German Card Payments Nearly Double In Five Years

Card payments are expected to exceed cash payments for the first time in Germany this year, according to research from the Cologne-based EHI Retail Institute. The use of cards has doubled within a five-year period. This trend indicates a continuing decline in the importance of cash for shopping transactions. Jörg Marksteiner reported the findings for WDR Wirtschaft. Research from the Cologne-based institute indicates that nearly every second purchase is now made using a debit or credit card. Much of this transaction volume is processed through payment services originating from the United States. A study by the EHI Retail Institute in Cologne indicates that for the first time in 2026, card and mobile payments will exceed cash transactions in Germany. Traditionally, cash has been the preferred payment method in the country. The shift follows trends seen in Northern Europe where cash usage has significantly declined. The study marks a turning point in German consumer behavior. According to a study by the EHI Retail Institute in Cologne, almost half of all purchases were made using giro cards, credit cards, or smartphones last year. Despite this trend, many consumers in Germany still prefer using cash.