Navigating New Norms: The Use of Card-Linked Installment Plans in Online and In-Store Sales

We’re thrilled to release our second Acquirer Survey, conducted in partnership with PYMNTS, titled “Navigating New Norms: The Use of Card-Linked Installment Plans in Online and In-Store Sales.” Our findings underscore a strong preference among acquirers for card-linked installment plans, recognizing their potential to significantly enhance sales and revenue. Over half of the acquirers expressed concerns that not offering such services could result in missed business opportunities. Read on to explore how innovative payment solutions are meeting consumer demands and driving growth.

The report highlights that 94% of acquirers believe implementing card-linked installment plans can greatly improve merchants’ sales. Furthermore, those acquirers who integrate these plans seamlessly are poised to capture a larger market share. According to the survey of 50 acquirers, 87% reported increased client satisfaction and 82% observed higher sales from these plans. Looking ahead, 66% of acquirers are planning to innovate in this area within the next year, signaling a move towards more adaptable payment options to attract and retain clients.

Key Highlights from the Survey:

• 82% of acquirers believe that providing card-linked installment plans leads to increased sales volume—a significant rise from 64% six months earlier.
• 56% of acquirers prefer merchants to offer general-purpose credit card-linked plans, with Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options preferred by 42%.
• 66% of acquirers are currently innovating or planning to innovate card-linked installment offerings in the coming year.
• 87% report higher client satisfaction with card-linked installment plans.

These insights reveal a dynamic shift towards embracing flexible payment solutions that not only meet merchant needs but also align with consumer expectations.

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