Based on looking at the website, Oxipay.co.uk appears to be a legitimate UK-based company offering card payment solutions and EPOS systems for businesses. They provide various types of card readers, virtual payment options, and merchant services. The site emphasizes ease of use, security, and potential for businesses to increase sales by accepting card payments.
Here’s an overall review summary:
- Company Location: London, WC2H 9JQ
- Contact Information: Email ([email protected]), Phone (02039165810)
- Services Offered: Countertop, Mobile, Portable Card Readers, EPOS Systems, Virtual & Website Payments, Merchant Cash Advance.
- Security: Claims end-to-end encryption and PCI compliance for card data protection.
- Customer Support: Advertised as 24/7.
- Business Focus: Primarily targets businesses seeking to transition from cash-only payments to card acceptance, aiming to reduce queues, increase sales, and enhance convenience.
- Ethical Consideration (Islam): The service includes a “Merchant Cash Advance” product. This specific offering is problematic from an Islamic finance perspective as it typically involves an advance on future sales, which can function similarly to an interest-bearing loan (riba) or involve excessive uncertainty (gharar). Islamic finance emphasizes transactions based on real assets, profit-sharing, or risk-sharing arrangements, avoiding fixed interest payments. While the core card processing services are generally permissible, the inclusion of a “Merchant Cash Advance” necessitates caution for Muslim business owners.
While Oxipay.co.uk presents itself as a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to adopt card payments, the inclusion of a “Merchant Cash Advance” product raises a significant red flag for those adhering to Islamic financial principles. Such advances often involve contractual structures that can be akin to interest-bearing debt, which is strictly prohibited (riba) in Islam. Riba is considered a major sin due to its exploitative nature and its detachment from real economic activity. Furthermore, the terms and conditions of such advances might involve elements of excessive uncertainty (gharar), which is also to be avoided in Islamic transactions. Therefore, while their card readers and EPOS systems might be operationally sound, the “Merchant Cash Advance” offering fundamentally compromises its ethical standing for a Muslim audience. It’s crucial for businesses to scrutinise the specifics of any financial product to ensure it aligns with Islamic jurisprudence, focusing on transparent, asset-backed, or profit/loss sharing models rather than debt-based financing with fixed returns.
Here are better alternatives for businesses looking for ethical, non-edible solutions in the UK, focusing on general business tools and services that avoid prohibited financial instruments and ensure ethical practices:
- Square UK
- Key Features: Versatile card readers (contactless, chip & PIN), integrated POS systems, online invoicing, e-commerce integrations. Offers various hardware options from mobile readers to full POS setups. Known for transparent pricing.
- Average Price: Card readers from around £19-£149, transaction fees typically 1.75% per tap/chip/swipe, 2.5% for online/keyed-in.
- Pros: Easy setup, no monthly fees for basic service, comprehensive ecosystem for small businesses, good customer support, widely accepted.
- Cons: Transaction fees can add up for high volume, some advanced features require paid subscriptions.
- SumUp
- Key Features: Compact and affordable card readers, accepts all major cards, no fixed contract or monthly fees. Ideal for small businesses, mobile traders, and pop-up shops.
- Average Price: Card readers from £29-£139, transaction fees typically 1.69% per transaction.
- Pros: Very user-friendly, highly portable, competitive transaction rates, no hidden fees, quick payouts.
- Cons: Limited advanced POS features compared to full systems, battery life can be a concern for very heavy use.
- Zettle by PayPal
- Key Features: Card readers, POS app, inventory management, detailed sales reports. Seamless integration with PayPal accounts. Supports in-person and online payments.
- Average Price: Card readers from £29-£139, transaction fees typically 1.75% per in-person transaction.
- Pros: Reliable brand (PayPal), robust POS features for a mobile solution, good analytics, versatile for various business types.
- Cons: Can be more expensive for online transactions, hardware is generally more focused on mobile use.
- Clover (by Fiserv)
- Key Features: Full-suite POS systems including hardware (terminals, mini, flex), software for order management, inventory, loyalty programs, and payment processing. Caters to a wide range of business sizes.
- Average Price: Hardware costs vary significantly (from £100s to £1000s), monthly software fees from £9-£69+, transaction fees negotiated.
- Pros: Highly customisable, scalable for growing businesses, extensive app marketplace for added functionality, strong security.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost for hardware, monthly fees can add up, requires a merchant account agreement.
- Shopify POS
- Key Features: Integrates online and offline sales. Offers POS hardware and software that syncs with your Shopify e-commerce store, managing inventory, customers, and sales across channels.
- Average Price: Monthly Shopify plan from £19-£259+, POS hardware (readers, stands) sold separately. Transaction fees depend on your Shopify plan.
