Understanding Payment Processors & Acquiring Banks in the UK in 2026
We Go Through The Top 30 Payment Processors & Acquiring banks In The UK In 2026 and Explain How Your Business Can Benefit.
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Payment Processor vs Acquiring Bank: What’s the Difference?
A payment processor and an acquiring bank are both essential for accepting card payments, but they perform very different roles within the payment process. A payment processor is responsible for handling the transaction itself, securely transferring payment data between the customer, the merchant, and the relevant banks. An acquiring bank, on the other hand, provides the merchant account and is responsible for receiving and settling the funds into your business account once a transaction is approved.
For UK businesses, understanding how these two providers work together is key to building a reliable and cost-effective payment setup. The structure you choose can impact everything from approval rates and transaction fees to how quickly you receive funds. It also becomes especially important for businesses operating in higher-risk sectors, where the choice of acquiring bank and payment processor can determine whether you are approved at all.
| Feature | Payment Processor | Acquiring Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Main role | Processes transactions | Provides merchant account |
| What it does | Transfers payment data between customer, merchant and banks | Settles funds into your business account |
| Relationship with merchant | Technical service provider | Financial institution |
| Handles transaction approval | Yes (via card networks) | Yes (final authorisation and settlement) |
| Holds funds | No | Yes |
| Examples (UK) | Stripe, Square, Worldpay | Barclays, Lloyds, Elavon |
What is a Payment Processor?
A payment processor is a company that handles the technical side of card and digital payments, ensuring transactions between customers, merchants and banks are processed securely and quickly. While the acquiring bank manages the merchant account and settles funds, the payment processor is responsible for securely transmitting payment data between all parties involved. This includes the customer’s card, the merchant’s payment system, the card networks such as Visa and Mastercard, and the issuing bank that approves or declines the transaction.
How payment processors work
When a customer makes a payment, the processor captures the card details through a card machine, online checkout, virtual terminal or payment link. It then encrypts this information and routes it through the relevant card scheme to the issuing bank for authorisation. Once a response is received, the processor sends the approval or decline back to the merchant in seconds. This entire process happens almost instantly, making payment processors essential to fast and reliable transactions.
What does a payment processor do?
Transmits payment data securely between all parties
Communicates with issuing and acquiring banks
Sends authorisation requests to card networks
Confirms whether a transaction is approved or declined
Supports fraud prevention and authentication tools
Payment processors also provide many of the features businesses rely on every day. These include fraud prevention tools, 3D Secure authentication for online payments, recurring billing, reporting dashboards and integrations with e-commerce platforms or point of sale systems. Some processors focus on developer friendly APIs for online businesses, while others specialise in in store or mobile payments for smaller merchants.
In the UK, payment processors can operate independently or as part of an acquiring bank’s infrastructure, depending on how the payment solution is structured. Some well known processors work alongside multiple banks, allowing businesses to choose the best commercial terms while using the same processing technology. Others act as full service providers, combining processing, acquiring and hardware under one solution. Understanding the role of a payment processor helps businesses compare providers more effectively and choose a setup that matches their transaction volumes, sales channels and growth plans.
Examples of payment processors in the UK
Common payment processors used by UK businesses include:
What is an Acquiring Bank?
An acquiring bank, often referred to as an acquirer, is a regulated financial institution that enables a business to accept card payments and receive funds into a merchant account. It acts as the merchant’s bank within the payment process, working with card networks such as Visa and Mastercard and the customer’s issuing bank to authorise transactions and settle payments.
How acquiring banks work
When a customer makes a card payment, the acquiring bank receives the transaction request from the payment processor and forwards it through the relevant card network to the issuing bank. Once the payment is authorised, the acquiring bank is responsible for settling the funds into the merchant’s account, usually within one to three working days depending on the agreement.
What does an acquiring bank do?
Provides and maintains the merchant account
Receives and settles funds from card transactions
Works with payment processors and card networks
Assesses merchant risk before approval
Monitors transactions for fraud and chargebacks
Ensures compliance with card scheme and regulatory requirements
Acquiring banks also take on a significant level of financial and regulatory risk. They underwrite the merchant account, meaning they assess the business before approval and continue to monitor activity for fraud, chargebacks and compliance breaches. This is why acquiring banks have strict onboarding requirements and ongoing reporting obligations. They must ensure merchants comply with UK regulations, card scheme rules, anti money laundering checks and security standards such as PCI DSS.
In the UK, acquiring banks play a critical role in maintaining trust in the card payments ecosystem. They protect cardholders, merchants and card schemes by managing disputes, handling chargebacks and enforcing operational standards.
Examples of acquiring banks in the UK
Well known acquiring banks in the UK include:
Choosing the right acquiring bank can directly impact transaction fees, settlement speed, accepted payment methods and how easily a business can scale its payments operation.
How Payment Processors and Acquiring Banks Work Together
Payment processors and acquiring banks work together to complete every card transaction. While they have different roles, both are required to move funds from the customer to the merchant.
When a customer makes a payment, the payment processor captures and securely transmits the transaction data. This is then passed through the relevant card network to the acquiring bank, which communicates with the issuing bank to approve or decline the transaction.
