Fewer people carry coins than they used to. If an arcade machine only takes cash, every customer with just a card in their pocket is a game you don’t get paid for. This guide explains how contactless payments work on arcade machines, and what it means for your venue.
The quick answer
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Tap to play
A card reader on the machine lets customers pay with a bank card, phone or watch, just like at the bar.
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Coins still work
Machines can take contactless and coins, so nobody is turned away whichever way they want to pay.
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Change on tap
A contactless change machine turns cards and notes into £1 coins for any coin-only games.
How contactless works on an arcade machine
A small card reader is fitted to the machine. The customer taps their card or phone, the payment is approved in a second or two, and the game starts. It’s the same tap-to-pay customers already use every day, so there’s nothing new to explain.
The readers connect using their own mobile data, so you don’t need to give anyone your Wi-Fi details. All you need to provide is the space and a power socket, the same as for any machine.
Why it matters for your takings
- No lost games. Customers without coins can still play, instead of walking away.
- No trips to the bar for change. Your staff aren’t interrupted to break notes.
- Spur-of-the-moment play. Tapping a card is quick, so a group is more likely to have “one more go”.
- Less cash on site. Fewer coins in the machine means less to count and store.
With us, you share the takings whichever way customers pay, through our profit share, paid monthly.
Contactless change machines
If you have several coin-operated machines, a change machine can make a big difference. It takes contactless payments and £5, £10 and £20 notes, and gives out £1 coins. We supply it free, keep it stocked with coins and look after it. Venues have seen site takings rise by up to 40% after adding one. More about contactless change machines.
Which machines can take contactless?
Most of the machines we supply can take contactless as well as coins, including pool tables, boxing machines and racing and video games. We’ll suggest the best set-up for your venue at your free site visit.
Common questions
Do the machines still take coins?
Yes. Our machines can take contactless and coins, so customers can pay however they like.
Does contactless cost my venue anything?
No. We supply, install and maintain the machines and card readers at no cost to you. You share the takings through our profit share.
Do I need Wi-Fi for card payments?
No. The card readers use their own mobile data connection. You just need a power socket.
Related guides: How much can an arcade machine earn? and Do you need a licence for arcade machines?
Want card payments on your machines?
Book a free site visit and we’ll show you what would work in your venue.
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