Jack in the Box is installing new “contactless” card readers at all company restaurants, which will enable guests to pay simply by holding their cards in front of a reader at the front counter or drive-thru window.
Contactless payment at Jack in the Box requires guests to have an American Express, Discover Network, MasterCard PayPass or Visa Contactless card or device embedded with a chip that communicates with the reader via radio frequency.
With installation of the readers slated for completion by Dec. 31, Jack in the Box will become one of the first major fast-food chains to accept contactless payment at all company restaurants.
“Thanks to our partnership with American Express, Discover Financial Services, MasterCard and Visa, Jack in the Box is making the purchase process faster and more convenient for guests on the go,” said Michael Verdesca, director of point-of-sale systems for Jack in the Box Inc.
“Guests no longer need to fumble for cash and coins, swipe a card or sign a receipt. Since they activate the transaction themselves by holding their cards 1 to 2 inches from the contactless reader, they can keep control of their cards while our cashiers can focus on providing great guest service.”
Verdesca said that in addition to improving speed and convenience — two factors critical in fast food — contactless payment can also improve sales: Consumers tend to spend more with contactless credit cards than with cash. He added that contactless technology may also enable future guest-service enhancements, such as contactless payment with a Jack Ca$h gift card or a cell phone.