Once the payment is authorised, the acquiring bank settles the funds into the merchant account, while the payment processor ensures the transaction is completed smoothly and recorded correctly.
In practice, many businesses interact with both providers through a single platform, but behind the scenes, the processor and acquiring bank are working together at each stage of the payment process.
Why Payment Processors and Acquiring Banks Are Not the Same Thing
Although payment processors and acquiring banks often work together, they serve very different roles in the payments ecosystem. Many businesses mistakenly assume they are the same, but understanding the distinction is key to making informed decisions.
An acquiring bank provides and maintains your merchant account. This is the account where funds from card payments are settled after a successful transaction. Acquirers are responsible for risk management, compliance with card scheme rules, and ensuring your business meets regulatory standards such as PCI-DSS.
On the other hand, a payment processor handles the technical infrastructure that moves payment information from one party to another. It transmits card data, contacts the issuing bank for approval, and returns a response in real time. The processor acts as the engine behind your card machine, online checkout or payment gateway.
In some cases, the same company provides both acquiring and processing services. But many businesses use a processor that works with multiple acquiring banks. This flexibility allows merchants to switch acquirers for better rates while keeping their processing systems intact.
Choosing the right combination of processor and acquiring bank depends on your business model. Retailers with in store payments may prefer a bundled option, while ecommerce companies might need more control over processing speed, authorisation rates and platform integrations. Recognising the difference between the two helps businesses avoid confusion, negotiate better terms, and build a more resilient payment setup.
We do have a full article on the difference between an acquiring and issuing bank if you want to read further into that.
Why Comparing Payment Providers Saves Money and Reduces Risk
With so many payment providers in the UK market, no single solution fits every business. Comparing different processors and acquiring banks is not just smart, it can save you thousands of pounds per year and reduce operational risks.
Each provider offers its own pricing structure, which can vary significantly depending on factors like turnover, transaction volume, card type and industry. Some providers use a simple blended rate, while others offer interchange plus or tiered models. Without comparing quotes, many businesses end up overpaying for basic services.
Beyond price, there are important differences in settlement times, support, security tools, and how easily systems integrate with your website, EPOS or CRM. A slower payout structure or unreliable terminal support can hurt cash flow and create frustration for both staff and customers.
Security is another major factor. Not all providers offer the same level of fraud protection, PCI compliance tools or data breach support. Choosing the wrong partner can expose your business to avoidable financial and reputational risk.
By comparing providers, you can find one that aligns with your business goals. Whether you value low fees, easy onboarding, multi-currency support, or next day settlements, the right match will improve efficiency and help you scale. Payments World makes this easier by analysing your business needs and recommending suitable UK providers from across the market, giving you confidence that your payment setup is both cost effective and future proof.
How Payments World Can Help Your Business
Payments World is built to support businesses of all sizes with straightforward, flexible, and transparent payment solutions. Whether you need a card machine for face to face sales, an online gateway, or a pay by link tool for remote transactions, we make it easy to get set up and start taking payments quickly. We work with multiple acquiring banks and processors to offer you the best possible rates and technology. all without confusing terms or hidden fees. Our UK-based support team is here to guide you through setup, compliance, and growth, making sure your payment system is tailored to how you operate. If you want reliability, clarity and support from a payments partner that puts your business first, Payments World is the right place to start.
Top Acquiring Banks in The UK
Barclays
Barclays is one of the UK’s most established acquiring banks. Through Barclaycard, it offers a full suite of in-store and online payment solutions. The Smartpay suite caters to small businesses and large enterprises, with prebuilt integrations for platforms such as SAP Commerce and BigCommerce. It supports card schemes including Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and UnionPay. Pricing is tailored to the business, typically using interchange-plus (IC++) for larger volumes and blended rates for smaller merchants. Barclaycard processes around £300 billion annually for over 400,000 UK merchants and remains a trusted partner for public sector organisations, retail chains, and professional services.
Card Machines:
Barclays offers a range of card terminals including the PAX A920 and Ingenico Move 5000. These are suitable for retail and hospitality, with countertop, portable, and mobile options available. Devices are PCI-compliant and come with next-day swap services.
Online Solutions:
Smartpay Fuse is their SME-friendly gateway with easy plug and play integration for platforms like BigCommerce and SAP Commerce. Smartpay Advance is designed for larger businesses needing more customisation and control over payment flows.
Pricing Structure:
Fees are tailored based on turnover, industry type, and risk profile. High-volume businesses can benefit from interchange-plus (IC++) pricing. Smaller merchants may be offered blended rates.
Risk Appetite:
Low. Barclays generally prefers businesses with a proven track record and low chargeback rates.
They Like:
Retailers, hospitality businesses, public sector organisations, and professional services with consistent card volumes.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk industries, such as gaming, CBD, or adult content, and new businesses without established trading history.
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HSBC
HSBC partners with Global Payments to deliver merchant services across a wide range of sectors. Their strength lies in multi-currency support and cross-border capabilities, making them ideal for international traders and ecommerce. HSBC’s payment gateways are secure, scalable, and compliant with global standards, while also offering tokenisation and fraud protection tools. Its risk tolerance is low to medium, and fee structures are typically based on interchange-plus models. HSBC remains a solid choice for businesses engaged in import/export or with international customer bases.
