http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ en webmaster@pivotalpayments.com Copyright 2012 2012-05-21T18:06:09+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadians-plan-to-push-for-ecommerce-800780069/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadians-plan-to-push-for-ecommerce-800780069/ A number of roadblocks have so far prevented ecommerce from taking off in Canada Credit Card Processing 2012-05-21T18:06:09+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/apparel-stores-see-rebound-in-consumer-spending-800779046/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/apparel-stores-see-rebound-in-consumer-spending-800779046/ Apparel stores Gap and Sears recently announced a rise in revenue, according to The New York Times. Credit Card Processing 2012-05-18T16:56:07+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/nrf-announces-22-months-of-growth-for-retailers-800778134/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/nrf-announces-22-months-of-growth-for-retailers-800778134/ The National Retail Federation (NRF) recently announced that despite slowed consumer spending in April, retailers have now experienced 22 consecutive months of sales growth. Credit Card Processing 2012-05-17T17:23:29+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-bankers-association-develops-blueprint-for-mobile-payments-800775811/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-bankers-association-develops-blueprint-for-mobile-payments-800775811/ The number of smartphone owners in Canada now represents half of all wireless users, and many retailers have already installed point-of-sale terminals enabled with the technology that can accept mobile payments. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-05-15T16:01:26+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/emv-payments-cards-more-widely-circulated-800774167/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/emv-payments-cards-more-widely-circulated-800774167/ Merchants that have not yet invested in point-of-sale terminals capable of accepting EMV-chip cards might feel more pressure soon, since the number of cardholders is growing. Data recently released by EMVCo reported that 45 percent of all cards in the world contain EMV microprocessing chips Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-05-11T17:45:07+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-tire-reports-profit-increase-800773934/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-tire-reports-profit-increase-800773934/ Canadian Tire, one of the country's largest retailers, recently reported strong gains in revenue and same-store sales for the first quarter, according to Reuters. Credit Card Processing 2012-05-11T16:07:05+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/mothers-day-gifts-expected-to-drive-consumer-spending-800770113/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/mothers-day-gifts-expected-to-drive-consumer-spending-800770113/ According to the Bank of Montreal's (BMO) 2012 Mother's Day Survey, 73 percent of consumers plan on buying gifts for their mother's this year, driving sales at retailers' and restaurants' point-of-sale terminals. Credit Card Processing 2012-05-07T16:50:33+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/tips-for-businesses-to-encourage-payment-processing-800770082/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/tips-for-businesses-to-encourage-payment-processing-800770082/ Return policies are actually quite problematic for merchants, especially those selling products and services online, according to Internet Retailer. Credit Card Processing 2012-05-07T16:45:58+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/payment-processing-on-the-rise-cash-use-drops-800768988/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/payment-processing-on-the-rise-cash-use-drops-800768988/ It seems that customers are seamlessly making the transition from cash to cards for payment processing, as both Visa and MasterCard announced increased earnings during the first quarter. Credit Card Processing 2012-05-04T16:19:13+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-want-mobile-pos-systems-study-shows-800767379/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-want-mobile-pos-systems-study-shows-800767379/ The surveyed merchants believe the mobile credit card processing devices will help them provide better customer service and greater payment convenience since they won't be restricted to the front of the store. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-05-02T18:04:48+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-seeing-more-online-and-mobile-payment-processing-800767378/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-seeing-more-online-and-mobile-payment-processing-800767378/ Consumers continue investing in mobile devices and advanced technology that they are using to perform more of their day-to-day functions. Credit Card Processing 2012-05-02T18:02:28+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-retailers-could-be-early-adopters-of-mobile-payments-800762142/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-retailers-could-be-early-adopters-of-mobile-payments-800762142/ Reuters reported that Canadian retailers could be ahead of the curve when it comes to mobile payment processing. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-26T15:56:00+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/alberta-retail-sales-lead-nation-800761367/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/alberta-retail-sales-lead-nation-800761367/ The latest consumer spending reports revealed that year-over-year consumer spending growth in February was the highest in Alberta, according to data from Statistics Canada. Merchant Account 2012-04-25T17:21:45+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/men-and-women-use-credit-cards-differently-study-shows-800760094/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/men-and-women-use-credit-cards-differently-study-shows-800760094/ A recent study revealed that men and women have different habits when it comes to the way they used credit cards. