Takepayments: Five Essential Features for Small Business Success in 2025
Written by Lee Hart
Looking for a reliable payment solution for your business? Takepayments is a UK-based company that specialises in card payment solutions for independent businesses. They offer a comprehensive suite of payment processing services including card machines, online payment gateways, and EPOS systems designed to make accepting payments straightforward and efficient.
Originally founded in 1995 as Targeted Transaction Managed Services Limited, the company has evolved through several name changes to become the established payment processor we know today. Their focus remains on providing merchant services that work for you, with options that include next-day settlement for businesses that complete their banking window function before the acquirer's set time.
With over two decades of experience in the payment industry, Takepayments has built a reputation for making it easy for small and medium-sized businesses to accept card payments. Their product range includes countertop terminals, portable and mobile card machines, as well as virtual terminals and online payment solutions to suit various business needs.
Key Takeaways
- Takepayments offers customised card payment solutions including physical terminals, online gateways and EPOS systems for UK independent businesses.
- Customers can benefit from next-day settlement options and tailored pricing structures based on their specific business requirements.
- The company brings more than 25 years of payment industry experience with a focus on making card acceptance simple for small to medium enterprises.
What Is Takepayments?
Takepayments is a UK-based financial technology company specialising in card payment solutions for independent businesses and sole traders. The company offers customised payment services through various card machines, online payment gateways, and integrated solutions.
Overview of Takepayments
Takepayments positions itself as the fastest-growing card payment provider in the UK, focusing specifically on helping small and independent businesses accept card payments. Their headquarters are located in Stockport, with additional offices in London and Grimsby.
The company employs a nationwide team of Payment Consultants who work directly with businesses to set up tailored payment solutions. These solutions include countertop card machines, portable payment devices, mobile card readers, and online payment gateways.
Their service includes next-day settlement for businesses that complete their banking window function before the acquirer's set time. This helps small businesses maintain better cash flow, which is crucial for independent operations.
History and Background
Takepayments wasn't always known by its current name. The company was formerly known as Payzone UK before undergoing a rebrand in 2019. This transition occurred after Payzone sold its bill payments system to the Post Office in 2018.
The rebranding to Takepayments reflected the company's renewed focus on card payment solutions rather than bill payment services. This strategic shift allowed them to concentrate their expertise on merchant services specifically.
In recent developments, Takepayments has become part of the Global Payments company, as indicated by their Trustpilot profile. This association with a larger financial services entity has likely expanded their capabilities and resources.
Company Values and Mission
Takepayments' core mission is summed up in their tagline: "we make it easy". They focus on simplifying the process of accepting card payments for independent businesses that may not have the resources or technical knowledge to navigate complex payment systems.
The company prioritises customisation over one-size-fits-all solutions. Rather than offering standard pricing packages, Takepayments creates bespoke pricing structures tailored to each business's specific needs and transaction volumes.
Accessibility is another key value, with the company maintaining a nationwide presence through local payment consultants. This approach allows them to provide personalised service to businesses across the UK.
Their commitment to supporting independent businesses extends beyond just providing payment terminals. They aim to help small businesses compete with larger retailers by offering the same professional payment capabilities without excessive complexity.
Key Features of Takepayments
Takepayments offers a comprehensive suite of payment solutions designed to support businesses of all sizes. Their feature set combines robust payment processing with security, flexibility, and mobile capabilities to meet modern business needs.
Payment Processing Solutions
Takepayments provides a range of card machines for online, in-store and on-the-go businesses. Their terminals accept multiple payment methods, including:
- Credit and debit cards
- Contactless payments
- Mobile wallets (Apple Pay and Google Pay)
- Chip and PIN transactions
Their countertop, portable, and mobile card machines cater to different business environments. The takepaymentsplus terminal offers a particularly user-friendly setup with just four easy steps to begin accepting payments.
A standout advantage is the ability to handle both card and cash payments through a single system, which simplifies end-of-day reconciliation for merchants.
Security and Compliance
Takepayments maintains robust security standards to protect both businesses and their customers. All transactions are encrypted and processed through secure networks to prevent fraud and data breaches.
Their payment solutions comply with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requirements, helping businesses meet their compliance obligations without additional complexity.
The system includes built-in fraud detection capabilities that help identify suspicious transactions before they're completed. This adds an extra layer of protection for businesses concerned about payment fraud.