Card Machines:
HSBC offers a variety of in-store and mobile card terminals through its partnership with Global Payments. Devices support contactless, chip and PIN, and mobile wallet transactions. Machines are suitable for countertop, portable or mobile setups and are backed by strong customer service and support.
Online Solutions:
Their e-commerce payment gateway supports secure online transactions with multi-currency capabilities and tools for recurring billing. The platform integrates with most major shopping carts and provides analytics and fraud prevention tools.
Pricing Structure:
Pricing is bespoke depending on business size and volume, typically on an interchange-plus model for transparency. Fees are competitive for businesses with steady turnover and a clean history.
Risk Appetite:
Low to medium. HSBC prefers stable, well-established businesses, particularly those with international trade or consistent processing volumes.
They Like:
Large retailers, B2B operations, and companies with global ambitions or cross-border requirements.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk sectors, brand-new startups, or businesses without clear documentation and financial history.
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Natwest (including Tyl)
NatWest’s payment division, Tyl, is built for small and growing businesses. It offers simplified onboarding, fixed pricing for businesses processing under £50,000 annually (1.39% + 5p per transaction), and next-day settlement. With portable PAX terminals and a virtual terminal option, Tyl is suited to high street shops, tradespeople, and hospitality firms. Its integration options are modest compared to fintechs but ideal for SMEs looking for reliability without complexity.
Card Machines:
NatWest, via its Tyl by NatWest brand, provides a range of mobile and countertop card machines including the PAX A920 Pro and A50. These machines support contactless, chip and PIN, and mobile wallet payments. They’re easy to set up, come with built-in connectivity, and are tailored to suit small business needs.
Online Solutions:
Tyl offers online payment solutions such as hosted payment pages, payment links, and virtual terminals. These tools are designed for ease of use and quick deployment, especially for service-based businesses that take payments remotely or over the phone.
Pricing Structure:
Standard pricing for most small businesses is 1.39% + 5p per transaction for personal UK and European cards, with bespoke options available for higher volumes or unique business needs.
Risk Appetite:
Low. Prefers businesses with transparent trading models and minimal chargeback risk.
They Like:
Retailers, cafes, salons, tradespeople, and professional service businesses that require straightforward, reliable payment acceptance with quick setup.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk industries, new startups with no trading history, subscription-based models, or those with unpredictable sales volumes.
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Lloyds Bank (Cardnet)
Cardnet is Lloyds Bank’s acquiring service, operated in partnership with Fiserv. It supports a range of POS devices including Ingenico and Clover and offers omnichannel payment acceptance for physical and online sales. It suits retailers, food businesses, and service providers. Settlement is typically next day, and fees vary from fixed blended rates for small firms to bespoke IC++ packages for larger merchants. With more than 35,000 UK merchants, Lloyds Cardnet is known for strong infrastructure and consistency.
Card Machines:
Lloyds Cardnet offers a wide range of card machines including Castles Saturn 1000, Ingenico Move5000, and Clover terminals (Flex, Mini, and Station). These devices support contactless, chip and PIN, mobile wallets, and are available in portable or countertop versions.
Online Solutions:
Lloyds supports secure online payments through its omnichannel gateway, including virtual terminals, e-commerce integration, and recurring billing. Backed by Fiserv, the platform offers strong fraud protection and reporting tools.
Pricing Structure:
For businesses processing under £50k annually, a fixed blended rate is common. Larger merchants can access interchange-plus pricing models depending on transaction volume and card mix.
Risk Appetite:
Low. Prefers stable, regulated industries with lower chargeback exposure.
They Like:
Established retailers, hospitality businesses, and service providers with consistent turnover and clear compliance practices.
They Don’t Like:
Startups with limited trading history, high-risk merchants (e.g., gaming, adult, CBD), and sectors with irregular income or chargeback issues.
.
Santander
Santander provides merchant services through its partnership with Elavon. Its focus is on simplicity, offering user-friendly onboarding and fixed fees from 1.4% for debit card transactions. It caters well to businesses operating subscriptions and recurring billing, which are becoming increasingly popular. Santander’s reach, paired with Elavon’s platform, ensures scalability and reliability across multiple sectors.
Card Machines:
Santander provides a variety of countertop and portable card machines through its acquiring partner Elavon. Devices like the Ingenico Move series support contactless, chip and PIN, and mobile payments.
Online Solutions:
Offers full online payment solutions including payment gateways, recurring billing, and virtual terminals. These services are backed by Elavon’s infrastructure and integrate with leading e-commerce platforms.
Pricing Structure:
Starts from around 1.4% for debit card transactions. Pricing is typically bespoke depending on turnover, industry, and risk profile.
Risk Appetite:
Generally low. Favourable towards traditional, low-risk businesses.
They Like:
Retailers, professional services, subscription businesses, and SMEs with predictable revenue and lower chargeback rates.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk sectors, adult, gambling, CBD, or merchants with complex compliance issues.
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AIB Merchant Services
AIBMS is a joint venture with Fiserv and offers services across the UK and Ireland. With a solid presence in hospitality, healthcare, and retail, AIBMS offers the Clover POS range and the eMAX online platform. It uses interchange-plus pricing, has a medium risk tolerance, and is ideal for businesses operating regionally. Cross-border trade is a strength due to its dual-country footprint.
