A recent study highlights that speed, security, and convenience in payment methods are increasingly important for drivers. Cashless payments have become an integral part of daily transactions in Poland, spanning sectors from retail to automotive. According to research titled “Payment Habits of Poles and Acceptance Network in 2025,” conducted by POLASIK Research on behalf of the Polish Cashless Foundation, 71% of all payments in commercial service points in Poland are now cashless.
This trend is also evident in automotive services, where 54% of respondents believe that cashless payment options are available almost everywhere in car dealerships and workshops, while 47% prefer using these methods for transactions at these locations. The report further reveals that in car workshops, 30% of transactions are conducted using credit cards, 9% via mobile devices, and 8% through bank transfers or BLIK, with cash still accounting for 52% of transactions. This reflects a significant shift in preferences, considering that in 2018, cash and contactless payments made up only 20% of transactions.
The perceived availability of cashless payments has grown remarkably, with 54% of respondents now believing that digital payments can be made in nearly all car service locations, up from 30% in 2018.
Anna Spychalska-Grzeszek, Managing Director of the Polish Cashless Foundation, stated, “For a car workshop, the ability to accept cashless payments is not just about customer convenience; it’s a fundamental aspect of modern service standards. It’s essential to outline available payment methods such as cards, digital wallets, or QR codes alongside service descriptions. The Polish Cashless Program assists businesses in implementing cashless payment solutions, offering free terminals for the first year, allowing owners to explore which options work best for their business.”
Tomasz Hurt from Delphi emphasized the changing expectations of customers, noting that they now often check online reviews and payment options before selecting a mechanic. He mentioned, “As technologies evolve, mechanics must keep pace with customer demands, ensuring their businesses also adapt accordingly.”
Many customers now consider on-site card or mobile payments a standard expectation, and a lack of such options can signal that the workshop is not keeping up with contemporary service standards. The Polish Cashless Program simplifies the introduction of payment terminals or applications, allowing automotive workshop owners to try out modern payment systems without upfront costs.
Tomasz Hurt further explained, “Mechanics typically deal with complex systems, making the use of terminals or applications easy for them. These intuitive tools are provided and set up by payment providers, enhancing service quality and fostering customer loyalty.”
Managing a car workshop requires versatility, including specialized knowledge and business acumen. A solid business plan can enhance the chances of success. The Polish Cashless Foundation offers an educational program, the Entrepreneur Academy, which helps business owners, including mechanics, gain insights into business fundamentals, customer service, marketing, and management, thus better catering to modern customer needs.