- Pros: Excellent for businesses with both physical and online presence, robust e-commerce features, user-friendly interface.
- Cons: Requires a Shopify e-commerce subscription, higher monthly commitment for full features.
- Loyverse POS
- Key Features: Free POS software for retail and restaurant businesses. Includes inventory management, customer loyalty programs, sales analytics, and employee management. Integrates with various payment processors.
- Average Price: Free basic software; paid add-ons for advanced features (e.g., advanced inventory, integrations). Hardware purchased separately.
- Pros: Excellent value with a free core product, comprehensive features for a free solution, cloud-based, supports multiple payment processors.
- Cons: Hardware is not included, support for advanced features is paid, not a direct payment processor itself but integrates with others.
- Starling Bank Business Account
- Key Features: Digital business current account with no monthly fees, integrated invoicing, spending insights, and marketplace for business tools (including payment processing integrations).
- Average Price: Free monthly account, potential fees for specific services (e.g., international transfers).
- Pros: Modern banking experience, easy to set up and manage, no monthly fees, strong app, integrates with many business tools.
- Cons: Primarily a banking service, doesn’t offer direct card processing hardware, requires integration with third-party payment providers.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
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Oxipay.co.uk Review & First Look
Based on a thorough examination of the Oxipay.co.uk website, the company positions itself as a provider of card payment solutions and EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) systems for businesses in the United Kingdom. The homepage is designed to be informative, guiding potential customers through their offerings and highlighting the benefits of switching from cash-only operations to accepting card payments.
Initial Impressions of Oxipay.co.uk
The website presents a relatively clean and professional interface, providing essential contact details such as a London address, email, and phone number. This transparency in contact information is a positive sign for any business operating online. They clearly state their core services: various types of card readers, EPOS systems, and virtual/website payment solutions. The emphasis on security, particularly end-to-end encryption and PCI compliance, is crucial for payment processing services and helps build trust with potential clients. However, a closer look at their product offerings reveals a key area that warrants caution for specific audiences.
Oxipay.co.uk’s Business Model and Target Audience
Oxipay aims to serve a broad spectrum of UK businesses, from small corner shops to large hotels and restaurants, by offering scalable payment solutions. Their core pitch revolves around the increasing consumer preference for card payments over cash, promising increased sales, reduced queues, and enhanced customer convenience. They highlight that customers often avoid businesses that only accept cash, framing their services as a way to capture lost revenue. While this is a valid business observation, the method of financing some of their solutions needs careful consideration.
Oxipay.co.uk Pros & Cons
When evaluating any service, especially one dealing with financial transactions, it’s essential to weigh the advantages against the potential drawbacks. For Oxipay.co.uk, several points stand out, particularly when considering its offerings through an ethical lens.
Identified Strengths of Oxipay.co.uk
- Diverse Payment Solutions: Oxipay offers a variety of card readers, including countertop, mobile, and portable options, catering to different business environments. This flexibility ensures businesses can find a solution that fits their specific operational needs, whether it’s a fixed till point, a mobile service, or table-side payments.
- EPOS System Integration: The provision of EPOS systems that can link with card readers is a significant advantage. This integrated approach streamlines sales, inventory management, and reporting, offering a more holistic solution than just a standalone card reader. For instance, EPOS systems can greatly reduce manual errors and speed up service, enhancing customer experience.
- 24/7 Customer Support: The claim of 24/7 customer support is a critical feature for any business service, especially for payment processing where downtime can mean lost sales. This ensures that businesses can get immediate assistance should any technical issues arise, minimising disruption.
- Security Claims: Oxipay explicitly states that its readers are built with end-to-end encryption and are PCI compliant. PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is a set of security standards designed to ensure that all companies that process, store, or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment. This commitment to security is paramount for protecting sensitive customer data and building trust.
- Transparent Contact Information: The website provides a clear London address, phone number, and email address, which contributes to the company’s perceived legitimacy and accessibility. This level of transparency is generally expected from reputable businesses.
Areas for Concern with Oxipay.co.uk
- Merchant Cash Advance Product: The most significant concern, particularly for a Muslim audience, is the inclusion of “Merchant Cash Advance” in their product list. A merchant cash advance (MCA) is a lump sum payment provided to a business in exchange for a percentage of its future credit card and/or debit card sales. While presented as an advance on sales, the structure of MCAs often mimics interest-based lending (riba), which is strictly forbidden in Islamic finance. The total repayment amount can be higher than the initial advance, and the fixed percentage of daily/weekly sales taken back can lead to higher effective interest rates, especially for businesses with fluctuating revenues. According to numerous Islamic financial scholars, such arrangements are generally not permissible due to elements of riba and excessive uncertainty (gharar). For example, if a business receives £10,000 but is required to repay £12,000 over a set period, this additional £2,000 without a direct, tangible exchange of goods or services falls under the category of riba.
