Tesco ditches cash payments across 40 UK stores in 'mad decision'
Tesco ditches cash payments across 40 UK stores
Getty
Tesco has stopped accepting cash at cafes in 40 stores across the UK forcing customers to pay by card at self-service machines.
The move has been slammed as "a step backwards" for some vulnerable people who may wants to order with a person, and not a screen.
Many retailers and supermarkets are turning to a more digital strategy in order to cut costs.
Cafes are refusing to take cash as a cost cutting measure because it is more expensive for them to handle.
Tesco has explained the overhaul has boosted the customer experience and the changes have been well-received, but critics said it was “bonkers”, arguing it will ostracise some Tesco customers.
Recent figures published by banking industry trade body UK Finance found the number of payments made using notes and coins fell by seven per cent in 2023 compared to the year.
The number of payments made using notes and coins fell by seven per cent in 2023 compared to the year
GETTYMartin Quinn, of Campaign for Cash, branded the change a “mad decision”.
He said: “Many of the customers will be elderly or retirees who want to order in person, not press a computer screen. This is a mad decision.
“As the vast majority of those going to the cafes will be cash users, what they are really saying is that they don’t want your custom.
“People will quite rightly vote with their feet and go elsewhere. It’s a totally soulless experience.”
Currently, there are 40 cafes that have undergone the change and redesigned. With the possibility of more in the pipeline. Cafes in Oldham, Sheerness, Newmarket and Ashford are among those that have transitioned to cashless operations.
This development follows a pilot scheme launched last year between tech company Givex and Tesco to refurbish the sites.
Sarah Gayton, of the National Federation of the Blind of the UK charity, said the move was unnecessarily confusing customers.
She said: “It’s absolutely bonkers and a totally backwards step. Elderly people go to these places for chit-chat, to talk about the weather and about what’s happening in their lives.
“It might only be a few minutes of the day, but that is a very valuable conversation. Why should they be confused over croissants and coffee?
“Yes, companies have to make a profit to keep the business, but turning your customers into self-serving robots is the wrong way to go.
“How are visually impaired people meant to cope?”
A Tesco spokesman said that the installation of digital boards to order food has reduced queue times.
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