American Express’ Shop Small promotion has driven an uptick in sales and acceptance in convenience stores, say retailers. 

The finance firm is giving its customers £5 back on purchases above £10 from small shops until 13 September. 

Stores said Amex reps had signed them up earlier this year. 

Graeme Pentland, of Ashburton News in Newcastle upon Tyne, said: “We were told about the £5 promotion and so we signed up. We’ve definitely seen customers using it, but we got a shock when we looked at our card payments fees. 

“It’s 1.9% per transaction. You have to be careful because it makes tobacco and services not that profitable.” 

Another store owner was also surprised by the charges, telling RN: “I thought it was lower, but I just checked and it’s 1.9%. I think the introductory price was 0.9% for six months.” 

Different stores may be receiving different terms. Abs Istefanous, of City News & Convenience Store in Brighton, said: “I got an email saying they’re dropping mine to 0.9% for good.” 

RN understands that standard rates below 1% are normally only given to firms with turnovers beyond the reach of small shop owners.

Even at the higher rate, Istefanous said it was worth it: “Amex customers tend to buy big and a lot, and don’t cause you any trouble.” He said the deal also boosted baskets. “When I see people paying with Amex I make sure to tell them to bump it up to £10 to get the £5 back,” he explained