How forecourts are adapting to the new payment landscape

The forecourt is no longer just a place to refuel. It has become a dynamic retail environment, shaped by evolving consumer habits and the rapid advancement of payment technology. From mobile wallets to self-checkout kiosks, the way customers pay for fuel, coffee and convenience goods is undergoing a quiet revolution.

This shift is not simply about speed. It is about trust, transparency and the seamless integration of systems that support both customer experience and operational efficiency. As payment methods diversify, forecourt operators are turning to trusted technology partners like TSG UK to help them adapt with secure, intuitive and future-ready solutions.

From cash to contactless

The decline of cash has been swift. Once the default method of payment, physical currency is now the exception rather than the rule. Contactless cards and mobile wallets have taken centre stage, driven by the rise of tap-to-pay technology and near-field communication (NFC).

Digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay offer fast, secure transactions using tokenisation, which replaces sensitive card details with unique codes. This not only protects customer data but also reduces the risk of fraud. For retailers, it means fewer queues, faster throughput and greater customer satisfaction.

Yet the move to digital is not without its challenges. Payment systems must be robust enough to handle high volumes, flexible enough to support multiple methods and secure enough to meet stringent compliance standards.

Integration is everything

Modern forecourts are complex ecosystems. They include fuel dispensers, car washes, coffee stations, EV chargers and retail stores. To manage these diverse services effectively, payment systems must integrate seamlessly with all on-site equipment.

Unified platforms enable operators to oversee transactions, promotions and loyalty schemes from a single interface. This reduces complexity, improves visibility and supports smarter decision-making. It also ensures that customers enjoy a consistent experience, whether they pay at the pump, in-store or online.

Security remains paramount. Systems must encrypt data, restrict access and comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Features such as virtual private networks (VPNs), fraud detection algorithms and user permission controls are now standard in modern forecourt technology.

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Outdoor payment and automation

Outdoor payment terminals (OPTs) are becoming essential, particularly for unmanned or extended-hour sites. These terminals allow customers to pay for fuel and car washes without entering the store, offering convenience without compromising security.

Self-checkout kiosks are also gaining traction. They enable customers to complete multiple purchases in one transaction, reducing wait times and freeing up staff for other tasks. For smaller forecourts, where space and staffing may be limited, automation offers a practical solution.

The rise of self-service extends to refreshments and light bites. Order kiosks and automated coffee stations allow customers to customise their purchases and pay using contactless methods. These systems not only improve efficiency but also create opportunities for upselling and customer engagement.

Smarter payments for smarter washes

Car wash facilities are evolving. They are no longer just about cleaning vehicles; they are about delivering convenience. CarwashPay and SelfwashPay offer intuitive, flexible payment solutions that simplify the process and enhance customer interaction.

Customers can initiate a wash via touchscreen and pay using cash or contactless methods. The interface is fully customisable, supporting loyalty schemes, voucher scanning and number plate recognition for subscription holders. Digital receipts reduce paper waste, while barcode and QR-code scanning enable discounts and rewards.

These systems are compatible with all car wash brands and designed to withstand humid environments, thanks to durable tempered glass and condensation-resistant technology. For operators, they offer a streamlined way to manage pricing, promotions and customer data from a central portal.

EV charging and the payment challenge

Electric vehicles (EVs) are driving a new era in energy retail. As charging stations become more common, payment systems must evolve to meet new expectations. Customers want transparency, flexibility and speed.

Modern EV payment terminals accept cards, mobile payments and fuel cards, and provide clear breakdowns of energy, parking and transaction fees. Digital receipts and remote session tracking via QR codes are now standard features. Some systems even allow users to stop charging via their car or mobile device, adding another layer of convenience.

Technology provider TSG UK is helping forecourt operators integrate these systems with existing infrastructure, ensuring a smooth transition to EV-ready sites. Centralised management portals provide operators with full visibility into transactions and customer behaviour, enabling smarter promotions and loyalty initiatives. As EV adoption grows, these tools will become essential.

Sustainability and digital receipts

Environmental responsibility is no longer optional. Customers expect retailers to reduce waste and operate sustainably. One way to meet this expectation is through digital receipts. Delivered via QR code, they offer a fast and clean alternative to paper while also providing valuable insights into customer behaviour.

Integrated receipt servers operate across multiple platforms, simplifying the transaction process and reinforcing the retailer’s commitment to responsible business.

Cybersecurity and customer trust

In a digital world, trust is everything. A single data breach can damage a retailer’s reputation and erode customer confidence. Payment systems must be designed with security at their core.

Compliance with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requirements is essential. Systems must restrict remote access, encrypt data and store information in secure environments. Retailers must take a proactive stance, upgrading equipment and training staff to recognise potential threats.

A smarter way to pay

The future of payment in energy retail is secure, seamless and smart. Customers expect speed, convenience and trust. Retailers must respond with integrated systems that simplify operations, protect data and enhance the customer journey.

To explore smarter payment solutions for forecourts, visit TSG Payment Solutions