- Lack of Explicit Pricing: While the website mentions “cheaper rates” and “cost savings,” it does not provide explicit pricing for its services or hardware. Customers are required to “contact us for details” to receive a quote. This lack of upfront pricing can make it difficult for businesses to compare costs easily and transparently, potentially leading to surprises later on. Reputable payment processors often publish their transaction fees and hardware costs clearly.
- Limited Information on “How It Works” (Financial Details): While they describe the steps to “get started” with a reader (contact, documentation, grow), the financial mechanics of their “cheaper rates” or the terms of the “Merchant Cash Advance” are not detailed on the public site. This opacity around crucial financial terms can be problematic, especially for the potentially problematic MCA product.
- Website Design & User Experience: While functional, the website’s design feels somewhat dated. The blog section appears to have infrequent updates (e.g., last post in 2022, then 2018), which might suggest less active engagement in content marketing or industry insights. A modern, frequently updated blog can be a strong indicator of a company’s ongoing relevance and expertise.
Oxipay.co.uk Alternatives
Given the concerns surrounding the “Merchant Cash Advance” product offered by Oxipay.co.uk, it becomes imperative for businesses, especially those adhering to Islamic financial principles, to seek out alternatives. The goal is to find payment solutions that are transparent, avoid interest-based lending, and align with ethical business practices. Here, we’ll explore some key alternative categories and popular providers in the UK market. Velocoffeeroasters.co.uk Review
Ethical Payment Processing Solutions
The primary aim for an ethical business is to avoid riba (interest) in all its forms. This means steering clear of financial products that are structured as debt with a fixed, predetermined return, or those that involve excessive uncertainty. Instead, solutions that focus on straightforward transaction fees for services rendered are preferable.
- Transparent Fee Models: Many modern payment processors operate on transparent, pay-as-you-go models with clear transaction fees. This means you pay a small percentage or fixed fee per transaction, without incurring interest or hidden charges. This model is generally permissible as it represents a fee for a service provided.
- Avoidance of Merchant Cash Advances: Businesses should explicitly ensure that any chosen payment provider does not compel or implicitly push them towards products like Merchant Cash Advances. If a provider offers such a product, it’s crucial to understand its exact structure and, if it contains elements of riba, to avoid it entirely.
Popular and Reliable Payment Processing Alternatives in the UK
Many companies in the UK provide robust payment processing services without dabbling in the problematic “Merchant Cash Advance” realm. They focus on providing the tools to accept payments, leaving the business financing to ethical sources or the business’s own capital.
- Square UK: Square is a global leader in payment processing, offering a wide array of hardware from compact mobile readers to full POS systems. They are known for their straightforward pricing (a percentage per transaction), absence of monthly fees for basic services, and integrated software solutions for inventory, invoicing, and reporting. Square’s model is service-based, where you pay for each transaction processed, which aligns well with ethical business practices. They do not typically offer MCAs.
- SumUp: SumUp is another highly popular choice, particularly for small businesses and mobile traders due to its portability and ease of use. Their pricing is competitive, with a low per-transaction fee and no fixed monthly costs or contracts. Like Square, SumUp focuses purely on facilitating payments, avoiding complex financial products that could be problematic.
- Zettle by PayPal: Acquired by PayPal, Zettle offers reliable card readers and a comprehensive POS app. It integrates seamlessly with PayPal accounts, providing a unified view of sales. Zettle’s fee structure is also based on a percentage per transaction, making it a transparent and permissible option. They offer standard payment processing and do not feature MCA-like products.
- Barclaycard Payments: For larger businesses or those seeking a traditional bank-backed solution, Barclaycard Payments offers a range of card machines, online payment gateways, and merchant accounts. While their pricing might involve custom quotes or tiered structures, their core business is payment processing, which is generally permissible. It’s crucial to confirm that any additional financial products offered by the bank are sharia-compliant.
- Worldpay: As one of the largest payment processors globally, Worldpay provides solutions for businesses of all sizes, from small shops to large enterprises. They offer in-store card machines, online payment gateways, and recurring payment services. Businesses would need to scrutinise any financing options Worldpay might offer, but their primary payment processing services are generally transactional and acceptable.
- Takepayments: Takepayments offers a variety of card machines and online payment solutions tailored for UK businesses. They focus on competitive pricing and dedicated customer support. Their business model centres on providing payment hardware and processing services, which, when devoid of interest-based credit lines or MCAs, can be an ethical choice.
