The Big Issue has reported a massive increase in sales for its vendors using contactless payment systems.

The move to cashless payment methods was accelerated amid the Covid-10 pandemic to maintain social distancing, with Big Issue magazine sellers increasingly accepting touch free payments through a Zettle card reader and using PayPal.

Evaluation has found that sellers offering cashless options are selling up to 30% more magazines than those only accepting cash.

The Big Issue Group has been supporting sellers set up cashless options through their smartphones and through setting up bank accounts to process payments.

Before the health crisis there were 193 Big Issues vendors offering cashless options. That figure is now 594.



“The pandemic has only accelerated the need for vendors to accept cashless payments and we began a lot of this work with some vendors whilst still in lockdown,” said Big Issue head of partnerships and programmes Beth Thomas.

“For us at The Big Issue, financial and digital inclusion is so important as it enables vendors to access the same services and products as everyone else, regardless of their personal circumstances.

“Our partnership with Zettle and PayPal has enabled us to work with our vendors to help them to manage their finances confidently, using technology to enhance this experience and ensure they get the best access to services and the best value of products.”

Earlier this year The Big Issue launched a subscription video on demand service showcasing a range of documentaries on subjects including social activism, technology and health.

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