Stagecoach North Scotland and Cardiff Bus have become the latest operators to launch contactless payments, as the payment method increases its reach across Britain. There are 100m contactless debit and credit cards in circulation in the UK.
To celebrate the deployment of the new technology on its 360 buses, Stagecoach North Scotland showcased how travel has evolved over the years, being joined by the Royal Highlander horse-drawn coach.
The introduction of contactless payments is part of a £12m project across Stagecoach’s UK businesses and follows the company investment in its mobile app allowing customers to track their bus live as well as buy their ticket before boarding the bus.
Cardiff success
Cardiff Bus introduced contactless payment technology across its entire network from Sunday (25 March)
It follows a successful trial across the bus operator’s baycar, 27, 57 and 58 services in the past few months.
The contactless payment technology will complement existing payment methods, including mobile and online payment options via the ‘iff’ smartcard portal, as well as its direct debit scheme, allowing greater flexibility and choice for millions of customers who choose Cardiff Bus.
It is hoped the new payment method will further help speed up boarding times and improve journey times, says Cardiff Bus Commercial Manager Gareth Stevens.
Scotland options
Meanwhile, Mark Whitelocks, MD of Stagecoach North Scotland, – which includes Aberdeenshire, Moray, the Highlands and Orkney – says: “Bus travel is experiencing a complete transformation and we are delighted to be able to celebrate this.
“We continue to invest in new technology to make it easier than ever to catch the bus.
“From contactless technology and mobile apps to greener vehicles with lower emissions benefitting the environment, buses are the simpler, smarter and greener mobility solution.”
