Why is Tesco no longer taking cash?

Tesco has transitioned to card-only payments in 40 of its in-store cafes to reduce customer waiting times and speed up transactions, Startups.co.uk reported. This shift, which often uses new automated ordering systems, aims to modernize the experience but has faced criticism for potentially alienating some customers, note Somerset Live and Time Out Worldwide.

Are Tesco banning cash transactions?

Tesco caused uproar among shoppers this week when it confirmed it would ban cash payments at some of its cafes. The card-only policy will be rolled out to 40 in-store eateries. The supermarket has reportedly taken the decision after a new electronic ordering system helped to significantly cut down queues.

Do Tesco still accept cash?

We're unable to accept Maestro cards for Delivery Saver payments. We don't currently accept Visa Electron cards, Tesco Gift Cards or cash. If you do have an Electron card, please check with your issuing bank as they can upgrade your card to let you shop online with us. You can also pay using Clubcard Vouchers.

What is Tesco's new cash rule?

Tesco's "new cash rule" involves banning cash payments at 40 of its in-store cafes, requiring customers to use digital kiosks and pay by card or contactless instead, a move aimed at speeding up service, though it faced criticism for impacting elderly or less tech-savvy shoppers. While some stores also have card-only self-checkout lanes, the main change affects the cafe experience, compelling digital ordering and payment for food and drinks at these specific locations. 

Are supermarkets going to stop taking cash?

All major supermarkets remain publicly “committed” to accepting cash in stores. However, some have begun phasing out cash payments across other parts of their businesses. For example, Asda made 96 of its petrol stations card-only in 2024 by removing the manned kiosk from forecourts.

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Which country is 100% cashless?

Sweden has officially become the first country in the world to go completely cashless. Almost every shop, café, and public transport system in Sweden now accepts only digital payments like cards or mobile apps. The popular app “Swish,” launched in 2012, is used by millions of Swedes to send and receive money instantly.

Will the UK ever go cashless?

The UK is rapidly moving towards being a low-cash, but not fully cashless, society, with digital payments dominating, yet cash remains crucial for millions, especially vulnerable groups, leading to government efforts to protect access via legislation, banking hubs, and ATMs, even as some businesses go card-only and digital ID plans emerge. While cash use has plummeted (less than 10% of payments in 2024/25), the Bank of England and officials stress that a completely cashless system isn't feasible or desirable yet, focusing on maintaining choice and access for everyone, including the elderly and low-income individuals. 

Is it illegal for shops to refuse cash?

While cash is considered a legal tender, businesses have no legal obligation to accept it and have the right to set their own payment policies. This means that a brick-and-mortar store can refuse cash, just as they can reject other forms of payment, such as certain credit card payments or cheques.

Is Tesco becoming cashless?

READ MORE. Last August, Tesco transformed 40 of its UK café sites into largely cashless zones where customers place orders using self-service screens. The supermarket ensures staff are on hand to help customers no matter how they choose to order and pay.

Is Tesco doing cash back?

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Is cash payment illegal in the UK?

Cash-in-hand payments are legal but must follow strict tax and employment law rules. You must deduct and report tax and National Insurance and ensure staff receive payslips and legal entitlements. Staff must agree to be paid in cash, and you must treat it as net pay, not gross.

Why is Tesco removing pay in-store?

We're removing the 'Pay in-store' feature from the Tesco app. This is because it's not very well-used. If this is the way you preferred to pay, you'll now need to use a different method to pay in-store. We're sorry for the inconvenience this may cause.

What is the Tesco scandal?

Tesco has been accused of excessive profiteering during the 2021–present United Kingdom cost-of-living crisis.

Is cash getting banned in the UK?

Fact Check: Britain has not announced a ban on cash payments over 10,000 pounds. Britons will not face a ban on cash payments over 10,000 pounds ($13,200) or compulsory identity checks for payments above 6,300 pounds ($8,300) from 2027, contrary to posts online that say the government has announced such rules.

Why are people boycotting Tesco?

The “Boycott Tesco” campaign applies, more or less, to all supermarkets. Increasing centralization and market domination by fewer and fewer players means that our food becomes increasingly poor, with fresh local food, and therefore local culture, increasingly under threat.

Are UK supermarkets banning cash?

Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury's have stopped accepting cash in some stores and supermarkets - with shoppers warned. Last year, Tesco announced it would be going cashless at 40 UK cafe sites. Asda has also gone cash-free in nearly 270 petrol stations, where customers can only pay by card at the pumps to fill up.

What countries are closest to cashless?

Wealthy nations are nearly cashless: Sweden (14%), Norway (10%), and South Korea (10%) show how digital payment infrastructure correlates with economic development.

Is paying with cash safer than card?

There is also a practical security advantage with cash. Although debit and credit cards often have personal identification numbers (PIN) and chips for extra security, there is less risk of identity theft or your information getting stolen online when using cash.

How much do Tesco cashiers get paid?

Average Tesco Cashier yearly pay in the United Kingdom is approximately £20,921, which meets the national average. Salary estimated from 317 past and present job postings on Indeed.

Do Tesco staff get free food?

Products available free in our Colleague Rooms in stores include fresh fruit; hot and cold drinks; breakfast items; soup, bread, pasta and noodle snacks; and toiletries including deodorant and sanitary products.

Is it illegal to keep cash at home in the UK?

It is not illegal to keep cash at home in the UK, but it should be stored securely to mitigate risks. The amount of cash to have on hand varies, but a small amount for emergencies is recommended while keeping most in a secure bank account.

Will there still be cash in 2050?

Perhaps the most surprising thing about the world in 2050 is that we will no longer be using money as we now know it. Not only will we see the disappearance of notes and coins - which it is commonplace to assume will be replaced by 'electronic cash' - but also of the type of money we now hold in our bank accounts.

What will replace cash in the future?

Q: What is the future of money? The future of money is expected to be heavily influenced by technology. Predictions include the rise of cashless societies, the growth of cryptocurrencies, the continued adoption of digital currencies, and the potential offering of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) by governments.