- Stripe: Primarily known for online payment processing, Stripe also offers in-person payment solutions with its terminal hardware. It’s highly developer-friendly and offers robust APIs for custom integrations. Stripe’s pricing is straightforward, based on per-transaction fees, making it a transparent and permissible option, particularly for e-commerce businesses that also need an in-person solution.
When considering these alternatives, businesses should always:
- Request Full Fee Schedules: Understand all transaction fees, monthly fees, PCI compliance fees, and any other charges.
- Scrutinise Contracts: Read the terms and conditions carefully, especially regarding any financial products that go beyond simple payment processing.
- Prioritise Transparency: Opt for providers who are upfront about their pricing and terms, avoiding those who require extensive negotiation or hide information.
By focusing on these ethical alternatives, businesses can ensure they adopt modern payment solutions without compromising their adherence to Islamic financial principles. Thehifiguy.co.uk Review
How to Assess Payment Solution Legitimacy
When exploring payment solutions for your business, due diligence is paramount. The digital age has blurred lines, making it crucial to discern legitimate providers from those with opaque practices. Here’s a structured approach to assessing legitimacy.
Verifying Company Credentials
A truly legitimate company leaves clear tracks. Start with the basics:
- Registered Address and Contact Information: A UK-based company should have a registered address. Cross-reference this with public records, such as Companies House in the UK. A physical address, phone number, and professional email address (not a generic free email service) are foundational. For Oxipay.co.uk, they list “71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ” and provide a phone and email. This is a good starting point.
- Companies House Registration: Every limited company in the UK must be registered with Companies House. Search for the company name (e.g., “Oxipay” or “Oxipay Ltd.”) on the Companies House website. This provides details like registration number, company status (active, dissolved, etc.), filing history, and directors. A company not listed or with an “active—proposal to strike off” status is a major red flag.
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Registration: Payment service providers in the UK are typically regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). They might be an Authorised Payment Institution (API), a Small Payment Institution (SPI), or an Electronic Money Institution (EMI). Verify their registration on the FCA Register. This ensures they meet stringent regulatory and financial standards. If a company handles customer funds, FCA registration is non-negotiable.
Examining Website Quality and Content
The professionalism and depth of information on a website can tell you a lot.
- Professional Design and Usability: A well-designed, user-friendly website that is free of grammatical errors and typos suggests professionalism. Poor design, broken links, or generic stock photos without context can be warning signs.
- Comprehensive Service Descriptions: A legitimate provider will clearly explain its services, how they work, and what benefits they offer. Look for detailed breakdowns of different card reader types, EPOS functionalities, and virtual payment options.
- Transparent Pricing: While not always fully disclosed on the homepage (as seen with Oxipay), reputable providers will offer clear pricing models upon inquiry. A complete lack of pricing information or vague promises of “cheaper rates” without explanation can be a concern.
- Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions: These legal documents are crucial. They should be easily accessible, well-written, and clearly outline data handling practices (e.g., GDPR compliance in the UK) and contractual obligations. Reviewing these documents helps understand what you’re signing up for. Oxipay.co.uk mentions GDPR and cookie policy, which is standard.
Reviewing Customer Feedback and Industry Reputation
What others say about the company often paints a clearer picture.
- Online Reviews: Check independent review platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and industry-specific forums. Look for consistent patterns in positive or negative feedback. Be wary of a complete absence of reviews or an overwhelming number of generic, overly positive reviews that seem artificial.
- Industry News and Mentions: Search for the company’s name in industry publications, news articles, or business journals. Mentions in reputable sources can lend credibility.
- Case Studies or Testimonials: While testimonials on a company’s own site (like Oxipay’s) can be curated, they provide a glimpse into customer satisfaction. Look for specific, detailed testimonials rather than generic statements.
By applying these rigorous assessment criteria, businesses can make informed decisions about which payment solution providers are genuinely legitimate and align with their operational needs and ethical standards. Commissionit.co.uk Review
Understanding Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) and Its Islamic Perspective
One of the services listed on Oxipay.co.uk’s homepage is “Merchant Cash Advance.” This financial product is a significant area of concern for Muslim businesses due to its nature and potential conflict with Islamic financial principles.
What is a Merchant Cash Advance?
A Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) is a type of business financing where a company receives a lump sum of money in exchange for a percentage of its future credit and debit card sales. Unlike a traditional loan, an MCA is not technically debt and does not involve fixed monthly payments. Instead, the provider takes a predetermined percentage of the business’s daily or weekly card sales until the advance, plus a fee (often called a “factor rate”), is fully repaid.
Key characteristics of an MCA:
- Advance vs. Loan: It’s presented as an “advance” on future revenue, not a loan.
- Factor Rate: Instead of an interest rate, MCAs use a “factor rate” (e.g., 1.2, meaning you repay £1.20 for every £1 received).
