Alipay, originally a Chinese payment platform, has expanded its reach to the UK, offering a range of services that appeal to businesses and consumers alike. Its integration into the UK market serves as a bridge for businesses aiming to cater to Chinese consumers both resident in and visiting the UK.
This article provides a detailed overview of Alipay UK’s offerings, its merits and demerits, and how it fares compared to alternative solutions.
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Headline numbers
- Over 1 billion global active users
- Available in 40+ countries and regions, including the UK
- 200+ financial institution partners worldwide
- More than 300 million Alipay app downloads in Europe
Key information
| Item | Data |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2004, Hangzhou, China |
| Website URL | www.alipay.com |
| Phone number | +65 68307260 |
| FSCS protected? | No |
| FCA regulated? | Yes |
Alipay UK fees and charges
| Fee Category | In-Store Payment | Online Payment | Cross-Border Remittance | Mobile Wallet | Marketing Solutions | Alipay E-pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Name | In-Store Payment | Online Payment | Cross-Border Remittance | Mobile Wallet | Marketing Solutions | Alipay E-pass |
| Contract Length | 12 months | 12 months | No fixed term | No fixed term | Custom (6-24 months) | 12 months |
| Consumer Card Fees | 2.7% | 2.5% | 1-2% | N/A | N/A | 2.7% |
| Business Card Fees | 3% | 2.8% | 1.5-2.5% | N/A | N/A | 3% |
| CNP Fees | N/A | 2.9% | N/A | N/A | N/A | 2.9% |
| Minimum Monthly Charge | £20 | £25 | £15 | £0 | Varies (based on campaign) | £20 |
| Refund Fees | £0.50 per refund | £0.50 per refund | £1 per refund | N/A | N/A | £0.50 per refund |
| Chargebacks | £15 per chargeback | £15 per chargeback | £20 per chargeback | N/A | N/A | £15 per chargeback |
| Replacement Device | £50 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| PCI Compliance | Included | Included | Included | N/A | N/A | Included |
| Early Termination | £100 | £100 | £0 | £0 | Based on agreement | £100 |
Note: The values in the table are based on typical estimates and are for illustrative purposes. It’s crucial for businesses to consult directly with Alipay UK to obtain accurate and up-to-date pricing details specific to their agreement.
Pros and cons of Alipay UK
Pros:
- Offers businesses access to a vast Chinese customer base
- Seamless integration with QR codes for payments
- Provides a user-friendly app for consumers
- Strong security measures, including biometric authentication
- Allows for quick settlements and fund transfers
Cons:
- Not as widely recognised among non-Chinese customers in the UK
- Merchant fees can be higher compared to other local payment solutions
- The necessity of understanding cultural nuances when marketing to Chinese consumers
Alipay UK products and services
1. In-Store Payment Solutions
- Description: Allows brick and mortar retailers to accept Alipay payments through QR code scanning. This is particularly beneficial for businesses targeting Chinese tourists and residents in the UK.
- Costs/Fees: Typically, 2.5-3% per transaction, but fees may vary based on agreement specifics and transaction volumes.
2. Online Payment Solutions
- Description: Provides seamless integration with e-commerce platforms, enabling businesses to accept Alipay payments online, enhancing reach to Chinese consumers shopping from abroad.
- Costs/Fees: Approximately 2.5% transaction fee, with potential additional fees for currency conversion and other associated services.
3. Cross-Border Remittance
- Description: Facilitates cross-border transfers, making it easier for businesses and individuals to send or receive funds between the UK and China.
- Costs/Fees: Fees vary based on the amount and currency, with a typical charge around 1-2% of the transaction value.
4. Mobile Wallet
- Description: Beyond just payments, Alipay UK’s mobile wallet offers features like utility bill payments, mobile top-ups, and even ticket bookings, all designed to appeal to Chinese residents and tourists in the UK.
- Costs/Fees: No direct fees for consumers using the mobile wallet, but charges apply for certain in-app services.
5. Marketing Solutions
- Description: Alipay UK provides businesses with a platform to advertise and run promotional campaigns targeting Alipay users. This includes push notifications, in-app banners, and location-based promotions.
- Costs/Fees: Pricing varies based on the scope and scale of the campaign. Customised solutions might come at additional costs.
6. Alipay E-pass
- Description: A service for UK businesses aiming to sell directly to Chinese consumers. The E-pass converts GBP to CNY in real-time, allowing smooth transactions.
- Costs/Fees: Transaction fees are around 2.7%, but rates might differ based on specific agreements and business models.
Note: It’s essential for merchants to always consult directly with Alipay UK or check their official site for precise and current details regarding costs, fees, and services.
Alipay UK reviews
| Source | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| TrustPilot | 4.3 |
| Google Reviews | 4.5 |
| Reviews.io | 4.1 |
| Average | 4.3 |
Alternatives to Alipay UK
- WeChat Pay: Another major Chinese payment platform, also gaining traction in the UK.
- WorldPay: Offers a wide range of payment solutions and can handle Alipay transactions.
- Stripe: Recognised globally, integrates Alipay payments for online businesses.
Additional considerations
When considering Alipay UK, businesses should keep in mind the cultural nuances of marketing to Chinese consumers. Offering Alipay could be a mark of trustworthiness for many Chinese consumers, indicating a business’s global reach and understanding.
Alipay UK company history
Alipay originated in 2004 as part of the Alibaba Group in Hangzhou, China. It began as an escrow service for Alibaba’s online marketplace but quickly grew, evolving into a full-fledged payment solution.
Its introduction to the UK market provided businesses an avenue to attract Chinese consumers and tourists, given its familiarity and trustworthiness among them.
FAQ
A branch of Alipay focused on providing payment services in the UK.
Yes, it employs strong security measures, including biometric authentication.
Businesses can integrate Alipay UK either in-store using QR code-based systems or online through various e-commerce platform integrations.
Typically, there aren’t setup fees, but transaction fees apply. Always consult with Alipay UK for specific pricing details.
Alipay UK mainly caters to Chinese consumers familiar with the platform. For these users, Alipay can be more convenient and trustworthy compared to card payments.
Settlements are generally quick, often within one working day.
Yes, Alipay UK offers customer support in multiple languages, including English.
Yes, merchants can process refunds through their Alipay merchant accounts.
Contract terms may vary. It’s best to discuss directly with Alipay UK representatives.
While its primary appeal is to Chinese consumers, having Alipay UK can show that your business is tech-savvy and internationally oriented, which could appeal to a broader audience.
Yes, businesses can advertise on the platform and tap into promotional campaigns to attract more Alipay users.
Many POS systems in the UK now support Alipay integration, but it’s best to check compatibility with both your provider and Alipay UK.
Transaction limits might vary based on user profiles and merchant agreements. It’s best to confirm directly with Alipay UK.
Alipay typically handles the currency conversion, providing a real-time rate. Funds are then settled in GBP to the UK merchant.
Alipay UK offers a resolution centre where merchants can resolve disputes. If an agreement isn’t reached, Alipay might mediate.
Yes, for most transactions, customers will use the Alipay app to scan QR codes or make online payments.
Requirements may vary based on your agreement. It’s advisable to clarify such details before integration.
Alipay UK provides merchants with an online dashboard where they can monitor transactions, process refunds, and manage their accounts.
While Alipay is primarily used for one-off transactions, recurring payments may be possible based on the specific business model and agreement with Alipay.
Alipay employs robust anti-fraud systems, including real-time transaction monitoring and verification procedures to minimise risks.