Complete Review of Retail Merchant Services

Friday, July 15th, 2022

Are you searching for the right merchant services for your business? Trying to figure out which provider is right for you can be stressful when you’re already juggling so many different tasks. The biggest challenge is determining which processor understands your specific business type and industry.

If you’re considering Retail Merchant Services, but are still on the fence about their process services, the following information will help you.

Who is Retail Merchant Services?

Retail Merchant Services (RMS) is a UK-based reseller. Specifically, a European ISO of Atlanta, Georgia-based merchant account provider Elavon. RMS says they provide retail, mobile, and e-commerce payment processing to over 27,000 UK and Ireland merchants. 

RMS allows most business types to process all major debit and credit cards, and they provide Ingenico and Verifone card readers in portable, mobile, and countertop options (this includes their EPOS terminal). In addition to in-person payments, RMS also offers e-commerce shops their own payment gateway and the ability to make payments via email and phone. 

One of the biggest advantages of partnering with RMS is their product “SmartBridge”. This product allows merchants to integrate different payment channels (e.g. online and in-person), with major digital wallets and 140+ currencies.

What Customers are Saying

As far as costs and contracts, RMS appears to offer a three-year contract with an early termination fee (£180). Digging a little deeper, the provider does not seem to have a profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and customer opinion is not strong.

Considering the company’s size and time in business, it has many negative reviews. In fact, many of those reviews are complaints and claims that the company is a scam. More than 160 complaints are related to undisclosed fees, expensive equipment leases, poor customer service, and higher-than-expected rates.

Should You Partner with RMS?

The bottom line? Considering the cost, expensive cancellation fees, high complaint rate, and deceptive sales practices, it is recommended that every business owner be cautious when approached by an RMS representative. Make sure you understand the ins and outs of the contract and request and carefully read all documentation. The best thing you can do to ensure success is to take your time and compare RMS’ pricing to other providers on the market.