Biting the Hand that Feeds: Processing Fees That Prey on Merchants

As point-of-sale (POS) platforms exit the startup stage and developers begin looking for ways to generate increased revenue, many are turning toward processing fees for using their software. These processing fees go all the way up to .99 cents, and are added to orders that exceed a minimum cost. 

For restaurateurs and businesses across the nation, these fees come as a shock - and an unwelcome one at that. Added fees are a practice that can prey on unfamiliarity with POS platforms and the uncertainty left in the wake of COVID-19.  In the end, restaurants are left to navigate the taxes and frustrations that come from the added fees. 

Meanwhile, restaurant owners and operators grapple with an influx of customer confusion, loss of trust in their business and missed sales. The absurdity of the fees is making national news, even sparking demand for a congressional hearing. But to me, none of this is surprising. 

The truth is, point-of-sale companies can either be payment or product…