Card Machines:
AIB offers the Clover suite of terminals, including Clover Flex and Clover Mini, suited to both mobile and countertop use. These devices come with built-in software tools for inventory and reporting.
Online Solutions:
Provides the eMAX online payment platform, supporting everything from basic online checkout to recurring payments and tokenised transactions. Integrates easily with popular e-commerce platforms.
Pricing Structure:
Interchange++ pricing is standard, with custom quotes based on turnover and industry type. Transparent terms and scalable as your business grows.
Risk Appetite:
Low to medium. Open to a wide range of retail and service-based businesses.
They Like:
Hospitality, retail, medical, and businesses trading across the UK and Ireland.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk merchants or industries with excessive chargebacks or regulatory scrutiny.
.
Elavon
Elavon, part of US Bank, is one of the UK’s largest acquiring banks, especially strong in hospitality and education. Its Opayo gateway (formerly Sage Pay) is popular for ecommerce, and its hardware options include Ingenico and talech. Elavon supports all major card schemes and offers bespoke pricing based on volume and sector. It is known for its multichannel capability and excellent reporting tools.
Card Machines:
Supports a full range of terminals including PAX A920, Ingenico Tetra, talech POS systems and the Poynt P61. Known for flexible hardware options that suit both countertop and portable environments.
Online Solutions:
Offers the Opayo payment gateway for e-commerce and phone payments, plus recurring billing, virtual terminals, and hosted checkout. Strong omnichannel capabilities.
Pricing Structure:
Bespoke pricing depending on business size, volume and sector. Offers both blended and Interchange++ pricing models. Generally competitive for SMEs.
Risk Appetite:
Low to medium. Open to most mainstream business types with clear documentation and trading history.
They Like:
Retail, hospitality, healthcare, education, and established e-commerce businesses.
They Don’t Like:
High risk industries, unregistered online-only businesses, and sectors with unpredictable revenue patterns.
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American Express
Amex operates on a closed loop network, meaning it acts as issuer, network, and acquirer. Its fees are higher typically between 2-3% but it remains attractive to merchants targeting high value clientele. It’s commonly accepted in luxury retail, travel, and high-end hospitality. While not the main acquiring partner for all merchants, it is an essential add-on for businesses serving affluent customers but expect to pay a premium for this, its worth noting that whilst more expensive a typical Amex customer spends 3 x more than your average customer.
Card Machines:
Amex integrates with most major card terminals already in use, including PAX, Ingenico, and Verifone devices. No separate machine is required if you’re already accepting card payments.
Online Solutions:
Offers direct e-commerce payment acceptance and supports major gateways. Merchants can also connect through PSPs and acquiring partners to accept Amex online.
Pricing Structure:
Typically higher than other card schemes, with merchant fees ranging from 2-4%. Pricing can vary by sector and transaction volume.
Risk Appetite:
Low risk only. Amex is selective and tends to work with established businesses, especially in premium sectors.
They Like:
Luxury retailers, travel providers, high-end restaurants, and merchants with affluent customer bases.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk businesses, low-ticket merchants, or sectors with high chargeback rates.
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Chase
A division of JPMorgan, Chase Paymentech serves high-volume businesses needing robust payment infrastructure. It offers ecommerce gateway solutions and custom fee arrangements. Its scale and processing power make it suited to large retail and digital platforms. Integration support and international capabilities are strong, though its services are more tailored to enterprise rather than SME use.
Card Machines:
Works with a wide range of integrated terminals suitable for enterprise-scale operations. Devices are designed for high-volume use and full POS system compatibility.
Online Solutions:
Provides advanced e-commerce gateways tailored for large merchants. Supports multi-currency processing, recurring payments, fraud tools, and robust reporting dashboards.
Pricing Structure:
Fully bespoke and negotiated based on volume and risk. Interchange-plus pricing typically offered to enterprise clients.
Risk Appetite:
Conservative. Focuses on established, low-risk businesses with a high turnover and strong compliance track record.
They Like:
Large retailers, enterprise e-commerce businesses, and global merchants handling high monthly volumes.
They Don’t Like:
Startups, low-volume traders, or merchants without a proven trading history.
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Shift 4
Shift4 is expanding in the UK market with a focus on hospitality and retail. Known for its SkyTab POS and unified commerce platform, it offers competitive pricing and scalable solutions for multi-location businesses. Its focus on compliance and mobile payment options makes it a rising name for those in food service or entertainment sectors.
Card Machines:
Primarily promotes the SkyTab range, including mobile options suitable for hospitality, retail, and service-led businesses. All devices come with 4G connectivity and are preconfigured for ease of use.
Online Solutions:
Offers a robust e-commerce gateway with support for pay-by-link, recurring billing, and full integration with shopping carts. Also supports virtual terminals for remote payments.
Pricing Structure:
Flat transaction rate starting from 1.25% with a £0.30 batch fee. Bespoke pricing available for larger merchants or higher volumes.
Risk Appetite:
Generally low. Prefers straightforward retail and hospitality businesses with clean histories.
They Like:
Restaurants, cafes, salons, mobile vendors, and independent retailers.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk merchants, subscription services, or businesses with irregular trading activity.
