full range of our in-person payment solution and embrace the future of payments with Adyen.