How New Payment Methods Are Transforming Local Commerce
June 10th. 2025
Adapting to new consumer habits is no longer optional for local businesses—it's a must to remain competitive. This shift involves updating the value proposition, enhancing the shopping experience, strengthening digital presence, and adopting new payment methods which, though often overlooked, are essential in today’s purchasing process.
According to the Bank of Spain, while cash payments made up 51% of in-store transactions in 2022, by 2024 that number had dropped to 45%, and the trend is clearly downward. Furthermore, the total value of cash transactions has also declined.
On the other hand, payments made with credit cards, mobile apps, and digital solutions such as Bizum or even cryptocurrencies are on the rise. Although still emerging, cryptocurrencies are beginning to appear in more innovative retail settings, offering an image of modernity that resonates especially with younger generations.
This payment paradigm shift means that customers now expect to be able to pay conveniently and securely, even at their local bakery, stationery shop, or café. As a result, local shopkeepers face the challenge of integrating new payment solutions into their operations, without compromising profitability.
Mobile Payments
Using a smartphone as a payment method is booming. More than 70% of people under 35 claim to have used their phone to pay in-store in the past month, according to the Bank of Spain. Ignoring this trend means missing out on a significant portion of the market.
Services like Apple Pay and Google Pay allow fast, secure payments and are compatible with most modern POS systems, making them easy to implement for retailers already accepting card payments.
Bizum for Businesses
Initially created for peer-to-peer transfers, Bizum has become a widely used payment method in retail. With over 25 million users in Spain, it is increasingly preferred over cards or cash thanks to its speed and convenience.
The business version of Bizum can be integrated into physical POS terminals and online payment gateways, allowing instant receipt of funds. While it has a daily limit of €2,000 and involves a small commission, its ease of use makes it very attractive for small businesses.
Cryptocurrencies: The Next Step?
Although accepting cryptocurrencies may not yet be a necessity for local commerce, opening up to these new payment methods can help attract new customers, stand out from the competition, and project a modern, forward-thinking image. In Barcelona, more and more businesses—from cafés to tech stores—are already accepting Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies.
Today, dedicated platforms make it possible to accept crypto payments with automatic conversion to euros, helping retailers avoid volatility. The process is straightforward: customers scan a QR code with their digital wallet and the merchant receives instant confirmation. No advanced technical knowledge is required, and many of these tools integrate with existing POS systems. Another advantage is that transaction fees are often lower compared to traditional payment methods.
Associations like Gaudí Shopping, which actively promote local commerce around Avinguda Gaudí, play a key role in this transformation. Their support helps small businesses embrace digitalisation and innovate while staying connected to the community.
In the end, offering great service also means letting customers choose how they want to pay. And that seemingly simple gesture can be the difference between a one-time sale and long-term loyalty.
