In the Netherlands, we are currently in the middle of a transition to a new international payment standard. Below, you can read how to get the most out of your card.

Ready for the new payment standard

Dutch banks are moving from the old systems (Maestro) to the global standard: Mastercard Debit. Your Spend Cloud Card is already ahead of this transition.

No new Maestro cards are being issued in the Netherlands anymore. As a result, retailers are rapidly updating their systems. Although almost all stores in the Netherlands have already upgraded their systems, there are still a few locations where terminals need to be updated. In those cases, the terminal may not yet recognize the updated technology of your card.

How does acceptance at retailers work?

Most businesses have already fully transitioned. At locations that still need some time, this often has practical reasons:

• Modernization in franchises: At large supermarket chains, company-owned stores are often fully up to date. Independent franchisees may sometimes take a bit longer to update their local payment contracts to the latest standard.
• System updates: Some payment terminals require a software update to recognize the newest cards.
• New contracts: Especially in smaller shops or franchises, contracts with payment providers are currently being renewed to support all card types.
• Modernization: Older terminals are gradually being replaced with faster, more modern versions that work seamlessly with Mastercard.
  

Tips for smooth payments

You can use your Spend Cloud Card almost everywhere. In places where the transition is still ongoing, these tips can help:

• Use your physical card on public transport: Are you traveling with OVpay? Preferably use your physical Spend Cloud Card. Virtual cards (via the digital wallet on your phone) may sometimes be accepted to a limited extent in public transport. With the physical card, you’ll have the most reliable check-in and check-out experience.
• Try mobile payments in stores: In most shops, mobile payments via Apple Pay or Google Pay work very well, sometimes even faster than using a physical card on older terminals.
• Remind the retailer: Many shop owners appreciate it if you point out the new standard: Mastercard Debit. Often, accepting Mastercard is simply a matter of enabling a setting with their provider, helping them avoid lost sales in the future.
  

In the Netherlands, we are currently in the middle of a transition to a new international payment standard. Below, you can read how to get the most out of your card.

Everyone is switching

It is expected that acceptance in the Netherlands will very quickly reach 100%. Since everyone in the country is gradually switching to this new card, retailers are working behind the scenes to ensure they can continue to serve their customers optimally.