Alipay+ aims to reach 90 million merchants for 2024 summer campaign

Alipay+, the cross-border mobile payment and digitalization service operated by Ant International, continues its extensive global summer campaign, initiated for the UEFA EURO 2024. 

As the official payment partner of the tournament, Alipay+ recorded an increase in transaction volume and merchant participation, aligning with the anticipated recovery of the travel industry by the end of 2024.

“European merchants and partners embraced new digital payment trends with remarkable openness and agility,” said Douglas Feagin, president of Ant International. “At Ant International, we will continue to expand merchant coverage for consumers and bring more international businesses to the doors of global SMEs.”

During the UEFA EURO 2024, held from June 14 to July 14, Alipay+ merchants across Europe experienced a 27% year-on-year rise in transactions through partner e-wallets, which include major mobile payment providers in Asia. The number of tourists utilizing their preferred home payment apps via Alipay+ increased by over 30% during the event, underscoring the platform’s growing influence among international travelers.

Travelers from regions including the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong SAR, Europe, Malaysia, and South Korea were at the forefront of this surge, leading in transaction numbers and total spending. Retail remained the most popular sector for these transactions, but significant activity was also observed in pharmacies and tourist attractions, highlighting the versatility and expanding the reach of Alipay+ in essential travel scenarios.

90 million merchants

In Germany, host to several UEFA EURO matches, Alipay+ transactions soared by more than 73%, with a 40% increase in the number of merchants accepting these payments compared to the previous year. This growth demonstrates the expanding acceptance and integration of digital payment solutions in the European market.

This summer, tourists can use their preferred payment apps via Alipay+ at over 90 million merchants across 66 markets. As Europe is expected to be a prime destination, Alipay+ aims to maintain its momentum from the UEFA EURO 2024 campaign, offering joint promotions with partners to encourage using home payment apps. Key destinations like the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, and Germany will see exclusive promotions at leading merchants.

Asia

Alipay+ is also working to benefit local businesses by partnering with small shops in areas like Milan’s Chinatown and progressively onboarding more small enterprises across Europe. Additionally, the integration with the taxi app FREENOW and partnerships for digital tax refunds further enhance the digital convenience for tourists, allowing for seamless travel and shopping experiences.

In Japan, tourists from various Asian regions can enjoy special discounts at 300,000 merchants, including major shopping areas and convenience stores. In South Korea, Alipay+ is launching summer promotions with prominent retailers and transport providers, including enhanced payment options for local and cross-country travel.

Alipay+ is making travel more convenient in the Chinese mainland by expanding its International Consumer-Friendly Zone Program and allowing tourists to pay at over 80 million merchants. In Southeast Asia, Alipay+ acceptance is widespread, and tourists can purchase discounted travel packs and benefit from exclusive campaigns with top retailers.