Welcome to credit 2.0 – The new wave of credit and Rise of Point of Sale Financing!

ChargeAfter
Oct 28, 2019

Point of Sale (POS) financing is gaining momentum as a preferred payment method, particularly with Millennials and Gen Z, who are moving away from traditional credit cards. The rise of Point of Sale financing is transforming how consumers make purchasing decisions, and retailers must adapt to meet this growing demand.

The Shift Away from Traditional Credit

As younger generations become more wary of credit cards with high APRs, POS financing offers a more flexible alternative. With 0% APR options available for 6 to 48 months, customers have a more transparent financial path. Rather than worrying about long-term credit card debt, consumers can make purchases knowing precisely what they’ll pay each month.

The Psychology Behind the Rise of Point of Sale Financing

For big-ticket items, POS financing is an appealing option. Take a 55-inch TV priced at $599—many shoppers hesitate to charge that much to a credit card. The rise of point-of-sale financing allows retailers to promote easy, low monthly payment options, such as “$59/month with 0% APR.” This encourages customers to buy without fear of high-interest debt, boosting sales.

How POS Financing Improves Credit Scores

Unlike credit cards, which can negatively impact credit scores through high utilization rates, POS financing creates a separate credit line. This may help improve credit scores for customers who make regular payments, offering a safer and more appealing way to finance purchases.

 

The Rise of Point of Sale Financing as a Solution for Cart Abandonment

Cart abandonment is a significant challenge for retailers, with eCommerce sites experiencing rates between 70% and 90%. Long checkout processes, a lack of payment options, and security concerns drive many shoppers away. The rise of point-of-sale financing offers a solution to these problems by providing an easy and convenient way to finance purchases.

With platforms like ChargeAfter, customers can quickly apply for financing and receive approval in moments. This addresses several common causes of cart abandonment, including lengthy checkouts and credit card distrust. Offering multiple financing options directly at checkout keeps customers engaged and encourages them to complete their purchase.

Omnichannel Lending and In-Store Financing

The rise of point-of-sale financing is not just for eCommerce—it’s becoming just as essential for physical stores. Retailers are integrating omnichannel lending, allowing customers to access flexible payment options both online and in-store. This consistent experience builds trust and simplifies purchasing across multiple sales channels.

Thanks to embedded finance solutions and white-label POS systems, in-store financing provides customers with the same seamless and branded experience as they receive online. By offering financing options that match their brand, retailers create a more cohesive and satisfying shopping experience for their customers.

 

White Label POS Systems and BNPL

The rise of point-of-sale financing has driven demand for white-label POS systems. These systems allow retailers to offer Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) solutions under their own brand. White-label BNPL solutions provide flexibility and control, enabling businesses to maintain a consistent brand experience throughout the entire purchase process.

By integrating a white-label POS system, retailers can offer tailored financing options without relying on third-party branding. This helps enhance customer loyalty and keeps the financing process aligned with the retailer’s brand identity.

Boosting AOV and Sales with Embedded Financing Solutions

One of the most significant advantages of POS financing is its ability to increase Average Order Value (AOV). Customers are likelier to make larger purchases when given flexible payment terms, especially with 0% APR or low-interest offers. Retailers who offer embedded financing options see not only increased sales but also higher customer satisfaction.

For example, a consumer might hesitate to spend $1,500 on furniture upfront but will feel more comfortable spreading payments over 12 months. This flexibility allows retailers to convert more customers, reduce cart abandonment, and boost overall revenue.

 

The Future of Retail: The Continued Rise of Point of Sale Financing

The rise of Point of Sale financing is not a passing trend—it’s the future of retail payments. As consumers increasingly demand flexibility and transparency in their payment options, POS financing offers the perfect solution. Embedded finance platforms and white-label BNPL solutions enable retailers to meet these needs, offering seamless and tailored financing experiences both online and in-store.

For retailers, embracing these solutions is essential to staying competitive. By offering flexible payment terms and simplifying the checkout process, businesses can increase conversion rates, reduce cart abandonment, and enhance customer loyalty. The future of retail lies in the ability to offer consumers more choices in how they pay, and the rise of point-of-sale financing is leading the way.

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About the author
Oded Dayani