GYMR Blog 1

New Partnership: AERA Engine Builders Association

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:18:21 GMT

Evolv has partnered with AERA Engine Builders Association as the Corporate Partner for Digital Marketing solutions!

AERA Engine Builders Association Partners with Evolv to offer Digital Marketing Solutions

The AERA Engine Builders Association is excited to announce its partnership with Evolv as a Corporate Partner for Digital Marketing solutions. Through this partnership, AERA members will gain access to exclusive discounts & cutting-edge technology.

About the AERA Engine Builders Association

The AERA Engine Builders Association , founded in 1922, is the leading technical resource and industry voice for engine builders, remanufacturers, machine shops, and suppliers worldwide. AERA supports thousands of businesses by providing technical expertise, engine specifications, industry advocacy, and educational resources that help professionals stay informed, improve their operations, and stay connected within the engine building community.

For more information, visit: https://aera.org/
Follow CICA on Facebook : AERA Engine Builders Association

About Evolv

Founded in 1998, Evolv partners with banks, associations, and sales offices to provide best-in-class payment acceptance solutions. As a multi-processor sales office, Evolv offers a wide range of payment solutions, including point-of-sale systems, payment gateways, and terminals.

In 2017, Evolv expanded into digital marketing, providing businesses with services such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. With a commitment to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks, Evolv supports over 18,000 businesses and processes $6 billion in annual transactions.

To learn more, visit: poweredbyevolv.com

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

Evolv Announces Strategic Partnership with Intersect Technology Group to Advance AI Innovation for Community and Regional Banks

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:44:11 GMT

NASHVILLE, TN — [2/20/2026] — Evolv, a leader in payment processing and digital marketing solutions, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Intersect Technology Group, an Atlanta-based advisory and AI integration firm dedicated to helping community and regional banks transform artificial intelligence initiatives into measurable, ROI-driven outcomes.

Through this partnership, Evolv and Intersect Technology Group will work together to equip financial institutions with practical, scalable AI strategies that drive operational efficiency, strengthen customer engagement, and deliver tangible business results.

“We are honored to continue expanding our impact within the financial services sector,” said Sheila Wyatt , Regional President of Strategic Partnerships for Evolv Nashville. “Our partnership with Intersect Technology Group reflects our commitment to delivering secure, innovative solutions that empower banks with advanced AI capabilities while strengthening financial institutions and the customers they serve. Backed by decades of industry expertise, we are accelerating innovation to help our partners stay ahead in an increasingly digital world.”

“Community and regional banks are under increasing pressure to turn AI ambition into measurable results, and that’s exactly where Intersect Technology Group delivers,” said Rob Spessard , Co-Founder and CEO of Intersect Technology Group. “Our approach is hands-on, outcome-driven, and built around each institution’s existing teams, data, and technology partners. By aligning strategy, governance, and execution, we help banks move beyond fragmented initiatives to scalable solutions that improve efficiency, strengthen customer engagement, and generate real ROI. We’re especially excited about our collaboration with Evolv, which represents a powerful step forward in expanding innovation, accelerating client impact, and bringing even greater value to the institutions we serve. We believe AI should be practical, accountable, and transformative — and we’re proud to guide our clients every step of that journey.”

Together, Evolv and Intersect Technology Group are aligning payments innovation with AI-driven strategy to help financial institutions modernize with confidence. By combining Evolv’s expertise in payment acceptance solutions and digital growth strategies with Intersects advisory leadership in AI governance and implementation, the partnership creates a comprehensive framework for banks seeking both technological advancement and measurable performance improvement.

About Intersect Technology Group

Intersect Technology Group is a boutique, Atlanta-based advisory and AI integration firm focused on helping community and regional banks turn disconnected AI efforts into strategic, ROI-driven outcomes. The firm works directly with internal teams and external vendors to transform AI, automation, and data investments into measurable business value. Through hands-on execution and strategic alignment, Intersect ensures institutions move beyond experimentation to scalable, accountable innovation.

About Evolv

Founded in 1998, Evolv partners with banks, associations, and sales offices to deliver cutting-edge payment acceptance solutions. Operating as a multi-processor sales office, Evolv offers a comprehensive range of products including point-of-sale systems, gateways, and payment terminals. In 2017, the company expanded by investing in VIV, a digital marketing agency, adding services such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. Evolv remains dedicated to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks for merchants and partners. For more information, visit poweredbyevolv.com.

Allan Noe on How the Right Partnerships Drive Payments Growth

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 17:53:07 GMT

Allan Noe Shares Strategic Insights on Growth and Partnerships on the Merchant Sales Podcast

Our CEO, Allan Noe , was recently featured on the Merchant Sales podcast, where he joined host James Shepherd for a timely and insightful conversation on growth, goal setting, and scaling in today’s payments landscape.

In the episode, Allan shares his deep expertise in helping payments businesses grow through strategic partnerships . Drawing on years of experience, he discusses how associations, bank referral programs, and other partnership-driven models can create long-term leverage for agents and ISOs. Allan emphasizes the importance of choosing the right relationships, thinking beyond short-term wins, and building infrastructure that supports sustainable growth.

As the industry heads into a new year, Allan offers practical guidance for ISOs and agents looking to gain clarity, prioritize opportunities, and scale more strategically. His perspective reinforces a core belief: the right partnerships don’t just support growth—they accelerate it.

Cash Transactions Selects Evolv as Exclusive Partner for Merchant Processing and Digital Marketing

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 22:31:16 GMT

Cash Transactions Selects Evolv as Exclusive Partner for Merchant Processing and Digital Marketing

NASHVILLE, TN —12/9/2025 — Evolv, a leader in payment processing and digital marketing solutions, is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Cash Transactions. With this partnership, Evolv will serve as Cash Transactions exclusive provider for merchant processing and digital marketing services, strengthening the value of both organizations bring to financial institutions, retailers, and government partners nationwide.

“We are honored to continue expanding our impact in the financial services sector,” said Sheila Wyatt , Regional President of Strategic Partnerships at Evolv Nashville. “Our partnership reflects our commitment to delivering secure, innovative processing solutions that strengthen financial institutions and retailers and empower their customers. With decades of industry expertise behind us, we are accelerating innovation to help our merchants stay ahead in an increasingly digital world.”

“Cash Transactions has spent decades supporting financial institutions, retailers, and government partners with reliable, forward-thinking solutions,” said John Collins , CEO of CashTrans. “I’m excited to carry that mission forward by strengthening relationships, investing in innovation, and ensuring our clients have the tools they need to succeed with Evolv.”

By combining Evolv’s next-generation payment technologies with Cash Transactions’ long-standing experience in financial services, the partnership accelerates innovation for merchants and financial institutions. Together, the companies will introduce more advanced processing tools, enhanced digital experiences, and integrated service options that empower clients to stay ahead of industry shifts and consumer expectations.

About Evolv

Founded in 1998, Evolv partners with banks, associations, and sales offices to deliver cutting-edge payment acceptance solutions. As a multi-processor sales office, Evolv provides a wide range of payment products including point-of-sale systems, gateways, and terminals. In 2017, Evolv expanded its capabilities through an investment in VIV, a digital marketing agency offering website development, social media management, and paid advertising. Evolv remains committed to helping merchants and partners increase sales, reduce costs, and mitigate risk.
For more information, visit poweredbyevolv.com .

About Cash Transactions

Founded in 1996 and based in metro Atlanta, Cash Transactions (CashTrans) provides ATM products, EFT processing solutions, branch equipment, security systems, and comprehensive service programs to more than 1,200 retailers, financial institutions, and government entities across the U.S. Known for high-quality technology and dependable support, CashTrans delivers ATM outsourcing, deposit automation, teller cash recycling, managed services, and monitoring solutions. With a management team offering over 150 years of combined industry experience, CashTrans partners with leading ATM and branch technology brands to help organizations streamline operations and elevate customer service.

Q&A with Allan Noe of Evolv, Austin Hoffman of VIV on Inc.5000 Ranking

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 21:45:51 GMT

Q & A with Allan Noe of Evolv, Austin Hoffman of VIV on Inc.5000 Ranking

Treascent LLC Selects Evolv as Exclusive Preferred Provider for Merchant Services and Digital Marketing

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:41:58 GMT

September 12, 2025 Newburgh, IN — Evolv , a leader in payment acceptance solutions serving more than 18,000 businesses and processing over $6 billion annually, is proud to announce that Treascent LLC has selected Evolv as their exclusive P referred Provider for Merchant Services and Digital Marketing.

This partnership represents a significant milestone in advancing innovative payment solutions and fostering growth within the banking industry. Through this partnership, Treascent's financial institutions and businesses will gain access to Evolv’s customizable merchant services and marketing strategies—helping them better serve their business customers while unlocking new opportunities for growth.

“Treascent is thrilled to partner with Evolv to provide merchant processing and innovative digital solutions alongside our treasury strategies,” said Laura Wetherell, President of Treascent. “As fintechs and big banks increasingly capture the commercial opportunities of community financial institutions, the right merchant processing and digital tools are essential. With aligned values, this partnership equips Treascent’s bank and credit union clients with solutions to deepen commercial relationships, grow deposits, and create meaningful opportunities for local business clients and the communities they serve.

I’m particularly discerning when it comes to merchant processing and banking partnerships, and I’m confident that, together, Treascent’s strategies and Evolv’s digital solutions will help community financial institutions protect their markets, strengthen client relationships, and unlock new opportunities. I can’t wait to see the impact this collaboration will bring!”

“We’re proud to be named the exclusive preferred provider for merchant services and digital marketing by Treascent LLC,” said Allan Noe, CEO of Evolv. “Financial institutions are the backbone of local business communities, and through this partnership with Treascent LLC, we’re delivering innovative and adaptable solutions that enhance the payment experience while supporting sustainable growth. This collaboration underscores our mutual commitment to empowering institutions with the tools they need to thrive.”

About Evolv
Founded in 1998, Evolv partners with banks, associations, and sales offices to deliver cutting-edge payment acceptance solutions. Operating as a multi-processor sales office, Evolv offers an extensive range of products, including point-of-sale systems, gateways, and payment terminals. In 2017, the company expanded by investing in VIV, a digital marketing agency, adding services such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. Evolv remains dedicated to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks for merchants and partners. For more information, visit poweredbyevolv.com .

About Treascent LLC
Treascent LLC is dedicated to helping community banks and local credit unions create lasting, positive impact. These institutions and their teams serve as the backbone of thriving communities, supporting small businesses and fostering local economic growth. By strengthening business and financial institution relationships, Treascent enables clients to drive economic development, create opportunities, and build resilience across neighborhoods. Through tailored treasury and cash management programs, Treascent helps organizations unlock their full potential, strengthen relationships, and achieve sustainable growth.

Evolv Ranks #2534 on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies!

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:55:17 GMT

Newburgh, IN August 12, 2025 – Inc., the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future, today announced that Evolv is No. 2,534 on the annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. In addition, placed 157 in financial services and 21 in Indiana. The list provides a data-driven snapshot of the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. Past honorees include companies such as Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Under Armour, Timberland, Oracle, and Patagonia.

“Earning a spot on the Inc. 5000 list for the first time and ranking 2,534 is a proud milestone for our team. For a 27-year-old company, this recognition affirms that innovation, resilience, and a commitment to our customers continue to drive real growth. We’re honored to stand alongside so many inspiring businesses and look forward to building on this momentum," said Allan Noe, CEO & President of Evolv.

This year’s Inc. 5000 honorees have demonstrated exceptional growth while navigating economic uncertainty, inflationary pressure, and a fluctuating labor market. Among the top 500 companies on the list, the median three-year revenue growth rate reached 1,552 percent, and those companies have collectively added more than 48,678 jobs to the U.S. economy over the past three years.

For the full list, company profiles, and a searchable database by industry and location, visit: www.inc.com/inc5000 .

“Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company’s tenacity and clarity of vision,” says Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc. “These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics, and constant change. They didn’t just weather the storm—they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy.”

Methodology

Companies on the 2025 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2021. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2024. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2021 is $100,000; the minimum for 2024 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons.

About Inc.

Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of its community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating the future of business. Inc. is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with fellow leading business publication Fast Company. For more information, visit www.inc.com .

New Partnership: Connecticut Irrigation Contractors Association

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 21:37:56 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Connecticut Irrigation Contractors Association as the Member Benefit Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

CICA Partners with Evolv to Offer Exclusive Payment and Digital Marketing Solutions

The Connecticut Irrigation Contractors Association (CICA) is excited to announce its partnership with Evolv as a Member Benefit Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions. Through this partnership, CICA members will gain access to exclusive discounts, cutting-edge technology, compliance support, and payment acceptance.

About the Connecticut Irrigation Contractors Association (CICA)

The Connecticut Irrigation Contractors Association is the leading membership organization for irrigation professionals, contractors and suppliers. Founded in 1988 CICA promotes excellence in the field of landscape irrigation installation.

For more information, visit: https://www.cicaweb.org/
Follow CICA on Facebook : Connecticut Irrigation Contractors Association

About Evolv

To learn more, visit: poweredbyevolv.com

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

New Partnership: National Precast Concrete Association

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 19:03:10 GMT

Evolv has partnered with National Precast Concrete Association as the Preferred Provider for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

NPCA Partners with Evolv to Offer Exclusive Payment and Digital Marketing Solutions

The National Precast Concrete Association (NPCA) is excited to announce its partnership with Evolv as a Preferred Provider for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions. Through this partnership, NPCA members will gain access to exclusive discounts, cutting-edge technology, compliance support, and payment acceptance.

About the National Precast Concrete Association (NPCA)

The National Precast Concrete Association® (NPCA®) represents manufacturers, suppliers, technology companies, and service providers in the precast concrete industry across the United States, Canada, and around the world. NPCA provides industry leadership by promoting quality precast concrete products in all markets, addressing industry challenges, and creating opportunities for member success.

For more information, visit: https://precast.org/
Follow NTCA on Facebook : National Precast Concrete Association

About Evolv

To learn more, visit: poweredbyevolv.com

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

DeNovo Treasury Selects Evolv as Exclusive Preferred Provider for Merchant Services and Digital Marketing

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:50:51 GMT

DeNovo Treasury Selects Evolv as Exclusive Preferred Provider for Merchant Services and Digital Marketing

July 18, 2025 Newburgh, IN — Evolv , a leader in payment acceptance solutions serving more than 18,000 businesses and processing over $6 billion annually, is proud to announce that DeNovo Treasury has selected Evolv as their exclusive preferred provider for Merchant Services and Digital Marketing.

This partnership represents a significant milestone in advancing innovative payment solutions and fostering growth within the banking industry. Through this collaboration, DeNovo Treasury’s partner banks and credit unions will gain access to Evolv’s customizable merchant services and marketing strategies—helping them better serve their business customers while unlocking new opportunities for growth.

“Partnering with Evolv represents a pivotal moment for DeNovo Treasury,” said Will K. Grace, CEO and Managing Director of DeNovo Treasury. “Their bespoke, customizable approach to merchant services mirrors our own philosophy of meeting community financial institutions exactly where they are in their growth journey. Just as we tailor our Treasury Management solutions to each institution’s unique needs, Evolv delivers personalized merchant services that adapt to their clients’ specific requirements. This shared commitment to customized service makes us natural partners in empowering community banks and credit unions to better serve their business customers.”

“We’re honored that DeNovo Treasury has chosen Evolv as their exclusive partner for merchant services and digital marketing,” said Allan Noe, CEO of Evolv. “Community banks and credit unions play a vital role in serving local businesses, and together with DeNovo, we’re bringing them innovative, flexible solutions that elevate the payment experience and drive long‑term growth. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to meeting institutions where they are and helping them succeed.”

About DeNovo Treasury
DeNovo Treasury specializes in delivering comprehensive treasury management consulting and technology solutions to community financial institutions, helping them stay competitive and drive long‑term growth.

New Partnership: Missouri Restaurant Association

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:15:54 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Missouri Restaurant Association as the Preferred Partner for Digital Marketing solutions!

CAPMA Partners with Evolv to Offer Exclusive Digital Marketing Solutions

The California Pest Management Association (CAPMA) is excited to announce its partnership with Evolv as a Preferred Partner for Digital Marketing solutions. Through this collaboration, CAPMA members will gain access to exclusive discounts & cutting-edge technology.

About the California Pest Management Association (CAPMA)

The California Pest Management Association (CAPMA) is a non-profit trade association that has served the business and educational needs of Pest Control Professionals in California for over 80 years.
CAPMA keeps members up-to-date on new materials, procedures, laws, and regulations, working closely with the state’s Structural Pest Control Board and Department of Pesticide Regulation to help shape regulations that protect the credibility of our industry and the safety of our customers.

For more information, visit: https://www.capma.org/
Follow NTCA on Facebook : California Pest Management Association

About Evolv

In 2017, Evolv expanded into digital marketing, providing businesses with services such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. With a commitment to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks, Evolv supports over 16,000 businesses and processes $6 billion in annual transactions.

To learn more, visit: poweredbyevolv.com

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

This is Kansas City - Episode 144

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 13:20:00 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 143

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 19:12:37 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 142

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 15:57:41 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

We're Preparing Your Business for the Future of AI Search

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 20:32:15 GMT

Don't have time to read the blog? Listen to it below!

We're automatically adding something called llm.txt to all your published websites. That means your business is now better positioned to show up accurately in AI search results - and you don't have to lift a finger.

The way people search for businesses is changing fast. Instead of just typing into Google, more and more of your potential customers are asking ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity questions like "What's the best pizza place near me?" or "Who can fix my car's air conditioning?" or "Where should I get my hair cut?"

When they do that, you want to make sure AI tools have the right information about your business. That's exactly what we're helping you with.

What's llm.txt, and why should you care?

Think of llm.txt as your business card for AI tools. You know how you have a perfectly crafted elevator pitch ready when someone asks what you do? llm.txt is like that, but for artificial intelligence.

AI tools are incredibly smart, but they're only as good as the information they can find about your business. Without llm.txt, when someone asks an AI tool about businesses like yours, it might pull random text from your website - maybe a footer, a navigation menu, or some technical code that doesn't actually tell your story.

With llm.txt, we're giving AI tools a clear, organized guide to what your business is really about.

How this helps your business right now

Picture this scenario: A potential customer is researching local businesses using ChatGPT. They ask, "Can you recommend a good chiropractor in my area and tell me what others think of them?"

Without llm.txt, the AI might give them outdated information, confusing details, or completely miss mentioning your business altogether. It might say something generic like "There are several chiropractors in the area" without actually helping the person understand what makes your business special.

But with llm.txt in place, the AI can accurately describe your patient experiences, mention your services, and even direct them to your appointment booking page.

What we're doing behind the scenes (so you don't have to)

Every single time we publish updates to your website, we now automatically create and updates an llm.txt file. Here's what goes into it:

All your important pages - We include your services pages, menu, hours, location information, about page, and any other content that helps tell your story. If you run a bakery, we make sure your specialty cakes are included. If you're a mechanic, your repair services are featured. If you have multiple locations, we include all of them.

Your best descriptions - Remember those page titles and meta descriptions we spent time crafting together? We use those because they're already written in your voice and capture what each page is really about. If we haven't written meta descriptions for some pages yet, we'll use your page titles instead.

Only your published, quality content - We're smart about what we include. Draft pages, hidden content, and pages you've marked as "don't show in search results" won't be part of your llm.txt file. We only share the content you're proud to have representing your business.

This all happens automatically. Every time we both make changes to your site and publish them, your llm.txt file gets updated too.

Why this gives your business a competitive advantage

Most businesses still don't have llm.txt files. But your website does. That means when potential customers use AI tools to research local businesses, you're starting with a significant advantage. While your competitors' information might show up as jumbled website code or outdated details, your business will be presented clearly and professionally.

AI tools are becoming the new Yellow Pages, but smarter. When someone asks "Who are the best pizza places near me?" or "I need my plumbing fixed - who should I call?" or "Where can I get a good haircut?", you want your business to not just appear in the results, but to be described accurately and compellingly.

With llm.txt, AI tools can:

Present your services clearly and in your own words
Direct people to the most relevant pages on your website - like your menu, booking page, or contact information
Include up-to-date information about what you offer, your hours, and location
Represent your business the way you want it represented

Common questions

"Will this affect my regular Google search rankings?" Not at all. llm.txt works alongside your existing search optimization, not instead of it.

"Do I need to maintain or update this myself?" Nope! Every time we make changes to your website content and publish those changes, your llm.txt file automatically updates to match.

"What if I don't want certain pages included?" If you've marked any pages as "no index" (meaning you don't want them showing up in search results), they won't be included in your llm.txt file either. You have full control over what content is public.

Ready to see how your business shows up in AI search? Visit your website and add /llms.txt to the end of the URL. That's your business information, perfectly formatted for the AI-powered internet.

This is Kansas City - Episode 141

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 15:56:56 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 140

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:50:21 GMT

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Thu, 26 Jun 2025 18:02:00 GMT

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This is Kansas City - Episode 138

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 20:45:43 GMT

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This is Kansas City - Episode 137

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 16:06:43 GMT

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Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:07:30 GMT

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Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:27:00 GMT

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Wed, 11 Jun 2025 20:21:38 GMT

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Mon, 09 Jun 2025 18:29:33 GMT

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Mon, 09 Jun 2025 18:23:52 GMT

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Tue, 03 Jun 2025 20:51:48 GMT

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Fri, 30 May 2025 14:20:20 GMT

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Thu, 29 May 2025 15:05:41 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

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Wed, 28 May 2025 14:58:40 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

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Tue, 27 May 2025 15:22:46 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

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Thu, 22 May 2025 19:31:49 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Evolv and Valor Celebrate Existing Partnership in Payment Innovation

Thu, 22 May 2025 13:03:22 GMT

Evolv and Valor Celebrate Existing Partnership in Payment Innovation

May 22, 2025 — Newburgh, Indiana — Evolv, a leading provider of advanced payment acceptance solutions, is proud to spotlight its ongoing partnership with Valor PayTech, a premier point-of-sale (POS) technology provider. Since forming their strategic alliance in September 2021, the companies have collaborated to deliver powerful, customized payment solutions under the brand name EvolvPay, empowering merchants with seamless, cutting-edge technology.

Founded in 1998, Evolv has built a reputation for helping merchants increase sales, reduce costs, and mitigate risk. Through its extensive network of banks, associations, and sales offices, Evolv delivers comprehensive payment products—including point-of-sale systems, gateways, and terminals. In 2017, Evolv further expanded its value proposition by investing in VIV, a digital marketing agency, allowing the company to offer integrated web development, social media management, and advertising services.

Valor PayTech, a trailblazer in POS technology, brings global expertise with more than $2 billion in processed transactions, over 110 shopping cart integrations, and more than 250,000 connected devices worldwide. Known for tailoring their solutions to each processor’s requirements, Valor provides merchants with flexible and forward-thinking payment technologies that evolve with industry trends.

“Valor has been more than just a technology partner—they’ve been a vital contributor to our growth,” said Allan Noe, CEO & President at Evolv. “By sponsoring our annual sales summit as a Platinum Partner for the past several years, they’ve not only supported our team but also deepened our understanding of their platform. This collaboration allows us to offer a fully branded, customized solution—EvolvPay—tailored specifically to the needs of our merchant clients.”

Eric Bernstein, CEO of Valor PayTech, added: “Evolv represents everything we value in a partner—customer-focused, growth-minded, and fearless when it comes to innovation. Working together, we’ve been able to bring a truly customized and scalable solution to market, and it’s exciting to see how EvolvPay continues to raise the bar for what’s possible in payment technology.”

Through shared innovation and mutual commitment to excellence, the Evolv–Valor partnership continues to redefine what’s possible in the payment landscape. Together, the companies are delivering superior technology, exceptional service, and unmatched value to partners and merchants alike.

For more information about Evolv, visit: https://www.poweredbyevolv.com

For more information about Valor PayTech, visit: https://valorpaytech.com

This is Kansas City - Episode 124

Wed, 21 May 2025 21:45:51 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 123

Mon, 19 May 2025 21:08:32 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

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Fri, 16 May 2025 14:05:46 GMT

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Thu, 15 May 2025 13:53:17 GMT

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Wed, 14 May 2025 20:30:38 GMT

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Fri, 09 May 2025 20:12:53 GMT

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Thu, 08 May 2025 20:11:07 GMT

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Tue, 06 May 2025 21:50:53 GMT

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Fri, 02 May 2025 13:38:28 GMT

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Thu, 01 May 2025 14:41:46 GMT

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Tue, 29 Apr 2025 19:07:13 GMT

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This is Kansas City - Episode 111

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This is Kansas City - Episode 110

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 14:45:11 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Leveraging Search Visibility to Skyrocket Payment Volume

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:55:38 GMT

Visibility Beats Vanity: Why Local SEO Matters More Than Paid Ads

Local business owners are often tempted to jump straight into paid ads. It feels fast, exciting, and promising. But when listings are broken, outdated, or missing entirely, even the most well-funded ad campaign will fall flat.

That is why local SEO—specifically listings—is the first step. It builds trust, improves visibility, and gets you found by people who are already searching for what your business offers. And most importantly, it turns searchers into paying customers.

What Is Local SEO, and Why Should You Care?

Local SEO ensures that when someone types 'best pizza near me' or 'local HVAC service,' your business appears in the results. It relies on consistent listings across Google Business Profile, Yelp, Apple Maps, Facebook, Bing, and industry-specific directories.

If your hours are wrong, your address is outdated, or your profile is unclaimed, you are not just missing traffic—you are missing revenue. Because people cannot pay a business they cannot find.

Trust Begins with Accurate Listings

When your business information is accurate across the web, customers feel confident. They call. They visit. They make a purchase. Consistent listings say, 'We are reliable, local, and ready to help.'

