The O2 arena is rolling out contactless technology across more than 250 card payment terminals. The payment system, in partnership with Barclaycard and Visa Europe, will enable visitors to 'tap and go' at the venue's bars, restaurants and merchandise stands, as well as at other quick pay terminals, such as car parks.

On show nights 75 per cent of electronic transactions processed in the arena’s concessions are under £15, therefore the O2 says the technology’s speed will help reduce queues.

Richard Armstrong, head of payment acceptance at Barclaycard, says: “The hospitality sector with high volume low value transactions, and often lengthy queues, is the perfect environment for a technology that makes it quicker and easier for people to make payments. As a result, we’re confident that contactless technology will prove popular with visitors to The O2 Arena.”

Barclays, Barclaycard and Visa Europe have issued over 15 million contactless debit and credit cards and put contactless terminals in more than 56,000 retail outlets.

Alex Hill, senior executive director and finance director of AEG Europe, owner and operator of The O2, says: “Our aim is to give our customers the best time possible from the moment they arrive at The O2. Contactless will play a key part in improving our guests’ experiences by speeding up the payment process and reducing queue times, giving everyone more time to enjoy the unique and electric atmosphere of The O2 on a show night.”

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