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Christmas NFC Mobile Payments

38% of Christmas shoppers want to use NFC payment methods this year, finds survey

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By Jennifer Faull, Deputy Editor

December 9, 2014 | 2 min read

Over a third (38 per cent) of UK shoppers would like to use near-field communications (NFC) methods to pay for Christmas gifts this year, according to a new survey from Skrill.

The study into the habits of 2,000 consumers found that 40 per cent have a budget they will ardently stick to and will consider alternative payment options to do so.

Nearly two-thirds (59 per cent) believe a prepaid card with a set limit to spend would minimise the risk of overspending while eight per cent will use a digital wallet to better manage their finances.

A third (36 per cent) said using credit cards to buy online gifts was the most likely way of overspending.

Spiros Theodossiou, vice president of product strategy at Skrill explained that the current economic climate is driving consumers to look at new ways to manage budgets.

“New technology such as prepaid cards and digital wallets are an ideal way to curb expenditure, as you can set a limit and then cut your cloth accordingly. Spending with new technology like this can help people to enjoy their Christmas and a debt-free January too,” he added.

The study also found that 90 per cent of shoppers plan to buy at least one gift online this year while a quarter (26 per cent) will make between one and five purchases online.

The majority (33 per cent) plan to buy between six and 10 presents online.

A number of retailers have entered into the mobile wallet and NFC space. Earlier this year, Argos inked a deal with Proxama to roll our NFC payment options while Westfield shopping centre revealed it would be investing heavily in developing the technology.

However, the most notable development for mobile wallets this year has been Apple Pay which the company launched in September in partnership with a raft of retailers.

Christmas NFC Mobile Payments

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