More consumers are using their mobile devices to make purchases in physical stores
In-store mobile payments are becoming more common in the United States, according to a new report from Deloitte. The report shows that more consumers are beginning to use their smartphones in stores, taking advantage of the mobile payments systems that retailers have in place. Retailers have been reporting an increase in mobile traffic in their digital channels, but more merchants are beginning to see consumers making payments with their smartphones and other devices in physical stores.
Report shows that in-store mobile transactions have grown by 18% in 2015
According to the report from Deloitte, the use of mobile payments in physical stores has grown by 18% this year. The report shows that 3% of shoppers are making in-store mobile payments every day, with 5% doing so every week. The most popular use of mobile payments among these consumers was for public parking. Consumers are also using their mobile devices to make purchases at gas stations, coffee shops, and fast food restaurants. Consumers between the ages of 25 and 34 are the leading demographic in the mobile payments sector.
Consumers still have significant security concerns regarding mobile payments
Though consumers are beginning to show more support for mobile payments, they also have significant security concerns. The report shows that these concerns are the leading reason many people do not make mobile transactions. Approximately 49% of consumers place their trust in banks and other financial institutions for the provision of the payment services they use. Companies involved in the mobile commerce space have taken note of the security concerns that consumers have, with many introducing new technology to ensure the safety of consumer information.
Retailers are embracing mobile payments in order to engage consumers
Deloitte has noted that mobile devices are becoming much more than communication tools. More consumers are beginning to rely heavily on their smartphones and tablets for commerce. With more consumers entering into the mobile commerce space, retailers are expected to show more support for mobile payments system, ensuring that they have the ability to engage mobile consumers.
Security has been a cause for concern within the mobile payments space for years. Many consumers have expressed worry that their financial information could be at risk if they make a mobile payment. Retailers and companies responsible for mobile payment platforms have been working to ensure consumer information is kept safe, but sophisticated cyber attacks has made this a relatively difficult endeavor to accomplish. In order for mobile payments to thrive, security measures must be improved, ensuring that the financial data of consumers is guarded against exploitation.