An IGA store owner in Tasmania has come up with a clever way to encourage customers to use cash, hoping the concept will catch on as the debate over a “cashless society” continues to grow.
Kosta Tzortzis, the owner of IGA Richmond, has been offering a five percent discount to customers who pay in cash since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. The response has been significant, with many people noticing his initiative.
“I’m surprised by how much attention it’s getting,” Tzortzis said. “People are really talking about it.”
His motivation came from learning that most card transactions come with hidden fees—often because they are processed as credit transactions, even for debit cards. “If your card has a logo, you’re being hit with a surcharge,” he explained.
By accepting cash, Tzortzis eliminates these hidden fees, allowing him to pass the savings directly to his customers. “The older customers love it,” he said. “They like knowing exactly where their money is going.”
Interestingly, people in their 30s and 40s also embrace the idea, with many returning specifically with cash after discovering the benefits. However, Tzortzis noted that younger customers still prefer the convenience of paying with their phone or watch, which he finds unfortunate.
Tzortzis hopes his cash incentive program will spread to other stores, encouraging more businesses to reward customers for using cash. “Once cash disappears, it’s not coming back,” he warned, emphasising the importance of keeping cash in circulation.
For the latest retailer news and information, check out the IndiHub website or to speak to us about how we can help your business contact us.
