Credit card issuance revenue is slated to dip at a compound annual rate of 7.3% over the five years through 2025-26 to £20.5 billion, including estimated growth of 9.5% in 2025-26. The cost-of-living crisis has been both a blessing and a curse – on the one hand, households have turned to credit cards to pay for necessities as disposable incomes have taken a hit; on the other, it’s caused a higher rate of default and a lower level of total spending. Rampant inflation has made revenue very volatile. Drops in disposable income have left households scrambling to pay for necessities, with the ONS finding that 21% of adults had to use personal loans or credit cards to afford their living costs across 2023-24. Credit card issuers earn a large portion of their revenue from interest income. When the Bank of England ramped up interest rates to curb spiralling inflation over the two years through 2023-24, issuers saw their revenue skyrocket. Although interest rate cuts occurred over 2024-25, the average rate issuers charged borrowers continued to climb, reflecting the rising number of defaults, and issuers seeking to maintain profitability after being forced to raise provisions to cover losses. Interest rates will continue to drop in 2025-26, but this will make borrowing more affordable and reduce the likelihood of defaults, supporting lending activity and aiding revenue growth during the year. The likely decline in defaults will also allow issuers to reduce provisions, lifting the average industry profit margin to 5.9% in 2025-26. Credit card issuance revenue is forecast to expand at a compound annual rate of 4.1% over the five years through 2030-31 to reach £19.3 billion. Demand for credit cards from younger demographics is set to pick up in the coming years, with TransUnion finding more Gen Z consumers getting credit cards in 2023 compared to Millennials a decade earlier, positioning the industry for solid growth. The intensifying threat of buy-now-pay-later platforms will also cool as the FCA clamps down on the industry, introducing new regulations that increase transparency and checks to ensure borrowers can repay their debt. Issuers will also seek to capitalise on the growing market of environmentally conscious consumers, using recycled plastics and biodegradable alternatives for credit cards. This will give smaller issuers a healthy source of competition to compete with more established companies, weighing on market share concentration.

The value of credit card purchases made in the UK grew to a record in July 2024, at ***** billion British pounds. It contrasted the low point in April 2020, when monthly credit card spending fell to approximately *** billion British pounds. As of May 2025 the credit card purchases made it to 2**** billion British pounds.

The top five main card issuers in the United Kingdom together were responsible for ** percent of the market, with two issuers taking up nearly ********* of it. This is according to a publication from **************, that quoted data for the UK in 2022. Note that the figures display card payments as a whole, and do not distinguish between credit cards or debit cards. Visa's market share in the UK is estimated to be significantly higher than that of Mastercard, or other card brands.

The Europe Credit Cards Market Report is Segmented by Application (Food & Groceries, Health & Pharmacy, Restaurants & Bars, and More), Card Type (General Purpose Credit Cards, Specialty & Other Credit Cards), Card Format (Physical, Digital), Provider (Visa, Mastercard, Other Providers), and Geography (United Kingdom, Germany, France, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The United Kingdom Credit Card Transaction market is projected to add more than USD 150 Billion from 2024 to 2029 due to credit card transactions market evolves with shifting consu

Market Size statistics on the Credit Card Issuance industry in the UK

The UK Virtual Cards Market is Segmented by Use (Single-Use and Multi-Use), by Payment Type (Remote Payments and POS Payments), by End User (Consumer and Business), and by Card Type (Virtual Debit Card, Virtual Credit Card, and Virtual Prepaid Card). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Number of Businesses statistics on the Credit Card Issuance industry in the UK

Daily, weekly and monthly data showing seasonally adjusted and non-seasonally adjusted UK spending using debit and credit cards. These are official statistics in development. Source: CHAPS, Bank of England.

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Credit Card Payments Market Size 2025-2029

The credit card payments market size is forecast to increase by USD 181.9 billion, at a CAGR of 8.7% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing prevalence of online transactions. The digital shift in consumer behavior, fueled by the convenience and accessibility of e-commerce platforms, is leading to a surge in credit card payments. Another key trend shaping the market is the adoption of mobile biometrics for payment processing. This advanced technology offers enhanced security and ease of use, making it an attractive option for both consumers and merchants. However, the market also faces challenges. In developing economies, a lack of awareness and infrastructure for online payments presents a significant obstacle. Bridging the digital divide and educating consumers about the benefits and security of online transactions will be crucial for market expansion in these regions. Effective strategies, such as partnerships with local financial institutions and targeted marketing campaigns, can help overcome this challenge and unlock new opportunities for growth.

