For many sports and social clubs across the UK, cash has always been the go-to way to take payments. From membership fees and matchday drinks to raffle tickets and event entry, it’s familiar, simple and has worked well for years. But payment habits are changing fast, and clubs that rely solely on cash could be missing out on valuable income from not taking card payments.
How People's Payment Preferences Have Changed
Across the UK, the way people pay for everyday things has shifted dramatically. Card payments now account for well over half of all transactions, while cash usage continues to fall year on year. In fact, debit and credit cards now make up around two-thirds of all payments nationwide, with contactless being the most popular method.
This trend is especially noticeable at bars, events and social settings, where people expect quick and easy payments. Many members no longer carry much cash, if any at all, and instead rely on cards or mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Younger members in particular are far more likely to expect card options, but older members are increasingly using contactless too.
For clubs, this means that sticking to cash-only payments can unintentionally create friction. When paying feels inconvenient, people are less likely to spend, whether that’s on an extra drink, a last-minute ticket or renewing their membership on the spot.
Cash Still Has a Place, But It Shouldn’t Be The Only Option
We’re not saying your club should stop accepting cash. Cash is still important for many people, and it remains part of everyday life. Around 61 % of UK adults use cash at least once a week, and if plenty of members prefer it, there’s no reason to take that choice away.
However, relying on cash alone can limit your club’s income. When someone arrives without cash, a sale can be lost instantly. This might be a visitor at the bar, or a member who intended to pay their fees but forgot to withdraw money beforehand. Over time, these missed opportunities add up. By offering card payments alongside cash, clubs give members flexibility while making it easier for money to come in when people are ready to spend.
Card Machines Aren’t as Expensive as Many Clubs Think
One of the biggest misconceptions around card payments is cost. Many club committees assume card machines are expensive, complicated and packed with high transaction fees that eat into profits. While that may have been true years ago, modern payment solutions are far more affordable and straightforward.
Today’s card machines are portable, easy to use and quick to set up. They can be used behind the bar, at events, pitch-side or at the clubhouse door. There’s no need for bulky equipment or technical expertise, and staff and volunteers usually pick them up within minutes.
The key concern for most clubs is transaction fees, and understandably so. Every penny matters. At Club Assure, we work hard to make sure clubs have access to some of the lowest transaction fees available. This means you can accept card payments without worrying that a significant chunk of your income is disappearing in charges. Lower fees help your club keep more of what it earns, which can then be reinvested into facilities, teams and events.
Card Payments Can Actually Increase Club Income
Accepting card payments doesn’t just make things easier, it often leads to higher takings. When members can pay quickly and conveniently, they are more likely to spend. A contactless tap at the bar is faster than handling cash and change, especially on busier days or during events.
Offering card payments is no longer about being cutting-edge. It’s about meeting modern expectations and making sure your club stays accessible, welcoming and financially healthy. Cash still matters, but card is firmly on the rise, and clubs that adapt now are better placed for the future.
With affordable card machines and low transaction fees through Club Assure, there’s no need to worry about high costs or complicated setups. It’s a practical step that helps your club keep up with changing habits, improve member experience and protect its income. Sometimes, the simplest changes make the biggest impact — and accepting card payments is one of them. Get in touch today to discuss integrating affordable card payments into your business.