But if your phone number bounces or your reviews are three years old, the opposite happens. Customers doubt the business. That hesitation kills conversions—and ultimately, your payment volume.

Why Paid Ads Cannot Compensate for Bad SEO

Imagine paying to bring customers to your digital front door, only for them to find the lights off and no one home. That is what happens when you drive paid traffic to a business that does not have its listings in order.

A strong SEO foundation makes every marketing dollar work harder. If customers trust what they see, they will engage. If they are confused, they will click away.

Real-World Behavior, Real-World Dollars

Eighty-eight percent of consumers who search for a local business on their phone visit or call within 24 hours . That means every local search is a transaction opportunity waiting to happen. But only if the business is visible, present, and credible.

If you are in merchant services, this is a direct tie-in to volume. No visibility equals no sales. No sales equals no swipes, clicks, invoices, or deposits.

Listings Improve Everything!

Optimized listings boost search rankings. Better rankings mean more traffic. More traffic means more leads. And more leads mean more payments.

Whether it is an invoice, a dual pricing option, or an eCommerce sale, all roads begin with visibility. Fix the listings, and every other service you sell becomes more effective.

The Sales Strategy: Start with a Scan

The best way to get buy-in from a business owner is to show, not tell. Run a free scan of their listings and walk them through the results.

Let them see that they are listed as 'closed' on Saturdays. Show them that they have zero reviews on Apple Maps. That realization opens the door to conversation, trust, and a full stack solution pitch.

Local SEO Supports Your Full Tech Stack

Selling websites, ads, reputation tools, or payment processing? Great. But none of it works without the foundation.

Local SEO improves the results of every campaign:
- Ads convert better
- Websites get more traffic
- Reviews gain visibility
- Invoices and subscriptions gain traction

It all works better when the business is findable and trusted.

Do Not Skip the Foundation

Businesses that skip listings are building on sand. They might get short-term wins, but long-term stability comes from owning their visibility. This is where digital pros and payment professionals can truly shine.

Offer the scan. Walk through the problems. Deliver the fix. And then stack on everything else.

The Bottom Line

Local SEO is not a marketing tactic. It is a visibility strategy that impacts every part of the business—from discovery to conversion to payment.

When you lead with listings, you create a path to every other solution. And when you help a business become visible, credible, and clickable—you get the swipe, the invoice, and the long-term relationship.

Want More?

Want more content like this, built just for merchant services pros and digital marketers? We are dropping insights like this every week inside our exclusive Facebook and LinkedIn groups. Join the conversation, get real-time sales tips, and share what is working in the field. Click the link to join the tribe—because your mind is not right until your site is!
If this helped you sharpen your pitch, like and share it with your team or someone in the trenches. Let us help each other win.

Unmasking How Design Mistakes Kill Business Credibility and Sales

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:51:00 GMT

Your Website Is Speaking Before You Do

Have you ever met someone who showed up to a job interview in wrinkled khakis and a Bluetooth earpiece from 2007? That is the digital equivalent of a bad website. It does not matter how skilled or experienced someone is—no one will buy what they are selling if the first impression is a disaster.

In the same way, your website is your first handshake with every potential customer. And they are judging it—fast.

Credibility Is Built—or Lost—Within Seconds

Studies show that 75 percent of users judge a company’s credibility based solely on website design. Not pricing. Not reviews. Not product quality. Just the look and feel of the site in the first three to five seconds.

This means the homepage has more influence on trust than anything else you do online.

Your Website Is Not a Brochure. It Is a Sales Machine.

The website is not a placeholder. It is a full-time employee. It acts as your receptionist, salesperson, and storefront all in one.

It answers questions. It builds trust. It handles transactions. And if it does not do any of that well? You lose leads. You lose processing volume. You lose revenue.

Speed Builds Trust. Delays Kill It.

According to Google, you have less than three seconds before bounce rates spike. Every additional second increases the chances that a customer will leave.

A one-second delay in page load time can drop conversions by 7 percent. That is not an exaggeration. It is money left on the table every single day.

If you are running paid ads to a slow site, you are setting fire to your ad budget.

Design Is Navigation. Navigation Is Conversion.

Good design is not about looking trendy. It is about guiding users. A website should lead visitors through a logical journey: Who you are, what you do, how to buy it, and where to pay.

If the experience is clunky or confusing, people will leave. And on mobile, which accounts for over 60 percent of traffic, poor design can ruin the entire flow. Responsive, mobile-first layouts are not optional anymore. They are survival.

Your Website Is a Payment Tool—Not Just a Pretty Page

The end goal is not traffic—it is a transaction. Whether it is eCommerce, invoice links, ACH, or subscriptions, the website must support the process of getting paid.

A clean, fast, well-designed website increases conversions, average order value, and trust. It removes friction. And friction is the sworn enemy of processing volume for you and profits for your merchant.

A Broken Site Destroys Trust

Nobody wants to enter their credit card on a site that looks outdated or unstable. If the design feels like a high school project, customers will not take the next step.

Design influences perception. Perception drives trust. And trust is what drives payments. That is the sequence. You cannot afford to get it wrong.

Treat the Website Like a Sales Rep, Not a Digital Flyer

When you pitch a website redesign, do not talk about fonts. Talk about revenue.
“This new site will help you close more deals from your ads.”
“This site will reduce cart abandonment.”
“This will turn five extra calls a week into $5,000 a month in services.”

Use the language of performance, not preferences.

Selling Payments? Fix the Front End First.

Before a customer swipes, pays, or clicks 'buy,' they experience the website. If that experience is frustrating, everything else falls apart.

Selling dual pricing? The explanation must be clear. Offering subscriptions? The flow must be smooth. Pushing ACH and invoice payments? The journey must be secure and intuitive.

First Impressions Become Bottom Line Results

The homepage sets the tone. A bad one makes a business look amateurish. A great one builds instant credibility.

Credibility converts. And conversions are what drive revenue. The site is not decoration—it is the launchpad for every part of your digital strategy.

The Bottom Line

If your clients want to drive more leads, earn more trust, and make more sales, start with the site.

Fix the homepage. Speed it up. Clean up the design. Remove friction from the buyer journey.

Because in this market, that first digital impression is often the last chance to make the sale.

Want More?

Exposing Why Local SEO Trumps Paid Ads for Payment Volume

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:47:09 GMT

Local SEO Is the Visibility Engine Most Businesses Ignore

Let us get one thing straight—paid advertising has its place. It can drive traffic and deliver short-term results. But for many local businesses, paid ads are not the smartest first move. Why? Because if their listings are broken, inconsistent, or missing altogether, no ad campaign in the world is going to save them.

What Is Local SEO, Really?

Local SEO is about making sure a business shows up when someone searches for 'coffee shop near me' or 'emergency plumber in [your city].' It includes website optimization, reviews, and content—but it starts with listings.

These listings—on platforms like Google Business Profile, Yelp, Apple Maps, Facebook, and dozens of directories—create a digital footprint. When they are consistent, current, and verified, they help a business rise to the top of map packs and search results.

Listings Build Trust, Not Just Traffic

The trust signals that accurate listings create are not just for Google—they are for the customer. When the hours, address, phone number, and services match across platforms, customers trust the brand. And when they trust, they click. When they click, they convert. And when they convert, they pay.

Why Listings Beat Paid Ads in the Long Run

Let us break this down clearly:
- Listings cost less. There is no daily ad budget.
- Listings are trusted more. Consumers know the top organic results are earned, not bought.
- Listings keep working. Once they are live and optimized, they continue driving traffic—without additional spend.

Paid ads are great for acceleration. Listings are better for long-term stability and compounding visibility.

Customer Behavior Proves the Point

Over 76 percent of location-based searches result in a same-day visit or call. That means businesses who win the local pack win the customer. Those businesses tend to have:
- Verified listings
- Consistent hours
- Updated photos
- Good reviews

If your client is missing any of these, they are likely missing payments as well.

Ads Cannot Compensate for Broken Listings

You can spend thousands on Google Ads, Facebook boosts, or Instagram promos. But if the searcher finds an outdated phone number, wrong hours, or zero reviews, the trust evaporates. They do not click. They do not call. They do not buy.

Running ads before fixing listings is like putting a turbocharger on a car with no tires. It might make noise—but it is not going anywhere.

Local SEO Drives Real Payment Volume

This is where things matter for merchant service pros. I’m talking to you! When a business ranks high in local search:
- More people find it
- More people call or visit
- More transactions happen

Whether it is swipes, invoice payments, dual pricing toggles, or subscriptions, everything relies on visibility first. A business that cannot be found cannot get paid.

Tie Local SEO to ROI and Retention

If your merchant sees an average transaction value of $100 and gains 10 more customers per month from local search improvements, that is $1,000 in added revenue. Over a year, it is $12,000.

And those customers often return, refer, and review. That is compounding value—and it builds trust in your overall stack of services.

The Smart Sequence: Listings Before Ads

You would not build a house without pouring the foundation. You should not run ads without fixing the digital footprint. Listings are step one. Ads are step two.

Your pitch: “We can run ads now, but if we do that before fixing your listings, we are just pouring money into a leaky bucket.”

This lands. It makes sense. And it puts you in the driver’s seat.

Overcoming the 'We Already Run Ads' Objection

When a merchant says, 'We already run Google Ads,' ask this:
- 'What do people see when they click?'
- 'Are your listings correct across every major directory?'
- 'How many calls drop because your hours are wrong or your location is off by a few blocks?'

Most of the time, they do not know. That is your opportunity to step in, run an audit, and show the ROI of getting listings right.

How Listings Amplify Every Other Tool

Better listings mean better SEO rankings, more organic traffic, and stronger performance across:
- Website conversion rates
- Review generation
- Call tracking
- Paid ad performance

Everything in your stack—from invoice path to dual pricing—benefits when the merchant is visible and trusted online.

The Bottom Line

Local SEO is not a luxury. It is the starting point for every modern business trying to win local attention.

Listings are the single most overlooked, most cost-effective, highest-leverage strategy in the digital toolkit. They drive calls, clicks, visits, and payments.

So fix the listings! Then watch everything else perform better.

Want More?

Slashing Sales Cycles Using Free Audits to Unlock Big Deals

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:42:50 GMT

Start with Value, Not a Pitch

In an oversaturated market where business owners receive a dozen cold calls a day about better processing, more traffic, or next-level software, one approach consistently rises above the noise: offering a free listing audit.

A listing audit does not ask for trust. It earns it. It shifts the conversation from 'Let me tell you what I do' to 'Let me show you what is costing your business—and how we can fix it.'

What Exactly Is a Listing Audit?

A listing audit shows how a business appears across top digital directories like Google Business Profile, Yelp, Apple Maps, Bing, Facebook, and others. The scan reveals what is accurate, what is outdated, what is missing, where reviews are lagging, and whether the business shows up at all.

The result is often a mix of bad data and missed opportunity. And most business owners have no idea.

Lead with Diagnosis, Not Sales

Think of this like being a doctor with an X-ray. You are not pitching a treatment yet. You are showing the fracture. A listing audit does exactly that.

It is a visual, real-time look at a digital blind spot. When the merchant sees they are listed as closed on weekends, or that they have one review from 2018, or that they do not appear on Apple Maps at all—it hits them.

Now you are not a salesperson. You are a problem solver.

Why This Strategy Converts Into Sales

The psychology behind it is simple:
- It is low pressure. You are offering help, not a hard close.
- It creates urgency. The problems are happening right now.
- It builds authority. You are showing them something they did not know.
- It feels customized. You performed research specifically on their business.

The moment they say, 'How do we fix this?'—you have permission to present your solution.

How to Deliver It for Maximum Impact

Never just email the PDF. Walk them through it. Use a Zoom screen share or sit down in person. Ask them to explain what they see. Listen to their reactions. Highlight the worst issues without sounding negative.

Then pause. Ask, 'How much business do you think this is costing you right now?' Now they are doing the math. You are selling without selling.

From Audit to Action: What Comes Next

The listing audit should be your entry point, not the finish line. Once they see the gaps, offer a listing management solution. But do not stop there.

Use this moment to pivot into a full conversation about their digital presence:
- Their website design and load speed
- Their checkout process and payment options
- Their review generation strategy
- Their ad budget and funnel

It all starts with listings—but you can take it anywhere.

The Close Becomes Easy

If the merchant is hesitant, offer this script: 'I can run a free scan for you. No pressure. If your listings look good, I will tell you. If they do not, I will show you exactly what is broken and how to fix it.'

This disarms objections. It removes risk. And it opens the door for your full suite of solutions—from SEO to social media to merchant services.

The Ultimate Appointment Setter

Use the audit as your opener. Try this line: 'I am doing a few free listing audits this week for local businesses. It is not a sales call—just a quick look at how your company shows up online. Would you like one?'

This works because it shifts focus away from selling and into service. And most business owners are curious enough to say yes.

Why This Strategy Works for Payment Professionals

Even if your core product is merchant services, this audit is your wedge.

Start with, 'Before we talk about payments, would you like to see how your business is showing up online?' That question immediately elevates you above 90 percent of the industry.

Once they see the value, bring in your other offerings—dual pricing, invoice tools, ACH, websites. Now you are not just a payment rep. You are their digital growth partner.

Listing Visibility Ties Directly to Volume

Every missed listing means fewer searches, fewer clicks, fewer calls—and ultimately, fewer payments processed. That hurts your merchant. And it hurts your residuals.

Fixing listings does not just help SEO. It drives more people to the site, which increases the odds of completing a sale or payment. This is not fluff. It is flow. And volume is everything.

Bonus Tip: Use Real-World Numbers

Help the business owner quantify the impact. Say, 'If fixing your listings got you five more calls a week, and two of them turned into $300 jobs, that is $2,400 a month in new revenue. Is that worth $149/month to keep everything accurate and visible?'

When you show return on investment in real dollars, the value becomes obvious.

The Bottom Line

A free listing audit is one of the fastest ways to build trust, start real conversations, and convert leads into full-service clients.

It is not just about data accuracy—it is about visibility, trust, and transactional volume. From that first scan, you can open the door to websites, marketing, and merchant tools. You can shift from 'vendor' to 'partner.' And you can close with confidence.

Want More?

If this helped you sharpen your pitch, like and share it with your team or someone in the trenches. Let us help each other win.

Flipping the Script: Turning Websites Into Processing Powerhouses

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:39:25 GMT

You Don’t Own a Website—You Hire One

Think of your website like an employee. If it were sitting in your office right now, how would you rate its performance? Does it work 24/7? Does it generate leads? Process payments? Convert traffic into revenue? Or does it sit there, outdated, slow, and ineffective?

That’s the mindset shift that matters. A website isn’t a tech tool—it’s a business asset. When built right, it’s the highest-performing employee on your team.

Would You Keep This Employee?

If your website were a team member, would they survive a performance review?
- They show up late (slow load times)
- They don’t give customers the right answers (bad UX)
- They leave visitors confused (unclear CTAs)
- They drop the ball at the point of sale (cart abandonment, broken forms)

Most business owners would fire this kind of worker. But they tolerate it in their website every day—and lose revenue doing it.

The Cost of a Broken Digital Front Door

Your website is the first impression for almost every prospect. Whether they found you through a Google search, an ad, a listing, or a social post—they’re going to your site.

If it is outdated, confusing, or not mobile-friendly, they bounce. And if they bounce, they don’t pay. That’s not just a missed opportunity—it’s a missed transaction. You are actively alienating current and potential customers.

Every bounce is a missed swipe. Every confusing CTA is a missed invoice. Every slow load is a lost subscription. And it adds up fast.

Why Most Business Owners Don’t See the Problem

Ask 10 business owners when they last updated their site. Half won’t know. A few might say three years ago. One or two might say, 'We’re due.'

Most of them view the website as a static business card. Something they check off a to-do list—not a live system that affects conversion rates, payment flow, and business credibility.

They do not realize it’s costing them leads and hurting their residual volume—and that’s where you come in.

Stop Selling Sites—Start Selling ROI

You’re not pitching a website. You’re pitching:
- More completed payments
- More scheduled calls
- Fewer abandoned carts
- Faster checkouts
- More trust at the point of sale

Try this: “This site is going to make it easier for your customers to buy from you and pay you.” That’s the message. If they run dual pricing, ecommerce, invoice path, subscriptions—whatever it is—your site either helps or hurts conversion.

Websites and Payments: Where It All Connects

Let’s say you’re helping a business implement dual pricing. If their checkout page doesn’t explain it clearly, conversion drops.

Or they send invoices via email with a 'Pay Now' button that links to a page that’s slow or not secure? That is lost revenue and trust is forfeited.

The website is the infrastructure that supports payment flow. A good one increases volume. A bad one kills trust—and trust is everything when you’re asking for money.

The Website Multiplies Every Marketing Dollar

You can run the best Google Ads or paid social campaigns. But if the website isn’t ready to convert that traffic into action, you’re wasting spend.

A strong homepage means better lead capture. A clean service page means more calls. A fast-loading checkout means more processed volume.

Bottom line: better site = better ROI on everything else you’re doing.

Pitching the Website as a Sales Machine

When you pitch a new site, say this: “This site is going to increase your average transaction value, speed up how fast you get paid, and improve the conversion rate on every ad, listing, or email campaign you run.”

That’s how you go from 'nice-to-have' to 'can’t live without it.'

The Long-Term Value Play

Here’s what makes this even more powerful: unlike ads that stop delivering the second you pause your budget, a high-performing website keeps working. It becomes your client’s digital HQ—collecting leads, closing sales, and pushing volume 24/7.

Add a calendar link! Now it books appointments. Add payments! Now it collects revenue in real time. Add reviews! Now it builds trust without lifting a finger.

Your Website Is the Top (And Heart!) of the Funnel

If the homepage is weak, the whole strategy falls apart. But if it’s strong? Everything else gets easier:
- Listings perform better.
- Ads convert at higher rates.
- Invoices get paid faster.
- Recurring billing gets fewer cancels.

That’s why the first question on any strategy call should be: “What’s your website doing for you right now?”

From Expense to Asset: Reframe the Conversation

Most clients think, 'Ugh, another $2,500 site build.'

Your job is to say: “This isn’t $2,500 down the drain. It’s a tool that that will quickly provide you a return on investment and continue to produce for you in the future.”

When you reframe the cost as an investment tied to predictable ROI, you change how they see the offer—and how fast they say yes.

The Bottom Line

A great website isn’t a luxury—it’s the launchpad for every marketing and merchant service you offer. It improves conversions. Increases processed volume. Lowers churn. Boosts ROI.

So next time a client says, 'I already have a site,' ask this: 'Is it making you money—or costing you customers?'

Then show them how to fix it. Because when your site works, everything else does too.

Want More?

Want more content like this, built just for merchant services pros and digital marketers? We’re dropping insights like this every week inside our exclusive Facebook and LinkedIn groups. Join the conversation, get real-time sales tips, and share what’s working in the field. Click the link to join the tribe—because your mind’s not right ‘til your site is!
If this helped you sharpen your pitch, like and share it with your team or someone in the trenches. Let’s help each other win.

Crushing Costly Mistakes Killing E-Commerce Growth

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:34:57 GMT

E-Commerce Should Be Simple. But Most Sites Blow It.

Selling online should feel like passive income. You build it, people buy, and money flows. But most merchants build it... and then nothing happens. Why? Because their site is unintentionally repelling customers. The products may be great—but the experience isn’t. And that experience is what drives—or kills—transactions.

Mistake #1: Homepage Confusion

Your homepage is your store’s front window. It should tell people exactly what you sell, why they should care, and what to do next. If your homepage is cluttered, confusing, or lacking a call-to-action (CTA), people leave. The fix? Use clear headlines, strong CTAs like 'Shop Now' or 'Book a Demo,' and declutter the space. Think like a customer, not a designer.

Mistake #2: Slow Load Times

If your site takes more than 3 seconds to load, half your visitors are already gone. Amazon found every 100ms of load time drop = 1% in sales lost. You’re not Amazon, but that rule still applies. Tools like Google PageSpeed Insights can show what’s slowing you down. Compress images, reduce scripts, and pick better hosting. Because time *is* money.

Mistake #3: Checkout Confusion

Ever get to checkout and abandon the cart because it felt like applying for a mortgage? The same dynamics apply here. Too many required fields, unexpected fees, or poor mobile functionality kill conversions. Make it simple: guest checkout, auto-fill, upfront pricing, and multiple payment methods. PayPal, Apple Pay—give people the frictionless path to 'buy'.

Mistake #4: Weak Product Pages

Product pages should sell—period. If they only show a price and a bland description, you’re losing money. You need high-quality images (yes, more than one), benefit-focused copy, and social proof. Trust badges help. Shipping clarity helps. And video? That’s conversion rocket fuel. The goal is to make people say, 'Yep, this is exactly what I need.'

Mistake #5: No Retargeting

Let’s say someone added a $140 product to their cart and then bounced. Without retargeting, that customer is gone forever. But with retargeting ads on Meta or Google, or follow-up email/SMS flows, you can bring them back. Maybe they got distracted. Maybe they weren’t ready. Either way, you’ve got one more chance to close.

Mistake #6: No Mobile Optimization

60–70% of traffic is mobile. So if your checkout button is tiny, your images take forever to load, or your fonts look like ants—you’re losing sales. Responsive design isn’t optional. It’s essential. Test your site on multiple devices and prioritize ease of use on every screen.

Mistake #7: No On-Site SEO

If no one can find your products on Google, they can’t buy them. Product and category pages should be optimized with keywords people actually search for. Meta titles, meta descriptions, image alt tags— Everything matters . They help search engines understand what you sell and send buyers your way.

Mistake #8: No Customer Service Options

If customers can’t get questions answered fast, they’ll bounce. Live chat tools like Tidio or Intercom increase trust and conversion. At minimum, have a working contact form, clear FAQ, and a visible way to get in touch with you. Bonus points for automated chatbots with smart responses.

Mistake #9: Not Capturing Emails

Traffic without data is wasted opportunity. Most people won’t buy on their first visit, but if you grab an email, you can follow up forever. Use pop-ups (the good kind) that offer 10% off, a free guide, or early access. Then automate your email flows—welcome, abandon cart, win-back, promotions. It’s eCommerce 101!

Mistake #10: No Trust Signals

People are skeptical. So if your site has zero reviews, no visible security, and your layout feels 2008… they’re bouncing. Add SSL (visible lock icon), show real reviews, feature return policies and secure payment options. Let people know they’re safe spending money with you.

Payments Pros: This Is Where You Shine

Every problem above leads to one outcome: fewer completed transactions. As a merchant services pro, your job is to drive more volume, reduce friction, and improve trust. A clean, optimized eCommerce site directly increases swipes, clicks, invoices paid, and subscriptions billed. This is not just a 'nice-to-have.' It’s a revenue multiplier—for them *and* for your residuals.

The Bottom Line

Fixing a broken site isn’t just a favor—it’s a strategy. E-commerce isn’t about flashy design—it’s about clarity, trust, speed, and function. When the flow works, the volume flows. If you want to help your merchants grow, retain more customers, and reduce chargebacks—start here. Audit the site. Spot the friction. Solve it. Then watch the transactions pile up.

Converting Website Features Into Processing Volume Power Plays

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:31:09 GMT

Spoiler: Features Don’t Sell—Benefits Do

Business owners don’t get excited about 'responsive layouts' or 'custom widgets.' They get excited about ringing phones, filled appointment books, and cash in the bank. If you want to sell websites effectively, every word out of your mouth needs to connect to a clear benefit—and ideally, a financial outcome.

The Feature Trap: Why Most Pitches Fall Flat

Reps love talking tech. They get excited about frameworks, APIs, and shiny new integrations. But merchants? They glaze over. The second you say 'JavaScript animations,' they’re thinking about payroll and wondering if they’ll make rent this month. You’ve got to speak their language: leads, customers, sales, payments.

Turn Features Into Revenue Drivers

Here’s how to reframe your pitch:
- 'Mobile Optimization' becomes 'You’ll get more orders from mobile shoppers, especially on weekends and evenings.'
- 'SSL Certificate' turns into 'Customers won’t hesitate to enter credit card info.'
- 'Live Chat' becomes 'You’ll capture leads who would’ve bounced without asking their one last question.'
- 'Speed optimization' = 'More people stick around long enough to hit that buy or book button.'

What Business Owners Actually Want

Let’s make it plain. They want:
- More phone calls
- More online orders
- More booked appointments
- More invoice payments submitted
- Better ROI from paid ads
- Fewer abandoned carts
That’s the pitch. That’s the focus. That’s what separates you from every other rep pushing templates and DIY builders.

Your Website Is a Payments Tool—Not a Pretty Poster

Here’s the big one: if your site doesn’t help customers pay, it’s broken. Whether you’re selling dual pricing, invoice links, ACH, or ecommerce—none of it works without a clean, high-converting website. The tech stack means nothing if the front end confuses people or loads like it's on dial-up.

The Website Is the Foundation of the Funnel

Every marketing channel—Google, Facebook, TikTok, listings, email—leads to one place: the website. If that destination sucks, you just wasted a bunch of money driving traffic to a dead end. If it converts? Now you're maximizing ROI on every dollar spent. Good websites multiply. Bad websites bleed cash.

The Payments Tie-In You Can’t Skip

Let’s take it further. You’re offering a VIV site and dual pricing. Great. But if the page where the customer selects pricing is clunky or confusing? They bounce. That’s a missed swipe, a lost invoice, a failed ACH, and a drop in your residual. The design, the layout, the copy—they all impact volume. And volume is the game.