Regular security updates ensure that all terminals and software remain protected against emerging threats, providing peace of mind for merchants handling sensitive payment information.
Customisation Options
Takepayments offers customisable payment solutions that can be tailored to specific business requirements. Merchants can choose from various terminal types or combine multiple solutions to create an integrated payment ecosystem.
The service provides:
- Bespoke pricing plans based on business size and transaction volume
- Flexible contract terms
- Integration with 16 popular e-commerce platforms including WordPress and WooCommerce
- Extensive reporting tools for business analytics
This level of customisation makes Takepayments suitable for diverse industries, from retail and hospitality to service providers and event management.
Mobile and Remote Payment Capabilities
Takepayments excels in providing mobile payment solutions for businesses that operate beyond traditional storefronts. Their portable card machines enable merchants to accept payments anywhere with cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity.
Key mobile capabilities include:
- Lightweight, portable terminals with long battery life
- Quick transaction processing times
- Real-time payment confirmation
- Integration with business management software
These features particularly benefit businesses like delivery services, market traders, and mobile professionals who need reliable payment processing on the move.
The mobile solutions sync with central accounts, ensuring all transactions are recorded centrally regardless of where they occur.
Takepayments Devices and Technology
Takepayments offers a comprehensive range of payment solutions designed to help UK businesses process transactions efficiently. Their technology includes versatile card machines, online payment gateways, and integrated EPOS systems that meet the needs of various industries.
Card Machines and Terminals
Takepayments provides several card machine options to suit different business requirements. Their countertop terminals connect directly to broadband or phone lines for secure transactions at fixed locations. These are ideal for retail shops and restaurants with dedicated checkout areas.
For businesses needing mobility, Takepayments offers portable card machines that work within wireless range of a base unit. These devices are perfect for restaurants where staff need to take payments at tables.
The company also supplies fully mobile card terminals that use 3G/4G connectivity. These machines can process payments anywhere with mobile coverage, making them suitable for delivery services, mobile vendors, and events.
All card machines support contactless, chip and PIN, and mobile wallet payments including Apple Pay and Google Pay. The terminals feature fast transaction processing and easy-to-navigate interfaces that simplify staff training.
Online Payment Solutions
Takepayments delivers robust online payment options for e-commerce businesses and companies with hybrid sales models. Their payment gateway integrates smoothly with popular website platforms, allowing businesses to accept payments directly through their sites.
The virtual terminal functionality enables businesses to process payments over the phone or via email. This proves particularly useful for businesses taking orders remotely or handling subscription renewals.
Security is a priority with Takepayments' online solutions. Their systems comply with PCI DSS standards and implement strong encryption to protect customer data during transactions.
The online dashboard gives merchants clear visibility of transaction history, helping with reconciliation and financial management. Businesses can also set up recurring payments for subscription services, reducing administrative workload.
EPOS Systems Supported
Takepayments offers integrated EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) solutions that combine payment processing with business management tools. Their award-winning EPOS till system starts at £65 per month and provides comprehensive retail management capabilities.
The EPOS systems feature:
- Inventory management - Track stock levels and set automatic reordering
- Staff management - Monitor employee performance and manage scheduling
- Customer relationship tools - Build customer databases and loyalty programmes
- Reporting functions - Generate sales analytics and financial reports
Takepayments' EPOS solutions can be customised for specific industries, with dashboard configurations tailored to restaurants, retail shops, salons and other business types.
The systems integrate seamlessly with their payment terminals, eliminating double-entry and reducing errors. Many businesses appreciate the ability to connect their EPOS with numerous third-party apps for accounting, marketing and other business functions.
Takepayments for Businesses
Takepayments offers comprehensive payment solutions tailored to various business needs across the UK. Their services focus on making card transactions accessible and straightforward for independent businesses of all sizes.
Industries Served
Takepayments works with businesses across numerous sectors, providing specialised payment solutions for each industry's unique requirements. They serve retail merchants, restaurants, hospitality venues, beauty salons, and mobile businesses that need flexible payment options.
The company understands that payment needs vary significantly between industries. For retail shops, they offer counter-top card machines that integrate with EPOS systems. Mobile businesses benefit from portable card readers that work anywhere with mobile connectivity.
Hospitality venues can use Takepayments solutions that accommodate table service and split bills. Beauty and wellness businesses can implement appointment-based payment systems that store customer details securely for repeat bookings.
