Why now's a good time to switch card payments provider

Accepting card payments is a staple these days for businesses big and small - card payments are the most popular way of transacting for consumers.

For that reason, there’s now a sizeable market when it comes to payments providers vying for business owners’ custom, which has its pros and cons. 

• On the one hand, it’s great because you’ve got options and can (sometimes) negotiate more competitive prices as a result.
• On the other hand, though, it can make it harder to know who to choose when trying to make the best decisions for your future. 

The good news is you’re not tied down, just because you’re currently using one provider doesn’t mean you’ve made your bed and have to lie in it, there’s always the option to switch. 

In fact, there’s no better time than the present to jump ship and get more bang for your buck, and in this article, we’ll explain why and how.

The time is now

You might be thinking, but we’re in the middle of a global pandemic, surely now isn’t the time to switch? We’re pleased to say that couldn’t be further from the truth - on the contrary, now is the perfect time to make your move, and here’s why.

1. You could save money

Yes, times are tough right now, and that’s why switching provider makes perfect sense - you could save yourself a pretty penny and we all know that’s more important than ever at the moment.

At takepayments, for example, we review every new business’ individual circumstances and tailor our packages accordingly - no two businesses are the same, and our prices reflect that.

COVID restrictions have wreaked financial havoc on some of Britain’s beloved small businesses, so cutting costs wherever possible has never been more important, and switching providers could be a good way to bring your outgoings down.

Even if you're still in contract with another provider, we can see if switching is in your best interest.

2. Limit disruption

Been thinking about changing provider for a while but never found the time? Once more the current state of affairs could work in your favour.

There’s always a settling in period when it comes to using a new bit of kit, whether it’s the simple act of setting up the tech, learning how to use it, or training your workforce, inevitably it’ll disrupt your day-to-day temporarily. 

Well, while all non-essential businesses have been forced to close their doors anyway, now’s the time to seize the opportunity and make the switch without impacting the smooth running of your business one iota. 

3. Come back stronger

As we know ‘there’s light at the end of the tunnel’, the way we’re living right now isn’t going to last forever, and when life as we knew it resumes, your business will come out the other end stronger than ever thanks to your top-notch new tech.

Switching provider doesn’t just mean saving money, it means you can get your hands on the latest and greatest in payments technology (if you go with the right provider, anyway).

Better tech means more satisfied customers, speedier checkouts, not to mention the time saved on your end when it comes to accounting and end of day reports. Ultimately that all adds up to one thing for you - healthier bottom lines, bonus!

Signs it’s time to switch

If you’re wondering whether or not switching is the right thing to do for you and your small business, here are five indicators to look out for.

Rising prices 

If you’ve been with the same provider for a couple of years or more, you might have noticed your bills creeping up steadily - unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for some companies to raise their rates incrementally without so much as a peep until one day you realise you’re paying much more than you initially agreed to. 

Don’t let yourself get taken for a ride. A reputable provider would never treat businesses like this - check out your statements and if you notice any red flags, chances are it’s a good time to switch.

Outdated equipment

The world of payments technology is constantly evolving, particularly when it comes to security protocols. The best equipment on the market will be up to date with the latest features, functionality, and gadgetry, so if yours is stuck in the past you could find your business suffering as a consequence.

Modern payment processors will improve business efficiency, speed up your checkouts, allow you to serve more customers in a day, boost your reputation and bottom lines, not to mention help with the everyday activities involved in running a business.

Your payment provider should be working with you to help you thrive, and that means arming you with the best equipment on the market. Worried yours could be holding you back? It might be time to switch. 

Below par customer service 

Your payment provider should be your ally when it comes to running your business and that’s why they ought to be on hand to assist whenever you need it.

For example, at takepayments our dedicated experts are only ever a phone call away, we provide unlimited customer support. Don’t settle for less. 

Flat fees

Imagine two businesses - one turns over £10,000 a week, the other turns over £10,000 a month - should they both pay their payments provider the same rate?

Of course not, flat fees and standard packages are wildly inappropriate when it comes to the best interests of businesses, what you pay should be directly proportionate to your businesses’ size and turnover, and if you’re signed up with a payments provider who thinks otherwise, we recommend you consider switching. 

Extensive contracts

Is your payments provider trying to tie your down with a disproportionately lengthy contract? Ask yourself, why? 

Circumstances change, and a decent payments provider will have the foresight to know it’s not in your best interests to tie yourself down for years to come. 

Give yourself time to breathe, and if your payments provider isn’t on board, consider that a sign it’s time to move on. 

How to switch card payments provider

If you’ve decided it’s time to take the plunge and move on to pastures new, the good news is switching card payments provider is a piece of cake.

At takepayments we’ll hold your hand through the entire process, and even if you’re still under contract with someone else, we’ll do some homework and find out whether switching is in your best interests. 

How it works

1. You can kick things off by getting a free quote by either filling in this form or reaching out to us on 0808 274 2017.
2. Next up you can speak to one of our consultants - they’ll work hand in hand with you, learn more about your business, review your current package and see if they can get you a better, more personalised deal.
3. If you like what you see we’ll take care of the switching process along with all of the paperwork on your behalf - don’t worry, we’ll keep you updated on the progress at every step of the way. 

About us

At takepayments helping small businesses succeed is our bread and butter - it’s just what we do. With that in mind, with us, you can rest assured you’re in safe hands:

• Our pricing is transparent - all costs are bundled into your bespoke package.
• We don’t charge sign-up fees, and at the end of your contract, you won’t be hit with exit fees either.
• We won’t tie you down - our contracts start from 30 days.
• Your pricing package will be created specifically based on your business and how it runs.
• We offer a wide range of market-leading payment solutions, including four top-spec card readers, our creme de la creme POS systems, plus online and digital payments.
• Our equipment is set up with the very latest security features, as well as accepting the newest and most popular payment types on the market, including contactless, Apple, and Google Pay.

To learn more about any of our solutions, find out more about switching, or get the ball rolling today, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly experts!

Bryony Pearce

Copywriter