Self-serve carwash payment systems have become the standard, with unattended, electronic payments now seen as the safer, more convenient alternative to PIN-entry or cash transactions. According to a 2024 Discover® Global Network Payments study, 59% of consumers used a digital wallet in Q2 2024, reflecting the growing demand for seamless, touch-free transactions. While digital wallets are still primarily used online, their rising adoption is shifting consumer expectations across all retail, including carwashes and other unattended businesses.
Innovative Revenue-Generating Features
To help operators do more than accept payments, manufacturers should prioritize solutions designed to increase revenue actively and add value. Look for payment technology that offers:
- Count Up: Automatically extends wash sessions as customers add more time, boosting average transaction size.
- Incremental Pre-Auth: Allows machines to settle higher amounts than initially authorized, maximizing sales potential.
- Telemetry: Provides real-time data insights for proactive inventory management and system performance tracking.
- e-Receipt Issuance: Offers digital receipts for a seamless, eco-friendly customer experience.
- Instant Refunds: Provides quick, hassle-free refunds to resolve issues and keep customers happy.
- Built-in Timers: Replace external timer hardware to cut costs and simplify setup.
- Tokenization API: Enables recurring membership programs, creating steady, predictable revenue streams.
- Automated Sales Tax Application: Helps with accurate tax recovery and simplified reporting.
By integrating these advanced features, you can deliver payment solutions that maximize profits, reduce maintenance, and improve customer satisfaction—making them a smart investment for your clients.
What to Prioritize in Payment Technology
- Simple, Low-Cost Plug-N-Play Retrofit: Choose retrofit solutions that allow operators to easily upgrade their existing equipment with minimal downtime and cost. A plug-and-play system helps operators move quickly to modern, contactless payments without expensive overhauls.
- QR Code Payment Option: QR code functionality adds flexibility and convenience, allowing customers to initiate payments by simply scanning a code—no cards or keypads required. This method is especially popular with younger, tech-savvy users.
- Fully Ruggedized Terminals: For outdoor environments like carwashes, gas stations, and vacuums, durability matters. Ensure your payment terminals have the right IP and IK ratings to withstand water, dust, impacts, and extreme temperatures, keeping operations smooth and reducing maintenance.
- Cost Savings & Revenue Opportunities: Look beyond upfront costs and evaluate long-term savings through reduced maintenance, fewer service calls, and increased uptime. Consider value-added features like loyalty programs, upselling capabilities, and flexible pricing models to drive revenue further.
Let’s Take Your Payment Solutions to the Next Level
By embracing the latest payment innovations, WeVend is transforming unattended payments with first-of-its-kind features designed to help operators grow revenue and streamline operations.
Let’s explore how WeVend can elevate your payment solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or book a demo.
