RECENTLY we asked people in the community how they felt about businesses that only accept cashless payments.

The responses from readers were varied, with some expressing strong opposition and others showing support for the shift towards digital transactions.

One individual, Andy Middleton, voiced concerns about the potential control and submission to the state that may come with a cashless society.

He said: "No, we need both, it's the start of control and submission to the state."

Similarly, Diana Clements-Daly said: "Avoid them, if they don't want our money, they don't want our custom."

Several people expressed their preference for cash payments.

Andrea Jones declared: "Cash is king, I wish more people would realize."

Nicola Cummings added, "We walk out."

Dave Bud Hughes, questioned whether it is even legal for businesses to refuse cash as a form of payment.

He said: "Surely it's against the law not to accept a coin of the realm as payment for goods."

The sentiment of boycotting businesses that only accept digital payments was echoed by Alan Heseldin who simply stated: "That's easy, don't use them!"

William Swann highlighted a potential issue with businesses going cashless, emphasising the discrimination it may cause against those who can only use cash.

He said: "Think it's discrimination as some people can only use cash."

One person added: "I work in a retail outlet we are cashless and are losing a lot of sales because of this."

Ian Brown voiced suspicions that banks and card companies benefit from pushing cashless transactions, noting that "cash is king and better for small businesses that are the backbone of our economy."

Others, like Keith Vaughan, shared similar sentiments, emphasising that if a business doesn't want cash, they don't want their business either.

He said: "Don't use them at all, if they don't want cash, they obviously don't want business."

Graham Mitchell cautioned against a complete transition to cashless payments, raising concerns about the banks' potential to increase fees if all businesses go cashless.

He said: "If all businesses went cashless, the banks would simply up their charges because they will be free to do so."

"It would also put pressure onto smaller businesses and charity shops."

Joanne Jones expressed that she wouldn't shop at businesses that only accept digital payments, while Tina Anne Williams added: "Bring back cash."The opinions continued to pour in, with many individuals advocating for both cash and digital payment options."

Linda Flynn emphasised the importance of cash for the elderly and neurodiverse people, while Will Davis simply stated: "Will not shop there..."

Despite the divided opinions, it is clear that the debate over businesses going cashless is a hot topic in the community.

As more businesses transition to digital payment systems, it remains to be seen how consumers and the market will react.