Cash continues to be the most widely used payment method throughout the euro area, according to a recent study by the European Central Bank.
The survey shows that 92% of businesses with physical points of sale reported accepting cash in 2026. This marks a recovery from the 90% acceptance rate recorded in 2024, indicating a rebound from the downward trend seen during the pandemic. The findings cover various sectors, including retail, hospitality, and the arts and entertainment industries.
While cash remains the dominant method, the landscape of payments is shifting. Card acceptance has remained steady at 88% between 2024 and 2026. However, mobile payment acceptance has grown rapidly, climbing from 36% to 68% during the same timeframe.
Digital adoption is also being actively encouraged by many businesses. Approximately 25% of companies in the euro area have implemented strategies to promote digital payments, such as investing in cashless-capable tills or limiting the number of cash-only terminals. Furthermore, 13% of businesses have introduced self-checkout systems.
Businesses prioritise consumer preference, security, and ease of handling when selecting payment options. Cash is also valued for its reliability and the privacy it affords compared to digital alternatives.
The European Central Bank conducted the survey between February and April 2026, gathering data from 8,205 companies across the 21 nations within the euro area.