Use ROI-Based Framing in Your Pitch

Let’s say their average ticket is $200, and they get 100 site visits per week. A 2% conversion rate gets them 2 sales. But if a new site pushes them to 5%? That’s 5 sales—or $1,000 a week. $4,000/month. $48,000/year. Ask: 'Would you spend $2,500 on a site that helps generate $48,000 in sales this year?' That’s not a tech conversation—it’s a business conversation.

Handle the 'We Already Have a Site' Objection Like This

'Awesome. When’s the last time that site brought in a new customer?'
This shifts the focus from existence to performance. Offer a quick audit—point out slow load times, clunky nav, or an outdated mobile experience. If you can find friction, you can find the close.

Use Case Studies to Land the Plane

Real stories sell better than PowerPoints. Example: 'We revamped a local dentist’s site and added online booking—appointments jumped 40% in 30 days.' Or: 'An HVAC client simplified their checkout process and saw a 33% lift in paid deposits.' These are proof points. Use them.

Stacking Payments Tools on a Solid Site

Once the website is dialed in, you can plug in invoice path, dual pricing toggles, checkout plugins, subscriptions, upsells—whatever your tech stack includes. But it all depends on that foundation. If the site works, every other tool you sell works better.

Make the Value Crystal Clear

Instead of: 'Our site package includes mobile optimization and live chat.'
Say: 'This site is designed to turn clicks into calls, visitors into buyers, and browsers into booked appointments.'
Outcomes > features. Always.

Bonus Tip: Use Visual Demos During the Pitch

Show the difference between a clean, modern homepage and a clunky one. Use live examples. Ask which one they'd trust with their credit card info. This is how you anchor credibility and create urgency to upgrade.

What to Say When They Ask 'Can I Just Use Wix or Squarespace?'

'Sure. You can also cut your own hair. But is that really how you want to present yourself to a paying customer?' Merchants need to understand that professional design isn’t just about style—it’s about conversion. You get what you pay for—and what you build yourself is rarely optimized to generate leads or collect payments efficiently.

Real-World Scenario: The Broken Booking Flow

You’re working with a med spa. Their old site had a great design—but the booking form was buried. Customers had to click three times just to get to the calendar. We rebuilt the site, put the 'Book Now' button front and center, made it mobile-first, and added automated email confirmations. Result? Booking volume doubled in six weeks. That’s what smart UX tied to payments looks like.

The Bottom Line

You’re not selling websites. You’re selling outcomes: more leads, more calls, more revenue, more processed payments. The right site turns your merchant’s business into a conversion machine. It multiplies every campaign and strengthens every tool you add after. Sell the value. Tie it to volume. And close the deal.

Dominating ROI Discussions with Value-Driven Metrics

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:26:20 GMT

Let’s Be Honest—No One Wants to Pay for What They Don’t Understand

And that’s the biggest hurdle in selling listing management. Business owners hear “listings,” and they picture their nephew updating Yelp once in 2019. So, when you hit them with a $149/month price tag, they hit you with the “we’re good” before you can even show them a scan.

Start With the Cost of Invisibility

When someone searches for “roof repair near me,” who do they call? Answer: whoever shows up first with complete info, great reviews, and a working phone number. That listing spot isn’t just digital real estate—it’s a pipeline to processed payments. If your merchant doesn’t show up—or worse, shows up wrong—that’s not just bad SEO. That’s a missed swipe. A missed invoice. A missed deposit. Now multiply that across 30–40 searches a week. That’s potentially thousands of dollars in lost volume every day.

Make It About Revenue, Not Listings

Don’t open with, “We sync 60+ directories.” That’s features. Instead, lead with impact: “What would 5 more calls a week mean to your business? Because your listings are costing you that—every week.” Now you’re not talking about tools. You’re talking about money.

The ROI Formula That Lands Every Time

Use this simple, proven framework:
1. Show the issue — “Your hours are wrong on 4 major directories.”
2. Quantify the loss — “These platforms get thousands of local searches.”
3. Tie it to action — “Fixing this could bring in 10–20 more calls per month.”
4. Connect to revenue — “If even 3 of those turn into $200 sales, that’s $600 right there.”

You’ve now positioned a $149/month tool as a potential $600–$2,000 return.

Use the Listing Audit as a Visual Punch

Forget bullet points. Show them. Pull up Google, Yelp, Facebook, Apple Maps. Show the mismatched info, missing reviews, or no photos. Then say:
'We can fix all of this and keep it fixed—automatically.' That’s when they realize you’re not selling a product. You’re solving a problem they didn’t even know they had.

Sell Outcomes, Not Features

Business owners don’t want to 'manage listings.' They want:
- More visibility
- More calls
- More reviews
- More booked appointments
- More online orders
- More processed volume

Listing management is just the vehicle. The payoff is volume and profit—plain and simple.

Tie It Directly to Payments

Here’s the magic phrase: 'You can’t process payments from a customer who never calls you.' That line snaps the merchant back into focus. Because listing management isn’t a marketing thing—it’s a revenue thing. It’s about putting their business in a position to take more swipes, issue more invoices, and reduce missed opportunities. That’s how merchant services pros need to frame it.

Preempt the Price Objection

Don’t wait for them to question the cost. Flip the script: “I know $149/month sounds like a lot—until you realize your current setup might be costing you thousands.” Let that sit. Then show them how listings done right drive high-margin traffic that doesn't require ad spend or ongoing PPC budgets.

Explain the Compounding ROI

Unlike ads that stop when the budget runs dry, listings build trust and momentum. Every week their info is accurate, they climb the search rankings. They get more impressions. More clicks. More calls. The result? More payments, more volume, and higher retention because customers can actually find and trust them.

Bundle It. Don’t Discount It.

Want to sweeten the deal? Include listing management in your broader offering—but never downplay its value. Say: 'We’ll include listing management as part of your local growth suite. It’s $149 on its own, but bundled with review gen and SEO, it becomes your visibility engine.' Now you’re creating value, not cutting cost.

Close With Confidence

Listing management isn’t a maybe. It’s a must. And at $149/month, it’s one of the easiest ROI conversations you’ll ever have. You’re not selling a service. You are selling:
- 5 to 10 more leads per week
- Better Google visibility
- Fewer missed calls
- And yes—more transactions processed
Because when your merchant’s info is right, their revenue flows right with it.

The Bottom Line

Listing management isn’t about syncing data. It’s about stacking dollars. Every inaccurate listing is costing your merchant in missed traffic, trust, and transactions. When you frame it around what they stand to gain—not what it costs—you win the sale and position yourself as a true revenue consultant.

Want More?

If this helped you sharpen your pitch, like and share it with your team or someone in the trenches. Let’s help each other win.

This is Kansas City - Episode 109

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:59:44 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 108

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:40:10 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 107

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:34:53 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 106

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 18:26:19 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 105

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:04:45 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 104

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 14:59:18 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 103

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 20:38:27 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 102

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 20:27:32 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 101

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 19:38:38 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 100

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 13:17:15 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 99

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 13:11:55 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 98

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:54:39 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 97

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:46:03 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 96

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 16:03:06 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

New Partnership: California Pest Management Association

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 19:52:31 GMT

Evolv has partnered with California Pest Management Association as the Preferred Partner for Digital Marketing solutions!

CAPMA Partners with Evolv to Offer Exclusive Digital Marketing Solutions

About the California Pest Management Association (CAPMA)

For more information, visit: https://www.capma.org/
Follow CAMPA on Facebook : California Pest Management Association

About Evolv

In 2017, Evolv expanded into digital marketing, providing businesses with services such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. With a commitment to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks, Evolv supports over 16,000 businesses and processes $6 billion in annual transactions.

To learn more, visit: poweredbyevolv.com

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

Dejavoo and Evolv: Announce a Partnership Driving Innovation and Growth in Payments

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 13:23:37 GMT

Join the Evolution in Payments. Dejavoo and Evolv: Where Innovation Meets Expertise

MINEOLA, NY, UNITED STATES, March 11, 2025 / EINPresswire.com / -- Dejavoo , a global leader in payment technology, and Evolv , a trusted name in payment acceptance solutions since 1998, today announced the formalization of their strategic partnership. This collaboration is already transforming the payment landscape through unprecedented integration, enhanced merchant services, and cutting-edge technology.

Now, Dejavoo and Evolv are launching the 'Power in Partnership' campaign to celebrate this remarkable partnership and highlight their shared commitment to innovation and excellence.

The alliance merges Evolv's extensive industry expertise with Dejavoo's future-ready hardware and software capabilities, providing a seamless, secure, and efficient payment experience. Merchants of all sectors and sizes can now take advantage of reliable, user-friendly payment solutions customized to their evolving needs, fostering measurable growth and operational success.

Through this strategic initiative, Dejavoo and Evolv reaffirm their dedication to driving long-term success by combining innovation with trusted expertise in a rapidly evolving payments ecosystem.

"Since partnering with Dejavoo, Evolv has been able to close deals with merchants more efficiently, thanks to Dejavoo's innovative, user-friendly, and highly reliable payment systems," said Allan Noe, CEO & President of Evolv. "Our clients immediately recognize the value of integrated solutions that work effortlessly from day one."

"Evolv shares our vision of empowering businesses with seamless and secure payment solutions," said Mony Zenou, Founder and CEO of Dejavoo. "By working together, we provide our partners and their merchants with the tools they need to thrive in today's fast-paced market while preparing them for tomorrow's payment challenges."

Join the Evolution in Payments.
Why partner with us?

• Seamless Integration: From hardware to software, our solutions work together perfectly.
• Enhanced Reliability: Backed by two industry leaders with decades of combined experience.
• Future-Ready Technology: Stay ahead of the competition with the latest payment innovations.
• Exceptional Support: Access comprehensive resources from both Dejavoo and Evolv.

Ready to Transform Your Payment Experience?

Join the growing network of businesses that trust Dejavoo and Evolv to deliver cutting-edge payment solutions that drive growth and enhance customer satisfaction. Together, we're not just processing payments—we're building the future of commerce.

Dejavoo and Evolv: Where Innovation Meets Expertise

About Dejavoo
Dejavoo delivers smart and secure payment solutions for businesses, combining innovative technology with seamless integration. Dejavoo's offerings include the iPOSpays omni-commerce gateway, cloud POS systems, fast and secure integrations, and flexible alternative payment options like Buy Now, Pay Later and digital wallets. With advanced Android and Linux terminal lines, Dejavoo ensures reliable, in-person transactions tailored to merchants' needs. Backed by a global network of ISOs, ISVs, and resellers, we empower businesses to thrive with industry-leading point-of-sale technology and personalized support. Explore how Dejavoo can elevate your business at https://dejavoo.io

About Evolv
Founded in 1998, Evolv partners with banks, associations, and sales offices to provide cutting-edge payment acceptance solutions. As a multi-processor sales office, Evolv offers a comprehensive range of products, including point-of-sale systems, gateways, and payment terminals.
In 2017, the company expanded its offerings by investing in VIV, a digital marketing agency, which enhanced its portfolio to include website development, social media management, and paid advertising services. Committed to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks for merchants and partners, Evolv continues to drive innovation in the payment industry. For more information, visit https://www.poweredbyevolv.com

E-Commerce Payment Options: The Best Solutions for Higher Sales

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:13:22 GMT

E-Commerce Payment Options: The Best Solutions for Higher Sales

Imagine this—you've got a customer browsing your store, they've filled their cart, they’re at checkout… and then they vanish.

What happened?

In many cases, it's because their preferred payment option wasn't available. In fact, studies show that 9% of shoppers abandon their cart simply because the store didn’t offer their preferred way to pay.

The takeaway? If you’re not offering the right mix of payment options, you’re losing sales.

Let’s break down the best e-commerce payment solutions and how they can help you increase conversions, reduce cart abandonment, and boost revenue.

Why Offering Multiple Payment Options Matters

Shoppers today expect convenience and flexibility when they pay. They want:

Speed – A quick, frictionless checkout process.
Security – Trustworthy and recognizable payment options.
Choice – The ability to pay the way they prefer.

By expanding your payment options, you can appeal to more customers, reduce frustration, and increase completed purchases.

So, what are the must-have payment methods for e-commerce in 2025? Let’s dive in.

1. Credit & Debit Cards (The Essentials)

If you run an e-commerce store, credit and debit cards are a non-negotiable. They’re still the most widely used payment method for online purchases.

Why They Matter:

Everyone has them – 80%+ of online shoppers use credit or debit cards.
Easy to integrate – All major payment gateways accept them.
Trust factor – Recognizable card networks (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover) build credibility.

How to Optimize Card Payments:

Offer a seamless checkout experience with saved card details for returning customers.
Enable autofill for faster payment entry.
Ensure PCI compliance for secure transactions.

Bottom Line: Credit and debit cards should always be an option.

2. Digital Wallets (Faster, More Secure Payments)

Digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal are rapidly becoming the go-to choice for many shoppers.

Why They Matter:

Faster checkout – No need to enter card details manually.
More secure – Uses encryption and tokenization for added safety.
Higher mobile conversion rates – Perfect for one-click payments.

Best Digital Wallets to Offer:

PayPal – Trusted by millions, great for international transactions.
Apple Pay & Google Pay – Ideal for mobile shoppers.
Amazon Pay – A great option for Amazon users who want a faster checkout.

Bottom Line: Digital wallets streamline the checkout process and help prevent cart abandonment.

3. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) – Attract More Buyers

BNPL services like Afterpay, Klarna, and Affirm allow customers to split their payments into smaller installments—without interest in many cases.

Why BNPL is a Game-Changer:

Increases order value – Shoppers are more likely to buy higher-priced items when they can spread payments out.
Reduces sticker shock – Makes expensive purchases feel more affordable.
Attracts younger shoppers – Millennials and Gen Z love BNPL options.

Popular BNPL Services:

Afterpay – Split payments into four interest-free installments.
Klarna – Offers multiple flexible payment plans.
Affirm – Allows financing for larger purchases.

Bottom Line: BNPL can increase conversion rates and make high-ticket items more accessible.

4. Cryptocurrency (The Future of Payments?)

Crypto payments are gaining traction as businesses look to attract tech-savvy and privacy-conscious shoppers.

Why Consider Crypto?

Lower transaction fees – No middleman fees like credit cards.
Borderless payments – No exchange rate issues.
Attracts new customers – Crypto users actively seek businesses that accept Bitcoin and other digital currencies.

Popular Crypto Payment Gateways:

BitPay – Accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other major cryptocurrencies.
Coinbase Commerce – Simple crypto payment processing for merchants.
Strike – Uses Bitcoin’s Lightning Network for fast, low-cost payments.

Bottom Line: Crypto is still a niche payment method, but it’s growing. Offering it can set your business apart.

5. Bank Transfers & Direct Debit (For Large Purchases & B2B Transactions)

Bank transfers and ACH payments allow customers to pay directly from their bank accounts—ideal for larger purchases and B2B transactions.

Why Bank Transfers?

Lower fees – Cheaper than credit card transactions.
Secure payments – Less risk of fraud.
Good for high-value purchases – Common in B2B and high-ticket e-commerce.

Popular Services:

Plaid – Connects directly to customer bank accounts.
GoCardless – Ideal for direct debit transactions.
Stripe ACH – Seamlessly integrates bank payments.

Bottom Line: Great for B2B stores, high-ticket items, and subscription-based services.

6. Local Payment Methods (For Global Expansion)

If you sell internationally, you need to offer payment options that local shoppers trust.

Top Regional Payment Methods:

Alipay & WeChat Pay – Essential for selling in China.
iDEAL – The most popular payment method in the Netherlands.
Boleto Bancário – A must-have for businesses selling in Brazil.
SEPA Direct Debit – Preferred in Europe for bank-to-bank transfers.

Bottom Line: If you sell internationally, local payment options can make or break your success in different markets.

7. Subscription & Recurring Payment Options

If you sell subscriptions (e.g., SaaS, memberships, or subscription boxes), you need a seamless recurring billing system.

Best Recurring Payment Solutions:

Stripe Subscriptions – Flexible plans with automated billing.
Chargebee – Advanced subscription management.
Recurly – Handles complex billing needs.

Bottom Line: A frictionless subscription payment system increases retention and customer lifetime value.

How to Choose the Best Payment Options for Your Store

Now that you know the top e-commerce payment methods, how do you decide which ones to offer?

Ask Yourself These Questions:

Who is my target audience? Younger shoppers love BNPL, while B2B customers prefer bank transfers.
What’s my average order value? Higher-priced items benefit from BNPL and credit cards.
Do I sell internationally? If yes, consider adding local payment methods.
How important is mobile checkout? Digital wallets are a must for mobile users.

The Ideal Payment Mix (For Most Stores):

Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
PayPal + Digital Wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
Buy Now, Pay Later (Afterpay, Klarna, Affirm)
Bank Transfer or ACH Payments (For high-ticket or B2B sales)
Local Payment Methods (If selling internationally)

Final Thoughts: Make Checkout Easy, and Sales Will Follow

Customers want options, and the easier you make it for them to pay, the more sales you’ll close.

Offer multiple payment methods—don't just rely on credit cards.
Make checkout seamless—reduce friction and speed up transactions.
Think globally—if you're selling internationally, local payment methods matter.

By offering the right payment solutions, you can boost conversions, reduce cart abandonment, and increase revenue—without spending more on traffic.

How to Optimize Your Website for Local SEO & Drive More Traffic

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:00:46 GMT

How to Get More Local Customers with Simple Website Fixes

Ever searched for a coffee shop or a plumber near you and picked the one that popped up first? That’s local SEO in action. If your business isn’t showing up when people search for what you offer in your area, you’re leaving money on the table.

Here’s the deal—46% of all Google searches are for local businesses. And 76% of people who search for something nearby visit a business that same day. If you’re not showing up, your competitors are.

But don’t worry—fixing this is easier than you think. Let’s break down how to optimize your website for local SEO so you can attract more customers without spending a fortune on ads.

Step 1: Set Up (and Optimize) Your Google Business Profile

If you do only one thing from this list, make it this: Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile (GBP).

Your GBP (formerly Google My Business) is what makes you show up on Google Maps and in the Local Pack (those top three businesses that show up when someone searches for a service nearby).

How to Get Your GBP Right:

Claim your business at Google Business Profile.
Make sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) match exactly everywhere online.
Pick the right business categories (Google allows multiple).
Write a compelling business description with relevant keywords.
Upload high-quality photos of your location, products, or services.
Keep your hours updated, especially during holidays.
Get customer reviews and always respond to them.

Why this works: Your Google Business Profile is what makes your business visible when people search locally. If it’s optimized, you’re way more likely to show up in Google’s Local Pack.

Step 2: Use Local Keywords on Your Website

If you want Google to know where you are and what you do, you’ve got to say it—on your website.

Where to Add Local Keywords:

Page Titles & Meta Descriptions – Instead of “Best Roofing Services,” try “Best Roofing Services in Denver.”
Headings & Content – Naturally work in your city or neighborhood (e.g., “Proudly serving Chicago for over 10 years”).
Image Alt Text – Instead of “storefront,” use “Austin coffee shop with outdoor seating.”
Footer – Include your full business name, address, and phone number (NAP).

Pro Tip: Use free tools like Google Keyword Planner to find high-traffic local search terms.

Step 3: Create Location-Specific Pages

If your business serves multiple locations, don’t just list all the cities on one page. Instead, create a separate page for each location.

Example: A law firm with offices in Dallas, Austin, and Houston should have:

yourlawfirm.com/dallas
yourlawfirm.com/austin
yourlawfirm.com/houston

Each page should include:

A unique description of your services in that area
Customer testimonials from local clients
A Google Maps embed of your location
Location-specific FAQs

Why this works: Google ranks individual location pages higher than generic service pages.

Step 4: Get Your Business Listed Everywhere (Citations Matter)

Google trusts businesses that are mentioned consistently across the web. These mentions (called citations) help you rank better in local searches.

Where to List Your Business:

Google Business Profile (you already did this, right?)
Yelp
Bing Places
Facebook Business
Apple Maps
Industry-specific directories (e.g., Avvo for lawyers, ZocDoc for doctors)

Why this works: The more Google sees your business info online, the more legit you look. Just make sure your NAP info is exactly the same on every listing.

Step 5: Make Sure Your Website is Mobile-Friendly

Fact: 60% of local searches happen on mobile phones.

If someone finds your site but has to zoom in to read text, pinch to scroll, or wait forever for it to load, they’ll bounce fast.

Mobile Optimization Checklist:

Use a responsive design that adjusts to any screen size.
Make sure your site loads in under 3 seconds (test it here).
Keep buttons big and easy to tap.
Reduce popups that block the screen.

Why this matters: Google ranks fast, mobile-friendly websites higher in search results.

Step 6: Get More Reviews (They Help You Rank)

If two businesses offer the same service, but one has tons of great reviews and the other has none, which one would you choose? Exactly.

How to Get More Reviews:

Ask happy customers for reviews right after a purchase or service.
Send a follow-up email or text with a direct link to your review page.
Offer a small discount or incentive for leaving a review.
Reply to every review—good or bad.

Why this works: Reviews build trust and help you rank higher in search results.

Step 7: Add Local Schema Markup (For SEO Nerds)

Okay, this one is a little technical—but it’s worth it. Schema markup is code that helps Google understand your business details faster.

How to Add Schema Markup:

Use Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper to generate schema code.
Add Local Business Schema to your homepage.
Include your review ratings, address, phone number, and business type in the code.

Why this works: Schema markup helps Google understand what your business does, which improves your rankings.

Step 8: Create Content That Attracts Local Customers

If you want to dominate local search, create content for your community.

Ideas for Local Content:

Local event guides – “Top 10 Fall Festivals in Nashville.”
Customer success stories – “How We Helped a Denver Business Save 30% on Web Design.”
Local service pages – “Best Roofing Services in Atlanta – What You Need to Know.”

Why this works: Google loves helpful, local content—and so do customers.

Final Thoughts: Get More Local Customers (Without Ads)

You don’t need a massive marketing budget to get more local customers. You just need to tell Google who you are, where you are, and what you do—clearly and consistently.

Quick Recap:

Claim & optimize your Google Business Profile.
Use local keywords throughout your website.
Create separate pages for each location.
List your business on directories (Yelp, Facebook, Bing).
Make your website mobile-friendly.
Encourage more customer reviews.
Use schema markup to help Google understand your business.
Publish local content to attract nearby customers.

Follow these steps, and you’ll rank higher in search results, drive more traffic, and get more customers—without spending a dime on ads.

Want more expert SEO tips? Hit that follow button.

Shopping Cart Abandonment

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:50:33 GMT

How to Stop Losing Sales to Abandoned Carts (and Actually Close the Deal)

There’s nothing more frustrating than watching shoppers load up their cart, get all the way to checkout… and then disappear. No purchase. No explanation. Just gone.

Here’s the thing—this isn’t just happening once or twice. Nearly 70% of online shoppers abandon their carts. That means for every ten people who add items to their cart, seven of them leave without checking out.

Let that sink in.

Now, imagine if you could recover even a fraction of those lost sales. You wouldn’t need more traffic. You wouldn’t need more marketing spend. You’d just be closing the deals that should have already been yours.

The good news? You can fix this. Let’s break down why people abandon their carts and, more importantly, what you can do to get them to complete their purchase.

Why Do Shoppers Abandon Their Carts?

People don’t just walk away from their carts for no reason. Here are the biggest culprits:

Surprise Costs – Shipping, taxes, or hidden fees appear at checkout, scaring them off.
Complicated Checkout – Too many steps, too many form fields, too much friction.
No Preferred Payment Options – They want PayPal, Apple Pay, or Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), but you don’t offer it.
Forced Account Creation – They just want to buy. They don’t want to sign up for yet another account.
Slow Website or Glitches – If your site takes too long to load or crashes, they’re gone.
Security Concerns – No trust signals, no SSL certificate, no deal.
Distractions – The dog barks, the phone rings, they get pulled away—and never return.

Sound familiar? Let’s fix it.

1. Be Upfront About All Costs

Nobody likes surprise fees. One second, they’re ready to check out, and the next? They see an extra $12.99 in shipping and suddenly reconsider everything.

Show all costs upfront—taxes, fees, and shipping.
Offer free shipping thresholds (e.g., “Free shipping on orders over $50!”).
Use a shipping calculator on product pages.

Fewer surprises = more completed checkouts.

2. Make Checkout Lightning Fast

If your checkout takes more than two minutes, you’re probably losing customers. Shoppers don’t have patience for long, clunky processes.

Enable guest checkout—don’t force people to create an account.
Remove unnecessary fields. (Do you really need their fax number?)
Use one-click checkout for returning customers.

The easier the checkout, the higher the conversion.

3. Offer Payment Options People Actually Use

Ever gone to check out and realized the store doesn’t accept your preferred payment method? Annoying, right? Your customers feel the same way.

Accept major credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay—the big names.
Add Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options like Klarna or Afterpay.
Let customers save their payment details for next time.

More payment options = fewer abandoned carts.

4. Optimize for Mobile (Or Lose Sales)

Over 60% of online shopping happens on a phone. If your site isn’t built for mobile, you’re basically turning customers away.

Use big, easy-to-tap buttons (nobody wants to zoom in to click “Buy”).
Make forms autofill-friendly (let browsers fill in names and addresses).
Speed matters—your page should load in under three seconds.

A bad mobile experience = lost sales.

5. Use Smart Popups to Catch Shoppers Before They Leave

Think of popups like a last-minute sales pitch. Right as someone is about to leave, you hit them with an irresistible offer.

Exit-intent popups – “Wait! Get 10% off if you complete your order now!”
Stock urgency – “Only 3 left in stock!”
Free shipping incentives – “Spend $5 more for free shipping!”

Popups work—when used the right way.

6. Follow Up with Abandoned Cart Emails & SMS Reminders

Some shoppers leave their carts with good intentions—they just get distracted. Your job? Remind them.

