We’re one-step closer to the end of physical cash. Coca-Cola Canada and Interac will be making the debut of its Interac Flash payment capabilities at 16 vending machines during this years Calgary Stampede. Those attending the event will be able to leave their cash at home and use their Interac debit card to purchase a bottle of Coke. All that you’ll have to do is simply tap your debit card to the vending machine and watch the cola come to you.
This will be the first testing ground of the “unattended retail implementation” of the “Interac Vending Tower” program, but by the the “end of July Interac Flash will be deployed on approximately 4,000 Coca-Cola vending machines across Canada.”
Interact Flash is currently available to those who bank with Scotiabank, RBC Royal Bank, and TD Canada Trust. This gives users the option to quickly pay for small ticket items – around $50 to $100 – by simply tapping their card to a payment terminal, then the money is automatically withdrawn from your account. As for mobile, a trial started with McDonald’s back in March and Interact Flash by mobile is expected to become available to Canadians in late 2013.
“We are pleased to bring the proven convenience, speed and security of Interac Flash to our vending machines at the Calgary Stampede,” says John Guarino, President of Coca-Cola Refreshments Canada. “This first-of-its-kind initiative offers consumers the flexibility to pay the way they want for the beverages they love.”
Via: CNW