ACI Survey Finds Payment Flexibility Fuels Retail Growth

A new ACI Worldwide survey shows that nearly two-thirds of global retailers believe payment method flexibility drives revenue growth, highlighting how offering diverse payment options is becoming a strategic imperative for merchants.

The study, which polled 105 leading retailers, reveals that payment strategy is evolving from a cost center to a revenue lever especially as consumers increasingly expect convenience and choice at checkout.

Key Findings from the Survey

1. Payment Choice Correlates with Revenue Gains

64% of retailers say adding more payment options has directly contributed to revenue growth
97% use multiple acquirers, and of those, 96% report revenue increases suggesting that diversifying payment infrastructure pays off.

2. Embracing Alternative & Emerging Payment Methods

Retailers are branching out beyond credit cards. The survey indicates strong adoption of mobile wallets, account-to-account payments, and “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) models.

Additionally, many respondents are exploring cryptocurrency and digital asset-based payments as longer-term strategic bets.

3. AI and Fraud Tools Support Payment Strategy

To manage the risks of expanded payment options, around 70% of retailers reported using AI-enabled fraud detection, predictive analytics, and risk scoring to protect margins and ensure reliability.

Implications for Retailers & Payment Strategy

Customer Experience as Differentiator
In a crowded marketplace, the ability to let customers pay how they prefer without friction becomes a competitive edge.
Revenue vs. Cost Tradeoff
While adding payment rails might increase complexity and cost, the survey suggests that for many retailers, the incremental revenue outweighs those costs.
Risk Management Becomes Vital
As payment options multiply, fraud and operational risk also increase. Integrating analytics, AI, and robust compliance tools becomes necessary.
Global Markets & Localization
Payment preferences vary by region. For retailers expanding globally, local payment methods matter. The use of multiple acquirers helps adapt to local norms.
Ecosystem & Orchestration Strategy
Rather than managing disparate payment solutions in silos, retailers are shifting toward orchestration platforms systems that unify and dynamically route transactions to the best option for cost, risk, and customer preference.

Discover RevTech News for the latest updates on financial innovation and revenue-driven technology.

Contests

Forums

Whiz Picks