Small Business Solutions
Takepayments positions itself as the fastest-growing card payment provider in the UK, with a particular focus on small businesses and sole traders. Their flagship product, the takepaymentsplus terminal, features a lightweight, ergonomic design ideal for staff on the move.
Small business offerings include:
- 18-month contracts - shorter than many competitors
- Next-day settlement options for improved cash flow
- No setup fees on many packages
- PCI DSS compliance assistance
- UK-based customer support
Their approach emphasises simplicity and accessibility, making it easier for smaller enterprises to compete with larger businesses by accepting all major payment cards without complex technical requirements.
Integrations and Partnerships
Takepayments maintains strategic partnerships to enhance their service offerings. They work with acquiring banks to process card transactions, though businesses must maintain separate contracts with these banks for transaction processing.
Their payment systems integrate with popular EPOS software, accounting platforms, and e-commerce solutions, creating a seamless experience for businesses operating both online and in physical locations.
Key integration benefits include:
- Automatic sales reconciliation
- Reduced manual data entry
- Real-time transaction reporting
- Cross-platform payment consistency
As part of Global Payments, Takepayments leverages additional resources and technology to enhance their integration capabilities, allowing businesses to create unified payment ecosystems across multiple sales channels.
Pricing and Contracts
Takepayments offers flexible pricing structures with relatively short contracts compared to industry standards. Their approach focuses on customisation for different business needs while maintaining transparency in their fee structure.
Transparent Pricing Model
Takepayments does not publish standard pricing on their website, instead offering personalised pricing packages tailored to each business's specific requirements. This bespoke approach allows them to create solutions that match transaction volumes and business types.
When requesting a quote, businesses receive a full breakdown of costs without hidden fees. This transparency helps merchants understand exactly what they're paying for.
Their competitive pricing model typically includes:
- Transaction fees (percentage per sale)
- Monthly account fees
- Equipment rental costs
- Setup charges
While the personalised approach benefits many businesses, it does make direct comparison shopping more challenging. Merchants should request detailed quotes to evaluate the full cost structure against competitors.
No Fixed Term Contracts
Takepayments stands out by offering 12-month contracts, significantly shorter than many competitors in the payment processing industry. This shorter commitment period provides businesses with greater flexibility.
The 12-month term is particularly advantageous for:
- New businesses uncertain about long-term needs
- Seasonal operations requiring short-term solutions
- Companies testing different payment systems
After the initial 12 months, businesses can typically renew on similar terms or negotiate new arrangements. This flexibility helps merchants avoid being locked into lengthy commitments.
While the shorter contract represents a positive selling point, businesses should still carefully review all termination clauses and potential early exit fees before signing.
Additional Fees and Costs
Beyond the basic pricing structure, Takepayments applies several additional fees that businesses should factor into their cost calculations. The base account fee can be relatively high compared to some competitors, potentially impacting overall value.
Other potential charges include:
- PCI compliance fees
- Chargeback fees
- International transaction surcharges
- Account maintenance costs
- Terminal replacement fees
For telephone payments, Takepayments offers a virtual terminal solution that doesn't require physical equipment but may carry its own fee structure.
Businesses with substantial international transactions should pay particular attention to foreign currency conversion rates and cross-border fees, as these can significantly impact profitability on international sales.
Customer Support and Services
Takepayments offers comprehensive support systems and business services designed to help merchants process payments efficiently. Their UK-based teams provide assistance through multiple channels with specific operating hours and specialised expertise.
Onboarding Process
The onboarding experience with Takepayments begins with a personalised consultation. A payment consultant will visit your business premises to understand your specific needs and operational requirements.
During this initial meeting, the consultant assesses "what makes your business tick" to recommend appropriate solutions. This tailored approach ensures you receive payment solutions that align with your business model, whether for in-store, online, or mobile transactions.
The onboarding process includes equipment setup, account configuration, and initial training. Takepayments provides documentation in accessible formats, including large print, Braille and audio, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity in their customer service approach.
Technical Support
Takepayments provides technical support through multiple channels for immediate assistance with payment processing issues. Their customer service team is available by phone at 01606 566 600 for general enquiries and troubleshooting.
For online support, customers can submit queries through the website or access live chat services available from 8am to 7pm, Monday through Friday. This accessibility has contributed to their impressive 4.8/5 rating on Trustpilot from over 26,000 reviews.
