Taco Bell to expand contactless technology
March 18, 2007
SAN FRANCISCO — Taco Bell Corp. has signed an agreement with Visa USA to test Visa Contactless cards at 100 locations in the fourth quarter of 2007.
According to a news release, the brand plans to turn all 1,300 company restaurants and participating franchise locations nationwide into Contactless acceptance locations throughout 2008, pending a successful test.
Visa Contactless cards eliminate the signature requirement for most payments under $25, enabling customers to make purchases by holding their Contactless card near a secure reader at checkout. Account information is then transmitted by a tiny radio-frequency chip embedded in the card.
"When faced with the choice between paper or plastic, consumers are increasingly turning to plastic for everyday purchases at grocery stores, fast food restaurants and convenience stores, and Visa cardholders consistently voice their preference for merchants that offer fast and convenient transactions," said Brian Triplett, senior vice president, Emerging Product Development, Visa USA. "By collaborating with merchants like these, we are able meet the demands of consumers and provide them with an enhanced purchasing experience."