A True Test for Contactless Payments: The Market for Open-Network Transit Solutions

Despite consistent marketing by key parties to the contrary, contactless payments have yet to demonstrate a substantiated impact on retail purchases. Luckily for the providers of contactless solutions, the technology has demonstrated a considerable utility for driving efficiency in at least one segment with particularly high volumes, small average ticket sizes an absolute requirement for maximizing throughput.

Boston, MA (PRWEB) November 23, 2006 -- Despite consistent marketing by key parties to the contrary, contactless payments have yet to demonstrate a substantiated impact on retail purchases. Luckily for the providers of contactless solutions, the technology has demonstrated a considerable utility for driving efficiency in at least one segment with particularly high volumes, small average ticket sizes an absolute requirement for maximizing throughput. Contactless transactions have been available in mass transit systems since 1996, and though the technology has been historically deployed in only closed loop environments, we are beginning to see a concerted effort on the part of branded associations to drive open network payment integration into closed transit systems.    

"The sheer volume of potential payments combined with an increased understanding of how best to both rapidly and cost effectively process small payments makes contactless solutions for mass transit so compelling. With the right implementation, we are looking at the potential for 9 billion new electronic payment transactions on a annual basis in the US alone," according to Michael Friedman, Director of Mercator Advisory Group's Emerging Technology Practice.    

The sheer volume of potential payments combined with an increased understanding of how best to both rapidly and cost effectively process small payments makes contactless solutions for mass transit so compelling. With the right implementation, we are looking at the potential for 9 billion new electronic payment transactions on a annual basis in the US alone

In this latest report, "A True Test For Contactless Payments: The Market For Open-Network Transit Solutions," Mercator Advisory Group identifies the potential market size for transit payments in the US and looks internationally at the deployment of closed loop contactless cards. The report explores the potential market across different modes of transportation and the benefits of integrating open payment solutions into presently closed loop transit payment systems.    

The report considers the challenges to integrating closed transit systems. Stemming largely from the need to minimize the transaction time, branded associations are exploring a host of innovative solutions through the use of both their networks and outside solution providers. The report explores the impact and response to factors including small ticket size and variable fare pricing in addition to other considerations. Finally, the report identifies leading players in contactless transit system deployment.

Highlights of this report include:

• Though association branded contactless cards have yet proven to be widely adopted by consumers, closed loop contactless transit cards have gained wide acceptance.
• There is a tremendous opportunity for contactless transactions in transit environments around the world with over $9 billion paid in US transit fares in 2005.
• Closed loop systems dominate the transit landscape largely due to fare pricing and transaction speed challenges facing open network providers.
• Innovative solutions are currently being developed and tested as illustrated by trials in New York City and Utah.
• The closed loop transit industry is dominated by a few large players.

Members of Mercator Advisory Group have access to these reports as well as the upcoming research for the year ahead, presentations, analyst access and other membership benefits. Please visit us online at www.mercatoradvisorygroup.com.

For more information call Mercator Advisory Group's main line: 781-419-1700

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mercator advisory group michael friedman research market competitive intelligence contactless payments closed loop transit payment systems branded associations payment integration

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