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-24T16:47:15+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-sales-climb-more-than-expected-in-march-800757931/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-sales-climb-more-than-expected-in-march-800757931/ The U.S. Department of Commerce released sales numbers this week showing better-than-expected consumer spending during March. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-20T16:08:55+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumers-spending-more-both-offline-and-online-800757915/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumers-spending-more-both-offline-and-online-800757915/ As reports are released from the first quarter of 2012, consumer spending trends indicate that customers are regaining their confidence in the economy and returning to retailers' point-of-sale terminals. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-20T16:03:46+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-retailers-installing-kiosks-that-accept-credit-cards-800756804/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-retailers-installing-kiosks-that-accept-credit-cards-800756804/ Canadian consumers who are growing more comfortable with online shopping and paying through virtual point-of-sale terminals are fueling the trend for more in-store kiosks. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-19T16:08:57+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/contactless-payments-expected-to-emerge-as-dominant-payment-type-by-2020-800755828/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/contactless-payments-expected-to-emerge-as-dominant-payment-type-by-2020-800755828/ The majority of payment and technology experts believe consumers will be paying with contactless methods by 2020, according to the latest research by the Pew Internet & Life Project Survey. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-18T16:18:32+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/apparel-retailers-straddle-onlineoffline-barrier-800753028/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/apparel-retailers-straddle-onlineoffline-barrier-800753028/ While many apparel retailers are developing ecommerce, mobile-optimized sites, and applications so they can capture sales where consumers are heading in droves, some established web-based stores are moving back to the high street. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-13T17:34:17+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-grows-more-than-5-percent-in-q1-800751013/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-grows-more-than-5-percent-in-q1-800751013/ In contrast with reports that Canadian consumers want to focus on paying down debts, consumer spending increased 5.34 percent in year-over-year growth during the first quarter of 2012, according to Canadian Business. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-11T17:38:56+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/easter-holiday-expected-to-boost-retail-sales-800749733/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/easter-holiday-expected-to-boost-retail-sales-800749733/ Even after better-than-expected retail sales in March, the National Retail Federation (NRF) predicted the Easter holiday would still boost stores' payment processing. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-10T16:15:42+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/small-businesses-bracing-for-emvchip-card-adoption-800749045/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/small-businesses-bracing-for-emvchip-card-adoption-800749045/ With the April 2013 deadlines just under a year away, large corporations and small businesses alike are faced with decisions regarding their plans for adopting new point-of-sale terminals that are capable of taking contactless payments. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-10T08:09:31+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-retailers-leave-little-room-for-competition-800748346/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadian-retailers-leave-little-room-for-competition-800748346/ U.S. retailers are eyeing real estate in Canada, but are finding there's no room for them. Merchant Account 2012-04-09T14:03:49+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-cards-and-loyalty-programs-join-forces-for-valueadded-payments-800747918/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-cards-and-loyalty-programs-join-forces-for-valueadded-payments-800747918/ One of the benefits consumers will realize as payment technology continues to develop, is streamlined service. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-06T17:16:10+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/march-yields-strong-sales-at-pointofsale-terminals-800747223/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/march-yields-strong-sales-at-pointofsale-terminals-800747223/ March was a big month for retail sales, according to initial revenue reports from merchants. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-06T12:08:38+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumers-can-now-use-credit-cards-at-dmv-for-bills-800747213/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumers-can-now-use-credit-cards-at-dmv-for-bills-800747213/ Citizens in Rhode Island won't need to visit ATMs or write checks anymore before they head to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to renew their licenses or update plates. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-06T12:04:14+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/pointofsale-systems-help-food-stamp-users-buy-from-farmers-markets-800746590/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/pointofsale-systems-help-food-stamp-users-buy-from-farmers-markets-800746590/ Farmers markets might benefit from an investment in additional payment processing equipment so vendors can accommodate consumers paying with food stamp payment cards. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-05T15:54:51+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/patco-system-gets-contactless-pointofsale-terminals-800745015/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/patco-system-gets-contactless-pointofsale-terminals-800745015/ New Jersey's high speed rail could become even faster for riders, who can now speed through stations using the new Wave and Pay system, which accepts credit card payments remotely. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-04-04T07:43:55+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/expanded-duty-free-allowance-could-mean-sales-gains-for-border-town-retailers-800745007/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/expanded-duty-free-allowance-could-mean-sales-gains-for-border-town-retailers-800745007/ The Frontier Duty Free Association's recent decision to expand the allowance for cross-border visitors could lead to more sales at border town retailers' point-of-sale terminals. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-04T07:39:30+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/emvchip-cards-emerging-at-us-pointofsale-terminals-800744475/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/emvchip-cards-emerging-at-us-pointofsale-terminals-800744475/ Following a slow reception, EMV-chips cards might soon be adopted in the U.S. market, according to a recent study by consulting group Auriemma and Savantor. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-03T15:24:00+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/big-box-closures-mean-more-payment-processing-for-local-shops-800744309/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/big-box-closures-mean-more-payment-processing-for-local-shops-800744309/ The era of big box stores may be coming to an end, the Financial Post reports, and this could translate to stronger sales revenue at local shops' point-of-sale terminals. Merchant Account 2012-04-03T13:22:49+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-will-accept-credit-cards-for-a-while-experts-say-800743300/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-will-accept-credit-cards-for-a-while-experts-say-800743300/ Despite all of the buzz generated by mobile payment innovations, retailers should plan to accept credit card payments some time, according to ISO & Agent. Credit Card Processing 2012-04-02T12:44:19+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/food-trucks-accepting-credit-cards-for-onthego-payments-800742724/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/food-trucks-accepting-credit-cards-for-onthego-payments-800742724/ To keep up with their growing popularity, food trucks have transitioned from cash-only transactions to mobile point-of-sale terminals that can accept credit cards. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-30T16:57:48+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/investing-in-contactless-credit-card-terminals-prepares-stores-for-mobile-payments-800742708/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/investing-in-contactless-credit-card-terminals-prepares-stores-for-mobile-payments-800742708/ More retailers might be prepared to accept mobile payments than was previously thought, as a number of players have been set in motion by major card companies' push for EMV adoption. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-30T16:53:36+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/the-evolution-of-social-credit-cards-800742592/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/the-evolution-of-social-credit-cards-800742592/ Following suit with retailers, credit card companies are making an appearance in the social media channel. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-30T16:32:53+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canada-could-get-32-billion-boost-with-digital-payment-processing-800741519/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canada-could-get-32-billion-boost-with-digital-payment-processing-800741519/ The Department of Finance Canada released the final report of its federal review of the nation's payment systems and found the economy could get a $32 billion boost annually if it switched to a digital payment processing system Credit Card Processing 2012-03-29T17:58:44+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/new-prepaid-card-helps-customers-build-credit-800740447/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/new-prepaid-card-helps-customers-build-credit-800740447/ A new prepaid offering called "Make Your Move" by American Express could quiet some consumers' complaints about the card accounts. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-28T18:14:16+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-marketplace-is-changing-800739314/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-marketplace-is-changing-800739314/ The retail market in Canada is evolving to meet the needs of its ever-connected consumers, the Toronto Star reports Credit Card Processing 2012-03-27T17:24:27+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-cards-accepted-almost-everywhere-800738036/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-cards-accepted-almost-everywhere-800738036/ To accommodate the growing number of consumers who are foregoing the ATM for cash withdrawals and instead paying with debit and credit cards, many transactions that formerly required cash can now be completed with plastic. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-26T16:43:48+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/payment-processing-for-hotel-ecommerce-increased-every-quarter-in-2011-800736206/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/payment-processing-for-hotel-ecommerce-increased-every-quarter-in-2011-800736206/ Hotel websites were able to book more rooms each quarter last year, culminating with 6.8 percent year-over-year growth for the final quarter in of 2011, according to the TravelClick North American Distribution Review (NADR). Credit Card Processing 2012-03-23T07:49:49+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-still-positive-800735779/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-still-positive-800735779/ A strong finish for the fourth quarter in 2011 has carried into the start of 2012 with strong sales in January and February, according to results released by the Great American Group. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-22T15:46:38+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/minneapolis-gets-paybycard-parking-meters-800734243/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/minneapolis-gets-paybycard-parking-meters-800734243/ More drivers in Minneapolis will be paying for their parking with plastic this week as the city continues its gradual transition from traditional coin meters to solar-powered devices that accept credit cards. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-21T09:35:48+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-cards-of-the-future-800733182/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-cards-of-the-future-800733182/ Despite innovative developments in payment technology, consumer and retailer adoption remains hesitant. Merchant Account 2012-03-20T07:52:06+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-growth-highest-in-5-months-800733179/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-growth-highest-in-5-months-800733179/ Retailers continued to see increased consumer spending that spurred payment processing growth, according to recent data released by the U.S. Commerce Department Credit Card Processing 2012-03-20T07:47:36+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-sales-up-in-february-800731103/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-sales-up-in-february-800731103/ Retail sales are breaking economists' expectations for growth, according to new data released by the U.S. Commerce Department. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-15T16:36:15+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-sales-on-the-rise-in-california-800730216/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-sales-on-the-rise-in-california-800730216/ Retailers could be handling more transactions at point-of-sale terminals as consumer spending increases and retail sales grow. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-14T17:19:08+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-cards-may-be-best-payment-method-for-contractors-800729301/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-cards-may-be-best-payment-method-for-contractors-800729301/ Contractors who want to provide customers with the most convenience and security may want to accept credit cards for payments Credit Card Processing 2012-03-13T17:53:43+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-card-companies-rolling-out-prepaid-options-800725990/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-card-companies-rolling-out-prepaid-options-800725990/ Retail stores could start to see an increase in prepaid cards at point-of-sale terminals as credit card companies jump on board. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-08T16:49:48+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/calgary-sales-to-hit-26-billion-800724740/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/calgary-sales-to-hit-26-billion-800724740/ Consumer retail sales in Calgary are expected to grow to $26 billion this year, according to a new report by The KubasPrimedia retail outlook. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-07T14:19:44+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/the-best-emv-chip-cards-for-early-adopters-800723563/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/the-best-emv-chip-cards-for-early-adopters-800723563/ EMV-chip & PIN cards could be at the forefront of retail trends in the coming year. Along with near field communication (NFC) technology and mobile payments. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-06T12:09:39+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/benefits-of-paying-with-credit-cards-800722935/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/benefits-of-paying-with-credit-cards-800722935/ They don't have to worry about carrying or losing cash, and they won't accumulate change and small bills. Credit Card Processing 2012-03-05T16:39:39+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-grew-last-year-800719641/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-grew-last-year-800719641/ Consumer spending that fueled higher than expected economic growth at the end of 2011 could result in increased purchasing at retailers' point-of-sale terminals. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-29T16:55:50+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/survey-shows-retailers-should-expect-steady-payment-processing-800719625/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/survey-shows-retailers-should-expect-steady-payment-processing-800719625/ Retailers should prepare for sales to match those from last year, a report by PriceGrabber shows. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-29T16:52:34+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/what-connected-consumers-mean-for-retail-800718972/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/what-connected-consumers-mean-for-retail-800718972/ According to a Zmags study, most retailers are facing a consumer demographic that is becoming increasingly connected. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-29T10:14:19+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/contactless-payments-gaining-popularity-800718939/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/contactless-payments-gaining-popularity-800718939/ While approximately half of Canadians are still using cash for transactions, the other half are warming up to new payment technology Credit Card Processing 2012-02-29T09:46:34+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/big-retailers-seeing-sales-growth-800717524/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/big-retailers-seeing-sales-growth-800717524/ Even though businesses are still feeling the crunch from the recession, some merchants are reporting gains that are painting a more optimistic picture for the economy. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-28T09:21:07+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadians-shopping-more-in-border-towns-800715062/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/canadians-shopping-more-in-border-towns-800715062/ The growth in the West and border towns has helped to offset slowed and flat sales in central Canada. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-24T08:44:54+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/the-pet-industry-is-growing-thanks-to-ecommerce-800714179/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/the-pet-industry-is-growing-thanks-to-ecommerce-800714179/ The pet industry earned an estimated $50.84 billion in revenue last year, according to the American Pet Products Association, and ecommerce businesses might be fueling the growth. