"With FirstPOS we enter a new era," said Karin Skarek, managing director of First Data in Austria. "Because First Data processes about 430 million card payments a year, manages about 87,000 point-of-sale terminals and 7600 ATMs in Austria, we have decades of knowledge in this market," said Skarek. Merchant surveys show a great demand for an expanded offering in cashless payment systems. They expect better prices, improved transparency and greater simplicity," explained Skarek.

FirstPOS features three important elements:

1. Future-protected technology: The merchant can choose from a variety of terminals, which already comply with the upcoming European Union regulations. The terminals feature important additional functionality such as Taxfree, a cash register interface, dynamic currency conversion and a choice of telecommunications providers. The system is simple and should save merchants time and money.
2. Transparency and freedom of choice: With FirstPOS, First Data offers merchants a platform for the acceptance of the full suite of current cards via various acquirers. In addition, the merchant can choose from several service and maintenance packs. All these features are included as part of one single contract.
3. Pricing: A central element is a simple monthly flat rate fee that includes all technical services and is customizable according to the merchant's individual needs. Through the choice of acquirers and attractive merchant service commissions, merchants can save up to 40 percent.

Greater dynamics in the payments market

Until recently, First Data operated principally as the reliable backbone of the Austrian electronic payments system. With the introduction of FirstPOS, First Data draws on its extensive retail knowledge and point-of-sale management experience internationally to become an active player in the Austrian market.

The launch of FirstPOS will prompt change in the Austrian market. "We are entering a market that we are familiar with, a market that encourages competition and that has great growth potential," said Skarek.

Merchants want simple systems and value-for-money

"Electronic payments are still an important cost factor for retail businesses and the potential savings run into several thousand Euros. First Data is in a position to offer a favourably priced, robust and secure system that meets merchants' requirements," said Skarek. As one of the world's leaders in electronic payments, First Data provides state-of-the-art technology to meet the latest market trends for the benefit of its clients.

For Skarek, the shift from processor to a direct vendor in the cards business is a logical step. "In Austria, there are very few companies providing point-of-sale solutions to retailers and merchants," Skarek added. "With FirstPOS, merchants remain independent and can keep their terminal and service contracts even if they change their acquiring partner."