Send an abandoned cart email within an hour – “You forgot something!”
Offer an incentive in the second email – “Here’s 10% off to finish your order.”
Try SMS – “Your cart is waiting! Checkout before your deal expires.”

A well-timed reminder can recover up to 30% of lost sales.

7. Build Trust with Security Badges & Reviews

Shoppers won’t enter their credit card info if they don’t trust your site. Build confidence by making your website look safe and legit.

Display security badges (SSL encryption, PayPal Verified, Visa Secure).
Show customer reviews and testimonials—real feedback builds trust.
Use money-back guarantees or risk-free trial offers.

The safer they feel, the more likely they are to buy.

8. Retarget with Ads (Because They’re Still Interested)

Even if someone leaves your site, they’re still thinking about your product. Retargeting ads remind them to come back.

Show personalized ads with the exact items they abandoned.
Offer a discount for a limited time.
Send them straight back to their pre-filled cart—no need to start over.

Retargeting turns window shoppers into buyers.

9. Add Live Chat for Real-Time Support

Sometimes, people have one last question before checking out. If they can’t get an answer quickly, they might just give up.

Use live chat to help answer customer questions instantly.
Set up AI chatbots for common questions.
Offer real human support for higher-ticket purchases.

Live chat builds confidence and helps close sales faster.

10. Test & Optimize Your Checkout Process

Want to know exactly where customers are dropping off? Run A/B tests to see what’s working (and what’s not).

Test different checkout designs (one-page vs. multi-step).
Try different CTAs (e.g., “Complete Your Purchase” vs. “Buy Now”).
Analyze heatmaps to see where users hesitate before dropping off.

Small changes can lead to big wins.

Final Takeaway: Small Fixes = Big Wins

Reducing cart abandonment isn’t about one magic trick—it’s about removing every little obstacle that stands between your customer and that final click.

Be upfront about pricing.
Make checkout as easy as possible.
Give multiple payment options.
Optimize for mobile.
Follow up with emails and retargeting ads.
Use live chat to close the deal.

Fix these, and you’ll turn abandoned carts into completed orders.

Want more e-commerce sales tips? Hit that follow button.

Square is Coming After Your Depositors

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:37:14 GMT

The Growing Challenge of Square Financial Services

As a merchant services sales professional, you understand Square’s dominance in the industry. But Square is no longer just a payment processor; it is now actively pulling small businesses into its banking ecosystem, siphoning deposits from traditional financial institutions. This shift puts your clients at risk of being locked into Square’s services, often without realizing the true costs and limitations.

Your role is to help businesses make informed decisions about payment processing and banking solutions. This guide equips you with the insights needed to position your offerings as the superior alternative to Square, giving you the competitive edge to win more business.

Square Financial Services: What You Are Up Against

Square’s Banking Solutions

Founded in 2021, Square Financial Services, Inc. is an FDIC-insured institution specializing in commercial lending. However, many of its core banking products rely on Sutton Bank, a small Ohio-based institution with $1.5 billion in assets.

Key Products:

Square Checking: Instant access to sales revenue.
Square Savings: Automated savings tools integrated with sales processing.
Square Loans: Short-term financing with high costs.
Square Bill Pay: Direct vendor payments from Square accounts.

Square positions itself as an all-in-one financial solution, making money management simpler for business owners. Your challenge is to highlight why your merchant services solutions are more cost-effective, reliable, and backed by superior customer service.

Why Merchants Choose Square (and How to Overcome It)

For many businesses, Square’s biggest draw is convenience. Its easy sign-up process—instant approval and no direct interaction with sales reps—removes friction for business owners who want to start quickly. Traditional merchant service providers, in contrast, often require more thorough underwriting.

What Square Does Well:

No monthly fees for basic plans.
Instant approval and easy onboarding.
All-in-one platform for payments, banking, and payroll.
User-friendly mobile and web interfaces.
Strong brand presence and aggressive marketing.

While these features are appealing, many businesses don’t realize the hidden costs of Square’s services until they’re locked in. This is where you step in. Your goal is to educate merchants on these drawbacks and offer a superior alternative.

The Hidden Costs and Risks of Square Processing

1. High Transaction Fees

Square’s pricing structure appears simple but is expensive compared to traditional merchant services:

Card-present transactions: 2.6% + $0.10 to $0.15
Remote transactions: 2.9% + $0.30
Keyed-in transactions: 3.5% + $0.15
E-invoicing: 3.3% + $0.30

Positioning Tip: Show merchants how much they can save by switching to your solution. Offer programs like dual pricing or Buyer’s Choice to further reduce costs.

2. Risk of Account Freezing

Square’s aggregator model means accounts can be frozen or terminated without warning, potentially crippling a business’s cash flow.

Positioning Tip: Emphasize the stability and security your merchant accounts provide, ensuring uninterrupted payment processing.

3. Poor Customer Support

Square’s customer service is notorious for requiring merchants to interact with chatbots before they can speak to a real person. This is a major pain point when businesses need immediate assistance.

Positioning Tip: Highlight your direct access to human support, personalized service, and hands-on guidance.

4. No Offline Processing

Square transactions stop when the internet goes down, leaving businesses unable to process payments.

Positioning Tip: Showcase how your merchant services offer offline processing, ensuring business continuity during outages.

5. High-Cost Loans with Hidden Fees

Square loans carry steep costs, often with a 14.5% flat fee , making them significantly more expensive than traditional financing options.

Positioning Tip: Educate merchants on the true cost of Square loans and offer them access to more transparent, flexible financing solutions.

How to Sell Against Square and Win More Business

1. Identify Square Users in Your Portfolio

Many of your current or prospective clients may already be using Square. Use data to identify them:

Request a Foreign ACH Receiver’s Report from your bank partners. Square users will appear as “Square Inc.”
Reach out proactively and start a conversation.

2. Educate Merchants on Their Options

Business owners often choose Square because they believe it’s the best option. Your job is to show them a better way.

3. Lead with Cost Savings and Stability

Break down the math for merchants. Show them exactly how much they are overpaying with Square and how much they can save with your solution.

4. Promote Dual Pricing and Surcharging

Square does not offer dual pricing or Buyer’s Choice programs —meaning merchants absorb all processing costs. Your solution allows them to pass fees to customers, increasing their margins.

5. Sell Your Personalized Service and Support

Differentiate yourself by offering:

A direct relationship with a real person.
Hands-on guidance and support.
Tailored solutions designed for each merchant’s unique needs.

Final Thoughts: Beat Square!

Square is aggressively targeting small businesses, but your solution provides greater value: lower costs, more reliability, and superior customer support.

Action Steps:

Identify Square users in your network and contact them proactively.
Show merchants the true cost of Square compared to your offerings.
Educate business owners about dual pricing, surcharging, and offline processing.
Position yourself as a trusted partner, not just another processor.

Now is the time to act. Square is coming after your merchant and prospects—what are you doing to beat them?

This is Kansas City - Episode 95

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 21:12:49 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 94

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:49:11 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 93

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:40:05 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Evolv Expands with New Regional Office: Evolv Central Florida

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 13:58:40 GMT

Evolv, a leading provider of payment acceptance solutions serving over 16,000 businesses and processing $6 billion annually, has announced the launch of Evolv Central Florida , a strategic expansion aimed at strengthening its distribution capabilities and leadership. This new regional office marks a significant step in Evolv’s commitment to delivering innovative payment solutions and driving substantial growth.

Derek Saunders, Regional President of Evolv Central Florida, emphasized the shared vision that led to this expansion. “I first met Allan [Noe, Evolv CEO] over 15 years ago while working in the ISO channel at NPC/Vantiv, supporting ISOs in their growth and success. The most successful businesses—large or small—are built on strong relationships, delivering value, and always putting clients first. That’s the very DNA of Evolv. Partnering with Allan and the Evolv team to bring this vision to life in Central Florida was an easy decision. At Evolv Central Florida, we are committed to fostering meaningful partnerships and uplifting the communities we serve, always operating with a ‘give first’ mentality.”

Evolv CEO Allan Noe echoed the significance of this expansion in furthering the company’s mission. “This collaboration allows us to leverage our combined strengths to deliver innovative solutions that empower merchants to succeed in an ever-evolving marketplace. At Evolv, building lasting partnerships is at the heart of what we do, and expanding our presence in Florida is an exciting milestone that enables us to serve merchants in the region more effectively.”

With the launch of Evolv Central Florida, the company continues to expand its reach, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for businesses seeking cutting-edge payment solutions and unparalleled service.

About Evolv

Founded in 1998, Evolv partners with banks, associations, and sales offices to deliver cutting-edge payment acceptance solutions. Operating as a multi-processor sales office, Evolv offers an extensive range of products, including point-of-sale systems, gateways, and payment terminals. In 2017, the company expanded by investing in VIV, a digital marketing agency, adding services like website development, social media management, and paid advertising to its portfolio. Evolv remains dedicated to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks for merchants and partners. For more information, visit poweredbyevolv.com .

This is Kansas City - Episode 92

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 19:23:57 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

New Partnership: National Tile Contractors Association

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 21:00:23 GMT

Evolv has partnered with National Tile Contractors Association as the Preferred Provider for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

NTCA Partners with Evolv to Offer Exclusive Payment and Digital Marketing Solutions

The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is excited to announce its partnership with Evolv as a Preferred Provider for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions. Through this collaboration, NTCA members will gain access to exclusive discounts, cutting-edge technology, and compliance support, and payment acceptance.

About the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA)

E stablished in 1947, NTCA is the world’s largest and most respected tile contractors association. As a nonprofit trade organization, NTCA is committed to advancing the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone.

NTCA provides top-tier education, peer support, cost-saving programs, and resources to help contractors develop their skills, expand their businesses, and train employees. Through industry advocacy, training programs, and standards development, NTCA ensures quality installations and promotes the increased use of tile.

For more information, visit: tile-assn.com
Follow NTCA on Facebook : National Tile Contractors Association

About Evolv

In 2017, Evolv expanded into digital marketing, providing businesses with services such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. With a commitment to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks, Evolv supports over 16,000 businesses and processes $6 billion in annual transactions.

To learn more, visit: poweredbyevolv.com

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

This is Kansas City - Episode 91

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 14:47:38 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 90

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 14:42:18 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Selling in a Market Full of Choices: A Guide for Merchant Services Salespeople

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 17:26:01 GMT

The merchant services industry is crowded with options, and as salespeople, we know that the competition is fierce. With so many payment solutions available, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. But here is the good news: by mastering the basics, diversifying your product knowledge, and positioning yourself as a problem solver, you can stand out and thrive. Let us break down how to sell successfully in this competitive market.

Master the Basics: Qualifying and Observing

Before we dive into advanced strategies, let us start with the essentials. Mastering the basics of sales is crucial—especially when navigating a market full of options. Your success begins with understanding the client and their business.

Qualifying Through Observation

When meeting a potential client, take a moment to observe their business before jumping into the pitch. What kind of payments do they accept? Do they use mobile payments, or is their system outdated? By understanding the nature of their business, you can quickly qualify them and determine whether your solution fits their needs.

Shift from Selling to Consulting

As a sales professional, your role is evolving. You are not just selling a product; you are becoming a business consultant. This mindset shift will change the way you engage with your clients. Rather than simply pushing a product, you should be offering a solution. For example, when discussing dual pricing, focus on how it can reduce their processing fees and benefit their customers. By positioning yourself as a trusted advisor, you are more likely to build long-term relationships.

Diversify Your Product Knowledge: Know Your Solutions Inside and Out

To succeed in this crowded market, you need to understand more than just your basic offerings. Being an expert on your solutions is what will set you apart.

Start with the Payment Networks

When it comes to payment networks, think of it like picking the right tool for the job. You would not use a hammer when the job calls for a screwdriver, right? Similarly, not every payment network fits every business. It is all about choosing the tool that gets the job done efficiently.

There are several payment networks available—TSYS, Worldpay, FirstData, and more. Understanding the differences between these networks is essential. Some, like TSYS and Worldpay, are ideal for low-risk businesses, while others like High Risk cater to businesses with higher transaction volumes. Knowing which network suits a specific client will allow you to offer more tailored solutions.

Agnostic vs. Proprietary Solutions

It is essential to understand the difference between agnostic and proprietary solutions. Agnostic solutions work with multiple systems, giving your clients flexibility. On the other hand, proprietary systems are more restrictive but may offer additional security and efficiency. Understanding the pros and cons of each type allows you to position the right product for each client’s needs.

Leverage Product Matrices

Utilize product matrices to guide your recommendations. These matrices can help you determine which payment solution fits best based on a client’s size, transaction volume, and risk profile. This ensures you are always offering the most effective solution, not just the most popular one.

Get Out of Your Comfort Zone: Ask the Right Questions

Asking the right questions is like digging for treasure. The deeper you dig, the more valuable the findings are. Surface-level questions might get you started, but it is those probing questions that reveal hidden opportunities.

In a market full of choices, you cannot afford to stay in your comfort zone. Pushing yourself to ask the right questions is what will help you uncover new opportunities.

Probing Questions: The Key to Discovery

Asking the right questions is crucial in understanding your client’s needs.
Questions you should be asking include:

“How do you accept payments today?” This gives you a starting point to identify inefficiencies in their current system.
“Who are your customers?” This provides you with an invaluable insight into who your merchant does business with and what their drivers are. The first two questions set the stage for the balance of the meeting. These questions will open the door to multiple follow-up questions and establish a meaningful rapport.
“Are you absorbing the fees, or is your customer incurring them?” This helps you identify if they would benefit from a solution like dual pricing.
“Does your POS communicate with your online store?” In today’s digital age, seamless integration between in-store and online payments is essential.

By asking these types of questions, you will uncover valuable insights that will allow you to recommend the best solution for the client.

Push Yourself Beyond the Basics

Do not stop at the initial questions. Challenge yourself to go deeper. Look beyond what is comfortable and push yourself to understand the nuances of each client’s business. Whether it is exploring advanced digital payment solutions or understanding the specifics of their POS system, going deeper will allow you to provide better, more comprehensive solutions.

Give Yourself the Competitive Edge: Stand Out from the Crowd

In sales, your message is like a billboard on the highway. If it is cluttered with too much information, nobody will pay attention. But when you distill it down to the key benefits, it is a message people will notice, remember, and want to act on.

In a market as competitive as this one, standing out is non-negotiable. Let us talk about how you can gain that edge.

Strategic Communication Over Product Knowledge

It is not enough to simply have in-depth knowledge of your products. You must also communicate that knowledge effectively. How you present your solutions can make all the difference. Clients do not just want the most advanced system; they want to understand how it will help solve their problems. Focus on explaining how your solution benefits their business and aligns with their goals, not just its features.

Position Yourself as a Problem Solver

The most successful salespeople are not just selling products—they’re solving problems. When you approach a client with the mindset of understanding their challenges and providing solutions, you immediately set yourself apart. Instead of simply offering payment solutions, you should frame the conversation around how your solutions improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.

For example, instead of just selling a POS system, position it as a tool that helps the client streamline operations and drive more sales. When clients see that you are focused on their success, they are more likely to trust you as a partner rather than just a vendor.

Leverage Social Proof

Imagine your client is at a crowded party and everyone is talking about how great your product is. That is what testimonials and case studies do—they are the conversation everyone is having about your success, and you want to be the one people cannot stop talking about.

Never underestimate the power of testimonials and case studies. Sharing real success stories from clients who have benefited from your solutions helps build credibility and trust. Clients in today’s market are often overwhelmed with choices, so social proof acts as a powerful differentiator. If you have helped a client improve their processing efficiency or reduce fees, share that story. It is a compelling way to show potential clients how your solutions deliver real value.

Conclusion: Master the Basics, Diversify, and Stay Ahead of the Competition

Selling in a market full of choices requires a strategic approach. By mastering the basics, diversifying your product knowledge, and positioning yourself as a problem solver, you can build stronger relationships and close more deals. The key takeaway here is simple: know your solutions, ask the right questions, and always put the client’s needs first.

The market will continue to evolve, and as a merchant services salesperson, you need to adapt. By pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, staying informed, and being proactive in your approach, you’ll stay ahead of the competition and be the go-to expert for your clients.

Take these strategies, apply them in your next client meeting, and start seeing the results. The more you know, the more you can stand out.

This is Kansas City - Episode 89

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:23:02 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 88

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:18:51 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 87

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:10:32 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 86

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 21:28:26 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Clearing up Common Misconceptions about Dual Pricing

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:20:00 GMT

Ready to give your clients more flexibility and boost their profitability? Start presenting dual pricing today, because the future of payment processing is about empowering customers and cutting costs.

Yet, despite its advantages, several misconceptions persist, particularly about its impact on customer satisfaction and brand reputation. In this post, I will clear the air and provide you with a thorough understanding of dual pricing—its legality, ease of implementation, and most importantly, the true effects it has on customer relationships and your business's reputation.

1. Dual Pricing is Illegal

One of the most persistent myths surrounding dual pricing is the belief that it is illegal. In reality, dual pricing is fully legal in all 50 states, as long as businesses follow card brand guidelines. The key element in maintaining legal compliance is transparency. Merchants are required to display both cash and card prices clearly to their customers, either on signage or directly at the point of sale. By doing so, businesses give customers the information they need to make an informed decision, without confusion or surprise charges.

2. Customers Will Be Upset by Dual Pricing

Have you ever been to a store where the salesperson is so pushy you want to pay them to leave? That is a sales approach you definitely want to avoid! Luckily, dual pricing is not pushy, it is simply offering the customer the choice of how they want to pay. No arm-twisting required!"

Perhaps one of the biggest myths that keeps businesses back from adopting dual pricing is the fear that customers will react negatively to the idea of paying different prices based on their payment method. The concern here is understandable—after all, no one wants to alienate or frustrate their customer base. However, the reality is far less dire than many expect. When implemented correctly, dual pricing is actually well-received by customers.

Understanding the Customer Perspective

The key to making dual pricing work lies in how it is communicated. Customers generally appreciate having the option to save money, especially when the choice is clearly laid out for them. Instead of viewing the price difference as a punishment for using credit, many customers see it as an incentive to use cash and save money. It is crucial to frame the dual pricing as a discount for cash rather than a surcharge for credit. When this is clearly conveyed, it shifts the focus from “penalizing” card payments to offering a benefit for cash payments, which customers can respect.

It is also worth noting that many businesses already use pricing strategies that involve some form of differentiation—think of loyalty discounts or promotional pricing based on customer loyalty or purchase volume. Dual pricing, in this sense, is no different. It is simply a way to structure pricing based on the payment method, and most customers are quite familiar with the idea of different prices for different methods of payment (e.g., cash vs. credit). If the customer feels informed and respected in the process, they are more likely to accept and appreciate the choice.

Creating a Transparent Environment

One of the most important aspects of dual pricing is transparency. By clearly displaying both cash and card prices at the point of sale, businesses set expectations early. Customers know exactly what to expect before they reach the checkout counter. Whether they choose to pay with cash or credit, they do so with the knowledge of the price difference. This helps to eliminate any feelings of resentment or frustration, as customers are not caught off guard.

Additionally, when customers feel like they are getting a deal for choosing cash, it fosters a sense of fairness. Many consumers prefer transparency in pricing and appreciate businesses that offer clear choices. Dual pricing can therefore be viewed not as a burden, but as a value-added service—customers feel empowered to make the choice that best suits their financial situation.

3. Dual Pricing is Just a Form of Surcharging

A common misconception is that dual pricing is the same as surcharging. While both strategies involve offering different prices for different payment methods, they are distinct practices. Surcharging involves adding an additional fee to credit card payments, often with the goal of covering the merchant’s payment processing costs. This fee is often unexpected and can create frustration for customers who feel that they are being unfairly charged more for using their credit card.

In contrast, dual pricing offers customers two clear options from the outset. At no point are customers surprised by additional fees or hidden charges. Instead, they are simply presented with two prices—one for paying with cash and one for paying with a card. This upfront choice empowers customers to make their own decision, based on what works best for them. There is no "penalty" for using a card; it is simply a different payment method with a different price structure. This approach, when clearly communicated, avoids the frustrations commonly associated with surcharges.

Think of dual pricing like a coupon—only, instead of clipping it out of a Sunday newspaper, you are choosing between a cash price or a card price. No hidden fine print, just clear choices. If your customer likes paying with cash, they feel like they have found a double-bonus coupon.

4. It’s Too Complicated to Set Up

Some folks think dual pricing is as complicated as putting together IKEA furniture. But really, it is more like ordering a pizza—you know exactly what you are getting. Two prices. You choose. Done.

The truth is that many modern payment processors offer solutions that automate the process of dual pricing. These systems are designed to display both prices at the point of sale, reconcile payments easily, and ensure accurate reporting without any manual input from the merchant. With the right provider, dual pricing can be implemented with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Ease of integration is another factor that makes dual pricing an attractive solution for businesses of all sizes. Many point-of-sale systems can easily incorporate dual pricing features, and the pricing difference is automatically applied when processing payments. Merchants need only display signage that explains the pricing model, making it clear to customers that there are two payment options.

5. You Have to Label Every Item with Two Prices

A common fear among merchants is that they will need to display two prices on every item in their store. In reality, this is unnecessary. Most merchants choose to display only the card price on product labels and rely on clear signage at the point of sale to explain the dual pricing model. At checkout, the terminal will show both prices—cash and card—allowing customers to choose the option that best suits them.

6. Debit Transactions Must Be Treated Like Cash

Another myth is that debit card transactions must be treated the same as cash in a dual pricing model. While this may be an option for some businesses, it is not a requirement. Debit transactions can be priced the same as credit card transactions, priced slightly lower, or treated under a hybrid model. This flexibility allows businesses to tailor their dual pricing strategy based on their specific goals, ensuring they can maximize margins while still offering value to their customers.

7. Dual Pricing is Only for Small Businesses

Although small businesses have been quick to adopt dual pricing, this strategy is not exclusive to them. In fact, many large businesses and even franchises have incorporated dual pricing into their payment models, especially in industries with thin margins. Whether a business is small or large, dual pricing provides a clear advantage by reducing payment processing fees and offering customers more flexible payment options.

8. Dual Pricing is a New, Unproven Strategy

Dual pricing is not a new strategy. It has been used in industries like fuel and retail for decades to mitigate rising processing costs. Businesses in these sectors have long relied on dual pricing to balance the cost of accepting credit card payments with the need to remain competitive in their pricing.

9. It Will Hurt My Business Reputation

One of the most significant concerns about dual pricing is its potential to damage a business’s reputation. After all, a strong reputation is key to customer retention and long-term success. So, it is natural for business owners to worry that introducing dual pricing could be seen as a sign of poor customer service or a lack of transparency.

However, when implemented with clarity and transparency, dual pricing can actually enhance a business’s reputation. Customers respect honesty, and when they are presented with both cash and card price options upfront, they feel more in control of their purchasing decisions. Transparency fosters trust. Businesses that openly communicate pricing structures demonstrate a commitment to fairness and customer satisfaction.

By making pricing clear and straightforward, businesses reduce the potential for confusion and frustration at checkout. Customers who understand that there is a choice to make—cash or card—are less likely to feel blindsided by the final price. This transparency builds goodwill and improves customer loyalty. In fact, many customers will appreciate the chance to save money when they choose to pay with cash, which in turn can boost customer satisfaction.

10. Dual Pricing Will Lower Sales Volume

The idea that dual pricing will hurt sales volume is another myth that many merchants worry about. The truth is that dual pricing does not negatively impact sales. Instead, it offers customers more options, which can actually lead to increased sales. By reducing processing fees, businesses can improve profitability while maintaining competitive pricing. Additionally, customers who appreciate the option to save money on their purchases are more likely to return.

Conclusion

Dual pricing is a powerful and practical solution for businesses looking to reduce payment processing fees while providing customers with more flexible payment options. The misconceptions surrounding dual pricing—whether about its legality, its complexity, or its impact on customer satisfaction and reputation—are easily debunked. When implemented with transparency and clear communication, dual pricing can enhance your customer relationships, boost your reputation, and improve your bottom line.

By addressing these myths and understanding the true benefits of dual pricing, businesses of all sizes can confidently adopt this strategy to stay competitive in an increasingly cost-conscious market.

*Debit and prepaid debit cards are exempt from surcharge.

Evolv Partners with Community Bankers Association of Georgia to Enhance Merchant Services

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 19:10:08 GMT

Evolv, a leader in payment acceptance solutions serving over 16,000 businesses and processing $6 billion annually, is proud to announce its new partnership with Community Bankers Association (CBA) of Georgia. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in advancing innovative payment solutions and fostering growth within the banking industry.

“We are proud to be the preferred vendor for the Community Bankers Association of Georgia, supporting the growth and success of our community banks across the state.” said Sheila Wyatt, Regional President of Strategic Partnerships at Evolv-Nashville. “Our commitment to providing tailored, cutting-edge solutions ensures that CBA members can continue delivering exceptional service to their customers. Together, we can shape the future of banking in Georgia!”

Allan Noe, CEO of Evolv, also shared his excitement: "Evolv is excited to partner with CBA to offer a superior Merchant Services program to their partner banks. This initiative underscores our commitment to providing innovative solutions for community banks and their depositors. This partnership reflects our shared values of customer-first service and fostering long-term growth. Together, we look forward to enhancing the payment experience for businesses and empowering banks to better serve their customers."

“CBA is excited to partner with Evolv to offer Merchant Services programs to our member banks,” stated John McNair, President & CEO of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA). “Their dedication to building relationships through outstanding customer service and a strong commitment to supporting community banks makes them an ideal partner.”

About Evolv

Founded in 1998, Evolv partners with banks, associations, and sales offices to deliver cutting-edge payment acceptance solutions. Operating as a multi-processor sales office, Evolv offers an extensive range of products, including point-of-sale systems, gateways, and payment terminals. In 2017, the company expanded by investing in VIV, a digital marketing agency, adding services such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. Evolv remains dedicated to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks for merchants and partners. For more information, visit poweredbyevolv.com .