What will be the Size of the Credit Card Payments Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleThe market continues to evolve, driven by advancements in technology and shifting consumer preferences. Payment optimization through EMV chip technology and payment authorization systems enhances security and streamlines transactions. Cross-border payments and chargeback prevention are crucial for businesses expanding globally. Ecommerce payment solutions, BNPL solutions, and mobile payments cater to the digital age, offering flexibility and convenience. Payment experience is paramount, with user interface design and alternative payment methods enhancing customer satisfaction. Merchant account services and payment gateway integration enable seamless transaction processing. Payment analytics and loyalty programs help businesses understand customer behavior and boost retention. Interchange fees, chargeback management, and dispute resolution are essential components of credit card processing. Data encryption and fraud detection ensure payment security. Multi-currency support and digital wallets cater to diverse customer needs. Customer support and subscription management are vital for maintaining positive relationships and managing recurring billing. Processing rates, settlement cycles, and PCI compliance are key considerations for businesses seeking efficient and cost-effective payment solutions. The ongoing integration of these elements shapes the dynamic and evolving credit card payments landscape.

How is this Credit Card Payments Industry segmented?

The credit card payments industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. End-userConsumer or individualCommercialProduct TypeGeneral purpose credit cardsSpecialty credit cardsOthersApplicationFood and groceriesHealth and pharmacyRestaurants and barsConsumer electronicsOthersGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeGermanyUKAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaSouth AmericaArgentinaBrazilRest of World (ROW).

By End-user Insights

The consumer or individual segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The market is a dynamic and evolving landscape that caters to businesses and consumers alike. Recurring billing enables merchants to automatically charge customers for goods or services on a regular basis, streamlining the payment process for both parties. EMV chip technology enhances payment security, reducing the risk of fraud. Payment optimization techniques help businesses minimize transaction costs and improve authorization rates. Cross-border payments facilitate international business, while chargeback prevention measures protect merchants from revenue loss due to disputed transactions. Ecommerce payment solutions provide convenience for consumers and merchants, with payment gateway integration ensuring seamless transactions. Rewards programs and buy now, pay later (BNPL) solutions incentivize consumer spending. Mobile payments and digital wallets offer flexibility and convenience. Merchants can accept various payment methods, including cryptocurrencies, and benefit from payment analytics and conversion rate optimization. Payment volume continues to grow, necessitating robust fraud detection systems and multi-currency support. Customer support is crucial for resolving disputes and addressing payment issues. Alternative payment methods cater to diverse consumer preferences. The payment experience is key to customer retention and a

The European credit card market, valued at €2.47 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.83% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key drivers. Increasing digitalization and e-commerce adoption across Europe are significantly boosting credit card transactions. Furthermore, the expanding middle class and rising disposable incomes in several European countries are contributing to increased consumer spending and a greater reliance on credit cards for purchases. Government initiatives aimed at promoting financial inclusion and the proliferation of contactless payment technologies are also playing a vital role in market expansion. Segmentation analysis reveals that general-purpose credit cards hold the largest market share, driven by their versatility and widespread acceptance. Within applications, food and groceries, along with restaurants and bars, represent significant segments, highlighting the prevalence of credit card use for everyday spending. Major players like Visa and Mastercard dominate the provider landscape, while banks such as Capital One, Citi Bank, and Chase maintain strong market positions. However, the market faces some restraints including concerns over increasing debt levels among consumers and the rise of alternative payment methods like mobile wallets and Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services. This competitive pressure necessitates continuous innovation and strategic adaptations by established players to retain their market share. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates sustained, albeit moderate, growth, influenced by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. Growth will likely be uneven across European nations, with countries exhibiting higher economic growth rates and greater digital adoption potentially experiencing faster credit card market expansion. The ongoing shift towards digital banking and the integration of credit cards within broader fintech ecosystems will further shape the market's trajectory. Specific regional variations will depend on factors such as regulatory environments, consumer behavior, and the availability of alternative payment solutions. Continued monitoring of these trends is critical for effective strategic planning within the European credit card market. Recent developments include: February 2023: ASOS, the global online fashion destination, and Capital One UK announced a new and exclusive credit card partnership. The partnership will likely launch a new ASOS credit card for eligible shoppers, available later this year. It is projected to provide a range of features and benefits that only come with using a credit card when they shop at ASOS and elsewhere, such as Section 75 protection on purchases over EUR 100., November 2022: Germany's leading international provider of ticketing services and live entertainment CTS EVENTIM presented its own branded credit card issued by Advanzia Bank. The Eventimcard offered an integrated loyalty program that gives cardholders VIP entry to venues owned or operated by CTS EVENTIM, free ticket delivery, and all the benefits included in the Mastercard Gold.. Key drivers for this market are: Usage of Credit Card give the bonus and reward points. Potential restraints include: Usage of Credit Card give the bonus and reward points. Notable trends are: Increasing Card Transactions in Europe have a Major Impact on Credit Card.