- Daily/Weekly Repayment: Repayments are often automatically deducted daily or weekly from the business’s card sales, sometimes through a split processing arrangement.
- Variable Repayment Period: The repayment period is not fixed; it depends on the business’s sales volume. Higher sales mean faster repayment, lower sales mean slower repayment.
Why MCAs Conflict with Islamic Finance (Riba and Gharar)
From an Islamic perspective, MCAs present significant issues related to riba (interest) and gharar (excessive uncertainty).
- Riba (Interest): Islamic finance strictly prohibits riba, which is defined as any predetermined excess or increment charged on a loan. While MCAs are framed as an “advance” and use a “factor rate” instead of an interest rate, the economic reality often mirrors interest. When a business receives £X and is obligated to repay £X + Y, where Y is the predetermined excess (the factor rate multiplied by the advance), this excess amount (Y) without a commensurate exchange of goods or services is considered riba. Regardless of whether it’s called “interest,” “fee,” or “factor rate,” if it’s a fixed, predetermined increment on the principal, it falls under the prohibition of riba.
- Example: If a business receives a £10,000 MCA with a factor rate of 1.2, it must repay £12,000. The £2,000 excess is the “cost” of the advance. This £2,000 is considered riba because it’s a predetermined profit on money lent, not earned through legitimate trade or risk-sharing.
- Gharar (Excessive Uncertainty): MCAs can also involve elements of gharar. While the repayment percentage is fixed, the total repayment duration is uncertain as it depends on future sales volumes. This uncertainty about the repayment period, coupled with the potential for the effective annual percentage rate (APR) to be extremely high (often much higher than traditional loans), adds another layer of impermissibility. Islamic contracts require clarity and certainty regarding the terms and outcomes.
- Example: A business with fluctuating sales might find itself repaying an MCA for a much longer period than anticipated, potentially straining its cash flow. The high effective cost and the open-ended repayment timeline can create undue hardship and uncertainty.
Islamic Alternatives to MCAs for Business Financing
Instead of MCAs, Muslim businesses should explore sharia-compliant financing options that adhere to principles of justice, equity, and risk-sharing. Do-you-have-an-emissions-claim.co.uk Review
- Musharakah (Partnership): A joint venture where both parties contribute capital and share profits and losses according to a pre-agreed ratio.
- Mudarabah (Profit-Sharing): One party provides capital, and the other provides expertise and labour. Profits are shared, while losses are borne by the capital provider (unless due to misconduct).
- Murabaha (Cost-Plus Financing): The financier purchases an asset (e.g., equipment, raw materials) on behalf of the client and then sells it to the client at a higher, agreed-upon price, payable in installments. This is a sale transaction, not a loan with interest.
- Ijarah (Leasing): A contract where one party leases an asset to another for a specified rental fee. The ownership remains with the lessor, and the lessee has the right to use the asset.
- Qard Hasan (Benevolent Loan): An interest-free loan, typically for charitable purposes or to help those in need, with the understanding that the principal amount will be repaid. Not typically used for commercial financing by institutions.
- Equity Financing: Raising capital by selling ownership stakes in the business, where investors share in profits and losses.
For any business seeking financing, it is always recommended to consult with a qualified Islamic finance scholar or reputable Islamic financial institution to ensure that the chosen product is genuinely sharia-compliant and avoids any form of riba or gharar. The inclusion of “Merchant Cash Advance” by Oxipay.co.uk therefore makes their service unsuitable for those committed to ethical Islamic financial practices.
How to Cancel Oxipay.co.uk Subscription / Services
While Oxipay.co.uk’s website doesn’t explicitly detail a “subscription” cancellation process, their services likely involve contracts for payment processing and equipment. Cancelling such services typically requires direct communication and adherence to contract terms.
Steps to Initiate Cancellation
Based on common industry practices for payment processing services, here’s how one would typically proceed:
-
Review Your Contract: The absolute first step is to locate and meticulously review the service agreement or contract you signed with Oxipay.co.uk. This document will outline the terms and conditions for cancellation, including:
- Notice Period: The minimum amount of time you must give before terminating services (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days).
- Early Termination Fees: Penalties for cancelling before the contract’s expiry date. These can be significant and are common in the payment processing industry.
- Equipment Return Policy: Procedures for returning any leased or provided hardware (card readers, EPOS systems).
- Final Settlement of Fees: Any outstanding fees or charges that must be settled upon termination.
-
Contact Customer Support: Given Oxipay.co.uk advertises 24/7 customer support, this should be your primary point of contact. Bishoponthebridge.co.uk Review
- Phone Call: Call their advertised support number (02039165810). Request to speak with someone regarding contract termination or service cancellation. Be prepared to provide your account details and business information.
