Already with Retail Merchant Services?
Overview of Retail Merchant Services
Retail Merchant Services (RMS) is a long-standing UK card payments brand, ultimately supported by Fiserv (formerly First Data). Accounts are typically opened via field-based sales agents, so pricing varies significantly depending on when and how the account was signed.
Because RMS accounts sit across a wide range of ages and pricing structures, a statement review is the most reliable way to see where yours sits relative to current market pricing.
Common fees businesses should check
Usually blended, sometimes with separate premium and international card rates.
Monthly hire on a separate agreement to the merchant account.
Annual charge plus non-compliance fee where applicable.
Standard recurring charges seen on most RMS statements.
Want us to check these fees on your RMS statement?
Start free reviewContract terms and considerations
- Merchant agreements typically run multi-year terms of 12 to 60 months.
- Terminal hire is usually a separate agreement and can outlast the merchant contract.
Exit fees and early termination
- Early termination charges may apply on either or both contracts.
- Where switching makes clear financial sense, some alternative providers may help with exit costs, subject to approval.
We never guarantee to pay your exit fees or that you can be released from a contract. Any support with exit costs is dependent on selected alternative providers, is subject to approval and is only considered when switching makes clear financial sense.
Common reasons businesses request a review
- Account was opened years ago via a field agent and has never been reviewed.
- Statement includes line items that are hard to interpret.
- Renewal or rate change notification has been received.
Frequently asked questions
Will reviewing my Retail Merchant Services statement contact Retail Merchant Services?
No. We never contact your current provider without your written permission. The review is private and entirely for your information.
Do I have to leave Retail Merchant Services after the review?
Not at all. Many reviews end with the business staying on a renegotiated rate, or with confirmation that the existing setup is reasonable. You are under no obligation to switch.
How long does a Retail Merchant Services statement review take?
Most reviews are returned within a few working days once we have a recent monthly statement.
What does the review actually check?
Transaction rates, terminal rental, PCI fees, authorisation fees, monthly minimums, settlement timings, contract length, exit fees and any hidden extras specific to your account.
Get an independent view on your RMS setup
We check your rates, contract terms, exit fees and whether more suitable provider options may exist. No obligation. No provider contacted without your permission.
Or submit the form and we'll email you for it.
Related providers
Fiserv
A major global processor and acquirer, historically known in the UK as First Data, sitting behind many partner-branded card payment products.
Worldpay
One of the largest global acquirers, with a wide variety of products, pricing structures and contract terms in the UK.
Global Payments
A large international acquirer serving UK merchants directly and through partner banks and software platforms.
Related reading
Merchant Services Contract Guide
A practical UK guide to the terms hidden inside merchant agreements - length, notice periods, auto-renewal and terminal hire.
Understanding Your Merchant Statement
A plain-English guide to the line items on a UK merchant services statement, and which ones quietly inflate your effective rate.
How Card Payment Pricing Works in the UK
Blended, Interchange Plus, IC++ and pay-as-you-go pricing explained, with the trade-offs each model brings.