As a trusted payment solutions provider, Network empowers retailers across various sectors with smart payment technology – including supermarkets, fashion, travel and logistics, food service, e-commerce and entertainment. Given the rapid evolution of digital transactions, it’s important that we track the retail payment trends in 2025 that are reshaping how retailers accept payments.
Here is a highlight of key retail payment trends 2025 shaping the future of digital and in-store transactions.
Security concerns remain a key driver in the shift away from cash. According to Visa’s recent Staying Secure study, 83% of digital payment users feel more secure when two-factor authentication is required. In addition to security, convenience is fuelling the rise of digital payments—with 70% of consumers citing speed and ease of use, and 68% appreciating the 24/7 accessibility.
In Africa, this shift is transforming financial security. FinTechs use advanced encryption to protect transactions, while retailers benefit from safer, more reliable payment systems—a defining element of retail payment trends in 2025. For example, Nigeria’s Central Bank implemented centralized data warehouses to monitor mobile money transfers and detect fraud. Retailers like Kahawia Panty Hose are also adopting secure POS systems, giving their customers peace of mind and reinforcing trust in digital transactions.
Also Read: Customer Data Protection: 5 Essential Tips for Every Business
Security concerns remain a key driver in the shift away from cash. According to Visa’s recent Staying Secure study, 83% of digital payment users feel more secure when two-factor authentication is required. In addition to security, convenience is fuelling the rise of digital payments – with 70% of consumers citing speed and ease of use, and 68% appreciating the 24/7 accessibility.
In Africa, this shift is transforming financial security. FinTechs use advanced encryption to protect transactions, while governments are strengthening regulatory frameworks to build consumer trust. For example, Nigeria’s Central Bank implemented centralized data warehouses to monitor mobile money transfers and detect fraud. Retailers like Kahawia Panty Hose are also adopting secure POS systems, giving their customers peace of mind and reinforcing trust in digital transactions.
Also Read: Customer Data Protection: 5 Essential Tips for Every Business
Managing multiple payment systems can be inefficient and frustrating for businesses. Retailers are now turning to all-in-one payment platforms that integrate card payments, mobile wallets, and QR codes into a single system.
Network’s unified platform exemplifies this by providing simplified business operations that enable real-time sales tracking and seamless integration with existing systems. This approach eliminates the complexity of handling different payment methods separately, allowing retailers to focus on enhancing the customer experience.
E-commerce in Africa is expanding rapidly, fuelled by increased smartphone adoption, internet access, and shifting consumer behaviour. Online shoppers now expect to browse, shop and pay seamlessly across platforms – whether on a website, social media, or in a physical store. According to Statista, global e-commerce transaction value is expected to grow at an annual rate of 15.9%, reaching US$36.75 trillion by 2029.
In Africa alone, the number of e-commerce users is projected to surpass half a billion by 2025.
To meet this demand, seamless payment integrations have become essential. Payment gateways like Network support digital wallets, mobile money, bank transfers, and cards enabling smooth cross-platform transactions and reducing cart abandonment.
Social media has fundamentally transformed retail in Africa, making it easier than ever for entrepreneurs and established brands to reach customers and drive sales. Platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok have become powerful sales channels, allowing merchants to showcase product catalogues and interact directly with buyers – all without the need for a traditional website.
For example, Merchants can display their products in WhatsApp catalogues, answer customer queries and guide buyers through the purchasing process, all within a familiar chat interface and in real-time. This proves that social commerce is not just a trend but a major driver of retail growth on the continent.
Payment solutions have also evolved to support this shift. Merchants without a website can now generate payment links and share them directly with customers via WhatsApp, SMS or even Instagram DM. These links enable secure and instant payments in local currencies, removing barriers for small businesses.
Personalization is key in retail payments. Today’s shoppers want more than just transactions; they want personalized experiences and incentives that keep them engaged. Retailers are leveraging data-driven insights to offer tailored promotions, loyalty rewards, and special deals that cater to customer preferences. Network’s AI-driven analytics track spending habits, enabling businesses to create targeted marketing campaigns and reward loyal customers. By integrating these personalized payment solutions, retailers can enhance customer retention and encourage repeat purchases.
African retailers are embracing innovative payment trends to stay competitive. By adopting secure digital payments and delivering personalized customer experiences, they’re boosting efficiency and meeting evolving consumer needs.
At Network, we’re driving this transformation by equipping retailers with seamless in-store and online payment solutions – empowering them to accept payments effortlessly and deliver exceptional customer experience