- Email: Send a formal email to [email protected]. Clearly state your intention to cancel services, reference your account number, and ask for specific instructions and documentation required for termination. This creates a written record of your communication.
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Formal Written Notice: Even after a phone call, it’s prudent to follow up with a formal written notice, preferably via registered mail or email with a read receipt, to the company’s registered address. This serves as undeniable proof of your cancellation request and the date it was sent. In this letter/email, reiterate:
- Your business name and account number.
- Your clear intention to terminate services.
- The effective date of termination, calculated according to your contract’s notice period.
- A request for confirmation of cancellation in writing.
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Return Equipment: If you leased equipment, ensure you follow their exact instructions for return. Document the return process (e.g., tracking numbers, photos of packaged equipment) to avoid disputes over non-returned or damaged items.
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Confirm Termination: After the notice period has elapsed, follow up to confirm that your account has been fully closed and that no further charges will be incurred. Request a final statement confirming zero balance.
Considerations for “Free Trial” or “Subscription” Cancellation
While Oxipay’s website doesn’t mention “free trials” or ongoing “subscriptions” in the way a SaaS product might, payment processing services sometimes have introductory periods or tiered service plans that could be construed as subscriptions.
- Trial Periods: If you were indeed on an initial trial, ensure you cancel before the trial period ends to avoid automatic conversion to a paid contract. The terms of any trial period would be in your initial agreement.
- Minimum Term Contracts: Most payment processors operate on minimum term contracts (e.g., 12, 24, 36 months). Cancelling during this period almost always triggers early termination fees. Be aware of these potential costs before proceeding.
- Deactivation of Services: Understand that cancelling the service means your card readers and payment gateways will cease to function. Ensure you have an alternative payment solution in place before initiating cancellation to avoid disruption to your business operations.
Ultimately, the key to a smooth cancellation lies in understanding your specific contract terms and communicating clearly and formally with the provider. Ordertakeaways.co.uk Review
Oxipay.co.uk Pricing
Based on the information available on the Oxipay.co.uk homepage, specific pricing details for their card readers, EPOS systems, or payment processing rates are conspicuously absent. This approach to pricing is common among some payment solution providers but can be a point of friction for potential customers who prefer transparency.
Lack of Explicit Pricing on Website
The Oxipay.co.uk website makes several mentions of “cheaper rates” and “cost savings” without quantifying them. Phrases such as “cheaper with great rates! Just contact us for details” and “Oxipay provides your business with cheaper rates meaning that you save on costs” are used. This indicates that Oxipay operates on a custom quotation model rather than publishing a standard, fixed-fee schedule.
This means that to obtain pricing information, a prospective client would need to:
- Contact them directly: Utilise the “CONTACT US” forms, phone number (02039165810), or email ([email protected]).
- Provide Business Details: As outlined in their “How It Works” section, businesses would likely need to provide information about their type of business, number of readers needed, and perhaps estimated transaction volume.
- Receive a Custom Quote: Oxipay states, “From the information you give us, we will send you a quote or we can tell you over the phone as well so you can review before ordering.”
Implications of Custom Pricing Models
While custom pricing allows providers to tailor solutions and rates to individual business needs (e.g., higher volume businesses might get lower per-transaction rates), it also presents several implications:
- Lack of Transparency: Businesses cannot easily compare Oxipay’s rates against competitors without engaging in a direct sales conversation. This can be time-consuming and opaque.
- Negotiation Required: Custom pricing often implies that rates are negotiable. Businesses might need to haggle to ensure they are getting the best deal, which not all business owners are comfortable with.
- Hidden Fees Potential: Without clear upfront pricing, there’s a higher risk of encountering unexpected fees (e.g., PCI compliance fees, monthly minimums, statement fees, batch fees) that are only disclosed in the final contract. Reputable providers, even with custom quotes, typically provide a comprehensive breakdown of all potential charges.
- Time-Consuming Comparison: If a business is comparing multiple providers, the need to contact each one individually for a quote can significantly extend the decision-making process.
Typical Payment Processing Costs to Anticipate
Even without Oxipay’s specific figures, businesses should be aware of the common costs associated with payment processing: Classicvolvoparts.co.uk Review
- Transaction Fees: These are the primary costs, usually a percentage of the transaction value plus a small fixed fee (e.g., 1.75% + £0.10). Rates can vary based on card type (credit vs. debit), transaction method (in-person vs. online), and transaction volume.
- Monthly Fees: Some providers charge a flat monthly fee for software access, reporting, or premium support.
- PCI Compliance Fees: Annual fees for ensuring your business meets the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard.
- Hardware Costs: Upfront purchase costs or leasing fees for card readers and EPOS terminals.
