Netherlands supermarket trials finger-tip payments
In the Netherlands, payment processor Equens and supermarket chain Albert Heijn have announced a six month pilot programme with biometric fingertip payments provider Tip2Pay.
The pilot programme will allow the supermarket's customers to pay for their shopping using a simple fingerprint scan, and the test will be followed by a full evaluation after completion.
The technology Tip2Pay allows consumers to pay quickly and securely by placing their fingertip on a biometric reader at the supermarket checkout. After they have provided proof of identification and a debit card, a scan is made of the unique elements of the customer's fingertip.
The customer's name and address details, bank account number, and - if required - their customer loyalty card number can then be registered in the payments database (in accordance with Netherlands privacy laws). Equens can then process all their future fingertip payments.
Innovation plan The pilot scheme is in line with the innovation policy of both Equens and Albert Heijn. According to Equens' general manager of new business, Dave Rietveld, "Recent developments in technology have allowed for new and improved payment methods, and we are geared toward the development of new payment systems based on actual market requirements. In addition to this pilot, we are also developing solutions such as mobile payments and electronic invoicing."
Albert Heijn is also now testing a variety of payment methods at a local store level, including mobile payments, mobile scanning, and contactless payments. Albert Heijn's innovation manager, Jan de Heij, explained: "We regularly test new payment concepts with our customers, and we continue their development only if they are received with enthusiasm."
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