The Inconvenience of EMV Enabled POS Terminals: Why Merchants Need to Step Up

If you’ve visited a store recently, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered an EMV enabled Point-of-Sale (POS) terminal. While these machines are designed to improve security and reduce fraud, many merchants are finding that they cause more inconvenience than anything else. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why EMV enabled POS terminals can be such a hassle, and what merchants can do to make the process smoother for their customers.

EMV chips are intended to be more secure than traditional magnetic stripe cards, as the chip creates a unique code for each transaction. This unique code cannot be replicated by fraudsters, and therefore reduces the risk of payment card fraud. Unfortunately, this added security comes with an added inconvenience for customers. Customers are required to leave their cards in the terminal for a longer period of time, which can be frustrating when they’re in a hurry.

Another issue with EMV enabled POS terminals is the pace of transactions. As the card stays in the machine for a prolonged period, it can take longer to complete a transaction. This delay can cause a queue to form, leading to longer wait times and increased frustration. For merchants, this can result in lost sales as customers abandon their purchases due to long wait times.

Despite the inconvenience, EMV enabled POS terminals are here to stay, and it’s up to merchants to adapt to them. One solution is to educate customers about the benefits of EMV enabled cards, and the added security they provide. By doing this, customers will realize that the extra time spent with their card in the terminal is worth it in the long run.

Another solution is to make the transaction process as seamless as possible. Merchants should ensure that their staff are knowledgeable about the terminals, and that the terminals are set up correctly. Electronic signage can also help direct customers through the process, reducing confusion and wait times.

In addition to these solutions, merchants can also consider alternative payment methods to reduce wait times and increase convenience for customers. Mobile payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, are becoming increasingly popular and offer a quicker way to process transactions. Contactless payments, such as those made with a tap of a card or a phone, are also gaining ground and are faster than traditional card payments.

In conclusion, while EMV enabled POS terminals can cause inconvenience for customers and merchants alike, it’s important to remember that they were designed to improve security and reduce fraud. By educating customers and making the transaction process as seamless as possible, merchants can reduce wait times and frustration, and ultimately provide a better customer experience. Additionally, embracing alternative payment methods can offer faster and more convenient options for customers. By taking these steps, merchants can ensure that they stay ahead in a challenging and competitive retail environment.