20/10/2026
More than half of Brits say a business has encouraged them to pay in cash in the past eight weeks — and most of them did.
A survey for ATM network Link found that 54% of people had been prompted, either by a sign or by staff asking directly. Among those asked, three-quarters completed the purchase with notes or coins.
The push is strongest at cafes and restaurants, independent shops, hairdressers, barbers, beauty salons, outdoor markets and pubs. In Northern Ireland, 69% of people were asked, and 88% of those then paid in cash. Scotland and Wales also saw high rates of people switching to cash when requested.
Link’s director of strategy, Graham Mott, said the results show cash remains a practical choice for millions and that many small businesses are actively encouraging it. When prompted, most people are happy to use it.
For traders trying to avoid card fees, and for customers who still prefer physical money, the cashless shift is not as complete as it once seemed.
💬 QUESTION
Would you prefer more shops and cafes actively encouraged cash to keep fees down — or do you think the move to digital payments is better for everyone?