The average value of a credit card transaction in the United Kingdom is predicted to slightly decrease between 2024 and 2029, by over *** USD. This is according to one of several forecasts made by Statista covering the credit card market in the United Kingdom. The European country is one of the most mature countries in the world when it comes to credit card penetration. This is reflected in the value of credit card payments, making up over *** percent of the country's GDP.

The UK prepaid debit card market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand for convenient and secure payment solutions, particularly among younger demographics and the unbanked population. The market's expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rise of e-commerce and digital transactions necessitates readily accessible payment methods beyond traditional bank accounts. Secondly, the growing popularity of mobile payment applications integrated with prepaid cards further enhances their convenience and usability. Thirdly, the increasing adoption of prepaid cards by businesses for payroll and incentive programs contributes significantly to market expansion. Finally, government initiatives promoting financial inclusion also play a vital role. While precise UK market figures aren't provided, extrapolating from the global CAGR of 7% and considering the UK's developed economy and high digital adoption rate, a conservative estimate would place the 2025 UK prepaid debit card market value at approximately £2 billion (assuming a proportional share of the global market given the UK's economic strength). This figure is projected to experience consistent growth over the forecast period (2025-2033), driven by the aforementioned factors. However, the market faces some restraints. Increased competition from established financial institutions offering similar products, and concerns regarding fees and security associated with certain prepaid card offerings, pose challenges. Regulatory changes and potential shifts in consumer preferences could also influence market trajectories. Despite these headwinds, the overall outlook for the UK prepaid debit card market remains positive, driven by strong underlying growth drivers, indicating significant opportunities for market participants. The market segmentation shows diverse application across retail, corporate, government, and financial sectors, with multi-purpose and general-purpose reloadable cards commanding significant shares. Key players in this market include both established financial institutions and fintech companies, each competing with unique product offerings and technological advantages. Recent developments include: In July 2021, Soldo, a startup that issues prepaid company cards to employees that are linked to an automated spending management system, has raised USD 180 million in funding. Soldo presently has 26,000 customers in 30 countries, ranging from small to medium-sized businesses to midmarket companies and huge multinationals., In March 2021, Cashplus, a leading fintech SME bank, added five more prominent Payroll technology platforms to its growing roster of Payments API partners. The Cashplus Payment API is a Banking as a Service offering that employs Open Banking technology to allow Payroll Software Platforms to integrate Bulk Payment functionality directly into their own Payroll, allowing their clients to make bulk payments with ease.. Notable trends are: Commercial Prepaid Card Segment is Driving the Market.

Employment statistics on the Credit Card Issuance industry in the UK

Total credit card debt in the UK grew by over one billion British pounds between March and April 2025, now reaching a similar level of debt as seen in early 2020. The annual growth rate of credit card debt stayed about the same in April 2025, reaching 5.6 percent when compared to aApril 2024. The growth rate in 2024 has been decreasing until 2025 where it started to increase again, which may potentially be attributed to growing interest rates and the cost of living crisis.

Weekly and monthly UK credit and debit card payments for a sample of relevant merchants from the Bank of England. These are official statistics in development. Source: Bank of England and ONS calculations.

The use of credit cards varied significantly within Europe, with Poland or Germany barely using them whilst their market share was over ** percent in France. This is somewhat at odds with figures on credit card penetration in the world. The United Kingdom, for example, ranks as one of the top countries worldwide in terms of credit card ownership, and also ranks high in this particular overview. France, however, had a significantly lower credit card penetration, but outranks the UK in terms of market share for credit cards. This may be a consequence of the different card schemes that exist within Europe's payment landscape. France has a domestic scheme - unique to that country alone - that is co-branded with Visa, enabling both credit card and debit card payments.