About Community Bankers Association of Georgia

CBA is one of the strongest community banking associations in the U.S. with approximately 125 member banks and 150 vendor partners. CBA offers services in three distinct areas: Legislative, Professional Development and Member Services.

CBA is the only organization in Georgia that exclusively represents the interests of community banks. For more information, visit www.cbaofga.com.

This is Kansas City - Episode 85

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 16:04:21 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 84

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 16:46:16 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 83

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 14:16:10 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Evolv Partners with United Bankers Bank to Enhance Merchant Services

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 20:59:25 GMT

Evolv, a leader in payment acceptance solutions serving over 16,000 businesses and processing $6 billion annually, is proud to announce its new partnership with United Bankers Bank (UBB), a Minnesota-based financial institution. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in advancing innovative payment solutions and fostering growth within the banking industry.

“I’m thrilled to collaborate with UBB to deliver a concierge-style, white-glove Merchant Services program for their banks,” said Nellie Schlacter, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Evolv. “At Evolv, we strive to enhance the bank customer’s experience, leaving them in a better place than where we found them. As a former banker, I am passionate about empowering bankers to build even stronger relationships with their customers.”

Allan Noe, CEO of Evolv, also shared his excitement: "Evolv is excited to partner with United Bankers Bank to offer a superior Merchant Services program to their partner banks. This initiative underscores our commitment to providing innovative solutions for community banks and their depositors. This partnership reflects our shared values of customer-first service and fostering long-term growth. Together, we look forward to enhancing the payment experience for businesses and empowering banks to better serve their customers."

John Peterson, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of UBB, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “United Bankers Bank (UBB) is thrilled to partner with Evolv for our Merchant Services program. Their dedication to building partnerships through excellent customer service and unwavering commitment to supporting community banks made them an ideal partner for us. We look forward to a successful partnership ahead.”

About Evolv

Founded in 1998, Evolv partners with banks, associations, and sales offices to deliver cutting-edge payment acceptance solutions. Operating as a multi-processor sales office, Evolv offers an extensive range of products, including point-of-sale systems, gateways, and payment terminals. In 2017, the company expanded by investing in VIV, a digital marketing agency, adding services such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. Evolv remains dedicated to increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks for merchants and partners. For more information, visit poweredbyevolv.com .

About United Bankers Bank

United Bankers Bank (UBB) is the nation’s first bankers’ bank, providing a full suite of correspondent banking solutions to over 1,000 community banks throughout the United States. UBB is committed to empowering community banks with innovative financial services and solutions. For more information, please visit www.ubb.com .

This is Kansas City - Episode 82

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 19:12:07 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 81

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 22:19:15 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 80

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:09:53 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 79

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 19:21:45 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

New Partnership: Black Owned Beauty Supply Association

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 17:29:27 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Black Owned Beauty Supply Association as the Preferred Provider for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

The Black Owned Beauty Supply Association (B.O.B.S.A.) has announced they have partnered with Evolv as a Preferred Vendor for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions to offer your business wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers B.O.B.S.A. members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions.

About Black Owned Beauty Supply Association

BOBSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the education, motivation, and redirection of Black consumerism and Black economics all over the world, to the benefit of Black communities. BOBSA’s mission is to CONNECT Black manufacturers, to Black distributors, to Black retailers, to Black consumers in Black communities; by destroying the vail of economic disparity and Black economic oppression within the Black Hair Care & Beauty Industry.

To learn more about the Black Owned Beauty Supply Association visit:
https://bobsa.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

B.O.B.S.A.

About Evolv

Since 1998, Evolv has partnered with banks, associations, and sales offices to offer the best in payment acceptance. A multi-processor sales office, Evolv has established a robust product offering, including point-of-sale, gateways, terminals and other payment acceptance solutions.

In 2017, Evolv invested in a growing digital marketing agency, enhancing its product offering to include digital marketing solutions such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. Evolv’s diverse suite of business solutions is a reflection of its commitment to its motto: to increase sales, decrease costs, and mitigate risks for merchants and partners.

Evolv supports over 16,000 businesses, processes $6 billion in annual transactions, and is trusted by more than 25 independent sales offices nationwide. To learn more about Evolv, visit poweredbyevolv.com .

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

This is Kansas City - Episode 78

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 15:03:02 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 77

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 15:29:08 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 76

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 15:27:14 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 75

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 16:29:18 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 74

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 20:24:31 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 73

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:16:25 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 72

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 21:29:11 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 71

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 16:40:16 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 70

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 14:18:26 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

MOGA 50th Winter Convention

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 22:34:43 GMT

Jacob Noe

Director of Sales

Tyler Green

Relationship Advocate

Meet Our Team!

We're happy to be the Title Sponsor of the Montana Outfitters & Guides Associations Winter Convention.

This is Kansas City - Episode 69

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:14:40 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 68

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 21:13:32 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 67

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 21:26:24 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 66

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 14:29:19 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 65

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 21:14:33 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 64

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 14:29:49 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Love KC Food Show - Episode 93

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 19:29:56 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

Love KC Food Show - Episode 92

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:45:07 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

This is Kansas City - Episode 63

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 16:46:58 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Love KC Food Show - Episode 91

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 15:35:26 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

This is Kansas City - Episode 62

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 14:33:50 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Love KC Food Show - Episode 90

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 14:56:33 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

Love KC Food Show - Episode 89

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 15:17:03 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

EVOLV EXPANDS WITH ACQUISITION OF ENZOPAY

awoods@poweredbyevolv.com (Allison Woods) — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 14:13:27 GMT

Evolv expands with acquisition of EnzoPay

Evolv, a leader in payment acceptance solutions serving over 16,000 businesses and processing $6 billion in annual transactions, is thrilled to announce its acquisition of Virginia-based EnzoPay. This strategic move marks a major milestone, as EnzoPay transitions to operate as Evolv Mid-Atlantic.

The acquisition strengthens Evolv's distribution network and leadership position, paving the way for innovative payment solutions and accelerated growth in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Steve Harler, Chief Executive Officer at EnzoPay, shared his perspective on the partnership:
“Before EnzoPay became an ISO of Evolv three years ago, I built and sold two ISOs, each requiring significant back-office capital. We chose Evolv for their shared services model, which allowed us to focus exclusively on sales and partnership development. Within three years, we achieved revenue milestones that had previously taken me six years to reach with my other ISOs. This success is directly tied to Evolv’s exceptional back-office support and access to industry-leading platforms like TSYS, Fiserv, and FIS. The opportunity to collaborate with Evolv’s leadership team, especially CEO Allan Noe, who shares a growth-oriented vision, was the perfect complement to our journey.”

Allan Noe, Chief Executive Officer of Evolv, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition:
“We are excited to welcome EnzoPay to the Evolv family. This partnership represents an exciting chapter in our growth strategy as we expand our reach and capabilities. EnzoPay’s proven track record and deep understanding of the payment landscape align perfectly with Evolv’s vision. Together, we are poised to accelerate growth in the region and deliver even more innovative solutions to our clients.”

This acquisition underscores Evolv’s commitment to empowering businesses with cutting-edge payment solutions and setting a new standard in the payment processing industry.

About Evolv

Since 1998, Evolv has partnered with banks, associations, and sales offices to deliver top-tier payment acceptance solutions. As a multi-processor sales office, Evolv provides a robust lineup of products, including point-of-sale systems, gateways, terminals, and other payment acceptance solutions. In 2017, Evolv expanded its offerings by investing in VIV, a growing digital marketing agency, now offering solutions such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. Evolv is dedicated to its mission: increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks for merchants and partners. For more information, visit poweredbyevolv.com .

About EnzoPay

“Our decision to join the Evolv family was a very easy one. After three years of being an ISO of Evolv, we realized that a business partnership with Evolv was the natural next step. With our rebrand and launch of Evolv Mid-Atlantic, we will be focusing on major growth in Virginia, DC, Maryland, and New Jersey. Evolv Mid-Atlantic will also have a strong focus in software integrations, bank partnerships, and helping associations monetize their platform. This is the most excited I have been in my eighteen-year payments career." Said CEO Steve Harler of EnzoPay.

Love KC Food Show - Episode 88

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 21:26:33 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

This is Kansas City - Episode 61

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 14:18:50 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 60

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:19:24 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Love KC Food Show - Episode 87

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 15:27:33 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

Love KC Food Show - Episode 86

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:13:57 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

New Partnership: Arkansas Hospitality Association

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:41:26 GMT

Evolv is proud to partner with the Arkansas Hospitality Association as an Endorsed Service Provider for Digital Marketing solutions!

The Arkansas Hospitality Association (AHA) is excited to announce its partnership with Evolv as an Endorsed Provider for Digital Marketing solutions. Through this partnership, AHA members can access effective digital marketing services at exclusive discounted rates.

About Arkansas Hospitality Association

Arkansas Hospitality Association (AHA) is the leading trade association for the foodservice, lodging and travel industry in Arkansas. AHA serves as an umbrella organization for the Arkansas Lodging Association , the Arkansas Restaurant Association and the Arkansas Travel Council . We also offer categories of membership for vendors and schools.

Strategic Goals

Influence: We are a powerful advocate, representing the industry and interest of members before the Arkansas General Assembly and government agencies.
Image: We will be the leader in communicating the importance of the industry in the state of Arkansas. We tell the story!
Workforce: As a trusted resource for the industry, we provide education, research and certifications to promote the hospitality workforce.
Value: Arkansas Hospitality Association is the leader in offering relevant and cutting edge programs, benefits and service to recruit and retain members.

To learn more about the Iowa Restaurant Association, visit:
https://www.arhospitality.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Ar kansas Hospitality Association

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

New Partnership: Iowa Restaurant Association

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:32:29 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Iowa Restaurant Association as an Endorsed Member Benefit Partner for Digital Marketing solutions!

The Iowa Restaurant Association (IRA) is excited to announce its partnership with Evolv as an Endorsed Member Benefit Partner for Digital Marketing solutions. Through this partnership, IRA members can access effective digital marketing services at exclusive discounted rates.

About Iowa Restaurant Association

With nearly 6,000 establishments and annual sales exceeding $4 billion in 2022, Iowa’s restaurant and beverage industry is vital to the state’s economy. Employing over 137,000 people, it is Iowa’s second-largest private sector employer.

The Iowa Restaurant Association (IRA)
The IRA supports Iowa's restaurant and tavern industries through:

Advocacy and Representation
Industry-Specific Programs and Services
Training, Networking, and Promotional Opportunities
Education Partnerships and Competitions

As the state affiliate of the National Restaurant Association, members enjoy dual benefits from both organizations.

To learn more about the Iowa Restaurant Association, visit:
https://restaurantiowa.com/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Iowa Restaurant Association

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 16:22:20 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 59

This is Kansas City - Episode 58

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 16:37:51 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 58

Love KC Food Show - Episode 85

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 21:58:03 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 14:29:36 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 84

EVOLV EXPANDS WITH ACQUISITION OF FUTURE PAYMENTS

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 22:19:04 GMT

Evolv, a leader in payment acceptance solutions with a clientele exceeding 16,000 businesses and an annual transaction volume of $6 billion, is excited to announce its strategic acquisition of Nashville-based Future Payments.

This partnership marks a significant milestone as Future Payments transitions to become Evolv Nashville.

This acquisition strengthens Evolv’s distribution and leadership, paving the way for enhanced growth prospects and innovative payment solutions.

“For us, this partnership is about synergy and shared purpose,” said Brad Hollar, COO of Future Payments. “Evolv’s

commitment to innovation and support mirrors our goals at Future Payments, and we’re ready to make an even

greater impact in the payments space.”

Shay Horseman, CEO of Future Payments, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The Evolv team has welcomed us with open arms. Together, we’re set to redefine possibilities in the payments industry. The added resources and expertise will empower us to grow exponentially and continue our mission at an incredible pace.”

John Johnson, Chief Development Officer at Evolv, stated, "Our partnership with Future Payments is a testament to the power of aligned interests. By joining forces, we are unlocking new opportunities for growth that will enhance our ability to serve our clients in the ever-evolving payments landscape. Culturally, Shay, Brad, and their team are an excellent fit with Evolv, and we are tremendously excited about the prospects that lie ahead."

Allan Noe, Chief Executive Officer at Evolv, stated, “Our partnership with Future Payments is a key moment in our journey to better serve our merchants. Shay, Brad, and their team bring invaluable expertise and a shared commitment to excellence that will amplify our capacity to provide exceptional value and innovative solutions. By combining our strengths, we are enhancing our ability to deliver exceptional value and innovative solutions that empower merchants to thrive in a rapidly changing marketplace. Evolv is committed to fostering lasting relationships that drive success for all our partners."

About Evolv

About Future Payments

Founded in 2024 by Shay Horseman and Brad Hollar, Future Payments has quickly made its mark in the payment industry. With a veteran team of agents spanning the U.S., the company has leveraged years of expertise to secure major partnerships with banks, ISVs, and other organizations—all within just eight months. “We are beyond thrilled about joining forces with Evolv. Since the day we met Allan, John, and the entire Evolv team, they’ve felt like family. This merger not only strengthens Future Payments within the Evolv brand, but also gives us the capital and resources to scale exponentially, quicker.” said Horseman.

This is Kansas City - Episode 57

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 20:18:52 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 57

This is Kansas City - Episode 56

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 13:40:32 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 56

Love KC Food Show - Episode 83

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 13:24:19 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 83

This is Kansas City - Episode 55

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 13:37:22 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 55

This is Kansas City - Episode 54

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 18:34:28 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 54

Love KC Food Show - Episode 82

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 20:03:37 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 82

Love KC Food Show - Episode 81

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 21:16:11 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 81

This is Kansas City - Episode 53

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 14:24:16 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 53

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 21:00:39 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 53

Love KC Food Show - Episode 80

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:32:11 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 80

Love KC Food Show - Episode 79

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 13:45:56 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 79

This is Kansas City - Episode 52

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 14:22:51 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 52

Love KC Food Show - Episode 78

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 14:29:04 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 78

This is Kansas City - Episode 51

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 14:11:02 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 51

This is Kansas City - Episode 50

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 15:10:40 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 50

Love KC Food Show - Episode 77

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 20:42:55 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 77

This is Kansas City - Episode 49

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:46:54 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 49

This is Kansas City - Episode 48

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:39:20 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 48

Love KC Food Show - Episode 76

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:35:55 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 76

This is Kansas City - Episode 47

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 14:32:39 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 47

This is Kansas City - Episode 46

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 14:27:10 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 46

Love KC Food Show - Episode 75

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 20:31:30 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 75

Love KC Food Show - Episode 74

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:22:16 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 74

This is Kansas City - Episode 45

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 13:45:39 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 45

Love KC Food Show - Episode 73

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 17:57:35 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 73

Love KC Food Show - Episode 72

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 13:21:23 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 72

This is Kansas City - Episode 44

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 18:26:48 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 44

How the Buyers Choice Program is Revolutionizing Merchant Savings and Consumer Convenience

info@vivabove.com (VIV Builder) — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:36:27 GMT

In today’s increasingly competitive business landscape, merchants are constantly searching for ways to reduce overhead costs while maintaining a positive relationship with their customers. With the advent of innovative payment processing solutions, one program is standing out from the rest: the Buyers Choice Program from Evolv. This program is not only saving merchants a significant amount of money but is also being enthusiastically adopted by consumers who appreciate the transparency and flexibility it offers.

Understanding the Buyers Choice Program

At its core, the Buyers Choice Program is a payment processing solution that shifts the cost of transaction fees from the merchant to the consumer. Traditionally, merchants have had to absorb these fees as a part of their cost of doing business. However, as these fees can add up to a substantial amount over time, especially for small and medium-sized businesses, the Buyers Choice Program provides an alternative approach.

The program offers consumers the option to cover the transaction fee at the point of sale. This fee, often referred to as a "non-cash adjustment" or "service fee," is presented to the customer when they choose to pay with a credit or debit card. If the customer agrees, they pay the fee in addition to the purchase price, which can be a small percentage of the total amount. This seemingly minor shift can have significant implications for merchants, helping them retain a larger portion of their revenue.

The Financial Impact on Merchants

One of the most compelling reasons for merchants to adopt the Buyers Choice Program is the immediate reduction in costs. Transaction fees, typically around 2-4% per sale, may not seem like much on an individual basis, but they can quickly add up, especially for businesses with high transaction volumes.

For example, a merchant processing $100,000 in credit card sales per month could be paying $2,000 to $4,000 in fees. Over the course of a year, this amounts to $24,000 to $48,000—funds that could be reinvested into the business. By adopting the Buyers Choice Program, merchants can effectively eliminate these costs, allowing them to keep more of their earnings.

This reduction in expenses can have a cascading effect on a business’s overall financial health. With more revenue retained, merchants can allocate funds to other critical areas such as marketing, employee wages, inventory expansion, or even customer loyalty programs. In turn, this can lead to business growth, higher profitability, and a more competitive stance in the market.

The Consumer Perspective: Transparency and Choice

While the idea of passing transaction fees to consumers might initially seem like a potential deterrent, the reality is quite different. Today’s consumers are more informed and value transparency in their transactions. When given the option to cover the transaction fee, many customers appreciate the upfront honesty and the opportunity to contribute directly to the merchant's sustainability.

Moreover, the way the fee is presented plays a significant role in consumer acceptance. The Buyers Choice Program ensures that the fee is clearly communicated before the transaction is completed, allowing customers to make an informed decision. This transparency fosters trust between the merchant and the consumer, as customers are not surprised by hidden fees or unexpected charges.

In addition, the program empowers consumers by offering them a choice. They can decide whether they want to cover the fee or choose an alternative payment method, such as cash, which might not incur an additional charge. This flexibility enhances the customer experience and can lead to increased satisfaction and loyalty.

Growing Consumer Adoption of the Buyers Choice Program

The acceptance of the Buyers Choice Program among consumers is on the rise. As more businesses implement this payment structure, customers are becoming accustomed to the idea of covering transaction fees. In fact, in some sectors, it has become the norm rather than the exception.

Several factors contribute to this growing adoption. First, as mentioned earlier, consumers appreciate transparency. They understand that transaction fees are a part of the cost of doing business and are often willing to cover them to support the merchants they patronize. Second, the increasing prevalence of cashless transactions means that customers are frequently faced with the decision of whether to pay by card and cover the fee or use another method. Many opt for the convenience of card payments, even if it means a small additional charge.

Additionally, the shift in consumer behavior can also be attributed to the broader trend of financial responsibility and awareness. More people are taking an active role in managing their finances, and this includes understanding the costs associated with their purchases. The Buyers Choice Program aligns with this mindset, offering consumers a clear breakdown of their costs and allowing them to make informed decisions.

Case Studies: Real-World Success with the Buyers Choice Program

To better understand the impact of the Buyers Choice Program, let’s explore a few case studies of merchants who have successfully implemented this solution.

Case Study 1: A Small Retail Business

A small retail store in a busy downtown area adopted the Buyers Choice Program to alleviate the burden of transaction fees, which had been eating into their profits. Before implementing the program, the store was paying approximately $3,000 in fees each month. After transitioning to the Buyers Choice model, they not only eliminated these fees but also noticed a positive response from their customers.

The store’s owner reported that customers appreciated the transparency and, in many cases, were happy to cover the small additional fee. The program allowed the store to reinvest the saved funds into new inventory, ultimately increasing their sales and customer satisfaction.

Case Study 2: A Mid-Sized Restaurant

A mid-sized restaurant faced similar challenges with transaction fees, which were particularly impactful given the high volume of credit card payments. The restaurant owner was initially concerned that passing the fee to customers might lead to dissatisfaction or reduced tips for the waitstaff. However, after implementing the Buyers Choice Program, the owner found that customers were largely accepting of the change.

In fact, many customers acknowledged that they had encountered similar fee structures at other establishments and were willing to contribute to help the restaurant manage its costs. The restaurant was able to save over $5,000 per month in fees, which they used to enhance their menu offerings and invest in staff training. This, in turn, led to increased customer loyalty and repeat business.

Case Study 3: An E-Commerce Business

An online retailer specializing in niche products faced increasing pressure from rising transaction fees, especially as their sales volume grew. The retailer decided to implement the Buyers Choice Program as a way to maintain their profit margins without increasing product prices.

The program was seamlessly integrated into their online checkout process, giving customers the option to cover the transaction fee. The retailer found that most customers were willing to do so, particularly when the fee was presented as a way to support the business directly. The savings from reduced fees allowed the retailer to offer more competitive pricing, attracting new customers and driving growth.

Addressing Potential Concerns and Misconceptions

While the Buyers Choice Program offers numerous benefits, it’s important to address some common concerns and misconceptions that merchants may have before adopting this model.

1. Will customers be deterred by the fee?

One of the primary concerns merchants have is whether customers will be put off by the additional fee. However, studies and real-world examples show that when the fee is clearly communicated and presented as a choice, most customers are accepting. The key is transparency—customers should know upfront what the fee is and why it’s being charged. In many cases, customers appreciate the honesty and are willing to pay a little extra to support the businesses they frequent.

2. How will this affect customer loyalty?

Some merchants worry that passing fees to customers might harm customer loyalty. However, the opposite is often true. When customers understand that the fee helps the business keep costs down and maintain fair pricing, they are more likely to support the merchant. Additionally, providing customers with a choice in how they pay fosters a sense of empowerment, which can enhance their overall experience.

3. Is it legal to pass transaction fees to customers?

The legality of passing transaction fees to customers varies by region and jurisdiction. It’s important for merchants to check local regulations and ensure they are in compliance. However, in many areas, it is perfectly legal to implement such a program as long as the fee is clearly disclosed and the customer has the option to opt-out by choosing an alternative payment method.

4. Will this affect tips in a service-oriented business?

Service-oriented businesses, such as restaurants, may be concerned that passing fees to customers will reduce the amount customers tip their staff. However, evidence suggests that when customers understand the fee is separate from the tip and is used to cover transaction costs, it does not significantly impact tipping behavior. Clear communication is key to ensuring customers understand the purpose of the fee and continue to tip as they normally would.

Conclusion: A Win-Win Solution for Merchants and Consumers

The Buyers Choice Program from Evolv is more than just a way to reduce costs—it’s a strategic tool that aligns the interests of merchants and consumers. By offering transparency, flexibility, and a clear understanding of transaction costs, the program fosters stronger relationships between businesses and their customers.

Merchants who adopt the Buyers Choice Program can expect to see substantial savings on transaction fees, which can be reinvested into their businesses to drive growth and enhance customer satisfaction. Meanwhile, consumers gain the ability to make informed decisions about their purchases and support the businesses they love in a meaningful way.

As the business environment continues to evolve, solutions like the Buyers Choice Program are proving essential in helping merchants navigate financial challenges while maintaining a high level of service and customer engagement. For businesses looking to improve their bottom line without compromising on customer experience, the Buyers Choice Program is an invaluable asset.

By embracing this innovative approach, merchants can ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly changing market, while consumers enjoy the benefits of choice, transparency, and convenience.

This is Kansas City - Episode 43

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 13:45:00 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 43

This is Kansas City - Episode 42

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 15:44:00 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 42

Love KC Food Show - Episode 71

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 13:33:00 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 71

Love KC Food Show - Episode 70

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 13:25:00 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 70

This is Kansas City - Episode 41

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:23:00 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 41

This is Kansas City - Episode 40

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 14:19:00 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 40

Love KC Food Show - Episode 69

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 13:58:00 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 69

This is Kansas City - Episode 39

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 18:57:00 GMT

This is Kansas City - Episode 39

Love KC Food Show - Episode 68

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 19:26:00 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 68

Love KC Food Show - Episode 67

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 19:02:00 GMT

Love KC Food Show - Episode 67

New Partnership: Ohio Assocation of Child Care Providers

Fri, 03 May 2024 16:11:54 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Ohio Association of Child Care Providers as a Preferred Vendor for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

Ohio Association of Child Care Providers (OACCP) has announced they have partnered with Evolv as a Preferred Vendor for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions to offer your business wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers Ohio Association of Child Care Providers members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions.

About Ohio Association of Child Care Providers

The Ohio Association of Child Care Providers represents the Directors and Business Owners of over 600 licensed child care centers. Our members educate and care for over 50,000 of Ohio's youngest citizens, including private pay and publicly funded children, who are served in faith-based, for-profit and non-profit programs.

The OACCP organization as been a driving force as it pertains to improvements in the area of licensing and SUTQ regulations, working with initiatives the Department of Job and Family Services may institute, and then ensuring that the voices of Ohio providers are heard through participation in meetings throughout the Biennium Budget and/or regulatory processes.

To learn more about the Ohio Association of Child Care Providers, visit:
https://www.oaccp.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Ohio Association of Child Care Providers

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

New Partnership: Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 18:19:02 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association as a Business Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association has announced they have partnered with Evolv as a Business Partner for Payment Acceptance & Digital Marketing solutions to offer their members to help grow their outfitters and guide services with wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions.

About Idaho Outfitters & Guide Association

The Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association (IOGA), a statewide, nonprofit business trade association established in 1954 in Salmon, Idaho. The IOGA represents the majority of the state’s full-time, licensed outfitters and guides. Members primarily are small, independently owned businesses offering guided hunting, fishing, river running, trail riding, hiking, biking, climbing, skiing, snowmobiling, and guest ranch trips.

An outfitter is someone who offers guided trips for compensation. To operate legally in Idaho, outfitters must be licensed with the state Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board. A guide is an outfitter's employee. Guides must be certified in first aid. They must train with a licensed outfitter, and they must be licensed with the state board.