Technical support covers all their products, including:
- Card payment terminals
- Online payment gateways
- EPOS systems
- Mobile payment solutions
For sales-related technical queries, a separate dedicated line (01472 306 695) operates Monday to Thursday from 8:30am to 5:30pm and Friday from 9am to 4pm, ensuring specialised assistance for new implementations.
Maintenance and Upgrades
Takepayments provides ongoing maintenance services and regular system upgrades to ensure payment processing remains secure and efficient. Their support team handles hardware replacements and repairs when terminal issues arise.
Software updates are deployed automatically in many cases, keeping systems compliant with the latest payment security standards. For merchants using their EPOS systems, regular feature enhancements are included to improve functionality and business intelligence capabilities.
The Advance+ business service offers additional support for merchants seeking expanded capabilities. When significant upgrades become available, Takepayments notifies customers through multiple channels and provides guidance on implementing new features.
For businesses with questions about maintenance, the support team can be contacted through their online messaging system or by writing to their Stockport headquarters at 4th Floor, Highbank House, Exchange Street, SK3 0ET.
Takepayments Customer Reviews
Takepayments has established a strong reputation in the payment processing industry with impressive customer satisfaction ratings and positive feedback across multiple platforms. The company's customer service approach and terminal solutions have earned particular praise from business users.
User Experiences
Many customers highlight the quality of Takepayments' customer service team. Business owners frequently mention receiving personalised assistance with technical issues. For example, customers have noted that representatives like John Harrison provided excellent remote terminal updates and configuration support.
The UK-based Welcome Team and Customer Support staff availability seven days a week is frequently mentioned as a significant advantage. Users appreciate the responsive assistance when facing payment processing challenges.
Some customers specifically commend staff members by name for their efficiency in resolving queries. One reviewer mentioned that Asim Ali resolved their query quickly and efficiently, awarding the service "5*" status.
Third-Party Ratings
Takepayments boasts an impressive TrustScore of 5 out of 5 based on over 57,900 reviews on Trustpilot. This exceptional rating demonstrates consistent customer satisfaction across thousands of interactions.
The breakdown of ratings is particularly noteworthy:
- 94% of reviews are 5-star
- Only 3% are 4-star reviews
- Remaining 3% are 3-star or lower
Independent review sites consistently rate Takepayments highly. Business Expert rates them 4.8/5 based on over 26,000 reviews, confirming their strong reputation across multiple platforms.
Common Feedback and Testimonials
The most frequent positive comments focus on three key areas:
- Customer service excellence - Users repeatedly praise the responsiveness and helpfulness of support staff
- Technical support quality - Many testimonials mention the ease of terminal setup and troubleshooting
- Problem resolution speed - Quick handling of queries appears in numerous reviews
While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, there are occasional critical reviews. Some customers have reported difficulties with customer service responsiveness during specific situations.
Takepayments offers a satisfaction guarantee, with refunds for monthly or annual subscriptions available within seven days of written notice. This policy appears to contribute to their high customer confidence ratings.
Competitors of Takepayments
Takepayments operates in a competitive payment processing market with several notable rivals offering similar services. The company differentiates itself through its flexible fee structure and customised solutions for small businesses.
Comparison with Other Providers
Takepayments faces strong competition from established payment processors like PayPal, which is one of its primary competitors in the UK market. According to industry analysis, Takepayments also competes with Hometown Lenders, Geneva Financial and Landmark Title Assurance Agency among its ten identified competitors.
WorldPay represents another significant competitor, known for its robust fraud protection systems. For businesses seeking card reader solutions, the market comparison often includes Zettle alongside Takepayments and WorldPay.
Revenue figures indicate that Takepayments Limited generates approximately £101.1 million with 343-385 employees, positioning it as a substantial player in the payment processing sector.
Unique Selling Points
Takepayments distinguishes itself from competitors through its bespoke payment solutions. Unlike many providers with fixed fee structures, Takepayments offers tailor-made payment plans specifically designed for each business's unique requirements.
This flexible approach to transaction fees enables businesses to avoid the one-size-fits-all model that characterises many payment processors. While this flexibility may initially appear less transparent in pricing, it ultimately benefits merchants through personalised service.
The company is particularly well-suited for retail businesses with varying transaction volumes, offering solutions that can adapt to fluctuating sales patterns. Their A920 card reader specifically caters to businesses requiring adaptable payment processing.
