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9 Jul 2025

A recent BBC Breakfast segment has sparked backlash from the cycling community over its portrayal of e-bikes, with critics accusing the broadcaster of conflating legal e-bikes with illegal,...

8 Jul 2025

More than 30 locations across Scotland have seen a major rise in the number of people cycling, according to newly released data.

7 Jul 2025

Sixteen illegally upgraded e-bikes capable of speeds up to 40mph have been seized and disposed of in a joint enforcement operation in Birmingham city centre.

7 Jul 2025

Bristol-based Cytech training provider and ACT member Life Cycle has launched its award-winning Bikes Beyond Bars programme at HMP Bullingdon, expanding a project that has already impacted lives...

4 Jul 2025

New data from Strava reveals a major surge in cycling across the UK, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge.

3 Jul 2025

Shimano has launched an urgent investigation into what it describes as a “critical” shortage of skilled bike mechanics across Europe, warning that the situation threatens to...

2 Jul 2025

MPs have called on Amazon and eBay to tighten controls after e-bikes and chargers flagged as serious fire risks were found for sale on their platforms.

25 Jun 2025

The E-Bike Positive campaign has seen major success in the first half of 2025, with its message reaching nearly 8 million people across the UK through high-profile media coverage and growing...

20 Jun 2025

The House of Commons Business and Trade Committee has asked the ACT, and its parent company Bira, to help them reach out to small business retailers across the country, for their quick input on...

20 Jun 2025

Activate Cycle Academy has reopened its Cytech training facility in Darlington, offering a full range of courses from Home Mechanic up to Cytech Technical Three.
 

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Switch today and save!

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News , Creative News, Outdoor News

Whilst cash has always been the cheapest way for retailers to accept payment, the growth of alternative payment methods, as reported last week, should encourage you to ensure you aren't paying over the odds when a customer opts to pay by card.

According to the BRC's Cost of Payment Collection Survey 2012, the average cost to a retailer of having a credit or charge card payment processed was 25 times higher than for cash (38p versus 1.5p). Credit and charge cards account for only 10.6 per cent of transactions but over half (50.1 per cent) of costs.

With Global Payments preferential rates for ActSmart subscribers, you could be paying even less.

Are you on the best rates?

One of ActSmart's most popular and most competitive services is card processing, provided by Global Payments.

ActSmart's card processing scheme - worth over £300m - offers all independent businesses access to our lowest ever ongoing preferential rates.

Over 400 outlets are currently using our exclusive package, saving on average £720 per year compared to standard tariffs. So, why not join them?

Key features

  • FREE set up for members - normally £150
  • FREE terminal rental for the first three months
  • Benefit from the combined negotiating power of c400 outlets
  • The average saving on the Gold and Platinum rates is £720 p.a. compared to standard tariff
  • Exclusive low rates on debit and credit card transactions
  • Low rates on ongoing terminal rental costs
  • Preferential rates may be individually agreed for members with a card turnover in excess of £300k p.a.

A poll conducted by ActSmart last year showed that over 30% of respondents were paying over 20p per maestro debit card transaction - this no longer needs to be the case.

The introduction of our lowest ever rates means ActSmart subscribers are able to save even more, with some transactions completed from as little as 10.4p.

Click here to view the ActSmart rate card.

Existing ActSmart subscribers can benefit from our great rates with Global Payments simply by switching today.

It's easier than you think...

Switching your card processing supplier doesn't need to be difficult.

The most common misconception is thinking that you need to have your business bank account with the same provider as your card processing facility - you don't!

However, there are advantages in doing so. By choosing to bank with Global Payment's preferred banking partner, HSBC, you'll benefit from your card payments being credited quicker enhancing your cash flow.

Switching to Global Payments involves a quick application over the telephone with an individual who will handle your application from start to finish, providing the best possible customer experience throughout the transfer process.

Contact Global Payments on 0800 731 8921 and see how much you could save.

What do our subscribers say?

"I am very happy to say that the ActSmart card processing scheme is still the most competitive, having looked at several recent offers by other service providers"

Nigel Hill, Sidcup Cycle Centre

Access your own digital card scheme

Did you know that by simply taking card payments via Global Payments you have access to a ready made digital card scheme? You can create your own in store loyalty, gift, savings, promotions, reward and refund scheme with The Experts Gift Cards. Find out more today!

Using the existing technology on your Global Payments card terminal that allows you to offer gift cards, you can offer your customers far more!

What next?

Existing merchants must contact Global Payments now on 0800 731 8921 for a rate review or a no obligation chat to make sure you aren't paying too much.

  • Click here to find out more about Card Processing
  • Click here to find out more about starting your own in store digital card scheme
  • Contact us to find out more about any of our subscription benefits 

 

 

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