Parfetts will no longer be accepting card payments from retailers for its delivered service, in a bid to reduce processing fees.

Several retailers told Better Retailing the wholesaler had begun making the move in March, with drivers asking them to move to direct debit, or pay in depot with cash or card instead.

Asked to explain the reason for the decision by Better Retailing, Parfetts joint managing director Guy Swindell said: “We’re encouraging users of our delivered service to move to direct debit rather than credit card payments. To help them make the change, we’ve extended credit terms, and our team is working hard to ensure the transition is as easy as possible.

“We are encouraging our delivered customers to make this move to combat the rising credit card processing fees. The savings made on the fees will be reinvested back into providing great value, protecting their margins and maintaining the free delivery service.”