Consumer Credit in the United Kingdom increased to 1692 GBP Million in August from 1669 GBP Million in July of 2025. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - United Kingdom Consumer Credit - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

The interest rate for credit cards in the UK grew to an all-time high in May 2025, even though the base rate for the Bank of England grew at a slower pace that month. Credit card interest rates tend to be significantly higher than other forms of lending, and the United Kingdom is no exception to this. By May 2025, the average interest rate had increased to 24.65 percent. The Bank of England base rate stood at 4.25 percent since April 2025 – which was not yet the highest value observed. Nevertheless, the central bank's interest rate grew slower than that of credit cards.

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Mobile Card Reader Market Size 2024-2028

The mobile card reader market size is forecast to increase by USD 28.8 billion at a CAGR of 25.2% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is witnessing significant growth, driven by the increasing adoption of contactless payments and the emergence of near field communication (NFC) technology. These trends enable seamless, on-the-go transactions, catering to the growing demand for convenience and flexibility in financial transactions. However, the market faces challenges as well. High operating and maintenance costs of Point of Sale (PoS) terminals can hinder small businesses from adopting mobile card readers. Furthermore, regulatory hurdles impact adoption in certain regions, necessitating compliance with various data security and privacy regulations. To capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively, companies must focus on offering cost-effective solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing the security features of their mobile card readers. By addressing these challenges and leveraging the market's growth drivers, players can position themselves for long-term success in the market.

What will be the Size of the Mobile Card Reader Market during the forecast period?

Request Free SampleThe market is experiencing significant advancements in payment security and technology. Integrated payments, secure data transmission, and fraud prevention are key priorities for merchants and consumers alike. Two-factor authentication and biometric authentication are becoming standard payment security solutions. Payment industry regulations mandate stringent security measures to protect sensitive data. The average ticket size and transaction volume continue to increase, necessitating faster payment processing solutions. Merchant services and payment gateway integration are essential for omni-channel payments and seamless customer experience. Payment processing agreements and transaction time are critical factors in merchant adoption of payment solutions. Cloud-based payments and payment processing solutions enable merchants to accept payments anywhere, anytime. Payment acceptance rates are improving due to the convenience and flexibility of mobile payment solutions. Payment industry standards and payment processing speed are crucial for maintaining customer trust and loyalty. POS systems and payment terminals require robust mobile device security to protect against cyber threats. Payment innovation, such as payment technology advancements, is driving the market forward. Data protection and payment acceptance solutions are essential for merchants to stay competitive in the ever-evolving payment landscape.

How is this Mobile Card Reader Industry segmented?

The mobile card reader industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. ApplicationChip and pinNear field communicationMagnetic stripeEnd-userLarge enterprisesMSMEsGeographyNorth AmericaUSEuropeUKAPACChinaIndiaRest of World (ROW)

By Application Insights

The chip and pin segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.Chip and pin technology, a secure payment method utilizing microchips and personal identification numbers (PINs), has gained significant traction in the global market. Originally implemented in the UK to combat escalating fraud on lost or stolen cards, this technology is now adopted in numerous countries, including the US, the UK, and India. The technology embedded in credit and debit cards, this microchip securely stores user information, such as cardholder name, account number, and expiration date. Upon transaction initiation, the chip reads this data and requests the user to input their 4-digit PIN for authorization. Beyond chip and pin, the market encompasses various entities shaping its dynamics. Payment analytics facilitate businesses in gaining valuable insights from transaction data. Mobile ticketing simplifies the process of purchasing and managing tickets for events or transportation via mobile devices. Mobile app integration streamlines business operations, enabling seamless transactions through customized applications. Payment security is a top priority, with data encryption, real-time processing, and fraud detection ensuring secure transactions. Mobile workforce and field services benefit from mobile card readers, allowing for on-the-go transactions and inventory management. Financial services and online ordering integrate mobile payments for convenience and efficiency. Customer loyalty programs, point of sale, and payment processing fees are essential components, with secure Payment Gateways and mobile commerce offering real-time processing and receipt printing. The hospitality industry and retail sector leverage mobi