The Co-operative rolls out contactless technology

Contactless payment enables faster low value transactions

Major UK grocer, The Co-operative, is set to implement contactless technology after signing a contract with Barclaycard.

There will be a pilot scheme next year involving 100 stores, which if successfull, will lead to an extension to the majority of outlets before the London 2012 Olympics.

The Olympics themselves are to be a contactless event where transport, tickets and other low value purchases will be available, with the aim of reducing queues and enhancing the visitor experience.

Mark Hale, director of food IS, The Co-operative Group, said: “Contactless payment has huge benefits for our customers. In essence, this innovative technology will mean increased customer choice and faster transaction speed, which will vastly improve the customer experience.”

This follows the rollout of 3,000 low power thin client devices and laptops running desktop virtualisation software at its Manchester headquarters.

The technology, which is already used by Barclaycard business customers, is likely to be widely used as some UK music festivals go cashless in 2011.

Barclaycard also intends to make payments by mobile phone available to the mass market by 2012.