To learn more about the Idaho Outfitters & Guide Association, visit:
https://ioga.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Idaho Outfitters & Guides Assocation

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

New Partnership: Montana Outfitters & Guides Association

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 21:59:59 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Montana Outfitters & Guides Association as a Preferred Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

Montana Outfitters & Guides Association has announced they have partnered with Evolv as a Preferred Partner for Payment Acceptance & Digital Marketing solutions to offer their members to help grow their outfitters and guide services with wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers Montana Outfitters & Guides Association members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions.

About Montana Outfitters & Guide Association

MOGA is proud to include more than 500 of Montana’s professional licensed outfitters and guides with operations that span the state’s regions. With years of experience guiding hunters, fishermen, horseback riders, skiers and snowmobilers as well as whitewater rafting, our outfitters will show you the best of Montana in a vacation that’s personalized to your needs.

To learn more about the Montana Outfitters & Guide Association, visit:
https://www.montanaoutfitters.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Montana Outfitters and Guides Association

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

New Partnership: Texas Tire & Automotive Association

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 20:00:39 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Texas Tire & Automotive Association as an Endorsed Partner for Digital Marketing solutions!

Texas Tire & Automotive Association has announced they have partnered with Evolv as an Endorsed Partner for Digital Marketing solutions to offer their members effective Digital Marketing Solutions. Evolv offers Texas Tire & Automotive Association members discounts on digital marketing solutions.

About Texas Tire & Automotive Association

Texas Tire & Automotive Association is the single organization in Texas representing the collective interests of the tire and automotive repair industry.

To learn more about the Texas Tire & Automotive Association, visit:
https://texastiredealers.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Texas Tire & Automotive Association

About Evolv

Since 1998, Evolv has partnered with banks, associations, and sales offices to offer the best in payment acceptance a. A multi-processor sales office, Evolv has established a robust product offering, including point-of-sale, gateways, terminals and other payment acceptance solutions.

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

New Partnership: Louisiana Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 19:31:02 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Louisiana Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons as an Endorsed Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

Louisiana Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons has announced they have partnered with Evolv as an Endorsed Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions to offer your business wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers Louisiana Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions.

About Louisiana Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons

The Louisiana Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (LAEPS) is an Association for is a statewide, professional membership organization. It is our mission to serve the total visual health care needs of the people of the Louisiana through public and professional education, membership services and legislative advocacy.

To learn more about the Louisiana Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons, visit:
https://laeps.wildapricot.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Louisiana Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

New Partnership: Louisiana Ambulatory Surgery Center Association

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 19:21:59 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Louisiana Ambulatory Surgery Center Association as an Endorsed Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

Louisiana Ambulatory Surgery Center Association has announced they have partnered with Evolv as an Endorsed Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions to offer your business wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers Louisiana Ambulatory Surgery Center Association members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions.

About Louisiana Ambulatory Surgery Center Association

The Louisiana Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (LASCA) is an Association for ONLY statewide, professional membership organization that represents the interests of licensed surgery centers. LASCA has an experienced, registered lobbyist who monitors legislative and regulatory threats to licensed ambulatory surgery centers. There is strength in numbers. LASCA's primary role is to represent the interests of your surgery center. We closely monitor all legislation that moves through the legislative process and keep LASCA members informed legislation that would impact your ASC.

To learn more about the Louisiana Ambulatory Surgery Center Association, visit:
https://lasca.wildapricot.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Louisia na Ambulatory Surgery Center Association

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

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New Partnership: North Dakota Nursery, Greenhouse & Landscape Association

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 17:43:40 GMT

Evolv has partnered with North Dakota Nursery, Greenhouse & Landscape Association as a Corporate Partner for Digital Marketing solutions!

North Dakota Nursery, Greenhouse & Landscape Association has announced they have partnered with Evolv as an Corporate Partner for Digital Marketing solutions to offer their members effective Digital Marketing Solutions. Evolv offers North Dakota Nursery, Greenhouse & Landscape Association members discounts digital marketing solutions.

About North Dakota Nursery, Greenhouse & Landscape Association

The North Dakota Nursery, Greenhouse & Landscape Association (NDNGLA) is an Association that is a professional trade organization dedicated to advancing the horticultural industry in this area.

Members of the association are pledged to conduct themselves and their business on the highest ethical plane and endeavor to elevate the standards of the green industry in North Dakota.

To learn more about the North Dakota Nursery, Greenhouse & Landscape Association, visit:
https://www.ndngla.com/

Visit their Facebook Page:

North Dakota Nursery, Greenhouse, & Landscape Association

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EVOLV EXPANDS WITH ACQUISITION OF PRO1611

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 16:38:03 GMT

NEWBURGH, Feb. 14, 2024-- With a clientele exceeding 16,000 businesses and an annual transaction volume of $6 billion, Evolv has gained the trust of over 25 independent sales offices across the nation. Following Evolv's investment in Kansas City-based Pro1611, the latter is now in the process of transitioning to Evolv KC.

This strategic acquisition enables the combined entities to further enhance the Evolv infrastructure, bringing together two prominent distribution channels and fostering long-term growth prospects.

“With acquiring an ownership stake in Pro1611 we are excited to expand our management bench and to staff a W2 sales force. This team will be utilized to expand our Agent and Referral bank program,” said Allan Noe, CEO of Evolv. Noe also announced that Jason Bahnson and Drew Smith will serve as Managing Partners at Evolv KC LLC.

About Evolv: Since 1998, Evolv has partnered with banks, associations, and sales offices to provide top-tier payment acceptance solutions. As a multi-processor sales office, Evolv offers a robust lineup of products, including point-of-sale systems, gateways, terminals, and other payment acceptance solutions.

In 2017, Evolv expanded its offerings by investing in a growing digital marketing agency VIV , now providing additional solutions like website development, social media management, and paid advertising. With a diverse suite of business solutions, Evolv is dedicated to its motto: increasing sales, reducing costs, and mitigating risks for merchants and partners. For more information about Evolv, visit poweredbyevolv.com.

About Pro1611: Founded by Jason Bahnson and Drew Smith, Pro1611 quickly made waves in the community by prioritizing customer care and utilizing cutting-edge technology to help merchants thrive and streamline costs. Partnering with Evolv further fueled their success, leading to a natural next step: combining forces to create an even more impactful entity.

"Our partnership with Evolv has been incredibly fruitful," says Drew Smith, founder and President of Pro1611." Together, we've empowered countless Kansas City businesses with the tools and guidance they need to reach their full potential. Joining forces as Evolv KC allows us to leverage even more resources and expertise, amplifying our positive impact on the entire region."

New Partnership: Kentucky Association of Child Care Owners

awoods@poweredbyevolv.com (Allison Woods) — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 14:30:20 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Kentucky Association of Child Care Owners as an Affinity Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

Kentucky Association of Child Care Owners has announced they have partnered with Evolv as an Preferred Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions to offer your business wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers Kentucky Association of Child Care Owners members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions to help ensure their childcare runs seamlessly.

About Kentucky Association of Child Care Owners

The Kentucky Association of Child Care Owners (KACCO) is an Association for Child Care Owners, Directors, Assistant Directors, and their Staff. This Association is also for those "Directors" in Child Care who act on behalf of a non-present Owner. KACCO unites Child Care Owners from all over the state of Kentucky in order to make the Child Care Industry better.

To learn more about the Kentucky Association of Child Care Owners, visit:
https://www.kacco.org/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Kentucky Association of Child Care Owners

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New Partnership: Hawaii Rural Water Association

awoods@poweredbyevolv.com (Allison Woods) — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 19:22:46 GMT

Evolv has partnered with Hawaii Rural Water Association as an Affinity Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

Hawaii Rural Water Association has announced they have partnered with Evolv as an Affinity Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions to offer your business wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers Hawaii Rural Water Association members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions.

About Hawaii Rural Water Association

H awaii Rural Water Association provides on-site technical training and assistance to nearly every water and wastewater system in Hawaii and in parts of the Western and Southern Pacific.

To learn more about the Hawaii Rural Water Association, visit:
https://www.hrwa.net/

Visit their Facebook Page:

Hawaii Rural Water Association

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New Partnership: Midwest Auto Care Alliance

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 15:23:19 GMT

Evolv is proud to announce its partnership with the Midwest Auto Care Alliance!

Evolv is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Midwest Auto Care Alliance (MWACA) as a preferred payment processor. This partnership will allow MWACA members to enjoy seamless payment processing, including credit and debit card acceptance, mobile payments, and other secure transaction options. Evolv's cutting-edge technology and commitment to customer service make it an ideal partner for MWACA and its members' payment processing needs. We look forward to working together to help MWACA members grow their businesses and meet their financial goals

About MWACA
"MWACA was founded on the principle that, by joining together, we can advance the common interests of all our members. We take our mission very seriously: 'Advancing professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation, and member services.'"

To learn more about the Midwest Auto Care Alliance, visit https://www.mwaca.org/ :

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Evolv Celebrates 25 Years

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 21:27:06 GMT

Local Merchant Services Company Celebrated 25 Years in May 2023

Newburgh, Indiana – Evolv, Inc., an Indiana-native Merchant Services Provider, celebrated its 25 ^th anniversary in May. Since 1998, Evolv has been dedicated to service, building its business on trust, referral partners, and excellence in customer support.

As a Merchant Services Provider, Evolv provides payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions to independent businesses. Partnering with banks, associations, and sales offices nationwide, Evolv processes nearly $6 billion annually, supports thousands of merchants, and is trusted by hundreds of partners.

“I recognized quickly the only way you were ever going to win any business,” said Allan Noe, CEO of Evolv, “was to be honest and real and understanding. To understand the merchant’s desire to accept payments and how they wanted to accept them. And so that was how it began. To this day, we still interview the merchants to understand how they want to accept payments and provide a solution that ultimately saves them money, time and creates a safer transaction.”

Evolv provides credit card processing terminals , point-of-sale systems , online payment gateways , mobile processing technology and many other payment solutions. Evolv manages a merchant retention rate of 88% per year where the industry average is 70% and contributes its great referral partners and putting the right product in the merchant.

In 2017, Evolv acquired interested in VIV - a growing Digital Marketing Agency in Evansville. Since then, Evolv has acquired primary interest in the agency, and both companies operate out of Evolv’s 4,000 sq ft headquarters in Newburgh, Indiana.

“We were seeing foot traffic decrease,” Noe said of the acquisition. “Customer buying habits were changing and payments were evolving. One of the best decisions we made was to invest in the digital marketing space. And now we're giving merchants the ability to service their customers as they want to be serviced.”

Through Evolv’s relationship with VIV, the duo provides eCommerce development, website design and management, targeted advertising, online payments, integrated point-of-sale solutions, and more. To learn more about Evolv, visit www.poweredbyevolv.com .

VIV Search and how it can help your business grow!

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 18:32:14 GMT

VIV Search is the #1 way consumers find businesses.

Managing Your Restaurant's Online Presence & Leveraging VIV Search for your business

What is a VIV Search? You probably perform local searches all the time. Let’s think about your internet searching behavior. How often do you turn to Google, Yahoo, Bing, Facebook, or Yelp to conduct a search for a restaurant? If you search for:

“restaurant near me”
a restaurant in a specific category, like “Italian restaurant”
a menu from your favorite restaurant, like “Charlie Gittos menu”
operating hours of a local restaurant, “Charlie Gittos hours”
or – specifically during the pandemic, you may be looking to see if a restaurant is even open, available for dine-in, carry out or delivery options

All these searches are considered local searches . How quickly do you make a decision after conducting that search? In fact, 90% of local searches result in action within 24 hours. That makes sense, right? You are probably hungry and looking for lunch or researching your dinner options. You are likely going to make a decision within 24 hours – probably even sooner than that.

Why does that matter? It matters because restaurants not taking advantage of local search are missing out on customers - plain and simple. Restaurants should have all the information about their business available to customers, regardless of where they are searching. Believe it or not, Google is not the only search engine. Some people search Google, but others search on Yelp. A restaurant’s website is important, but more so are its local listings.

VIV Search, powered by Premier, is the key to local search.

Simply put, VIV Search:

puts restaurants on the map
helps restaurants perform better in local search
allows restaurants to generate and manage their customer reviews
lets restaurants showcase their business information like hours and menus

Click here to watch a quick video about what VIV Search can do for your restaurant.

VIV Search puts your restaurant on the map.

You have probably done a search for “restaurant near me”, or “pizza delivery”, or for a specific restaurant. That search likely resulted in a map with red pins and some nearby restaurants. If your business does not have a Google listing created, it won’t appear in this map search. So, without this Google profile, the restaurant is just missing out on these searches.

Another thing to consider is Google is not the only search engine. Yahoo, Bing, Yelp, Facebook, OpenTable, PostMates – are all search engines and directories that consumers are using every day. Again, without a listing on these directories, the restaurant will not appear in the search on these directories. Why not position your restaurant to appear on all maps and directories? Think the old phone book yellow pages meets the Internet. VIV Search puts restaurants on over 70 maps and directories.

VIV Search helps your restaurant perform better in search.

We talked about just showing up in search, but you want your restaurant to be the best – ideally, the top result. You hear terms like Search Engine Optimization or SEO – most people do not know what that is or think it’s too confusing. In plain terms - search engine optimization, or SEO, means optimizing your business for keyword searches, or searches done by potential customers looking for information related to your business. Optimizing your restaurant for local search is not that hard: there are 2 major things to note.

The more opportunities your business has to appear in search, the more likely your business will appear in search. If your business has just a Facebook page or just a small website, your restaurant might have 1 or half a dozen opportunities to appear in search. If your business has a Facebook page, a robust website, and many local listings, your business has more opportunities to appear in a search. VIV Search gives restaurants more than 70 opportunities to appear in search. The bottom line is the more your business does online, including a website with blogs, social media posting, and many local listings, the more these chances to appear in search increase.
Google (and other search engines for that matter) care about their users – the everyday user. Google does not necessarily care about businesses. Google is in the business to make money, and Google makes money by being the best search engine. It is the best search engine because it offers the most accurate, unbiased information. It is not necessarily in the business to rank your business first or last. So, unless you are utilizing Google's Pay Per Click advertising, your best bet is to optimize your restaurant's online presence for your customer.

There is an algorithm and best practices you can follow to ensure success. Google considers 3 factors when showing search results, which you will see is geared towards offering the best information to the everyday user. Those three factors are relevance, distance, and prominence.

Relevance means how well a profile matches a search. So, as a restaurant owner, you should enhance your online presence as much as possible. Include everything about your business, including your menu, and categorize your restaurant appropriately. Your business information should be available on your website and business profiles. Remember, the more places your information is, the more likely your information will be found.

Distance is easily explained – this just means how far the restaurant is from the searcher. Google is not going to show a restaurant in New York if you are in St. Louis searching for Italian restaurants near me. Google's going to show restaurants close to the searcher's location.

Prominence is defined as how well-known a business is. The more listings a business has across the web, the more well-known they are. The more reviews a business has, the more well-known the business is. The more updated your website is, the more well-known you are.

You can leverage all three of these Google consideration factors with VIV Search. It puts enhanced content on a lot of maps and directories. There is a website integration for convenience which helps keep the business updated across all platforms. It also has a built-in customer review generator and management tool to help increase prominence.

VIV Search gives restaurants the ability to generate and manage their customer reviews.

One of our favorite features of VIV Search is the customer review generator and management tool within the VIV Search dashboard. This is included with the service. You can use the dashboard to send out emails to your customers asking for reviews on Google or Facebook. Remember, more reviews increase your business prominence and therefore increase your search results.

VIV Search also includes customer review notifications via email or text message, so you can keep track of what your customers are saying about your business. You can even respond to your customers via text message when you are on the go. There are analytic insights available for restaurant owners, and we send out analytic reports each month, so you know how your listings are performing in search.

VIV Search lets restaurants showcase their business information like hours and menus.

We briefly mentioned the enhanced content available on your listings, but what does that mean? How does FULL menu sound for enhanced content? With VIV Search, you can showcase your entire menu, which is automatically optimized for search. Your menu is synced up on Google and other listings across the web, including Open Table and Postmates. We can even sync your menu to your website for your convenience, meaning if you update your menu, we update it once and it updates across the web*.

Does your restaurant offer carry-out, delivery, or dine-in options? Showcase all this information and more through VIV Search.

The Premier Advantage

VIV Search is powered by Premier Business Advantage, a locally owned company. Specializing in independent business owners for over 22 years, Premier offers a team of reliable and timely internet marketing enthusiasts to help restaurant owners stay up-to-date and stand out on the web. We can quickly update information like hours and menu across the web with an email or phone call – no 1 – 800 number. Our incredible clients have adapted quickly and needed an internet marketing team they could rely on to get their information and menus updated. And that is exactly what the team at Premier did - responded quickly and efficiently to help restaurants WIN during this unpredictable time.

Interested in VIV Search for Your Restaurant?

Contact Premier today to learn more about how VIV can help your restaurant stand out online and keep up with these ever-changing times. Call (636) 207-9000 OPT 2 or click here to schedule a consultation.

*Only available on listing profiles connected within the VIV Search dashboard. Contact a VIV Search rep to learn more.

Evolv and Aldelo POS Announce New Strategic Partnership

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 22:25:37 GMT

Evolv Payment Processing Combined with the Aldelo Express POS Platform
Delivers Powerful Tier-1 Option to Restaurant Owners

Newburgh, IN – June 06, 2023 - Evolv, Inc, a top 40 independent sales office, recently welcomed

Aldelo, L.P., developer of the Aldelo Express Cloud POS restaurant technology platform and Aldelo Pay payment processing to its esteemed network of solutions for sales agents and merchants nationwide.

New and existing Evolv merchants can now couple Evolv’s digital payment processing services with access to the full-featured Aldelo Express POS suite of customer-facing and merchant-facing point of sale solutions. The result is a seamless end-to-end digital ordering and payment experience that is ideally suited for a broad variety of restaurant applications.

Using Evolv’s merchant services, restaurant owners and operators accept secure digital payments in-store via tap, dip, and swipe at Aldelo Express iPad, Android, and Android Tablet-based POS terminals, as well as Android Mobile POS terminals for roaming transactions.

Evolv’s merchants receive complete access to Masa+, a native Aldelo Express solution supporting seamless Online Ordering and Digital Payments, including Masa+ Gift Cards and Loyalty / Rewards. With Masa+, merchants actively grow their customer base and increase sales by digitally promoting their restaurant through QR code-based access and advertisements.

With Evolv merchant services, restaurant owners accept secure digital payments in-store via tap, dip, and swipe at Aldelo Express terminals and online through Masa+

“We are extremely pleased to partner with a fellow customer-centric company focused on providing modern POS technology solutions to everyday restaurant owners.” says Jerry Wilson, V.P. of Partner Solutions at Aldelo, L.P. “The result is a blend of powerful, flexible, and affordable digital POS and payment service offerings that supports the needs of today’s evolved and tech-savvy restaurant owner.”

“We partner with many independent agents, sales offices, banks, and associations across the country,” said Allan Noe, CEO of Evolv. “We’re constantly looking for new and better software and solutions to meet the evolving needs of our partners and merchants. Aldelo POS software is the best we’ve seen on the market as far as its capabilities, training and support. We’re looking forward to this new relationship with the Aldelo team.”

About Evolv
Since 1998, Evolv has partnered with banks, associations, and sales offices to offer the best in payment acceptance. A multi-processor sales office, Evolv has established a robust product offering, including point-of-sale, gateways, terminals and other payment acceptance solutions.

In 2017, Evolv invested in a growing digital marketing agency, enhancing its product offering to include digital marketing solutions such as website development, social media management, and paid advertising. Evolv’s diverse suite of business solutions is a reflection of its commitment to its motto: to increase sales, decrease costs, and mitigate risks for merchants and partners.

Evolv supports over 16,000 businesses, processes $6 billion in annual transactions, and is trusted by more than 25 independent sales offices nationwide. To learn more about Evolv, visit poweredbyevolv.com .

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About Aldelo, L.P.
A leader in developing restaurant point of sale solutions for more than 20 years, Aldelo Express POS is an E2E restaurant technology platform encompassing full-featured merchant-facing and customer-facing solutions. Merchants leverage a rich ecosystem for customizing and improving customer ordering, dining, and delivery services. This includes Masa+, providing restaurant businesses with a seamless Web-based Restaurant Storefront, Mobile Online Ordering, Secure Digital Wallet with Gift, Loyalty, and Reward programs without any added costs.

24/7 technical support and all software releases and updates are available at no cost to Aldelo Express merchants. Software updates are released year-round and instantly available via real-time cloud synchronization to the point of sale, so every device is running the latest version software.

Learn more at www.Aldelo.com and www.Aldelo.com/masa-online-orders

Aldelo Media Relations
management@Aldelo.com
sales@Aldelo.com
Contact Aldelo - Aldelo Express POS

Bard's (Google's AI) Power In Search/Ads

austin@builtbyviv.com (Austin Hoffman) — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 13:30:00 GMT

Google's recent live event on the future of search/ads: Learn more

This article here summarizes these changes: https://neilpatel.com/blog/google-ai-search/

In a nutshell , here are the key points from the article:

Enhanced Relevance and Personalization: Google's AI-powered search algorithms have become more innovative and intuitive, delivering highly relevant search results tailored to individual preferences based on user behavior and past search history.

Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Voice Search: Google's AI can now comprehend and process natural language more effectively, leading to significant advancements in voice search and making searches more convenient and seamless.

Richer Search Results: Google's AI algorithms enable richer search results, such as featured snippets, knowledge panels, and image carousels, empowering users to obtain comprehensive information directly from the search results page.

Predictive Search: AI allows Google to predict user needs and provide relevant information before explicitly requesting, streamlining the search process and saving valuable time.

Innovative Query Expansion: Google's AI algorithms understand user intent and query context, allowing for accurate results even when the search queries are not precisely matched.

Google's integration of AI into search will revolutionize how our client's customers access information on their business, providing a more personalized, efficient, and intuitive search experience. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect Google's search engine to become even more intelligent and effective in the future.

We encourage you to read the full article to understand better how Google's AI is transforming search. https://neilpatel.com/blog/google-ai-search/

QuickBooks Desktop POS Software to be Discontinued

Tue, 23 May 2023 22:04:41 GMT

Quickbooks is discontinuing its Desktop POS Software, and connected services, on October 3, 2023.

Unless the customer has version 19.0 or higher, they will be shut down. We know this will impact thousands upon thousands of small business owners. Banks and Merchant Providers should really be informing their customers of this and letting them know their merchant provider can assist them.

In addition to the QuickBooks Desktop Point of Sale software being discontinued, the following connected services will also be turned off on October 3, 2023:

QuickBooks Point of Sale Payments
QuickBook Point of Sale Gift Card Service
Mobile Sync
Store Exchange
E-commerce Integration with Webgility
Support Plans, including Like Support (phone, email, chat)
Vendor lookup Service

Learn more about Evolv's QuickBook Solutions here .

Finalize Your Marketing Plan

Tue, 23 May 2023 21:24:30 GMT

Evolv offers Digital Marketing Solutions designed to help your merchants' businesses grow. Evolv encourages businesses to take a look at their next year's marketing plan.

Website Refresh
Has it been awhile since your merchant's website was updated? Internet trends and Google Ranking Factors change often. Likewise, your merchant's business may have experienced changes. Is your merchant's website an up-to-date representation of their business?

Digital Advertisements
Digital marketing channels evolve quickly. Is your merchant's business utilizing the right channels, such as the many social channels or digital TV to reach the right customers?

Online Payments
Can your merchant's business benefit from accepting payments online? From online shopping to invoices, the internet makes taking payments convenient for the business and the customer.

How to Promote

Please visit MAC Documents to find materials that you can use to talk to your merchants about their digital marketing goals and options.

New Partnership: Association Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning Contractors of Alabama

Wed, 10 May 2023 21:34:10 GMT

Evolv is proud to announce its partnership with Associated Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors of Alabama.

As a preferred payment processing company, Evolv offers top-notch payment solutions to APHCC of Alabama members. With Evolv, businesses can streamline their payment processing, reduce costs, and enhance customer experience. Evolv's state-of-the-art payment technology ensures secure, fast, and reliable transactions for businesses of all sizes.

About APHCC of Alabama

The APHCC of Alabama is recognized nationally as a leader in the PHC industry. The APHCC of Alabama protects the livelihood of PHC contractors. We serve as the industry voice before local and state governments on issues that affect our members. They are also an affiliate of the National PHCC Association. When you join the PHCC, you become part of a federation that serves your needs at home, in Alabama, and across the United States.

To learn more about Associated Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors of Alabama, visit alabamaphcc.org

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Google once again changes its long-term algorithm strategy

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 21:32:07 GMT

Google attempts to make search more like a conversation

Google made a big change at the end of March, but now they're focusing on the hype of Chat GPT and creating a chat-like interface. Google has 160 engineers working on the project called - Project Magi.

Google wants to make search more like a conversation. Imagine asking a person questions and getting answers, kind of like ChatGPT. Or think of how you interact with Alexa, but a smarter version than that. And one that can learn not just from how you conversed in the past but can learn on the fly as you are asking questions. It's the next logical step in search. We all want answers, and we want relevant answers that are adapted to us. The old-school method of seeing 10 results per page when you are just looking for an answer is what they are trying to provide.

Transactions will be able to happen on Google

Whether it is a pair of shoes or booking a flight, Google is going to start handling transactions on Google. In other words, why do you have to go to another website to buy a pair of shoes? Why can't Google just show you the pair of shoes you want based on what they know about you and then let you buy with a click of a button? From your shoe size to the color you prefer to even understanding if you need wide shoes or narrow ones. Or how different brands have different sizing.

