Mastercard has started expanding its Biometric Checkout Program in Europe by launching an eye scan payment system in Poland.

This innovative pilot in Poland introduces eye scan payments, allowing consumers to make purchases using only their iris or facial biometrics.

As the first initiative of its kind in Europe, this program is set to revolutionize the in-store shopping experience by offering a “faster, safer, and more convenient” way to pay.

Biometric Checkout: The Future of Payments is Here

The introduction of Mastercard’s eye scan payment program in Poland aligns with the global trend toward biometric technologies.

According to their research, 74% of consumers worldwide express positive attitudes toward these advancements.

In Poland, biometric technology is already widely recognized, with 4 out of 5 respondents having used it, particularly among the younger generation aged 18 to 25.

The Polish Pilot: A Partnership with Empik and PayEye

In partnership with Empik, one of Poland’s leading omnichannel retailers, and PayEye, a pioneering Polish fintech, Mastercard launched a pilot program in five selected Empik stores across Poland on June 10, 2024.

Customers in Warsaw Westfield Mokotów, Wrocław Bielany, Kraków Kazimierz, Poznań Posnania, and Czeladź M1 now have the opportunity to test this new payment method.

The technology, developed by PayEye and supported by Planet Pay, enables consumers to complete transactions by simply glancing at a terminal, making physical payment cards, cash, or mobile devices unnecessary.

Enhancing Convenience and Security

According to Mastercard, biometric payments are not just about convenience but also about enhancing security.

By utilizing unique biometric identifiers like iris or facial scans, the risk of fraud is significantly reduced. Mastercard’s Biometric Checkout Program adheres to strict global standards for security and privacy, ensuring that consumers’ biometric data is protected and that they maintain control over how their personal information is used.

Marta Życińska, General Manager of Mastercard Poland, highlighted Poland’s role as a leader in adopting innovative technologies, noting that the country was among the first to implement contactless payments with Mastercard cards. She expressed confidence that Polish consumers would embrace biometric payments just as enthusiastically, given their track record of quickly adopting new technologies.

“Poland was one of the first countries where contactless payments with Mastercard cards were introduced, and we know that Polish consumers are leaders in adopting innovative technologies. We’ve long believed that biometrics can deliver best-in-class experiences, balancing convenience and security, and we look forward to scaling our program here in Poland,”, said Marta Życińska.

Empik’s Role in the Innovation

Empik, known for its innovative approach in Polish e-commerce and omnichannel services, is a key partner in this pilot.

Ewa Szmidt, CEO of Empik Group, emphasized the brand’s commitment to innovation and security, stating that Empik’s customers are eager to try new technologies that offer both convenience and safety. She expressed pride in being part of this pioneering initiative, which she believes is not just the future, but the present of payments.

“Empik’s clients are open to innovations and eager to use new technologies as they value the speed and, more importantly in today’s world, the safety it offers. That is why, as the Polish omnichannel sales leader, we are joining Mastercard and PayEye’s pilot with huge enthusiasm”, said Ewa Szmidt.

PayEye’s Contribution to Cutting-Edge Technology

PayEye, a Polish fintech company, plays a crucial role in this pilot by providing the biometric payment technology that powers the system.

According to Daniel Jarząb, CEO of PayEye, this collaboration with Mastercard and Empik represents the culmination of their efforts to develop one of the world’s most advanced biometric payment systems. He believes that the PayEye solution offers unparalleled safety and user experience, making it a globally relevant payment method.

“Being a part of Mastercard’s Biometric Checkout Program is a great honor and a culmination of our hard work on one of the best biometric technologies in the world. We believe that payments with a glance are a global solution which, regardless of the latitude, provides the highest level of safety, user comfort, and an amazing user experience”, said Daniel Jarząb.

Looking Ahead: The Global Expansion of Biometric Payments

The launch of the Biometric Checkout Program in Poland is part of Mastercard’s broader strategy to expand in-store biometric payments worldwide.

Following recent pilots in the Asia Pacific region and Latin America, Mastercard plans to introduce several more biometric pilots globally later this year.

Source: www.mastercard.com