TAILWIND INTRODUCES A FAST, SMOOTH, COST-EFFECTIVE UPGRADE PATH TO CONTACTLESS PAYMENT FOR RETAILERS

London, 1 April 2009 (AllPayNews) - Tailwind Solutions has introduced a new device which will help retailers take advantage of the contactless card revolution whilst preserving their investment in existing Chip and PIN infrastructure.

The PoS Paddle Tap-IT is a modular device which works with existing PIN Entry Devices. It is compatible with all banking and card scheme requirements and is ready for NFC (Near Field Communications) using mobile phones to make contactless payments.

Key features of Tap-IT include:

· Compatible with existing PIN Entry and EPOS Devices using USB or RS232 connectivity

· Optimises use of valuable counterspace

· Single point of interaction for the card holder

· NFC (Near Field Communication) ready for acceptance of mobile phone payment.

· Low cost

Contactless card payment (typically for transactions under £10 in the UK) promises to be more convenient for customers, increases store throughput and raises average spend per customer.

Garry Knox, director of Tailwind Solutions explains the dilemma facing the retail sector: “UK retailers have already invested substantial sums in Chip & PIN technology and now face a stark choice. Either buy a new PIN entry device with an integrated contactless card reader or invest in a standalone contactless card reader which sits beside the existing Chip & PIN machine. The former solution is costly and the latter takes up precious counter space and could lead to confusion amongst customers.”

He added: “The PoS Paddle Tap-It offers a cost-effective and easy to implement solution to accepting contactless card payments. It integrates fully with the Chip & PIN terminal so that all messages relating to the contactless transaction appear on the PIN Entry Device screen so the customer does not need to look at two screens.”

Mark Stewart, director of Tailwind Solutions continued: “The contactless payments field is exploding with major banks and financial institutions rolling out contactless cards to customers across the world. Unless retailers have an effective method of capturing such payments they will be left behind. We are already in discussions with major retail groups, banks and technology partners on how they can best use our solution to short-circuit the route to contactless card transactions.”

The PoS Paddle Tap-It and the retailer’s existing PIN Entry Device connect to the new complementary product from Tailwind -- PoS Paddle SafeBase. There is a growing incidence in Europe of PIN Entry Devices being stolen from retail outlets by criminal gangs, ultimately to capture PIN and card details. Apart from the financial consequences retail staff are often at risk. To combat this Tailwind has developed a unique solution called SafeBase which securely locks the PED (PIN Entry Device) to its mounting so that it can only be removed by an authorised user using the correct key, for legitimate purposes such as replacing the PIN pad or for use by a disabled customer. The device is compatible with all popular types of PED and can be fitted in minutes. The SafeBase provides a physical and highly visible deterrent to criminals. Moreover, APACS recently issued guidance to banks stressing the importance of securing PIN Entry Devices properly

Key features of PoS Paddle SafeBase include:

· Supports virtually all Chip & PIN Devices

· No requirement to replace Safebase when you replace your Chip & PIN device

· Field upgradeable

· Robust and durable plastic

· Tilt and swivel action

· Three keylock options – single unit, store-wide, estate-wide

· Optional adapter pole – to upgrade the existing mounting if required

· Convenient cable management options

· Choice of screw or adhesive base fixing

Tailwind Solutions, established in 2007, has considerable experience in the field of electronic card payment technology. The company has proven expertise in bringing new product concepts to market typically working with start-up ventures, OEM suppliers and companies entering new territories or market segments.

The company’s directors bring together a combined experience of 40-plus years working at the highest levels in product development and commercialisation in the card payments field. Whilst working at Ingenico the world’s largest manufacturers of card payment terminals, the directors were at the centre of the most successful product roll outs in the history of the card payments in the UK (Chip & PIN).

For further information please visit www.tailwind-solutions.co.uk or call +44(0)1383 622764.

Media enquiries to: Sigma Communications T: +44(0)1577 866 776 or email Michael@sigmacommunications.co.uk