The electronics retailer Gravis, which specializes in Apple products, no longer accepts cash payments in its 40 branches. Instead, customers can pay at mobile terminals – but only cashless, even for small amounts. The reason given is that the proportion of those who pay with cash was recently in the single-digit percentage range.
The company said in a press release that doing without cash increases security and reduces the time required, for example, with a view to counterfeit money. Daily transfers of cash to the bank are also eliminated. The company should also save costs as a result.
Waiver of cash legally possible
Gravis, founded in Berlin in 1986 and a wholly owned subsidiary of Freenet AG since the beginning of 2013, had previously tested the new store concept in a number of branches and then decided to take the step. Gravis follows the general trend towards cashless payments, which can be observed especially among younger people. But those who prefer to continue paying in cash are reluctant to give up, according to surveys. They value spending control, personal freedom, and anonymity.
The exclusion of a legal tender is allowed if informed accordingly, says Gravis. This is done by displays in the checkout area and in the general terms and conditions.
(mki)
