28.01.14
Stagecoach introduces contactless payment
Contactless payment is to be introduced at South West Trains and East Midlands Trains, Stagecoach Group has announced.
The technology will be rolled out to nearly 170 stations over the next four months, allowing passengers to pay for tickets of up to £20 by touching a credit or debit card against the ticket reader. Smartphones containing bank card details can also be used.
A second phase of the project will see ticket vending machines fitted with the technology by the end of the year.
Alistair Smith, Stagecoach group director of commercial and IT, said: “We are at the forefront of using new technology to transform our customers' experience. Our experience has been that passengers value the convenience and speed of contactless payments, which are now more widely accepted than ever by many businesses across many different industries.”
Paul Patterson, executive director at Fujitsu, said: “Keeping up with the latest technology is key to enhancing the customer experience. Contactless payment technology will allow Stagecoach to increase the quality and speed of its service and ensure customers' data is protected to the highest standard."
And Marion King, president, UK & Ireland, MasterCard – which is supporting the scheme –said: “On busy commuter lines in the UK, the provision of contactless technology will make buying a ticket significantly quicker and easier. We are delighted to be working with both South West Trains and East Midlands Trains to introduce the technology to over 180 stations across England.”
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