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Cashflows
Cambridge based and FCA regulated, Cashflows targets SMEs in retail, financial services, and insurance. It offers in person POS systems (Castles Saturn), online checkouts, and embedded finance capabilities. Real-time reporting, recurring billing, and payouts are part of the service. Pricing is competitive and flexible, appealing to businesses that value agility and UK-based support.
Card Machines:
Offers a range of in-person terminals including Castles Vega and Saturn devices. Focuses on reliable, PCI-compliant machines for retail and service based businesses.
Online Solutions:
Provides hosted checkout, virtual terminal, and a flexible gateway dashboard. Also supports recurring payments, payouts, and pay-by-link for service-based businesses.
Pricing Structure:
Competitive and transparent. Tiered or interchange-plus pricing models are available, starting from around £15/month depending on volume and risk.
Risk Appetite:
Low to medium. Open to a range of SME merchants but with some limitations around high-risk industries.
They Like:
Retail, insurance, professional services, recurring billing models, and FCA-regulated sectors.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk sectors like adult, gaming, crypto, or unregulated finance.
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Fibonatix
Fibonatix specialises in high-risk merchant acquiring, working with industries often overlooked by traditional banks. These include CBD, adult entertainment, and nutraceuticals. As an FCA regulated Payment Service Provider, it supports global transactions, advanced risk management, and tailored gateway integrations. Fibonatix offers an essential route to compliance and scale for businesses in regulated or restricted sectors.
Card Machines:
Provides standard chip and PIN and contactless-enabled terminals, but hardware is not their core focus. Card machine support is typically part of a wider risk managed solution.
Online Solutions:
Robust gateway with custom-built solutions tailored for higher-risk sectors. Includes recurring billing, e-commerce tools, and fraud monitoring.
Pricing Structure:
Fully bespoke. Rates vary widely depending on industry, risk, and volume. Typically higher than standard providers due to risk exposure.
Risk Appetite:
High. One of the few UK providers openly servicing high-risk industries.
They Like:
CBD, adult content, gaming, forex, nutraceuticals, and other industries often declined by traditional banks.
They Don’t Like:
Very low risk businesses looking for off-the-shelf solutions. This is a niche provider for merchants who need specialised compliance and risk support.
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Rapyd
Rapyd provides global payment processing with a strong UK and EU footprint. With support for over 900 local payment methods, it is ideal for businesses with a cross-border ecommerce focus. Its acquiring fees are highly competitive (0.02-0.65%), and it combines traditional acquiring with a powerful platform that includes pay by link, mobile payments, and embedded finance.
Card Machines:
Rapyd integrates with a variety of POS systems and contactless enabled terminals through third party hardware providers. While not hardware focused, it supports in-person payments as part of its broader global offering.
Online Solutions:
Offers a powerful all in one platform for online payments, pay by link, e-wallets, and alternative local methods. Built for scale, with strong cross border capability and developer friendly APIs.
Pricing Structure:
Competitive, with acquiring fees typically ranging from 0.02% to 0.65% depending on transaction type, location, and volume. Significant savings for international and high-volume merchants.
Risk Appetite:
Medium. Rapyd works with a wide range of verticals and is more open than traditional banks, but still applies risk controls for certain regions or industries.
They Like:
E-commerce, marketplaces, gaming, trading platforms, and tech-led businesses looking for multi currency and global reach.
They Don’t Like:
Very small sole traders or merchants requiring local in-person support, as Rapyd is better suited to digital-first and cross-border businesses.
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Cardaq
A newer UK based option, Cardaq offers customisable solutions for ecommerce, subscriptions, and digital services. It is an FCA regulated e-money institution offering global card acceptance, payouts, and integration tools. Adjustable reserves and transparent pricing make it a useful option for platforms or businesses looking for control and clarity.
Card Machines:
Cardaq supports a variety of in-person payment terminals that are compatible with major POS systems. Their solutions are designed to be flexible, with seamless integration options to suit growing or platform-based merchants.
Online Solutions:
Offers a multifunctional gateway with tailored payouts, recurring billing support, and integration with e-commerce platforms. Their system supports a range of card types and currencies, with features suited for subscription or platform based businesses.
Pricing Structure:
Custom pricing models based on transaction type, business sector and volume. Adjustable reserves and competitive rates are available depending on the merchant’s profile.
Risk Appetite:
Low to medium. Cardaq is open to newer businesses or those with complex settlement needs, but generally prefers moderate-risk verticals.
They Like:
Online retailers, subscription services, platform-based businesses and merchants seeking global reach with tailored settlement terms.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk industries such as adult, CBD, gaming or those with high chargeback rates.
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Dojo
Dojo is focused on SMEs, offering sleek card machines (Dojo Go, countertop, and portable) and same-day or next-day payouts, even on weekends. It serves over 140,000 UK merchants and is known for its rapid support, mobile app management, and seamless EPOS integrations. Ideal for hospitality, salons, and local shops, Dojo’s appeal lies in speed, simplicity, and strong customer satisfaction.
Card Machines:
Dojo supplies its own terminals, including the Dojo Go. These are compact, portable, and come with built-in 4G and WiFi, making them ideal for retail, hospitality, and mobile traders. The devices support contactless, chip and PIN, and digital wallets.
