Following the announcement that a significant number of UK Post Offices are likely to close, especially in rural areas, Alphyra's Payzone unit has revealed that it intends to offer a fast-track application process to independent retail outlets facing the loss of Post Office services.
The Payzone network allows convenience stores and newsagents that formerly included a Post Office to continue to offer many of the same services, as well as a number of innovative, higher margin products that are not currently available from Post Offices.
Services available through Payzone include mobile phone top-up, energy pre-payment, utility bill payment, and council tax and local authority payments. Payzone also offers a number of exclusive services, such as the 3V Virtual Visa Voucher, SmartTransfer, and PartyPoker prepaid gaming cards.
In addition, through its relationship with Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank, Payzone is able to offer retailers preferential banking arrangements that are otherwise only available to much larger businesses.
The closure of further Post Offices around the country is likely to create difficulties for independent retailers and many communities who have previously relied on the local service provided by their Post Office, commented Tim Murphy, COO of Alphyra. Payzone offers many of the services available through the Post Office, as well as a range of innovative products, many with enhanced margins for retailers, which in turn help them to continue to offer a convenient service for consumers.
The Payzone service includes a free terminal and installation for retailers, free point of sale material, and comprehensive retailer support.