How does this affect payments?

Unsure at this time, but Google Shopping focuses heavily on Google Pay.

So, what does this mean for marketers?

There are still going to be ads. Google is a business, and they are publicly traded… which means they have no choice but to earn money, and it needs to be in a profitable way. But the way ads will work in the long run will change.

Think of it this way; you currently pay a cost per click for ads. On your end, you backend that out to a cost per acquisition, and then you model it out from a profit and loss perspective. If it is profitable, you spend more (or try to at least) so you can get more clicks. If it isn't profitable, reduce how much you are willing to spend per click. It's most likely that Google will shift to a cost-per-acquisition model (eventually). This makes it easy on the marketer's end and can create a better user experience. Plus, if your website isn't great, you can still make money as it is all happening on Google's end.

From an SEO perspective, there are always keywords that will drive traffic to your site. At one point, when you wanted to find out what the weather was, you would have to go to a site like Weather.com. But now Google just shows you the weather. Even with changes that may take clicks away from your site, overall, they have still been driving more traffic.

Danny Sullivan states, "In reality, Google Search sends billions of clicks to websites every day, and we've sent more traffic to the open web every year since Google was first created."

We should expect these new features to increase traffic on Google, which will help counteract some of the clicks that would be taken away from your site. Plus, there will be a new form of SEO. When Google is searching for products or services to show people through Project Magi, how can you optimize your site so that they show your products and services.

It doesn't matter as much if someone clicks on your site; what really matters is who is getting the sale. If you are, it's still a win.

Takeaway

Pretty interesting if you spend the time to research more on Project Magi. It sounds like Google is contemplating pulling traffic to them as a resource and rewarding those who optimize their sites around their new project. Plenty of articles here .

Reasons to Sell Online

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 17:29:05 GMT

Why Should I Sell Online?

Internet technology comes with many goodies for the business world, and if you're asking the question "Why Should I Sell Online," you're late to the party.

While a brick and mortar store provides a physical location to oversee operations and distributions, the model has a glass ceiling. For example, reducing the operating costs and growing sales is not easy with a physical store, and scaling takes longer than is necessary.

Reasons to Take Your Business Online

Setting up an e-commerce website has its advantages for the business. Here are some of the answers to "Why Should I Sell Online?"

Reduced Running Costs

The cost of setting up an e-commerce store is much lower compared to a physical store. A high street premise isn't necessary, and the website saves time spent dealing with customer queries.

The online store operates on an automated sales system to save on wages, order processing, and other business costs. Whatever you save can then go to further platform development and expand the product range or other support services.

Scalability

Growing the business involves knowing which products or services are selling well and shifting the focus to the right place. An online store clarifies which products are moving fast and where to diversify most effectively.

Amazon successfully scaled its product range by identifying what was moving fast and used the insights to stretch its tentacles into various business categories.

Online stores are easily trackable through Google Analytics and other tools. As such, you can view various products' performance and make adjustments based on the insights.

Better Margins and Cash Flow

Compared to a physical store, an online store achieves much better margins. Features such as the shopping cart and various options for payment mean business is getting the full amount from purchases when they occur.

So, why should I sell online?

The main reasons for selling online are access to a broader market at much-reduced costs and enhanced opportunities for growth. Are you ready to start selling online?

Grow with Evolv

If you are ready to take the next step to grow your business, contact us and get started selling online.

Traditional vs. Mobile POS Systems

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 17:27:56 GMT

Mobile point-of-sale systems use tablets or smartphones as POS terminals. Traditional equipment typically involves a dedicated electronic screen, receipt printer, and cash drawer that remain in one place. Mobile POS is growing rapidly, but conventional units still remain common. So which is the best for you? Here are the pros and cons to both traditional and mobile point-of-sale systems.

Location: Unlike traditional point-of-sale terminals, portable devices make it possible to process sales anywhere. You can do so in a store, restaurant, outdoors, and even at customers’ homes or vehicles. This often boosts sales and results in shorter lines. If you desire receipts, you can connect your mobile unit to a receipt printer as well.

Connection: A conventional POS system normally uses a wired data connection. Portable terminals work when Wi-Fi or cellular access is available. If you are going to use an internet service, it should be both secure and encrypted. Fortunately, many of these devices can still record transactions if you don’t have suitable internet access at the moment. Payments are then processed when a connection becomes available.

Vulnerability: Traditional point-of-sale equipment can become unreliable as it ages, but it’s generally quite sturdy. Staff members must exercise greater caution when using portable equipment because it’s easier to drop or lose to a thief. Businesses may address this concern by choosing relatively durable devices, training employees adequately, and ensuring that they have sufficient insurance.

Expense: Both options require investments, but the total cost of mobile POS equipment and software is often substantially less. It’s also more sophisticated and better prepared to meet new needs. Conventional point-of-sale systems can run into trouble when new types of cards, payment options or security regulations arrive.

Traditional equipment still offers a few minor advantages, but overall portable systems give provide more flexibility at a lower cost. In addition, they can accommodate customers who want to use the latest technology, such as mobile wallets, payment rings and NFC cards.

Contact a rep today to learn more about our traditional and mobile POS systems.

Accept all forms of payments, even ACH and check (RDC)

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 15:04:04 GMT

Your merchants can consolidate all payment types into one solution and offer customers more payment options.
Reconcilable payment acceptance with detailed reporting for back office or accounts receivable.
Save merchants on processing fees while increasing your payment revenue.

ACH Debit

Merchants can easily process single or recurring ACH debit transactions from the checking account of a consumer or another business without a physical check.

Checks-By-Web

Merchants can accept checks over the web from their customers, which helps the merchant increase sales and earn repeat customers by offering this simple and convenient online payment option.

Program Options

No software to install
Easy process for one-time or recurring transactions
Submit ACH debits
Check Verification Consumer
Convenience Fee
Swift Settle (Same Day ACH*)

Fine Print

*Not available for physical terminals. Merchants are not funded on debits same day. SwiftSettle requires all transactions to be submitted prior to 10:00AM CDT (subject to change). The transactions must be domestic and under $100,000.00. Debits may occur next day in accordance with NACHA rules. Subject to Underwriting approval

How to Promote

Please visit MAC Documents to find materials that you can use to talk about how your merchants can accept ACH and remote deposit checks, or find more information here .

New Partnership: Florida Refrigeration & A/C Contractors Association

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 22:24:17 GMT

Evolv has partnered with FRACCA as an Affinity Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!

FRACCA has announced they have partnered with Evolv as an Affinity Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions to offer your business wholesale pricing, cutting edge technology, and compliance support. Evolv offers FRACCA members discounts on payment acceptance and digital marketing solutions.

About FRACCA

The Florida Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors Association (FRACCA) is organized to promote the interests of contractors who are engaged in the industry of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration in the State of Florida.

The Florida Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors Association hereby recognizes that the HVAC trade affords distinct opportunities to be of service to their customers and employees.

To learn more about FRACCA, visit sites.google.com/accacf.com/fracca/home

Visit their Facebook Page:
Florida Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors Association (FRACCA)

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

VIV Search helps your merchants manage their local listings

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 16:16:23 GMT

Inconsistent business information across online maps, apps, directories, GPS devices, social networks & search engines costs your merchants real sales. Our service lets your merchants control their company listings across more than 60 local listing partners, including Google, Facebook, Yelp, Yahoo, Apple Maps, and Bing.

VIV Search helps your merchants manage their local listings

Having accurate and consistent business information across multiple online listings can help a business perform better in local search results and ensure customers find the information they need. VIV Search puts your merchant in control of the facts about their business across more than 60 digital services, including Google, Amazon Alexa, Apple, Bing, Facebook, Yahoo, and Yelp.

Clean up existing business information and keep it accurate from month-to-month which helps build your merchant's SEO.
From number of calls, to website button clicks, keep track of customer interactions online with detailed analytics.
Merchant can monitor what customers are saying about their business. They will be notified of any new reviews that are left on Google, Facebook, and/or Yelp.

How to promote VIV Search

Please visit MAC Documents to find materials that you can use to talk about how your merchants can take control of their online listings with VIV Search.

New Partnership: Roofing Contractors Association of California

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 21:49:39 GMT

Evolv is excited to be selected as the Roofing Contractors Association of California's endorsed partner for payment processing!

Evolv has been named the endorsed partner for payment processing by the Roofing Contractors Association of California (RCAC). The RCAC is the leading trade organization for roofing contractors in California and their endorsement of Evolv is a testament to the company's commitment to providing secure and reliable payment processing services. With just over 25 years of experience in the industry, Evolv offers cutting-edge technology and exceptional customer service to help businesses of all sizes streamline their payment processes!

About Roofing Contractors Association of California

Founded in 1949 as a link between local roofing contractors and the state legislature, RCAC serves its membership under the same mission: RCAC is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) professional organization dedicated to the protection and advancement of the California roofing industry in legislative, regulatory and business affairs.

As the voice in Sacramento, CA, RCAC fights for the best interests of roofing contractors and the unique circumstances inherited their our industry. Workers' compensation reform and relief, Proposition 65 settlements, labor laws, and new fire standards are just a few of the many issues RCAC addresses before the state legislature each year in Sacramento. Understanding your business and the problems local contractors face is what RCAC prides itself on, with a bottom line of protecting the best interests of the industry.

To learn more about Roofing Contractors Association of California, visit:

https://rcacal.com/

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

New Partnership: Sports Field Management Association of California

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 22:00:25 GMT

Evolv is excited to be selected as Northern California
Sports Field Management Association's (Nor-Cal SFMA) endorsed partner for payment processing!

Evolv, a leading payment processing company, has just announced that they have been chosen as the endorsed partner for payment processing by the Northern California Sports Field Management Association (Nor-Cal SFMA). This exciting news means that Evolv will be providing secure and efficient payment processing solutions to Nor-Cal SFMA members, allowing them to focus on what they do best: managing and maintaining sports fields. With their cutting-edge technology and industry expertise, Evolv is the perfect partner for Nor-Cal SFMA.

About Nor-Cal SFMA

The NorCal Sports Field Management Association is an organization that advances professionalism in sports field management and safety through education, awareness programs, and industry development.

NorCal SFMA Mission Statement: To be a recognized leader in representing growth in the sports field industry through education, enhanced communication and promoting advanced technology gains while supporting at all levels.

To learn more about Nor-Cal SFMA visit their website:
http://www.norcalstma.org/

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

How Dual Pricing Benefits Financial Institutions’ Commercial Customers

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 22:56:16 GMT

Dual pricing is a pricing strategy in which merchants offer customers two prices for the same product or service: one for cash payments and another for card payments. The card price reflects the cost of accepting card payments, including the merchant services fees and other costs associated with card acceptance. At Evolv, we call this model Buyer’s Choice, because the consumer chooses whether they want to pay with cash or to pay with card and a small fee for the convenience of using it. This pricing strategy is becoming increasingly popular within the US merchant payments industry as a way for merchants to offset the high costs associated with accepting card payments and avoid raising their prices. This article will examine the history and current state of a dual pricing model within the US merchant payments industry, including the legal and regulatory environment, the benefits and challenges for merchants and consumers, and potential future developments.

Why So High?

The cost of accepting credit cards is high because of the fees associated with processing the transactions. Some of these fees include:

1. Interchange fees: These are fees charged by the card issuer (such as Visa or Mastercard) to the merchant for accepting their card. These fees vary depending on the type of card, the transaction amount, and other factors.

2. Assessment fees: These are fees charged by the card networks (such as Visa or Mastercard) for using their networks to process transactions.

3. Processing fees: These are fees charged by the merchant's bank or payment processor for handling the transactions. These fees can include monthly or annual fees, as well as per-transaction fees.

4. Chargeback fees: These are fees charged by the merchant's bank or payment processor when a customer disputes a charge and requests a refund.

These fees can add up and add to the cost of accepting credit cards. With Traditional Pricing, processing fees paid by the merchant are used by credit card companies to incentivize their customers to pay with card by offering rewards or points, including cash back, travel points, or merchandise, depending on the card issuer and the type of card. Additionally, merchants may also have to purchase equipment and software to process credit card transactions, which can also add to the cost.

Laying the Groundwork for Dual Pricing
The merchant payments industry in the United States has been traditionally dominated by card networks such as Visa and Mastercard. These networks charge merchants a percentage of each transaction, known as the merchant discount rate (MDR), as well as other fees, such as chargebacks and monthly statements. These fees can add up to a significant cost for merchants—especially for small businesses. In addition, the Durbin Amendment, a provision of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, caps the amount of MDR that can be charged on debit card transactions.

Dual pricing has been used by merchants in the United States for several decades, particularly in the retail and service sectors. The practice became more prevalent in the 1990s and 2000s, as the popularity of credit and debit cards grew, and merchants began to incur higher costs for card acceptance.

Legal and Regulatory Environment
In the United States, the legality of dual pricing is governed by a patchwork of federal and state laws and regulations. The most relevant federal law is the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), which requires merchants to disclose the terms and conditions of credit transactions and prohibits them from discriminating against customers who use credit. In addition, the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA), requires merchants to disclose the terms and conditions of electronic funds transfer (EFT) transactions, such as debit card transactions.

At the state level, there are several laws and regulations that govern dual pricing, including state consumer protection laws, state usury laws, and state sales tax laws. Some states, such as California, have laws that specifically prohibit surcharging, while others, such as Texas, have laws that specifically allow it. In states where surcharging is legal, merchants are typically required to disclose the surcharge in a clear and conspicuous manner and to apply it consistently to all customers who use credit or debit cards. However, the recent Supreme Court ruling in the case of Expressions Hair Design v. Schneiderman, merchants now have a right to surcharge customers who use credit cards under the First Amendment.

The Difference between Dual Pricing and Surcharging
Dual pricing refers to charging customers two different prices, oftentimes a cash price and card price with payment fees built in. This is often done to save on the fees associated with processing card payments. Surcharging, on the other hand, refers to adding an additional fee to a customer's total purchase price if they choose to pay with a credit. This is typically done to cover the cost of card processing fees. In summary, dual pricing is a way to give customers a choice to pay with cash, while surcharging is a way to pass on the cost of card processing fees to customers who choose to pay with a credit.

Implementation of Dual Pricing
Dual pricing is implemented by merchants by displaying two prices for their products or services: one for cash payments and one for card payments. The card price is typically higher than the cash price to offset the costs of accepting card payments. This pricing strategy is typically used by businesses that have low-margin products or services, such as gas stations or convenience stores. In the last three years, more and different businesses are opting for this pricing strategy as the point-of-sale equipment is now available that will show both prices on the terminal screen allowing the consumer to choose the price they wish to pay or the payment method they wish to use.

Benefits & Challenges of Dual Pricing for Merchants
One of the main benefits of dual pricing for merchants is that it allows them to recover some of the costs associated with card acceptance, such as merchant services fees. This can help to mitigate the impact of these costs on their bottom line and allow them to remain competitive in the marketplace without having to raise their prices. Additionally, dual pricing can help to encourage customers to pay with cash, which can be less expensive for merchants to accept and can also help to reduce the risk of fraud.

Despite the benefits, there are also several challenges associated with dual pricing for merchants. One of the main challenges is the complexity of the legal and regulatory environment, which can make it difficult for merchants to comply with all the applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, merchants may also face challenges in communicating the dual pricing policy to customers in a clear and consistent manner, which can lead to confusion and dissatisfaction among customers.

Benefits & Challenges of Dual Pricing for Consumers
Dual pricing provides many benefits for consumers, particularly those who choose to pay with cash. By offering a lower cash price, merchants can provide an incentive for customers to use cash, which can be less expensive for merchants to accept and can also help to reduce the risk of fraud. Additionally, dual pricing can also provide a greater level of transparency for consumers, allowing them to see the true cost of card acceptance and make more informed decisions about how to pay for goods and services.

However, it can also be seen as a drawback, as it can be confusing and may create a sense of discrimination against card users. Furthermore, it could be argued that the practice is discriminatory against certain groups of people, such as those who are unbanked or underbanked and may not have access to cash.

Conclusion
Dual pricing is a pricing strategy that is becoming increasingly popular within the US merchant payments industry. By allowing merchants to offset the costs of accepting card payments, it can be a valuable tool for businesses, especially small businesses with low-margin products or services. However, it is important for merchants to be aware of the regulations regarding surcharging in their state before implementing this strategy. Financial Institutions that partner with Evolv have the added benefit of Account Executives, Relationship Managers, and an in-house Customer Support department that works with and educates their partner’s commercial customers ensuring that they are fully compliant in all instances.

Having the option for the Merchant to choose whether they want to remain with Traditional Pricing or implement the Dual Pricing is an advantage for the Bank’s Merchant program. The Merchant is in control and can decide which processing strategy is best for their business. Note that if a Merchant chooses to try the Dual Pricing strategy and decides to revert back to Traditional Pricing, it can be done easily, will not cost anything, and they are not required to purchase new hardware. However, less than 1% of Evolv’s merchants switch back to Traditional Pricing after moving to Buyer’s Choice —Evolv’s Dual Pricing model.

*Debit and prepaid debit cards are exempt from surcharge.

Buyer's Choice Now Available on Swipe Simple

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 16:10:23 GMT

Merchants no longer need to burden the high cost of payment acceptance. With Buyer’s Choice, merchants can offer a cash price and a card price with the payment fees built-in to offset card processing fees.

Buyer's Choice is now available on SwipeSimple.

SwipeSimple allows you to accept payments on a phone, tablet, or computer, on a terminal, or on our easy-to-use POS system. With Buyer's Choice on SwipeSimple, both the cash price and card price will now be displayed, with the processing fee automatically configured into the card price total. Plus, business reporting and tools are available on the SwipeSimple Dashboard.

How to promote Buyer's Choice

Please visit MAC Documents to find materials that you can use to talk about how your clients can reduce their processing costs with Buyer's Choice.

New Partnership: California Autobody Association

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 22:39:39 GMT

Evolv is proud to announce its partnership with
The California Auto Body Association!

Evolv is proud to announce its partnership with The California Auto Body Association, where we were named their preferred payment processing company. Our advanced payment processing technology will help streamline payments for association members, saving them time and providing a hassle-free experience. We understand the importance of secure and reliable payment processing, and we're committed to providing the best service to our valued partners.

About CAA
The California Auto Body Association (CAA) is a non-profit trade association comprised of over 1000 individual and independent businesses within the automobile collision repair industry.

To learn more about the California Auto Body Association, visit https://calautobody.com/

To see their Facebook Page: California Autobody Association

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

St. Louis ISO makes Capital Investment in 253 Payment Pros

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 15:15:00 GMT

St. Louis, MO; Kirkland, WA; 2022 – Evolv, St. Louis, a regional office of Evolv, Inc. announced the completion of a capital investment in 253 Payment Pros of Seattle, WA.

Joe Oglesby, president of Evolv, St. Louis and Partner of Evolv, Inc. stated the impact of this announcement, as it “signified another important step in creating strategic relationships in 2022 and growth in 2023.”

“Our industry is in transition,” said Oglesby, “and with a strong capital partner, Evolv has acquired more than a dozen ISO’s in need of growth capital or an exit strategy. 253 Payment Pros has a solid merchant base and independent sales network throughout the western United States. Our unique suite of digital marketing solutions fits well within their existing sales channels and merchants, which will provide revenue growth for the current merchant base, as well as opportunities for new merchants.”

The acquisition of 253 Payment Pros includes the existing merchant base and Evolv welcomed 253 Payment Pros as a new Shared Services Partner, 253 Payment Pros will continue to grow under the leadership of Jake Sharp, this transaction was brokered by 733 Park.

Since 2018, Evolv has made fourteen acquisitions and capital investments. Evolv is a registered ISO of Fiserv/First Data, FIS/Worldpay and Global/TSYS. In addition to offering a full suite of merchant services, Evolv also offers a range of digital marketing solutions. For over 24 years, Evolv has been committed to serving independent businesses nationwide. For more information about Evolv, please visit poweredbyevolv.com.

733Park is a boutique M&A firm specializing in payments, fintech and SaaS mergers and acquisitions, deal sourcing, and advisory services. For more information about 733 Park, please visit 733park.com

St. Louis ISO Acquires Cleargate

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 15:08:00 GMT

St. Louis, MO; Reno, NV; 2022 – Evolv, St. Louis, a regional office of Evolv, Inc. announced the completion of the acquisition of ClearChoice Merchant Services, LLC DBA ClearGate of Reno, NV.

“Our industry is in transition,” said Oglesby, “and with a strong capital partner, Evolv has acquired more than a dozen ISO’s in need of growth capital or an exit strategy. Cleargate has a solid merchant base and independent software vendor network throughout the western United States. Our unique suite of digital marketing solutions fits well within their existing referral partner network and merchant base, which will provide revenue growth for Evolv through the current merchant base, as well as opportunities for new merchants.”

The State of Ecommerce Payment Security in 2022

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 13:00:00 GMT

When the pandemic hit, ecommerce blew up.

With people locked down and with little to do, buying online seemed the only escape. The global ecommerce market jumped to $26.7 trillion . Customer habits, too, were changing. In one survey ,60% of respondents agreed that COVID-19 had changed their relationship with technology.

But it wasn’t just the sales that were soaring. And it wasn’t just the ecommerce industry’s businesses that were busy–but its fraudsters, too.

In just a single year (between 2020 and 2021), ecommerce fraud rose 18% : from $17.5 billion to $20 billion. One look at the similarly burgeoning ecommerce fraud prevention market –expected to hit a whopping $70 billion by 2025–and it’s clear this line of “work” is only rising in popularity.

The bottom line? Ecommerce fraud is something you can’t afford to turn a blind eye to. After all, it’s not just a threat to your profits but your brand image. If customers don’t feel they can pay securely through your website, they won’t trust you. Once you lose that consumer confidence, it’s extremely difficult to win back.

Below, we’ll unpack the state of payment security in 2022, starting with the most common types of ecommerce fraud. We’ll also offer actionable advice for protecting your customers, your website, and–ultimately–your bottom line. Read on!

Most Common Types of Ecommerce Fraud

As the world of ecommerce expands and evolves, so too do its villains. So over the last few years, it’s not only the number of fraudulent transactions–and the overall value of the stolen wares–that has risen. It’s the type of ecommerce fraud, too.

From pharming and account takeovers to “friendly” and “silent” fraud (not to mention straight-up identity theft), fraudsters’ methods are becoming increasingly dynamic and diverse. Let’s take a look at a few.

Pharming

Pharming is a type of ecommerce fraud in which fraudsters redirect web users (without their knowledge or consent) to a fraudulent website. This website might look and feel like the one the customer intended to reach, but with a key difference–it’s completely fake.

Designed only to simulate the original website, its fake counterpart exists for one reason only–to trick the user into entering their personal information and credit card details. Fraudsters can then use this info to steal the individual’s money, or worse–their identity.

Chargeback Fraud

Also known as “friendly fraud,” chargeback fraud is when a customer fraudulently attempts to claim a refund by abusing the chargeback system.

A chargeback is a step introduced by banks way back in the ’70s to boost public confidence in the credit card (which, at that stage, was a new-fangled thing). It allows consumers to dispute a card payment, and after the bank sides with their case, claim a refund.

Let’s say you’re off to Santorini for a holiday, and your card is stolen at the airport. By the time you get to Greece, you realize the thief has made $700 in fraudulent purchases on your card. In this situation, you could (quite legitimately) request a chargeback.

The problem? When it’s not legitimate. Whether maliciously or “innocently” (customers forgetting about a transaction on their statement or a recurring billing cycle), fraudsters can take advantage of the chargeback process to claim money back on totally valid purchases.

The worst part? That, when a chargeback claim is upheld by the bank, the bank then claims the money (along with a fee on top, for their troubles!) back from you. Add that to the stock you’ve already lost to the fraudster, and chargebacks offer an all-too-real threat.

Identity Theft

Because of popular movies dealing with the subject (The Talented Mr. Ripley, anyone?), identity theft is one of the more well-known types of ecommerce fraud. But that doesn’t make it any less dangerous.

Here, a fraudster falsely assumes another person’s identity: using their name, personal information, and documents to open credit cards, then hitting the high street.

Beyond the impact on the victim, why is this bad news for your online business? After all, you’re still selling…right?

Wrong. Think back, for a second, to our Santorini example above. Pretty soon, the person whose identity was stolen will become aware of the litany of fraudulent purchases made under their name and–you guessed it–raise a chargeback. When the bank upholds this, they’ll be claiming the money back–from you.

Making up 71% of all attacks , identity theft is by far the most common type of ecommerce fraud. Plus, fraudsters are also becoming more sophisticated, now using the personal devices, IP addresses, and user accounts of targets to assume their identities, which makes them a threat to be alert to.

Account Takeovers

At some stage or other while shopping online, all our customers have done it. Ticked that box that says “Save My Credit Card Details.” It’ll save them a minute the next time they come back to make a purchase, so it’s a no-brainer, right?

Right. Unless that is, a fraudster is able to get their sticky-fingered paws on that customer’s login details. Should that happen, the thief has easy access to their payment details. Meaning all they have to do is change the shipping address and start buying.

And when they do? Expect chargebacks from the real customer, leaving your business out of pocket.

Malware and Ransomware

Does your computer keep freezing up? Are there ads popping up everywhere? Do links take you to the wrong destination, or are new icons appearing on your desktop and browser?

If so, you may have inadvertently installed malware (mal = bad, ware = software…it’s bad software) on your device. Even the term “malware” itself includes a range of different malicious code types, each more nefarious than the last. These include spyware, “Trojan Horses,” and ransomware–code that locks you out of your system until you pay the hacker a “ransom” to get back in.

The problem for ecommerce store owners is that malware, whether on your system or that of your customers or admins, can steal sensitive data. That includes the names and address details of your customers, as well as their payment information. If any of that’s compromised, it won’t just be profits or data you’ll be losing, it’ll be your credibility.