Online Solutions:
Dojo offers basic online tools such as pay by link and an online dashboard for transaction tracking, refunds and reporting. However, they don’t offer full e-commerce gateways or advanced virtual terminals.
Pricing Structure:
Typically a flat rate from 1.4% + 5p per transaction. Next-day settlement is standard, including weekends. No long-term contracts and no setup fees for most merchants.
Risk Appetite:
Low. Dojo prefers low-risk businesses with straightforward models and steady turnover.
They Like:
Shops, restaurants, salons, cafés, and local service businesses that trade in person.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk industries, online only merchants, subscription models, CBD, vape, adult content or anything with recurring billing declined.
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DNA Payments
DNA Payments is a UK-based group offering acquiring, gateways, hardware, and finance. Its in-house gateway (Optomany) and wide hardware range support high demand industries like retail and food service. DNA is expanding quickly, acquiring smaller providers to build a comprehensive ecosystem. Its competitive pricing and hands on support make it a solid choice for businesses seeking an all in one solution.
Card Machines:
DNA Payments provides a wide selection of hardware, including the PAX A6650 handheld terminal, Verifone models, and other devices suited for busy retail and hospitality environments. Most terminals support contactless, chip and PIN, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Online Solutions:
Their in-house gateway, Optomany, supports online payments, pay by link, and pay by bank. It’s designed for omni- channel use, making it suitable for businesses looking to accept payments both in-store and online through a single platform.
Pricing Structure:
Pricing is bespoke and varies by business type, turnover and sector. They are known for offering competitive rates, especially for SMEs, with flexible settlement terms.
Risk Appetite:
Low to medium. Generally open to most industries but prefer merchants with a clear trading history and compliance.
They Like:
Retailers, hospitality businesses, and companies looking for an integrated in-store and online solution.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk sectors such as gambling, crypto, CBD, adult content, or anything with regulatory or reputational concerns.
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Teya
Teya serves small to medium local businesses with simple, scalable tools. It offers payment acceptance, invoicing, and business accounts. There are no monthly fees in many cases, and support is localised. Its all-in-one app-based dashboard makes it ideal for shops, cafes, and independent services looking to modernise operations with minimal overhead.
Card Machines:
Teya offers a selection of compact card readers with tap-to-pay, chip and PIN, and contactless functionality. Devices are built for mobile use, ideal for retail and hospitality businesses looking for portability and simplicity.
Online Solutions:
Teya provides online payment tools including payment links and integrated app-based checkout solutions. Their merchant portal allows users to manage payments, view insights, and access simple invoicing tools.
Pricing Structure:
Typically offers a blended or interchange plus model. No monthly account fees in many cases, with competitive rates for small and mid-sized merchants.
Risk Appetite:
Low. Teya prefers simple, low-risk businesses with straightforward payment needs.
They Like:
Local shops, cafés, salons, mobile traders and independent service providers across the UK and Europe.
They Don’t Like:
High risk sectors, international merchants without local presence, or complex online businesses with heavy customisation needs.
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Worldpay
Worldpay, now part of Global Payments, is one of the largest processors globally. It supports all major POS hardware and more than 135 currencies. Known for its robust enterprise tools, it suits high volume retailers and ecommerce brands. With deep omnichannel capability and flexible pricing models, it remains a leader in UK payment acceptance.
Card Machines:
Worldpay provides a wide range of countertop, portable and mobile terminals, compatible with major POS systems. Hardware options are designed for high-volume retail and hospitality environments with strong NFC and contactless support.
Online Solutions:
Offers advanced online payment gateways with support for over 135 currencies and full e-commerce integrations. Ideal for businesses needing recurring payments, multi-channel reporting and international checkout options.
Pricing Structure:
Typically provides bespoke pricing based on transaction volume and risk. Interchange-plus pricing is available for larger businesses, while smaller firms may be offered blended rates.
Risk Appetite:
Low. Worldpay prefers stable, established merchants with consistent turnover and low chargeback levels.
They Like:
Large retailers, hotel groups, enterprise-level e-commerce businesses and corporate service providers.
They Don’t Like:
Startups with limited trading history, high risk sectors, or businesses with non-standard payment models.
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Top Independent Payment Processors in the UK
Stripe
A favourite among developers and tech startups, Stripe is built API first for easy integration. It offers simple pricing (1.4% + 20p for UK cards), no setup fees, monthly fees and advanced features like Radar fraud protection and subscription billing. Ideal for SaaS and digital firms. Just be careful that your business fits into their risk appetite as you may find yourself being blocked and funds withheld if it doesn’t!.
Card Machines:
Stripe is primarily focused on online transactions but has recently expanded into in-person payments with Stripe Terminal. It supports card readers like the BBPOS WisePOS E, which can be integrated into custom POS setups via API.
Online Solutions:
Stripe is an API-first platform built for developers. It offers a full suite of online payment tools including hosted checkouts, subscriptions, recurring billing, invoicing, and fraud prevention through its Radar tool. Integration is fast and flexible across platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and custom-built sites.
Pricing Structure:
Transparent and flat-rate: 1.4% + 20p for UK cards and 2.9% + 20p for non-UK cards. No setup or monthly fees, with custom pricing available for larger volumes.
