In addition to using traditional magnetic-stripe payment cards, customers can now tap their PayPass contactless cards or devices on electronic readers at check-out to make their purchases, enabling quicker transactions and more convenient payments.

"In addition to the latest sporting goods, equipment and apparel, we strive to provide our customers with the best possible services and conveniences," said Tom McVey, senior vice president, Store Operations, Sports Authority. "Accepting MasterCard PayPass will help keep our check-out lines short, so customers spend less time waiting in line when they make their purchases."

The growing popularity of contactless payments reflects a trend towards growing consumer preference for electronic payments over cash and check, both for household bills and for everyday purchases. According to MasterCard research, 77% of consumers that have a PayPass-enabled card use it as their primary form of payment. As of 1Q 2009, MasterCard had issued nearly 55 million MasterCard PayPass cards or devices, almost double the number in circulation at the same time last year.

By accepting contactless payments, Sports Authority customers now will be able to quickly make their purchases by simply tapping their PayPass-enabled MasterCard cards or devices on PayPass-enabled readers at the check-out counters. MasterCard PayPass also eliminates the need for customers to sign receipts for purchases under $25, further speeding up the transaction.

"A growing number of merchants are accepting MasterCard PayPass because it can not only help increase customer throughput at the register, but also helps improve customer service by offering consumers more payment options that make their lives easier," said Cathleen Conforti, senior vice president, Global PayPass, MasterCard Worldwide.