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-23T13:02:09+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/future-deployment-of-emv-chip-cards-dont-require-pins-800711666/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/future-deployment-of-emv-chip-cards-dont-require-pins-800711666/ In a best practice report, Visa explains why PINs won't be necessary for processing transactions with EMV chip technology in the future. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-21T08:42:57+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/improved-credit-card-processing-could-be-a-better-option-than-cash-800711031/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/improved-credit-card-processing-could-be-a-better-option-than-cash-800711031/ Most consumers are used to having multiple payment methods at their disposal - a combination of debit and credit cards along with some cash - however, cash could become irrelevant as electronic payments become more convenient and secure. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-17T16:06:30+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/rise-in-retail-sales-800710048/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/rise-in-retail-sales-800710048/ Increased automobile sales and lowered unemployment rates could be reasons for growth in the retail industry. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-16T16:42:52+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/increased-household-income-could-translate-to-retail-sales-800707577/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/increased-household-income-could-translate-to-retail-sales-800707577/ The median household income has jumped 4 percent from August to December, reaching $51,413. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-14T13:26:02+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-can-use-ecommerce-strategies-to-increase-sales-800706631/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-can-use-ecommerce-strategies-to-increase-sales-800706631/ Merchants can optimize sales by developing marketing strategies that effectively use ecommerce. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-13T15:20:47+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-trends-for-2012-800704617/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retail-trends-for-2012-800704617/ A new list of predictions for retail trends in 2012, released by Manhattan Associates, reaffirms the idea that retail growth will continue online and through mobile technology. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-09T15:10:27+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/social-commerce-taking-off-800703293/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/social-commerce-taking-off-800703293/ Pinterest, the social bookmarking website where consumers can post products and services they like and share them with their networks, has grown by 429 percent over the last four months, and doesn't appear to be slowing down. Merchant Account 2012-02-08T12:23:55+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/payment-summit-presents-information-about-emv-technology-for-retailers-800703139/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/payment-summit-presents-information-about-emv-technology-for-retailers-800703139/ As EMV chip technology proliferates, retailers face the challenge of adopting in time or falling behind Credit Card Processing 2012-02-08T09:08:42+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/trends-in-retail-growth--large-companies-see-most-spending-consumers-using-credit-800702128/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/trends-in-retail-growth--large-companies-see-most-spending-consumers-using-credit-800702128/ According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, retail sales are expected to grow by six percent in 2012. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-07T08:57:00+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/restaurant-industry-sales-growth-soars-800701278/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/restaurant-industry-sales-growth-soars-800701278/ Restaurants have been one of the fastest industries to recover from economic turmoil. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-06T11:12:48+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-report-steady-january-sales-800701179/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/retailers-report-steady-january-sales-800701179/ A mix of high- and low-end retailers reported steady sales growth during January. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-06T08:54:35+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/thomson-reuters-retail-sales-soared-in-january-despite-weaker-consumer-sentiment-800699852/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/thomson-reuters-retail-sales-soared-in-january-despite-weaker-consumer-sentiment-800699852/ Retail sales appear to have climbed in January, as a survey of the top 20 retailers in the U.S. by Thomson Reuters shows sales climbed by a net 4.2 percent on the month. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-02T17:01:14+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/study-highlights-various-factors-for-choosing-crossborder-payment-processors-800697421/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/study-highlights-various-factors-for-choosing-crossborder-payment-processors-800697421/ As new payment technologies have emerged on a near-constant basis, many market leaders have overlooked the considerable hurdles of cross-border payments. Merchant Account 2012-01-31T15:57:34+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/mastercard-drafts-roadmap-for-adoption-of-electronic-payment-services-800697416/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/mastercard-drafts-roadmap-for-adoption-of-electronic-payment-services-800697416/ MasterCard is moving to expedite the adoption of electronic payment services and technologies. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-31T15:55:44+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/equifax-delinquency-rates-tumble-across-the-board-in-december-800696791/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/equifax-delinquency-rates-tumble-across-the-board-in-december-800696791/ Delinquency rates on credit card dues, car loans, mortgages and other forms of credit plummeted in December, reflecting a general uptick in consumer sentiment. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-31T09:53:54+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/ecommerce-continues-to-soar-but-risk-to-brickandmortar-minimal-800695359/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/ecommerce-continues-to-soar-but-risk-to-brickandmortar-minimal-800695359/ Online retail looks poised for continued growth in 2012, as consumers view ecommerce as a cost-efficient and convenient method for shopping. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-30T09:30:25+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/ftc-to-review-fledgling-mobile-payments-industry-800695356/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/ftc-to-review-fledgling-mobile-payments-industry-800695356/ The U.S. Federal Trade Commission is planning to scrutinize the burgeoning mobile payments industry this spring when it holds a workshop designed to understand the market's impact on technology, consumers and businesses alike. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-30T09:28:16+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/mobile-payment-ventures-soaking-up-large-chunk-of-vc-dollars-800692683/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/mobile-payment-ventures-soaking-up-large-chunk-of-vc-dollars-800692683/ Last week, the National Venture Capital Association and PricewaterhouseCoopers reported that venture capital investment in 2011 reached the third-highest annual investment total of the past decade. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-25T17:20:06+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-card-use-climbed-in-december-on-strong-holiday-season-800691565/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/credit-card-use-climbed-in-december-on-strong-holiday-season-800691565/ Cash, debit and credit card processing continued to grow in December, both in terms of transactions and dollar volume, according to the most recent SpendTrend report from First Data Corporation. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-24T17:01:33+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/risk-of-fraud-wanes-among-merchants-but-concerns-abound-800691557/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/risk-of-fraud-wanes-among-merchants-but-concerns-abound-800691557/ As ecommerce continues to broaden and expand into new territories such as mobile payments, social commerce and other innovations, the need to protect consumer financial data grows increasingly important. Merchant Account 2012-01-24T16:59:43+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/despite-smaller-debt-loads-consumers-less-financially-secure-than-a-year-ago-800691548/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/despite-smaller-debt-loads-consumers-less-financially-secure-than-a-year-ago-800691548/ Consumers continue to pay off their debts, as financial security continues to improve amid otherwise hopeful outlooks for the U.S. economy in 2012. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-24T16:56:52+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/accounts-with-high-debt-balances-shouldnt-necessarily-be-first-to-be-paid-off-800690505/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/accounts-with-high-debt-balances-shouldnt-necessarily-be-first-to-be-paid-off-800690505/ People tend to make poor decisions when it comes to credit card processing and paying off debt. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-23T16:43:11+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/tablet-owners-bigger-shoppers-than-laptop-or-smartphone-owners-800689967/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/tablet-owners-bigger-shoppers-than-laptop-or-smartphone-owners-800689967/ Ecommerce may soon be synonymous with m-commerce, as mobile devices continue to become venues for online shopping. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-23T09:34:42+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/student-debt-how-will-millennials-pay-it-off-800688440/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/student-debt-how-will-millennials-pay-it-off-800688440/ Student debt is a mounting problem in the U.S. Merchant Account 2012-01-19T16:54:00+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/most-mobile-users-report-using-smartphones-for-consumer-research-800687880/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/most-mobile-users-report-using-smartphones-for-consumer-research-800687880/ Consumers across the globe are using their mobile devices to research products and find top deals. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-19T09:33:51+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/nrf-projects-retail-growth-to-proceed-at-slower-pace-in-2012-800685295/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/nrf-projects-retail-growth-to-proceed-at-slower-pace-in-2012-800685295/ Cash transactions and credit card processing may slow in 2012, as a new report from the National Retail Federation projects a dip in overall retail sales for the coming year. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-16T16:43:18+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/visa-certifies-slew-of-new-smartphones-for-mobile-payment-app-800682152/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/visa-certifies-slew-of-new-smartphones-for-mobile-payment-app-800682152/ Payment technology giant Visa announced this week it has certified a number of NFC-enabled smartphones for use as mobile payment devices. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-11T16:59:02+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/study-pci-compliance-a-nobrainer-among-level-four-merchants-800680529/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/study-pci-compliance-a-nobrainer-among-level-four-merchants-800680529/ A recent survey by research firm Gartner found nearly one-fifth of retailers and credit card processing services are not compliant with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards. Security and Fraud 2012-01-10T09:38:37+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/aba-credit-card-delinquency-rates-climbed-in-the-third-quarter-800677984/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/aba-credit-card-delinquency-rates-climbed-in-the-third-quarter-800677984/ The national delinquency rate on bank-issued credit cards increased in the third quarter, even as most other categories showed improvements in the rate of late payments. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-05T16:52:24+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/survey-mobile-payments-to-be-defined-by-financial-services-sector-in-2012-800677003/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/survey-mobile-payments-to-be-defined-by-financial-services-sector-in-2012-800677003/ While mobile payments are not expected to go mainstream in 2012, merchants can expect this year to be another breakthrough year for m-commerce and related technology. Merchant Account 2012-01-04T17:05:28+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/drinking-while-shopping-a-dangerous-holiday-mix-800674729/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/drinking-while-shopping-a-dangerous-holiday-mix-800674729/ What better way to end the year than with a story about the holiday season's two most obvious cultural trends? Credit Card Processing 2011-12-30T16:51:30+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/social-media-mcommerce-to-take-off-in-2012-800674720/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/social-media-mcommerce-to-take-off-in-2012-800674720/ What kind of year will 2012 be? Merchant Account 2011-12-30T16:49:23+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/large-firms-investing-in-tablet-computers-more-than-smbs-800673668/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/large-firms-investing-in-tablet-computers-more-than-smbs-800673668/ Mobile devices continue to assert a more powerful role as business tools. Merchant Account 2011-12-29T17:28:52+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-up-41-percent-this-holiday-season-800673658/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/consumer-spending-up-41-percent-this-holiday-season-800673658/ This year, consumer holiday spending seemed to be polarized between Thanksgiving weekend and the week before Christmas, with a relatively large "sales gap" in between. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-29T17:27:01+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/ecommerce-sales-during-holiday-season-reach-highest-level-ever-800672493/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/ecommerce-sales-during-holiday-season-reach-highest-level-ever-800672493/ Total online sales reached a record $35.3 billion during this year's holiday shopping season, according to data released Wednesday by analytics firm comScore. Online sales through the 56-day November-December period were up 15 percent from the same period last year. Merchant Account 2011-12-28T17:15:34+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/2012-not-the-year-of-the-mobile-payment-revolution-but-an-important-step-800671251/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/2012-not-the-year-of-the-mobile-payment-revolution-but-an-important-step-800671251/ A recent survey by consulting firm KPMG found roughly half of finance and technology industry executives expect mobile payment services and devices to be mainstream by 2013. Merchant Account 2011-12-27T16:43:04+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/ecommerce-payment-landscape-continues-to-evolve-800671244/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/ecommerce-payment-landscape-continues-to-evolve-800671244/ The ecommerce landscape is constantly changing. With the advent of new devices such as mobile payment, smartphones and tablet computers, consumers are offered a variety of new options for purchasing goods and making payments online. Merchant Account 2011-12-27T16:41:35+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/november-consumer-spending-tepid-ahead-of-lastminute-holiday-shopping-800670333/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/november-consumer-spending-tepid-ahead-of-lastminute-holiday-shopping-800670333/ Consumer spending continued to improve in November, continuing three straight months of gains. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-23T16:08:00+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/index-of-consumer-sentiment-climbs-in-december-800669449/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/index-of-consumer-sentiment-climbs-in-december-800669449/ Consumer confidence rose to the highest level in six months in December, reflecting a general uptick in business sentiment and U.S. economic activity. Merchant Account 2011-12-22T16:56:28+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/us-adults-optimistic-about-2012-finances-plan-to-reduce-debt-800668372/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/us-adults-optimistic-about-2012-finances-plan-to-reduce-debt-800668372/ Americans are growing more confident in their respective financial situations, reflecting the sense of general improvement in the economic recovery through the fourth quarter. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-21T16:41:08+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/visa-more-than-threequarters-of-consumers-still-have-holiday-shopping-to-do-800667355/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/visa-more-than-threequarters-of-consumers-still-have-holiday-shopping-to-do-800667355/ The holiday shopping season is far from over, even as retailers have enjoyed record online and Thanksgiving weekend sales figures. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-20T16:49:30+00:00 http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/nrf-scales-up-forecast-for-holiday-shopping-sales-800666354/ http://www.pivotalpayments.com/ca/industry-news/nrf-scales-up-forecast-for-holiday-shopping-sales-800666354/ Retailers may enjoy even more sales this holiday shopping season than originally projected, as the National Retail Federation has revised its holiday sales forecast in light of a strong showing so far this season. Merchant Account 2011-12-19T17:05:53+00:00