Takepayments' focus since January 2020 has been exclusively on making payments easy for independent businesses, having previously operated as Payzone UK Limited until 2018.
Future of Takepayments
The acquisition by Global Payments marks a significant turning point for Takepayments, setting the stage for technological advancement and market expansion. This strategic move positions the company to leverage new resources while adapting to evolving payment trends in the UK and beyond.
Planned Innovations
Takepayments is set to undergo substantial technological integration following its acquisition by Global Payments. The company plans to enhance its existing range of card machines, POS systems, and online payment solutions by incorporating them into Global Payments' technology portfolio. This integration aims to create a more modern proposition where payment processing seamlessly combines with ePOS and other software solutions.
The company is likely to expand its contactless payment offerings, given the significant 25% jump in contactless usage observed in the 12 months leading to April 2023. Meanwhile, Chip & PIN usage declined by 12% during the same period, indicating a clear shift in consumer preferences.
Future product development will likely focus on:
- Enhanced mobile payment solutions
- Advanced fraud protection systems
- Improved merchant analytics tools
- Seamless omnichannel payment experiences
Market Trends and Projections
Takepayments is well-positioned to capitalise on the UK's leadership in contactless payments, where 87% of face-to-face transactions occur via contactless methods. This represents a significant increase from 65% in June 2019, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company's strong financial performance, with revenues increasing from £40.8 million to £52.7 million in 2022, suggests a positive trajectory. Under Global Payments' ownership, Takepayments is expected to strengthen its market position among the 75,000+ UK merchants it currently serves.
Industry analysts anticipate Takepayments will:
- Expand its European footprint beyond the UK
- Develop specialised solutions for high-growth sectors
- Increase market share through competitive pricing structures
- Introduce innovative payment technologies aligned with emerging consumer behaviours
Frequently Asked Questions
TakePayments offers various services to businesses needing payment solutions. Customers often have specific questions about account access, registration, support options, and fees related to the service.
How can I log in to my Takepayments account?
To log in to your Takepayments account, visit the official Takepayments website and click on the login button typically located in the top right corner of the homepage. Enter your registered email address and password in the provided fields.
If you've forgotten your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to reset it. Takepayments will send a password reset link to your registered email address.
What steps are required to register for Takepayments services?
Registration for Takepayments services begins by completing an online application form on their website. Businesses need to provide company details, banking information, and expected transaction volumes.
After submitting the application, a Takepayments representative will contact you to discuss your specific needs and provide a customised quote. Once terms are agreed upon, Takepayments will set up your account and provide necessary equipment if required.
In what ways can I contact Takepayments for support?
Takepayments offers multiple support channels for their customers. Their dedicated Customer Support Team is available 7 days a week to answer questions through various communication methods.
Customers can connect through Live Chat on the Takepayments website for immediate assistance. WhatsApp messaging is also available for convenient mobile support.
For more complex issues, telephone support is provided, and customers can find the contact number on the Support Hub page of the Takepayments website.
Where can I find reviews about Takepayments' service quality?
Reviews about Takepayments can be found on several independent platforms. Trustpilot hosts numerous customer reviews, with 94% of customers giving Takepayments an "excellent" rating according to available data.
Indeed.com features 114 questions and answers about working at Takepayments, providing insight into the company culture and operations.
The MoneySavingExpert forum also contains discussions about Takepayments services, with mixed opinions from users sharing their experiences.
How can I get in touch with Takepayments via telephone?
Takepayments' telephone support can be reached by calling their customer service number found on their Support Hub webpage. Their head office is located at 4th Floor Highbank House, Exchange Street, Stockport, SK3.
For specific departments, different extension numbers may be provided after initial contact. The support team operates seven days a week, though hours may vary on weekends.
What are the typical transaction fees associated with using Takepayments?
Takepayments operates on a bespoke pricing model, meaning fees vary based on business type, transaction volume, and services required. There is no standard published rate card.
Transaction fees typically include a percentage of each sale plus a small fixed fee per transaction. Businesses should expect additional costs for terminal rental if using physical card machines.
Monthly service fees may apply as part of their rolling contract structure. It's worth noting that Takepayments typically requires a 12-month rolling contract, which some customers have mentioned can be challenging to cancel.
About The Author
Lee Hart
