The upgrade from HSBC Merchant Services LLP, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Global Payments and one of the largest independent payment processors in the UK, means thousands of additional customers will be able to pay swiftly and safely via contactless during the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations and the upcoming Games.

One of the leading providers of electronic transaction processing services, HSBC Merchant Services is upgrading the terminals of 10,000 merchants across the UK.

All new merchants that sign-up to HSBC Merchant Services card payments technology will be offered contactless readers, in addition to existing merchants using the IWL 220 terminal. Existing customers using a different terminal can upgrade to the IWL for a small additional charge.

Chris Davies, Managing Director of HSBC Merchant Services said: "We are constantly looking for new ways to help businesses and retailers to serve their customers.

"With the Jubilee and Games fast approaching, businesses across the country are busy preparing for the corresponding influx of custom. Our upgrade ensures merchants are fully equipped to deal with the requirement to process payments quickly and efficiently through a seamless contactless payment system."