HSBC Bank Malta plc has begun installing its new electronic point of sale (EPOS) terminals in shops across Malta.

The first 300 terminals have been installed, with an additional 900 to be operating by the end of November.

The new terminals are simpler and faster to use, and will make purchasing items either with a Quikcash card or any credit card much faster and more convenient for shoppers.

HSBC has also upgraded its card acceptance infrastructure which allows the terminal to connect to the bank over conventional dialup telephone lines and the faster ethernet (Datastream/Melita Cable) communication links. The bank chose SG Solutions Ltd as their local partner for the provision of the service.

A transaction on terminals linked to the Datastream and Melita networks can now usually be completed in just two seconds, leading to more efficiency and fast response times for merchants and less queuing time for shoppers.

The new EPOS terminals are manufactured by Ingenico and offer a secure, fast connection. They are also equipped with the capability to accept Chip Cards.