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A Digital Revolution: How Digital Wallets are Changing the Payments Game

Published on July 31, 2024
By PAR Team

Consumers today have become what some might call “tech zombies”, constantly connected and craving the convenience and efficiency that digital solutions offer. To meet this shift in consumer preferences, brands must adapt by delivering seamless and effective digital experiences to ensure long-term success in today’s competitive market.

Digital wallets are at the forefront of this change, accounting for 50% of global e-commerce spend. As consumers increasingly rely on technology, digital wallet solutions are poised to emerge as the preferred payment method. Currently, 53% of consumers utilize digital wallets more often than traditional payment methods like cash, and experts predict they will overtake plastic cards by 2030.

53%

53% of consumers utilize digital wallets more often than traditional payment methods

50%

of global e-commerce spend.

How Digital Wallets Work

These solutions enable consumers to securely store multiple payment methods on their mobile devices in one place and complete transactions with just a few clicks or taps. The convenience, efficiency, and security of digital wallets go beyond just payments; they also offer a seamless integration with loyalty programs, ticketing services, and even public transportation systems. With digital wallets, consumers can access a wide range of services with a single tap, streamlining their daily interactions and enhancing overall experiences.

Digital Wallets are the New Norm

According to Sal Nazir, General Manager of PAR Technology’s PAR Payments division,
“Consumer payment options continue to evolve at a rapid pace. Digital wallets represent the next chapter of innovation where creating seamless transactions, better security, and more personalized and empowering experiences will differentiate your brand. Companies investing in this area will ensure they are supporting their customer's needs for convenience while driving operational efficiencies and improved ROI.”

With 51% of consumers saying they would no longer shop with a merchant that does not accept digital wallet payments, brands must implement them to cater to the needs of these new tech-savvy guests. By embracing this technology, businesses can meet current customer expectations, enhance their overall shopping experience, and foster loyalty:

Convenience is King

Convenience is King
The impressive surge in digital wallet users is primarily due to the unmatched convenience they offer consumers. These digital solutions have revolutionized how consumers complete transactions by providing a streamlined and seamless in-store payment experience. Digital wallets enable guests to store multiple cards and complete transactions on their mobile devices, eliminating the hassle of rummaging through pockets or purses for cash or physical cards. This not only speeds up the checkout process but also significantly enhances customer experiences by reducing wait times, removing friction, and minimizing physical contact – a feature that has become especially valuable in a post-pandemic world.

Create Secure Checkout Experiences

Ensuring a secure checkout process is paramount to the customer experience. There are more cyber threats today than ever before, and fortifying your payment process is crucial to your brand’s trust and reputation. According to recent reports, 52 million American consumers had fraudulent charges on their credit or debit cards in 2023. By implementing digital wallet payments, your brand is also implementing advanced security features such as encryption and tokenization that fully protect transactions. These robust security measures safeguard sensitive customer payment information, significantly reducing the risk of fraud and providing shoppers with peace of mind when making digital wallet payments. Moreover, these security measures comply with regulatory payment requirements and reduce chargebacks and fraud-related losses. The enhanced security measures digital wallets provide brands ultimately help them provide a smoother, more reliable checkout process.

Foster Customer Loyalty

Foster Customer Loyalty
Another benefit of digital wallets is their seamless integration with loyalty programs. These solutions remove the barrier of entry to a brand’s loyalty program and enable guests to effortlessly join, earn, and redeem from their mobile devices. By leveraging digital wallets for loyalty, brands can:
  • Broaden Reach: Attract digital wallet customers
  • Boost Membership Acquisition: Simplify enrollment and encourage participation
  • Increase Engagement: Motivate repeat visits with easy reward redemption
  • Gain Valuable Customer Data and Insights: Collect customer data to personalize future interactions
  • Retain Guests: Targeted promotions and personalized offers sent to mobile wallet users incentivize continued engagement with your brand
Digital wallets have transformed the payments landscape, offering consumers the convenience and security they demand. By embracing digital wallets, your brand can meet current customer expectations and lay the foundation for long-term success in an increasingly digital world.

© 2024 PAR Tech

Tiffany Disher, General Manager, MENU North America

Tiffany Disher

General Manager, MENU North America

Tiffany Disher, General Manager, MENU North America, an omni-channel ordering solution to futureproof restaurant’s growing digital sales needs. Before taking on this new role in January 2023, she was an integral part of Punchh’s growth story. She has advised hundreds of customers over the past eight years on their loyalty strategies both from a base program standpoint as well as ongoing marketing strategies. Before Punchh, Tiffany worked for Schlotzsky’s where she supported the brand marketing team by leading loyalty, eClub, R&D, Franchise advisory council and marketing analytics. Tiffany has her Bachelor’s of Science in Economics from University of Oregon and Master’s in Business with a specialty in Marketing from Baylor University. An avid golfer, hiker and mom of two small children, Tiffany spends her limited free time entering into baking competitions.