Selling at events: how to accept payments?

Taking part in fairs, markets or festivals involves more than logistics and exhibiting. When it comes to selling at eventsone of the key elements for success is knowing how to how to accept payments practically, quickly and securelyespecially in a scenario where digital payments dominate.

The challenges of selling at events

When selling at events such as fairs, markets or festivals, your business faces specific challenges:

• Limited physical spaceThis makes it difficult to use traditional equipment;
• High turnoutThis requires speed and fluidity in transactions;
• Diversity of clientsincluding foreigners with different payment habits;
• Seasonal characterThis may not justify loyalty or high fixed costs.

The Bank of Portugal, in "Payment Systems Report 2024" confirms this trend: more than half of the national turnover comes from contactless payments.

“Payments using contactless technology grew by 24.0% in volume and 26.9% in value.
value. This technology was used in 1.4 billion transactions, with an average value per transaction of
of 25.4 euros. More than half (56.7%) of card purchases were made using contactless,
mainly in retail and catering.“

Advantages of using a mobile POS at events

Opt for a TPA (mobile payment terminal) brings multiple benefits:

• Fast and secure payments;
• Elimination of queues and greater customer satisfaction;
• Increased average ticket and sales;
• Reduction of risks associated with cash handling;
• An image of modernity and professionalism;
• Easy cash management and real-time financial control.

What do I need to start accepting cards at events?

First of all, analyse the expected volume of transactions and the costs you are willing to bear. Based on this, choose the most suitable solution from the available options:

TPA Easy: free solution with no loyalty

Ideal for seasonal businesses, the TPA Easy allows:

• Accept payments by contactless with cards Visa and Mastercard and by MB WAY;
• Enjoy fixed monthly fees and no variable commissions;
• Benefit from Currency Conversion (CCD)which allows payments in foreign currencies;
• Eliminate loyalty by gaining flexibility.

TPA Android Smart: mobility with extra features

For those looking for more functionality, the TPA Android Smart allows:

• Accept multiple payment methods (including Apple Pay, Google Pay, MB WAY, QR code);
• Install management and invoicing apps;
• Offer fractioned payments with solutions such as Instalment plan with UNICRE or offer PIX payments to participants of Brazilian origin

Perfect for large events or more complex operations.

QR code payments: a simple and effective alternative

Another option is to turn your smartphone into a payment terminal. With App Softit is possible:

• Accept payments with QR code, NFC, mobile phone number and contactless;
• Avoid fixed costs and monthly fees;
• Manage payments directly on your smartphone or tablet;
• Send receipts by e-mail, simplifying document management.

The process is simple:

1. Enter the amount to be charged in the application;
2. The customer chooses the payment method;
3. The transaction is completed with authentication;
4. The receipt is sent by e-mail.

Either through a physical TPA or a virtual app, Accepting digital payments at events is a fundamental step towards maximising sales, attracting more customers and modernising your business.

Choose the solution that best suits your needs and become truly portable.