Some small business owners in Wiltshire have said trading in cash has benefits - after the government said that, for now, firms will not be forced to accept it. Bradley Buechel runs a coffee shop in Chippenham and said they had plenty of people wanting to pay in cash: "It's perfectly fine for us. We encourage it." There are concerns that not being able to pay in cash will affect vulnerable people. A Treasury Committee reportthis week stopped short of recommending a change in the law to force businesses to accept cash, but said the government had to improve its monitoring of the issue. Mr Buechel runs the Nest coffee shop in Chippenham, as well as a tyre business in nearby Melksham: "Cash is actually better because there is no transactional fee. On card you have to pay a processing fee and you have to wait." "I think it's good for society with cash. There is a huge demand for it." One issue for small businesses, however, is having to deposit the cash at a bank, when many branches are disappearing from towns. Becky Lyons owns the Pawesome Pet Shop and said card use could vary depending on the time of the month, but generally paying by card was most popular. However, she said people were noticing that you need cash for when electronics go down. "I'll accept any legal tender - I'm not going to tell people how to pay for their goods," she added. Richard Tidmarsh runs a recruitment agency and dog-walking business - he said the use of cash was "very minimal" and mostly for the dog walking. "We've got systems in place that can cover both. It will always be useful." Susan and Wayne Thirwell are Chippenham local residents and shoppers - both say they very rarely use cash. When they do, it is usually for taxis. "If I give any tips, then cash. Convenience-wise it's great," Susan said, mentioning cash is good for budgeting. The Treasury Committee report, published on Wednesday, called on the government to "vastly improve" monitoring and reporting of cash acceptance levels. Otherwise, it warned, people risked being excluded - for example, from leisure centres, theatres or public transport. "There may come a time in the future where it becomes necessary for HM Treasury to mandate cash acceptance if appropriate safeguards have not been implemented for those who need physical cash," the report said. Follow BBC Wiltshire onFacebook,XandInstagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or viaWhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.
Cash has benefits, say Wiltshire small businesses
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Wiltshire Small Businesses Advocate for Cash Transactions Amid Government's Non-Mandatory Stance"
Bbc News
8.4
TruthLens AI Summary
Small business owners in Wiltshire have expressed their support for cash transactions, emphasizing the advantages it offers despite the government's current stance that does not mandate firms to accept cash payments. Bradley Buechel, who operates the Nest coffee shop in Chippenham, highlighted that many customers prefer to pay in cash, stating, "It's perfectly fine for us. We encourage it." He pointed out that cash transactions eliminate processing fees associated with card payments, which can be burdensome for small businesses. Buechel's perspective aligns with concerns raised about the potential exclusion of vulnerable groups from accessing services if cash payments become obsolete. The recent Treasury Committee report acknowledged these concerns but refrained from proposing legislative changes to enforce cash acceptance, instead recommending enhanced monitoring of cash usage across businesses to prevent marginalization of cash-dependent consumers.
Other local business owners echoed Buechel's sentiments while noting the complexities of cash handling. Becky Lyons, who runs the Pawesome Pet Shop, mentioned that while card payments are generally preferred, customers still see the value in cash, especially during electronic payment outages. Richard Tidmarsh, managing a recruitment agency and dog-walking service, indicated that while cash usage is limited, it remains a necessary option. Local residents Susan and Wayne Thirwell admitted they rarely use cash but acknowledged its usefulness for budgeting and tipping. The Treasury Committee's report underscored the urgency for the government to enhance monitoring of cash acceptance to avoid future exclusions from essential services. It warned that if adequate safeguards are not established for cash users, HM Treasury may have to consider mandating cash acceptance in the future to ensure all individuals can access necessary services.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights the ongoing debate surrounding cash transactions among small business owners in Wiltshire, particularly in light of government policies regarding cash acceptance. The opinions shared by local business owners reflect a mix of concerns and benefits related to cash payments, suggesting a nuanced view of the current payment landscape.
Perceptions of Cash Transactions
The voices of small business owners like Bradley Buechel emphasize the practical advantages of cash transactions, such as the absence of processing fees associated with card payments. This perspective suggests that cash remains a viable option for both businesses and customers, particularly in areas where electronic payment systems may fail. The mention of vulnerable populations hints at a broader societal concern that cash accessibility is essential for inclusive economic participation.
Government Stance and Community Impact
The Treasury Committee's reluctance to mandate cash acceptance indicates a cautious approach to regulation. The call for improved monitoring suggests that while cash transactions are still relevant, there is a need for oversight to ensure they are not phased out entirely. This could impact small businesses that rely on cash, as well as consumers who prefer it for budgeting or in situations where electronic systems fail.
Comparative Context
When compared to other news stories addressing payment methods, this article aligns with a growing discourse on financial inclusivity and the implications of a cashless society. It also connects with wider narratives about the erosion of bank branches and the challenges faced by small businesses in adapting to changing consumer preferences.
Potential Scenarios and Community Support
Given the current climate, the article may resonate more with small business owners and community advocates who prioritize local economic resilience. The dialogue around cash transactions may foster a sense of community among those who feel marginalized by the shift towards digital payments.
Economic and Political Implications
The discussion has potential implications for local economies, particularly in terms of consumer spending habits and business profitability. Any significant shift toward a cashless society could disproportionately affect specific demographics, including the elderly and low-income individuals. Thus, the article serves as both a reflection of and a contribution to ongoing discussions about economic equity.
AI Influence and Trustworthiness
It is possible that AI tools were utilized in crafting this article, particularly in structuring arguments or analyzing data trends. However, the content appears to maintain a human touch through the inclusion of personal anecdotes from business owners, which adds credibility. There is no overt manipulation evident, though the framing of cash transactions as beneficial suggests a push towards preserving cash payments in the community.
In conclusion, the article presents a balanced view of the cash versus card debate, reflecting real concerns while advocating for the importance of cash in maintaining economic inclusivity. The trustworthiness of this article is bolstered by the direct testimonies of local business owners, which ground the discussion in lived experiences.