- Chargeback Fees: Fees incurred if a customer disputes a transaction.
- Statement Fees/Reporting Fees: Sometimes charged for monthly statements or detailed sales reports.
- Early Termination Fees: As discussed, penalties for ending a contract before its term expires.
For businesses considering Oxipay.co.uk, it is absolutely vital to request a full, itemised breakdown of all potential costs, including hardware, transaction rates, monthly fees, and any other charges, before committing to any agreement. This meticulous approach is the only way to accurately assess the true cost of their services and avoid unforeseen financial burdens.
Oxipay.co.uk vs. Competitors
When evaluating Oxipay.co.uk, it’s helpful to position its offerings against well-known competitors in the UK payment processing market. This comparison highlights where Oxipay might excel or fall short, particularly for businesses seeking specific features or ethical considerations.
Oxipay.co.uk’s Unique Selling Points (from website data)
- Holistic Solution Focus: Oxipay presents itself as offering a “complete business solution,” combining card readers, EPOS systems, and virtual payments. This integrated approach can appeal to businesses wanting a single provider for multiple payment needs.
- Customer-Centric Approach: The website heavily emphasises customer confidence, convenience, and increasing sales by catering to card preferences.
- Claimed 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock support is a significant advantage, particularly for businesses operating outside standard hours or needing immediate assistance with payment issues.
- Merchant Cash Advance (Distinguishing, but problematic): While problematic from an Islamic finance perspective, the inclusion of an MCA product does differentiate Oxipay from providers that only offer pure payment processing. For businesses unconcerned with the ethical implications, it might be seen as an additional financing option.
Comparison with Key Competitors (e.g., Square, SumUp, Zettle)
Let’s compare Oxipay with some of the market leaders, focusing on aspects important to businesses:
Feature/Aspect | Oxipay.co.uk | Square UK | SumUp | Zettle by PayPal |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pricing Model | Custom quote, “cheaper rates” claimed | Transparent, published transaction fees (e.g., 1.75%) | Transparent, published transaction fees (e.g., 1.69%) | Transparent, published transaction fees (e.g., 1.75%) |
Hardware Costs | Not explicitly stated, contact for details | Published upfront purchase costs (e.g., £19-£149) | Published upfront purchase costs (e.g., £29-£139) | Published upfront purchase costs (e.g., £29-£139) |
Contract Length | Implied contracts (standard in industry) | No contracts, pay-as-you-go | No contracts, pay-as-you-go | No contracts, pay-as-you-go |
Setup Time | “Simple matter,” contact & documentation | Quick, often minutes to set up | Quick, often minutes to set up | Quick, often minutes to set up |
Additional Services | EPOS, Virtual/Web Payments, Merchant Cash Advance | POS software, online invoicing, e-commerce, payroll | Basic POS app, invoicing, online store | POS app, inventory, reporting, PayPal integration |
Customer Support | 24/7 claimed | Excellent, widely available | Good, responsive | Good, integrated with PayPal |
Transparency | Moderate (pricing opaque) | High (pricing clear, no hidden fees) | High (pricing clear, no hidden fees) | High (pricing clear, no hidden fees) |
Ethical Note | Concern with Merchant Cash Advance (Riba) | Generally ethical, service-based fees | Generally ethical, service-based fees | Generally ethical, service-based fees |
Key Differentiators and Considerations for Businesses
- Pricing Model and Transparency: The most significant difference lies in pricing. Competitors like Square, SumUp, and Zettle operate on highly transparent, pay-as-you-go models with clearly published transaction fees and hardware costs. This allows businesses to immediately understand and compare costs without sales engagement. Oxipay’s custom quote model, while potentially offering tailored rates, lacks this immediate transparency, requiring more effort from the client.
- Contractual Obligations: Square, SumUp, and Zettle typically offer no-contract, pay-as-you-go services, giving businesses immense flexibility. Oxipay, by being a more traditional provider, is likely to involve longer-term contracts, which come with potential early termination fees.
- Merchant Cash Advance (MCA): This is a critical differentiator. While Square, SumUp, and Zettle focus purely on payment processing and related business tools, Oxipay’s inclusion of an MCA product introduces a financial instrument that is problematic for Muslim businesses due to its association with riba. Businesses prioritising ethical finance would immediately lean towards the competitors.
- Integration Ecosystem: Larger competitors like Square and Zettle (via PayPal) often offer a broader ecosystem of integrated tools, from e-commerce syncs to payroll management, providing a more comprehensive digital solution for growing businesses. Oxipay focuses on card readers and EPOS, which is robust, but the breadth of its ecosystem isn’t as explicitly highlighted.