Risk Appetite:
Moderate. Stripe supports a wide range of industries but uses automated risk tools and may hold funds or pause accounts for higher-risk activity.
They Like:
Startups, SaaS providers, subscription platforms, ecommerce retailers, and tech businesses looking for flexible, scalable payments with strong developer support.
They Don’t Like:
High risk sectors, businesses with high chargebacks, or those without a strong digital presence or development capabilities.
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Adyen
A global platform for unified commerce, Adyen supports in store, online, and mobile payments. It boasts high authorisation rates and powerful risk tools. Used by big brands, it’s perfect for omni-channel retailers with international operations but one thing to bear in mind is you need to be turning over a lot to even get in with Adyen so this isn’t for small merchants.
Card Machines:
Adyen provides enterprise-grade in-person payment terminals including models like Verifone P400 and Castles Saturn, all fully integrated with their unified commerce platform. These support contactless, chip & PIN, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more.
Online Solutions:
Adyen offers a powerful global platform for online payments with built-in risk management and intelligent routing. It supports local payment methods, recurring billing, and real-time reporting. Adyen’s single API integrates card payments, wallets, and bank transfers for omni-channel businesses.
Pricing Structure:
Typically interchange++ pricing, offering transparency and tailored rates for larger businesses. Setup fees are minimal, but it’s geared toward high-volume merchants.
Risk Appetite:
Moderate to low. Adyen prefers well-established businesses with consistent revenue and good compliance records. Strong KYC checks apply.
They Like:
Enterprise-level businesses, global ecommerce brands, high-volume merchants, and omnichannel retailers who need an all in one solution.
They Don’t Like:
Startups, small businesses, or merchants with high fraud risk or limited processing history.
.
PayPal
A global platform for unifiedWith strong brand trust and buyer protection, PayPal remains a go-to for small businesses and e-commerce sites. It’s quick to set up and easy to use, although its fees are higher (2.9% + 30p per transaction). Ideal for online businesses looking for instant credibility.
Card Machines
PayPal offers basic in-person solutions through Zettle by PayPal, including compact card readers that support chip & PIN, contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Designed for small businesses and mobile sellers.
Online Solutions:
PayPal is best known for its online checkout system and digital wallet. It also supports subscriptions, pay by link, invoicing, and integrations with major ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. Buyer protection and quick setup are major selling points.
Pricing Structure:
Flat-rate pricing: typically 2.9% + 30p per transaction for online sales. Volume discounts are available but less flexible than interchange-plus models.
Risk Appetite:
Low. PayPal has strict compliance and fraud checks, and reserves or sudden holds are common, especially for high-risk or new businesses.
They Like:
Small ecommerce stores, individual sellers, marketplaces, and businesses looking for fast setup without complex integrations.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk sectors, subscription-heavy businesses (without a proven track record), or merchants with high chargeback ratios.
.
Checkout
A London based processor, Checkout.com focuses on high growth tech firms. It offers competitive rates, robust fraud protection, and fast settlements. Strong developer tools make it a popular choice for scalable e-commerce.
Card Machines:
Checkout.com does not provide physical card machines directly. Their focus is fully online, serving businesses that accept payments via ecommerce or digital platforms.
Online Solutions:
A full-stack online payment platform built for high-growth businesses. Offers custom payment flows, advanced fraud protection, and support for global currencies and alternative payment methods. Strong API functionality and modular tools make it ideal for developers and fintechs.
Pricing Structure:
Typically 1.4% + 20p for UK cards, with bespoke pricing for higher volumes. Offers interchange-plus models for enterprise clients.
Risk Appetite:
Moderate. Prefers established online businesses with steady volumes, though flexible for growth-stage companies in ecommerce or tech.
They Like:
Tech firms, subscription businesses, large ecommerce brands, and platforms looking for scalable, flexible, and developer-friendly payment solutions.
They Don’t Like:
Brick & mortar only retailers, or businesses that require in-person card machines or basic plug-and-play setups.
.
Square
Well known for its mobile card readers, Square is ideal for pop ups, market traders, and tradespeople. Flat rate pricing (1.75% per in person transaction) and tools like invoicing and inventory make it a great all in one for small sellers.
Card Machines:
Square provides a range of compact, affordable hardware options including the Square Reader (for contactless and chip cards), Square Terminal, and Square Stand. Ideal for mobile or countertop use with fast setup via the Square app.
Online Solutions:
Offers built-in online checkout, payment links, invoicing, and ecommerce integrations through Square Online. Great for sellers needing an all-in-one system for both in-person and digital payments.
Pricing Structure:
Simple flat-rate pricing: 1.75% per in-person transaction and 2.5% for manually entered payments. No monthly fees or setup costs, making it attractive to startups and sole traders.
Risk Appetite:
Low. Best suited to low-risk, low-volume merchants. Square reserves the right to pause or hold funds if transactions appear suspicious or exceed thresholds.
They Like:
Micro-businesses, pop-up shops, food stalls, mobile traders, and first-time card users who need easy setup and transparent pricing.
They Don’t Like:
High-risk merchants, high-volume businesses needing custom pricing, or industries with subscription billing or complex processing needs.
.
