Iowa State Fair vendors ordered to take credit cards by 2020

By The Associated Press

DES MOINES, Iowa — Starting next year, those pork chops on a stick can be put on your card.

The Iowa State Fair says it will require all food and drink vendors to accept credit and debit cards beginning in 2020.

Cash has long been the dominant method of payment for the fried cheese curds, corn dogs and other foods bought by fairgoers. Thirty ATM machines are located on the fairgrounds.

But the fair recently informed vendors that they will be required to use Clover cash registers starting next year that accept credit and debit payments. They can begin using them this year.

In a letter to vendors, concessions director Mike Nye says research shows people spend more per transaction when using cards and prefer cashless payment options.

Fair spokeswoman Mindy Williamson says the system will still allow for cash purchases. She says the change is being implemented over two years to allow vendors to spread out expenses and train employees.

The Associated Press

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