In summary, for businesses prioritising transparency, flexibility (no long-term contracts), and adherence to Islamic financial principles, providers like Square, SumUp, and Zettle appear to be superior alternatives. Oxipay.co.uk might appeal to businesses looking for a single provider offering both payment processing and potential financing (MCA), but the latter aspect carries significant ethical implications that should be carefully considered.
FAQ
What is Oxipay.co.uk?
Oxipay.co.uk is a UK-based company that provides card payment solutions and EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) systems for businesses, including various types of card readers, virtual payment options, and merchant services. Jaguarpcpclaims.co.uk Review
Where is Oxipay.co.uk located?
Oxipay.co.uk’s listed company location is 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ.
How can I contact Oxipay.co.uk customer support?
You can contact Oxipay.co.uk customer support via email at [email protected] or by phone at 02039165810. They claim to offer 24/7 support.
What types of card readers does Oxipay.co.uk offer?
Oxipay.co.uk offers Countertop Readers, Mobile Readers (for businesses on the go like taxis), and Portable Readers (ideal for table or bar payments in restaurants/cafes).
Does Oxipay.co.uk offer EPOS systems?
Yes, Oxipay.co.uk states they provide EPOS systems that are ideal for hotels, cafes, and can link to their portable units, offering comprehensive business solutions.
Are Oxipay.co.uk’s payment readers secure?
According to their website, all Oxipay.co.uk readers are built with end-to-end encryption to protect customer card data from fraud and are in line with PCI compliance standards. Yourlocalbusinessratessaver.co.uk Review
Does Oxipay.co.uk provide transparent pricing on its website?
No, Oxipay.co.uk does not provide explicit pricing details on its website. They state that businesses need to contact them for a custom quote to get details on rates and costs.
What is a Merchant Cash Advance offered by Oxipay.co.uk?
A Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) is a financial product where a business receives an upfront sum of money in exchange for a percentage of its future credit and debit card sales until the advance, plus a factor rate, is repaid.
Why is the Merchant Cash Advance problematic from an Islamic finance perspective?
The Merchant Cash Advance is problematic in Islamic finance because it often involves a predetermined excess on the principal amount, which is akin to riba (interest), and can involve gharar (excessive uncertainty) regarding the repayment period.
Are there ethical alternatives to Merchant Cash Advances for businesses?
Yes, ethical Islamic alternatives for business financing include Musharakah (partnership), Mudarabah (profit-sharing), Murabaha (cost-plus financing), and Ijarah (leasing), which avoid interest and excessive uncertainty.
Does Oxipay.co.uk offer virtual or website payment solutions?
Yes, Oxipay.co.uk states they can facilitate virtual payments through an online Virtual Terminal or directly from a business’s own website. Phoenixnorthwales.co.uk Review
What kind of businesses does Oxipay.co.uk cater to?
Oxipay.co.uk states they can cater to a wide range of businesses, from corner shops to large hotels or restaurants, providing card reader solutions to suit their specific needs.
How does Oxipay.co.uk claim to help businesses grow?
Oxipay.co.uk claims to help businesses grow by enabling them to accept card payments, which customers prefer, thereby increasing customer traffic, reducing queue times, and potentially boosting sales.
How long does it take to get a card reader from Oxipay.co.uk?
Oxipay.co.uk describes the process as a “simple matter” involving contacting them, providing business information, receiving a quote, and then getting your new reader for connection. Specific timelines are not given.
What payment types can Oxipay.co.uk readers accept?
Oxipay.co.uk states that their readers can accept all types of payments, including American Express, Visa, Mastercard, and more.
Does Oxipay.co.uk require a contract for its services?
While not explicitly stated, traditional payment processors like Oxipay.co.uk typically involve contractual agreements for their services and equipment, which may include minimum terms. It’s crucial to review any proposed contract. Norscotwindows.co.uk Review
What should I look for when reviewing Oxipay.co.uk’s contract?
When reviewing Oxipay.co.uk’s contract, look for notice periods for cancellation, early termination fees, equipment return policies, and a comprehensive breakdown of all charges and rates.
How does Oxipay.co.uk handle business data and privacy?
Oxipay.co.uk mentions using cookies as part of its GDPR policy, indicating compliance with general data protection regulations in the UK. Further details would be in their privacy policy.
Can Oxipay.co.uk integrate with existing till systems?
Yes, Oxipay.co.uk states that their card readers are speedy and secure and can “seamlessly connect to your till.”
What are some highly transparent and ethical alternatives to Oxipay.co.uk for payment processing?
Highly transparent and ethically sound alternatives for payment processing include Square UK, SumUp, and Zettle by PayPal, which offer clear, pay-as-you-go pricing models without engaging in problematic financial products like Merchant Cash Advances.
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