Sumup
SumUp appeals to micro merchants and startups with affordable card readers and no monthly fees. Its ease of use and contactless capability have made it popular for small hospitality and retail operators. You can buy a Sumup machine for around £40 and pay a transaction rate of 1.69% across all card types, not a bad choice for startups.
Card Machines:
SumUp offers affordable and user-friendly card readers including the SumUp Air, Solo, and 3G+ Printer. Designed for mobile use with quick Bluetooth pairing and easy setup via smartphone or tablet.
Online Solutions:
Includes payment links, invoicing, virtual terminal, and basic e-commerce tools for businesses without a website. Ideal for remote payments and quick digital sales.
Pricing Structure:
Flat rate of 1.69% per transaction, no monthly fees, and low hardware costs. Very competitive for sole traders and small retailers.
Risk Appetite:
Low to medium. Accepts most standard retail and service-based businesses but may impose limits or holds on higher-risk activities.
They Like:
Market traders, cafes, hairdressers, mobile services, and small businesses needing low cost, hassle-free card acceptance.
They Don’t Like:
High-volume merchants, high-risk sectors, or businesses needing custom pricing or complex integrations.
.
Zettle by PayPal
Zettle offers portable readers, POS features, and full integration with PayPal. It is perfect for mobile sellers and those looking to streamline card acceptance alongside their online business.
Card Machines:
Zettle offers compact and modern card readers like the Zettle Reader 2, which pairs with smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth. Devices support contactless, chip & PIN, and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay).
Online Solutions:
Includes payment links, invoicing, and integrations with e-commerce platforms. Works seamlessly with PayPal and offers tools for managing sales, inventory, and reporting through its app and dashboard.
Pricing Structure:
Flat rate of 1.75% per transaction for all major cards. No monthly fees. Affordable hardware with one-off cost and occasional promotions.
Risk Appetite:
Low. Designed for straightforward businesses and sole traders. Typically avoids high-risk sectors and complex operations.
They Like:
Mobile sellers, pop-ups, cafes, beauty salons, small retailers, and anyone looking for a simple way to take payments on the move.
They Don’t Like:
High risk merchants, large-scale operations, or businesses requiring tailored rates, advanced POS integrations or custom payment flows.
.
Mollie
Favoured across Europe, Mollie is known for local payment method support like iDEAL. With transparent pricing and easy plugin support for e-commerce platforms, it’s a strong option for cross-border retailers who process a lot of payments.
Card Machines:
Mollie does not offer physical card machines directly. Their services are entirely focused on online payment processing, ideal for e-commerce businesses.
Online Solutions:
Strong API-based platform with support for local and international payment methods like Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, Klarna, iDEAL, and Bancontact. Easily integrates with popular platforms including Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, and Wix.
Pricing Structure:
Transparent pay as you go pricing with no monthly fees. UK card transactions typically 1.8% + 20p. Local EU method fees vary. No setup or hidden charges.
Risk Appetite:
Medium. Open to a wide range of businesses but maintains strict underwriting for high risk sectors.
They Like:
Cross-border ec-ommerce, DTC brands, digital products, and EU based merchants looking for flexible and reliable checkout solutions.
They Don’t Like:
In-person or traditional brick-and-mortar retailers, and businesses requiring physical card terminals or high-risk industry support.
.
Trust Payments
Trust Payments supports over 180 currencies and works with high risk sectors such as adult, gaming and crypto. It is a leading provider for high risk businesses needing reliable, FCA compliant processing. This is a solid option for any business operating outside of low risk.
Card Machines:
Offers a variety of Ingenico and PAX terminals, including countertop, portable & mobile models with support for contactless and digital wallets.
Online Solutions:
Robust online gateway with multi-currency processing, recurring billing, and support for 180+ payment methods. Strong tools for gaming, crypto, and high risk verticals, plus APIs for full integration.
Pricing Structure:
Custom pricing depending on business type and risk profile. Typically interchange++ for larger volumes or blended rates for SMEs.
Risk Appetite:
High. Known for supporting industries others avoid, especially high-risk or regulated sectors.
They Like:
Gaming, crypto, nutraceuticals, adult content, forex, and international merchants needing advanced fraud prevention and multi-currency support.
They Don’t Like:
Very low-risk, low-volume merchants who may not require the full capabilities of their platform.
.
Worldline
A European heavyweight, Worldline supports large scale enterprise payment needs with solid infrastructure, multichannel support, and bespoke integration options. It’s strong in omni-channel commerce and logistics.
Card Machines:
Provides a wide range of omni-channel hardware, including Castles devices and custom enterprise setups for in-store use across large retail and hospitality environments.
Online Solutions:
Advanced global gateway platform supporting 120+ currencies, local payment methods, and omnichannel tools. Strong API suite for custom integration and cross-border commerce.
Pricing Structure:
Highly tailored enterprise-level pricing, typically on an interchange++ model. Pricing depends on volume, geography, and sector.
Risk Appetite:
Low to medium. Focuses on large, stable enterprises with predictable turnover.
They Like:
High-volume retailers, enterprise-level hospitality, government contracts, and international operations with complex payment needs.
They Don’t Like:
Small businesses, startups, or merchants seeking low-touch onboarding or basic payment solutions.
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