With mobile apps and contactless payment options becoming more common, some might assume plastic cards are on their way out. But recent research tells a different story - cards remain a key part of how people pay, manage money, and access services.

From everyday purchases to benefits distribution and loyalty programmes, plastic cards continue to offer unmatched versatility, reliability, and convenience.

That’s why allpay cards has remained a trusted name in the industry since 2008. Built on the values of speed, quality, and service, we deliver customised card solutions that are as dependable as they are innovative.

The numbers tell the story

Recent figures confirm that plastic cards continue to play a central role in the UK’s payment landscape. In 2024, consumers conducted over £1 trillion worth of transactions using debit and credit cards, demonstrating a strong and sustained preference for card-based payments. Of this, £797 billion was spent via debit cards alone, reaffirming their position as the dominant payment method. Contactless usage also remains on the rise, with 18.3 billion contactless debit and credit card payments made in 2023, reflecting the popularity of quick, tap-and-go transactions. Even as digital wallets grow in popularity, cards remain deeply embedded in the ecosystem - 63% of digital wallets in the UK are funded by cards, proving that physical cards are not being replaced, but rather are enabling and supporting digital innovations.

Here’s why cards still play a vital role today:

• Widely accepted: Physical cards are usable across countless sectors and locations - no extra setup, no fuss.

• Brand power: A well-designed card becomes a daily brand touchpoint in your customer’s life.

• Always available: Cards don’t run out of battery, rely on a signal, or require an app update.

• Trustworthy: Many people still associate cards with security, legitimacy, and easy access - especially in government and finance.

At allpay cards, we recognise the continued demand for plastic cards, and we’re proud to support our clients with solutions that meet both current needs and future expectations. From prepaid and contactless to fully bespoke designs, we deliver card solutions that work - for everyone.

Contact us today to find out more: https://allpay.cards/contact-us/