With credit card skimming still being a problem that primarily affects diners at restaurants (current studies indicate that about 70% of these scams occur in restaurants), it only makes sense that some restaurants are looking at placing card swiping readers at their tables. If you think about it, it is only a logical step in the progression of credit card payments. After all, most stores have you swipe your own card now and your card never leaves your hand when you pay at the pump, so why should going to a restaurant be any different?
Europe already commonly uses pay-at-the-table card swiping technology, but you still don’t see them so much in the United States. This is mostly because restaurant owners haven’t been convinced that the technology will help them be more profitable in any way. With the rise in skimming scams, however, offering pay-at-the-table just might be enough to draw in some more customers. In addition, it can help a restaurant avoid a potential lawsuit.
Of course, pay-at-the-table will also make it easier for restaurants to move through large crowds of people, particularly during their peak hours. Providing improved customer service can also be a major selling point for a restaurant.
With these pay-at-the-table devices, you simply swipe your credit card or debit card through. Using the LCD screen and keypad, you can verify the amount and add on a tip if you like. You can also set it up to automatically figure the tip for you. After you send the information through, it is processed wirelessly through a central computer and a receipt is printed out. Another brand of these devices even allows you to access the menu through the device and has a contact-less reader.
Of course, these devices aren’t cheap. In fact, installing them will cost restaurants hundreds of dollars. So, don’t expect to start seeing them popping up right away at every restaurant you visit.
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