Cash remains the most widely accepted payment method in the euro area

According to the latest survey by the European Central Bank, cash acceptance has slightly increased in the euro area. In 2026, 92% of companies with physical points of sale in sectors such as retail, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment reported accepting cash. This is an increase from 90% in 2024, indicating a rebound after declines during and after the pandemic.

Cash remains the most widely accepted payment method. Card payment acceptance remained stable at 88% between 2024 and 2026, while mobile payment acceptance rose sharply from 36% to 68% of companies over the same period.

Additionally, 25% of companies reported taking steps to promote digital payments, including investing in cashless payment terminals or reducing cash acceptance points. Thirteen percent of companies have introduced self-checkout terminals.

When choosing payment methods, companies cite consumer preference, security, and ease of handling as primary considerations. Cash is valued for privacy and reliability compared to digital methods.

The survey included 8,205 companies across all 21 euro area countries, with interviews conducted between February and April 2026.