Are we ready for a cash less society?

Last week I thought I would conduct a little experiment.

Could I survive the week without spending any cash? So armed with my debit card, my FSB fuel card and my phone I went out into the world.

I did have ￡10.00 cash as a back up just in case but I am pleased to announce it is still in tact. So what was my week like? Friday night started off with a couple of drinks in our local pub and of course they now take cards and with contact less so quick and easy.

Saturday morning we headed into Manchester for a little shopping no problems there and lunch was bought with out any fuss. Tram fair in and out of Manchester was paid for via the app on my phone which takes the money via my debit card.

The week started off well with a trip to the theatre tickets and drinks booked on the internet, tram fair on the app and dinner paid by debit card.

As I mentioned I had my FSB fuel card so my petrol was paid for on that. The networking events I attended last week were paid for through the portals such as Eventbrite.

Lunches could be a little more difficult as not all sandwich shops take card payment so seeing the Worldpay sticker on the window (other merchant service providers are available) would attract me in. It also gave me the opportunity to mention the FSB's rate review for members or our Switcher deal for retailers with who use another provider.

Friday came round quickly and back to the local for a couple of drinks. The ￡10.00 still in my wallet!

I recently spoke to a retailer on the high street in Cheadle, Stockport who reckoned 80% of payments were taken through his card machine. A fish and chip shop in Woodley now takes card payments, the level of orders remain the same but turnover has risen by 15%. Furthermore, cash held on site has reduced, less bank charges and there is more transparency for HMRC.

So if you are not taking card payments, why not? The FSB has a fantastic deal with Worldpay which includes 6 months free terminal rental, discounted rates etc.

For more information call me on 07766 493 428 or [email protected]

The FSB hosts over 60 meetings each year in Greater Manchester for more details and to book go to www.fsb.org.uk and see our calendar via the Manchester regional page.