Why the Red Brick Cafe is card-less!

1. Exclusion starts when you remove cash- Not everyone has a bank card. Older people, those in poverty, migrants, and people without stable housing often rely on cash to get by. Going card-only cuts them out of every day life.

   
   

2. Cashless fuels inequality- When shops refuse cash, people without cards face higher costs. It’s called the “poverty premium”, which punishes those already struggling.

   
   

3. Our Values about community, not convenience.- ure, card payments might be quicker. But we’re not here to maximise speed, we’re here to create a fair, welcoming space. Being a cash only establishment is part of living those values.

4. Cash Keeps Local Economies Alive- Many small producers and suppliers still prefer or rely on cash. By staying cash-friendly, we help support the local economy and keep trade accessible.

5. This is a political choice- Going cashless isn’t neutral, it’s a step towards a society where corportations and banks control every transaction. By staying cash-friendly, we’re making a stand for independence and fairness.

6. Card Companies take a cut- Everytime you tap a card, a percentage goes straight to the card companies. That’s money lost before we’ve even covered VAT, Tax, wages, or ingredients cost. Cash means 100% of your payment supports the café.