Craft fairs represent a brilliant opportunity to showcase your talent, network with like-minded individuals, and generate income. But to truly maximise your earnings, you need to ensure your customers can pay easily and conveniently.
In this insight, we explore the world of card machines, highlighting why they're indispensable for craft fairs and examining the 2 best card machines for craft fairs available to you.
In today's digital age, consumers increasingly prefer cashless transactions. The convenience of card payments has permeated all areas of commerce, including craft fairs.
Offering your customers the option to pay by card not only enhances their purchase experience but also can boost your sales significantly, especially for larger, more expensive items.
£38.99
£22.80These terminals resemble those found in shops and restaurants, but with one key difference: they connect to a mobile phone network instead of a landline or WiFi.
This means they can work practically anywhere, provided there's mobile network coverage.
As long as you have data connectivity through your mobile, specifically at a craft fair, we would not recommend using a GPRS Card Machine. The upfront cost is too high and they are more suitable for restaurants. Instead we recommend using a mobile card reader for smartphones...
Mobile card readers connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, using your phone's data connection to process payments. They are compact, portable, and ideal for craft fairs.
Investing in a card machine is not merely about keeping up with technological trends; it's about streamlining the payment process for your customers.
Here's why you should consider it:
A card machine makes it incredibly easy for your customers to purchase your products, reducing the likelihood of them getting distracted or deciding to abandon the purchase.
A card machine can help you tap into impulse purchases, leading to increased sales. Customers who realise they can pay by card are more likely to spend more on your products.
Without a card machine, you risk losing sales to customers who don't carry cash or prefer card payments.
Choosing the right card machine boils down to your transaction volume and frequency. For most artists and crafters who participate in events sporadically and have a relatively low volume of credit card transactions, a mobile card reader for smartphones is the most cost-effective and convenient option.
However, if you attend craft fairs regularly and process a high volume of card payments, a mobile GPRS chip and pin terminal might be more suitable.
Remember, before signing any contract, make sure you understand all the terms and conditions and that the fees are affordable for your business.
Here are some handy tips to ensure a smooth card payment process at your next craft fair:
Learn about the various systems available and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Don't wait until the day of the event to register for a card processing system. Allow ample time for account verification and familiarising yourself with the app.
Practice using the card reader before the craft fair to ensure a seamless transaction process on the day.
Use signs or banners to notify customers that you accept card payments. This can attract more customers and save you time explaining payment options.
Participating in craft shows offers several benefits beyond just selling your products:
In conclusion, finding the best card machine for craft fairs is crucial for enhancing your customers' experience and boosting your sales. Whether you opt for the Sumup or Square reader, both align with your needs and are easy for your customers to use.
By accepting card payments, you're not only keeping up with the times but also making it easier for your customers to purchase your beautiful crafts.
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Stuart is an expert in Property, Money, Banking & Finance, having worked in retail and investment banking for 10+ years before founding Sunny Avenue. Stuart has spent his career studying finance. He holds qualifications in financial studies, mortgage advice & practice, banking operations, dealing & financial markets, derivatives, securities & investments.
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