UK seeks input on next-generation retail payments design
The Retail Payments Infrastructure Board (RPIB) has launched a consultation on the future design of the UK's next-generation retail payments infrastructure. This initiative aims to foster innovation, enhance choice, and streamline payments across the UK.
Blueprint for future payments
The Retail Payments Infrastructure Board (RPIB) has launched a consultation to define the future design of the UK's next-generation retail payments infrastructure.
This new system aims to provide a secure foundation for innovation, offering greater choice and more seamless payment experiences, while supporting existing and emerging forms of digital money.
The consultation will inform the 'blueprint' for this infrastructure, which a new industry-led 'Delivery Company' will then implement.
It focuses on enabling new payment methods such as account-to-account payments at the point of sale, offering an alternative to card payments, and facilitating enhanced cross-border transactions.
These advancements are designed to deliver increased choice for users and ensure faster, smoother payment experiences.
Victoria Cleland, Chair of the RPIB, highlighted the vision: 'Our vision is for an infrastructure that remains resilient and trusted, while providing a platform for innovation that responds to users' needs.'
Shaping the design and delivery
As the RPIB's work develops, Pay.UK, which operates the UK's existing retail interbank payment systems, will maintain its central role in ensuring their safe and resilient operation.
The new infrastructure will support the National Payments Vision and the Payments Vision Delivery Committee's (PVDC) strategy to modernise UK retail payments.
The consultation specifically seeks views on payment journeys, key design choices, and priorities for the next-generation retail payments infrastructure.
This feedback will inform the high-level design, ensuring it meets the needs of current and future users, and will shape the next phase of work by the Delivery Company.
The deadline for responses to the consultation is 11 September 2026.
Beyond cards, towards digital
This consultation represents a vital step for the UK to maintain its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving landscape of digital payments.
By focusing on account-to-account and enhanced cross-border transactions, the initiative directly addresses key friction points and user demands.
Its ultimate success will depend heavily on robust industry participation and the seamless execution by the new Delivery Company.