New research commissioned by inclusive global payments platform Ecommpay found that 61% of e-commerce merchants would ‘definitely’ choose a payment provider based on their commitment to ESG. A further 38% said they might do so. The sustainability values of a potential partner have at least some influence over all respondents; 41% said they are strongly influenced, and 53% somewhat.

When asked for opinions on the sustainability of specific payment providers, between 86% and 94% of respondents agreed that Ecommpay (90%) and five other named providers are sustainable, care about society and/or do good for society.

“Businesses have been increasingly prioritising their own sustainability for some time, and it is clear that this focus now extends to their partnerships,” commented Miranda McLean, Chief Marketing Officer of Ecommpay. “Payment partners are being chosen based on their sustainability and overall commitment to Equality, Sustainability and Governance. It is important that providers can demonstrate their ESG credentials to prospective clients.”

Payments Association data suggests that just 5% of payments businesses see ESG as a priority in the next 12 months, highlighting a significant gap between the priorities of payment providers and their clients.

“As part of our goal of reaching ultimate financial inclusivity, we have made significant commitment to increasing accessibility and equality for Ecommpay clients and their customers”, continued Miranda McLean. “Our payment solutions are inclusive and sustainable, and our new website has been designed with accessibility at its core. We are now calling for others in the industry to take similar action. Together we can ensure that affordable, convenient and flexible payments can be made accessible to everyone.”

Ecommpay has also committed to an ongoing inclusivity programme, Ecommpay for Good. The programme focuses on Ecommpay’s own inclusivity as well as providing businesses with critical support to improve accessibility of their own website, products and services to simultaneously benefit customers and their business. Offering mid-size and enterprise businesses the products and services to trade domestically and internationally, Ecommpay for Good goes to the heart of financial inclusivity.