What’s more, malware attacks pave the way for an emerging form of ecommerce deception called “silent” fraud. After using malware to illegally access a number of accounts, fraudsters, instead of snatching thousands, hundreds, tens, or even ones, swipe a few cents alone. Done at scale and with regularity, these thefts can total huge amounts of stolen funds. Not so “silent” after all!

Ways to Protect Your Customers

Knowing what the main types of ecommerce fraud in 2022 are is one thing. But being able to effectively insulate you and your customers from fraud’s ill effects is quite another.

Below, we’ve rounded up our top tips for helping you, your customer base, and your business remain beyond the covetous clutches of fraudsters.

Safeguard Customer Information

The first way you can protect your customers? Safeguarding their most important details. Here’s how:

Firewalls

By filtering and monitoring incoming (and outgoing) traffic, firewalls help maintain the security of your website, acting, basically, as a literal wall between your network and the wild, wild West of the internet at large.

Through this lens, firewalls are vital not only for securing your data systems but for maintaining PCI compliance. PCI DSS (Payments Card Industry Data Security Standards) is a set of regulations all businesses accepting credit and debit cards must follow. PCI compliance is a kind of “seal of approval” that shows your customers, regulators, and the wider market that you can be trusted to handle sensitive data.

If you sell online with VIV, your store is already PCI DSS compliant. VIV is a PCI DSS validated Level 1 Service Provider. This is the highest international standard for secure data exchanges for online stores and payment systems.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Ensure 2FA is implemented, so anyone attempting to access your business’s backend platforms and processes will need to log in through two devices. If you or one of your team members is logging in from a desktop computer, for instance, you’ll also need to confirm the attempt on another device, such as your phone, to gain access.

Other variations include:

Two-step variation (2SV): involves receiving a one-time code or password via email, message, or phone call which you must enter to log in.

Multi-factor authentication: a mix of multiple forms of authentication for one of the highest levels of security.

Business owners selling online with VIV can use their Google or Facebook accounts to sign in to their VIV store. Enable two-factor authentication for your Google or Facebook account and thus protect your login information for VIV as well.

If you want to add other team members (like fulfillment staff or a designer) to your VIV store, never share your VIV login with them. Instead, create separate staff accounts for each user in your store. Staff accounts have separate logins and don’t have access to your profile and billing pages.

Use a Secure Payment Gateway

If you want to offer your customers the highest level of payment peace of mind possible, a secure payment gateway is a must.

A payment gateway is the tech merchants use to accept credit and debit card purchases: both in-person and online. But not all payment gateways are created equal, particularly when it comes to fees and payout times. So be sure to pick the right one for your business’s unique needs.

VIV is integrated with dozens of secure payment gateways. You can choose a payment system that is convenient both for your business and your customers.

Share Advice and Info with Your Customers

One of the easiest ways to protect your customers? Informing them.

Whether through emails, texts, or dedicated sections on your website, let your customers know of the fraud that exists and how they can protect themselves from it. (And help you protect them from it!)

Be sure to clearly lay out:

How your business greets its customers (so they can spot discrepancies)
How your business doesn’t greet its customers, and what it won’t request (i.e., their login details or to click a link to log in)
Clear, actionable tips for customers to keep their account details safe (if your business keeps customer accounts)
How to get in touch if something doesn’t look right or if the customer has questions
What security checks you’re introducing, if any
How the customer can safely update their details
What to do if they receive a scam email (i.e., a fraudster posing as your business) and how to report the fraudulent communication
Needless to say, these kinds of comms are vital. Not only do they inspire trust and offer an excellent user experience, but they also help reduce the risk of your customers falling prey to ecommerce fraud.

Remember, too, to make this info as accessible as possible. Your customers might not read their emails or thoroughly read through your website. So the more channels you can publicize this advice on, the better!

Keep Your Site Updated and Conduct Regular Security Audit

Earlier, we analogized the wider internet as a kind of “Wild West”: a frontier state where bandits and lawlessness abound.

Now, while that might be a little on the harsh side, there are plenty of threats out there and myriad methods via which phishers, hackers, and fraudsters can derail your business:

DoS (Denial of Service) attacks: a hacker attempts to stop users from accessing your site’s services.
DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks: the perpetrator doesn’t attack you directly but instead uses your site as a “zombie” with which to harm another site. In a DDoS attack, your servers are inundated by requests from a bunch of untraceable IP addresses, crashing your site, and stopping traffic and sales.
Brute force attacks: here, hackers hit your website with thousands of different password combinations in an attempt to gain access.
Man in the middle (MITM) attacks: if your customer is accessing your site via a vulnerable network (i.e., public WiFi), hackers can “listen in” to the transaction and use it to extract sensitive data.
SQL injections and cross-site scriptings: these attacks exploit vulnerabilities in your site. In an SQL injection, hackers target your forms to gain access to, corrupt and steal information from your site’s backend. In cross-site scripting, hackers insert malicious snippets of code that steal your visitors’ information.
The fact that all these modes of attack exist? That’s the bad news. The good news, however, is that these hackers are opportunists. They’re looking for vulnerabilities in your site’s security and fraud prevention setup. That means, by keeping your site updated and regularly identifying, understanding, and plugging its vulnerabilities you can reduce the risk of a hacker targeting your website and business.

To do this, conduct regular security audits. Assess your site’s infrastructure for loopholes, exploring the backend and code (including extensions and themes) for anything hackers can exploit. Ensure:

Your passwords are strong.
Your software is up to date.
Your site’s SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is up to date.
Speaking of SSL certificates, if you created your ecommerce website with VIV, you already have an SSL certificate by default.

If you added your VIV store to an existing website, you already have the free SSL certificate for your store. However, the rest of the website is a separate matter. You need to purchase an SSL certificate to protect sensitive information. Learn how to do that in the VIV Help Center.

Another way to protect your website is to revise the list of your online store’s staff accounts and remove the staff members that you do not work with anymore. This way, you prevent hackers from taking advantage of these “back channels” to gain access to your site.

Key Times to Protect Your Website

So, now that we’ve explained what fraud to look for and how to protect your website from it, let’s look at the when–at the key times throughout the year when hackers are most active.

Public Holidays

“The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have observed an increase in highly impactful ransomware attacks occurring on holidays and weekends–when offices are normally closed–in the United States, as recently as the Fourth of July holiday in 2021.” — Ransomware Awareness for Holidays and Weekends, 2021.

Christmas, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day–though the rest of us are spending time with our families and unwinding, hackers are doing anything but relax.

Increased distraction on the part of the customer or end-user and less staff and resources on the business’s end means conditions are rife for hacking.

Against this backdrop, don’t let your business get caught out. Don’t wait until the next holiday to set your site’s security up for success, or find yourself scrambling to audit your site mere days before the long Mother’s Day weekend. Remember that old Chinese proverb?

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.”

Weekends

Hackers tend to target businesses when they’re most vulnerable and when they’re closed.

That’s why weekends, particularly long ones, where public holidays are involved, are ripe opportunities for hackers. Still, that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down during the rest of the week. Hackers, on average, attack a staggering 26,000 times per day, so you need to remain vigilant.

Conclusion

As the opportunities of ecommerce Evolve, so do its threats.

With so many scaremongering statistics out there, it can be easy to want to put your fingers in your ears, turn a blind eye, and take an “ignorance is bliss” approach.

But this mentality doesn’t take into account that with those threats come even more exciting opportunities.

To make the payment process safer, easier, more convenient, and more consistent than ever before. To build your brand, engender customer loyalty, and boost trust with your audience by showing them that you value their privacy and respect the sensitivity of their data. And, in the process, lay the foundations for your ecommerce business’s solid, sustainable success.

VIV Acquire CMR

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 19:16:00 GMT

EVANSVILLE INDIANA – VIV, a leading website design and marketing ﬁrm, today announces the acquisition of Complete Marketing Resources, Inc. (CMR, Inc.), which specializes in online marketing, consulting, award-winning and functional website design, search engine optimization (SEO), and proprietary content management programming while providing measurable savings and results in the automotive industry.

With over 600 auto shops in its portfolio (as of April 2020), CMR is widely acknowledged as one of the most respected resources for website design, reputation management strategies, and advice for today’s auto shops.

CMR, Inc was established in 2008 and is dedicated to award-winning website design, cutting edge programming, reputation management, ads, and more. This includes an extensive set of educational resources, including their partners and recommendations from leaders in the industry who trust CMR, Inc to run marketing for their shops.

The desire to acquire CMR, inc was fueled by VIV’s commitment to inspiring the current and next generation of digital marketing. VIV strives to empower small businesses with all the technology and talent they need to manage and grow their business from a singular platform.

“Digital Marketing and high-quality website design continue to be in strong demand for virtually every business, and we know our clients are constantly seeking high-quality marketing strategies. “CMR, Inc is an exceptional, uniquely positioned company. We are thrilled to welcome Marion and everyone at CMR, Inc to the VIV family,” said Austin Hoﬀman, Head of Product of VIV.

“As VIV strives to oﬀer companies of all sizes best-in-class marketing solutions that support all stages of the selling process, CMR, Inc brings a talented team and cutting edge programming that bolsters our oﬀering and expands our geographical reach across the U.S. CMR, Inc will continue to have the same great service and more by joining VIV,” said Allan Noe, Managing Partner, of VIV.

On joining VIV, CMR, Inc founder Marion Miller, and her colleagues will continue to grow the VIV community by cultivating relationships with their partners and working with the VIV team to ensure the same excellent services.

“VIV is considered one of the top digital marketing companies, and we are thrilled to be a part of the VIV family. Together with our teams and oﬀering, we now oﬀer one of the most robust digital marketing and SEO resources on the web,” said Marion Miller, President of Cmr, Inc.

John Johnson, Chief Development Oﬃce of evolv, states, “This acquisition augers well with VIV’s strategy of vertical specialization. CMR has done a fantastic job of adding value to their clients. We expect to leverage VIV’s assets—and CMR’s—to create a best-in-class oﬀering.”

VIV has aggressive goals to create a tailored and unique platform to set the standard for digital marketing across the U.S. The CMR, Inc acquisition is one component of the overall journey and allows them to scale in the automotive industry rapidly.

About VIV

Our mission is to help businesses grow and oﬀer their products and services to their customers. We are energized every day by knowing that doing that one thing well positively impacts local communities. Local businesses create jobs, support families, fund charities, help their communities thrive, and more. This inspires us. And we believe the best way to achieve our mission is to empower small businesses with all the technology and talent they need to manage and grow their business from a singular platform.

Build Customer Loyalty Through Social Media

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 18:41:00 GMT

Over time, consumers have become more demanding about how brands engage with their customers on social media. Customers are quickly switching brands at the click of a button.

Brands attempt to maintain customer loyalty through rewards programs, giveaways, etc., but it's not always enough. The focus should be directed more toward the ones making your business successful: the consumer.

Here are a few ways your business can use social media to build your customer base.

Social Customer Care

Show your customers you care with interaction through social platforms. Attentively respond to customer complaints, comments, and queries.

Direct Engagement

Think about it, you don't want to be a nameless, faceless brand simply interacting with the masses. It may not be possible to respond to every comment or message, but you can make an effort to engage where you can.

Create a Community

Remember to engage with your audience with the brand and non-brand-related conversations. Going deeper with your current followers and customers is crucial to achieving loyalty on social media. Networking online, sharing user-generated content, creating specific Facebook groups, and promoting/mentioning people in comments are great ways to connect.

Maintain Consistency Across Platforms

Even though you'll engage differently across platforms, keeping the same overall tone with your audience is vital to maintaining consumer loyalty. It may confuse your audience when you don't stay consistent, weakening your influence and decreasing overall loyalty.

Know when your customers and followers are online and cater to that. Continue to build a solid customer base -- you're already online, anyway! Contact us today to learn more.

Benefits of Automated Emails

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 15:03:00 GMT

Reach your customers from anywhere with email automation! As eCommerce is rising, the market for customer loyalty is, too. Automated emails keep your site top-of-mind for customers by automatically sending emails at critical points in your customer's journey.

Improve your online sales and retention by enabling automatic emails in a click. Remind potential customers about abandoned carts, ask customers for feedback, or re-engage with customers who haven't visited the store in a while -all automatically and with no effort from you or your team.

Check out this list of how automated emails benefit your business:

Save Time

Of course! Save time by sending emails to multiple subscribers instead of the repetitive task for each subscriber. Plus, you can personalize the theme of each campaign.

A Site Visitor Abandons Their Cart

If a site visitor adds items to their cart but leaves before paying, an automated email sent two hours later may be the nudge they need to complete the purchase. If the email has a coupon, you'll increase the chance that they make a purchase.

Someone Made A Purchase Last Year

Remind your customers that you have new items in your shop! That might be the push they needed to bring them back again -- bringing more money into your pocket.

Building Relationships With Customers

You can keep emails relevant since you may already have relevant information about your customers. According to Omnisend , automated emails get 300% more clicks than promotional messages!

Customer Retention

Sending an automated email is an innovative and easy way to strengthen your relationship with existing customers you haven't heard from in a while. It's done through win-back emails, a strategy that entices customers to return to your website!

Email automation is digital marketing made easy. Contact us today to learn more!

Google Ads: 3 Types of Google Ads Campaigns to Kickstart Your Digital Marketing

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 14:02:00 GMT

Google Ads is an advertising service. It allows businesses to bid for advertising space on various Google platforms. It is a pay-per-click service, meaning advertisers pay Google per impression on the ads.

An ad campaign is a group of advertisements that convey the same message. Some of the Google Ads campaigns you should consider when marketing your business online are:

Search Campaigns

Search campaigns let advertisers use text ads on Google search results. They use targeted marketing. This means when someone searches for the product or service you're offering, they can view yours. It is a great way to get new leads for your business and drive traffic to your website.

A search campaign will be beneficial with the right keywords and key phrases . It is also easy to set up and cost-effective.

Video Campaigns

Have you ever wondered why ads pop up while watching a video on YouTube? They're part of video ad campaigns.

This type of Campaign lets businesses advertise on video platforms provided by Google. As with search ads, you can target a specific audience. Alternatively, you can advertise to the general public. Doing so will help you increase your brand awareness.

Display Campaigns

Display campaigns are the most common Google Ads campaigns. They involve the use of visuals to capture an audience's attention. Yes. That includes the images usually displayed on websites as advertisements.

Since Google has a vast network of websites , display ads help you reach a larger audience, including those from apps and video platforms. In turn, you get more potential leads for your business.

They also help you instill a memorable brand image in prospective customers' minds.

Marketing has never been easier with Google Ads. The various features, such as analytics, let you tune your marketing strategy to get maximum results with minimum effort. Contact us today for your digital marketing needs.

3 Powerful Facebook Advertising Strategies

Thu, 26 May 2022 14:11:00 GMT

Facebook has evolved to become a powerful sales channel. Through Facebook advertising, businesses can interact with customers and drive online sales.

However, the evolving privacy policy and regulations and algorithm changes are causing targeting challenges, and the platform's organic reach has taken a nosedive.

But despite the challenges, Facebook remains the biggest networking platform with numerous targeting options. The social media platform meets customers wherever they are, and therefore can be an effective third-party distribution channel.

Use the following Facebook advertising strategies to grow your sales:

1. Personalize the Ads

Facebook advertising has robust targeting options a business can leverage and are especially helpful for businesses with little customer data to use.

Use the platform's Core Audience feature to reach the target market based on location, demographics, behavior, interests, and connections. For some ideas, the Audience Insights tool provided by Facebook comes in handy. The tool provides the parameters you need.

2. Focus on Previous Visitors to Your Pages

You can retarget visitors to your Facebook, Instagram, or e-commerce website to grow relationships you already started in the past.

Use specific actions such as pages visited, products or ads liked and items added to the cart as the basis for the retargeting.

3. Use the Meta Ad Library to Spy on the Competition

The objective of every advertising effort is attention, and knowing your competition provides valuable insights.

Keep an eye on close competitors and see what they are doing right through Meta Ad Library (formerly Facebook Ad Library). The resource is keyword searchable, and you can apply various filters such as location.

Pay particular attention to ad creatives in ad variation, copy, and imagery, and improve your ads. Don't overlook the entertainment value and the impact it can have.

Grow with Evolv

With the right strategies, Facebook advertising is invaluable, as it can help reach a wider audience, keep customers engaged and increase sales. I If you want to learn more, contact us to take your marketing to the next level.

Social Commerce: How Does It Work and What Are Its Benefits

Tue, 17 May 2022 23:26:00 GMT

With more than 4.48 billion users of social media, it's no surprise that businesses are increasingly using social media to sell their products and services. But what is social commerce, and why should you care? In this blog post, we'll define social commerce, discuss the benefits of using it for your business, and give you some tips on how to get started. Read on to learn more.

What Is Social Commerce?

Social commerce refers to the use of social media platforms to facilitate online transactions. The process can include anything from buying on a social media platform to using social media for research and product discovery. Social commerce has become a popular way for businesses to reach their target audiences and boost sales in recent years.

How Does Social Commerce Work?

There are various ways that businesses can use social media for social commerce. One common method is to embed e-commerce capabilities into social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. It allows businesses to turn their social media pages into virtual storefronts where customers can browse and purchase products without leaving the platform.

Another way businesses can use social media for social commerce is by using it to drive traffic to their website or brick-and-mortar store. Companies can share links to products or sales on social media or run ads that target potential customers based on their location, interests, and demographic information.

The Benefits of Using Social Commerce for Businesses

Social commerce is a crucial strategy for businesses that want to succeed in the digital age. It allows businesses to build relationships with their customers and create a community around their brand.

Social commerce can be a powerful tool for driving sales and fostering customer loyalty when done correctly. Some of the benefits of using social commerce include:

-Increased reach and engagement

-Improved customer service and support

-Greater customer loyalty

-Increased sales and ROI

-Improved SEO ranking

-Improved brand awareness

-Lower customer acquisition costs

How to Get Started with Social Commerce

If you're interested in using social commerce to boost your sales, there are a few things you need to do to get started.

Bottom Line

Social commerce is the future of online sales. It's a way for businesses to connect with customers on a more personal level. It allows customers to buy what they want without ever leaving their favorite social media platform. If you're not already using social commerce, now is the time to start. Evolv can help you get set up and started on the right path to increased sales and customer loyalty. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business grow with social commerce.

Can Local Listing Improve Your Business's Local SEO?

Fri, 13 May 2022 21:09:00 GMT

Can Local Listing Improve Your Business's Local SEO?

Your company ranking higher in local SEO has intangible advantages because many potential customers go for local searches to look for businesses around them. Local listings can improve your business's visibility, thus driving more traffic to your business.

Ranking in local searches is not a walk in the park. That is why you need to build local listings for a higher ranking. Here is how you can use local listings to increase your local SEO and traffic to your website.

Local Listing

Your local listing consists of updated information about your business, that is, the name of your business, the location, and contact details(phone numbers and email address).

Local listings can attract leads to your business. Furthermore, this is an excellent way of bringing relevant traffic to the site.

It also increases the visibility of your business in local searches. The higher your company ranks on search engines, the more traffic you attract.

For your information, local listing encompasses the following:

Local Listing Increases Your Business's Local SEO

Local listing is vital for your business. It helps increase its visibility in local searches. It also helps attract valuable traffic.

Do you want to increase your company's local SEO? Try the following:

Businesses that have a higher ranking on search engines have significant profit margins. And it is all attributed to local listings. Get in to uch with Evolv today to learn more about local listings and start improving your SEO.

How to Improve My Website Ranking on Google

Fri, 06 May 2022 19:17:00 GMT

About 80% of shoppers research a business before purchasing anything from it. This makes it essential to have a website for your enterprise. However, an effective site should rank well on Google. The ultimate objective is to ensure your customers find your business easily online.

Note that you may have a great website, but it may not rank well on Google. This leads to the question of "how to improve my website ranking". Fortunately, you could deploy the following strategies to boost your site's ranking.

How to Improve My Website Ranking

Publish Authoritative Content

When it comes to creating an effective website that drives engagement, nothing beats authoritative and high-quality content. Present yourself as an authority in your field of business through well-founded writing, and your website will rank high on search engines.

Ask yourself what kind of search terms your potential readers are likely to use. If you can answer this question accurately, you will successfully identify keywords that are relevant to your content.

Updating Your Content Regularly

All websites thrive on fresh content . To boost your site ranking on Google, keep churning out new content and updating the older blogs. Search engines notice appropriate and consistent websites. With consistency and regular upgrade of your site's content, your website will rank higher.

This involves writing blogs with relevant keywords. Whenever your current focus words are not doing well, always replace them. Such a strategy will enhance your site's visibility on Google.

Use Link-Worthy Sites

Flat content won't help your site to attract new followers. Instead, you may struggle to maintain your current traffic. Adding high-quality links to your content makes your website more resourceful. What's more, superior content attracts links from other established sites. Combining these aspects will catapult your site's ranking to the top of search engines.

Are you looking to improve your company's sales, but don't know how to do it? Work with the experts. Contact us today at Evolv, and we will help you drive more engagement to your website and convert more leads.

Reasons to Sell Online

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 18:07:00 GMT

Why Should I Sell Online?

Internet technology comes with many goodies for the business world, and if you're asking the question "Why Should I Sell Online," you're late to the party.

Reasons to Take Your Business Online

Setting up an e-commerce website has its advantages for the business. Here are some of the answers to "Why Should I Sell Online?"

Reduced Running Costs

The cost of setting up an e-commerce store is much lower compared to a physical store. A high street premise isn't necessary, and the website saves time spent dealing with customer queries.

Scalability

Amazon successfully scaled its product range by identifying what was moving fast and used the insights to stretch its tentacles into various business categories.

Online stores are easily trackable through Google Analytics and other tools. As such, you can view various products' performance and make adjustments based on the insights.

Better Margins and Cash Flow

So, why should I sell online?

The main reasons for selling online are access to a broader market at much-reduced costs and enhanced opportunities for growth. Are you ready to start selling online?

Grow with Evolv

If you are ready to take the next step to grow your business, contact us and get started selling online.

How Recurring Billing Helps Grow Your Business

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 14:46:00 GMT

Automatic charges for goods and services or recurring billing are essential for any online business. With the payment model, the merchant needs the customer's permission and information initially, and then no further permissions are necessary.

The main benefit of automatic charges is convenience. The customer allows the business to keep their details on file, and the merchant can charge the designated account a particular amount every month or after delivering services or products.

Subscriptions to goods and services such as magazines, software usage, and online gym membership are suitable for recurring billing.

Growing Your Business Through Recurring Billing

Subscription-based billing was a reserve for big software companies, but that's no longer the case. Any online business or organization can now leverage the model to grow sales or membership.

Automatic charges save time and, more importantly, bolsters your overall revenues. After the initial marketing efforts, you never have to return to the same buyer again. The charges keep going as the convenience improves customer retention.

Recurring payments can provide a predictable internal income stream available to your online business to strengthen it further. Since the revenue is predictable, the company can effectively plan for growth with lower margin for error.

You can also use discounted introductory rates or free trials with the billing model to attract a particular audience, create brand awareness, and grow your customer base or subscribers.

A good shopping experience goes beyond providing good quality products to include smooth payment processing. Therefore, pay particular attention to the compatibility of the billing system with payment gateways. The more gateways your online store is compatible with, the better it is for business growth.

Virtual Terminal recurring billing system adds convenience to the payments to help attract and retain customers. The system is compatible with a wide variety of payment gateways. If you are interested in adding a virtual terminal for a recurring billing system, contact evolv today to get started!

5 Essential Benefits of Loyalty Programs

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 20:58:00 GMT

Various marketing strategies retain customers and encourage them to spend more. A loyalty program is one way businesses encourage customers to keep using their services and products. Loyalty programs provide customers with incentives such as reward points, gift cards , and privileged access to new merchandise.

If you are unsure how a loyalty program can impact your business, these statistics should guide you. 75% of consumers would switch brands for a better loyalty program. Additionally, 52% of customers will prioritize brands with points and rewards. Other essential benefits of loyalty programs include:

1. Customer Retention

Loyal customers spend 67% more than new customers. At the same time, it is more expensive to acquire new customers than to retain existing ones. These statistics show how a loyalty program is an essential marketing strategy.

Members of a customer loyalty program bring more value even in low seasons. Loyalty programs turn existing customers into loyal ones.

2. Increased Customer Lifetime Value

Customer lifetime value CLV is the net profit from a customer's long-term relationship. CLV tracks customer value and forecasts their worth in the future.

With our loyalty program, you can calculate the CLV for each customer, gaining important insights to strategize your loyalty program.

3. Boost Profits

Of course, one major outcome of customer retention and strategic planning is profits. A loyalty program keeps a steady flow of revenue. Giving your loyal customers rewards and special deals makes them feel more inclined to shop with your brand.

4. Create Brand Advocates

While loyalty programs cater to existing customers, they also help attract new ones. Your "brand advocates" are more likely to refer their friends and families to your brand.

Past research shows that people trust word-of-mouth recommendations from family and friends more than other forms of marketing.

5. Improve Brand Reputation

Loyalty programs that reward customers with great deals help improve their brand reputation. You can persuade customers to stick with your brand by making them feel valued.

Creating positive connections with customers makes them feel good when using your services or products. They are more likely to talk about your brand to their colleagues or followers on social media.

Contact us for more information about how a loyalty program can help your business. Evolv can help you get started today!

How a Slow Website Affects Your Business – 4 Eye-Opening Insights

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 20:47:00 GMT

Load time is one of the main components of your website's design and SEO strategy. It has a significant impact on your website's performance and, ultimately, your business's performance. Here are four insights into how a slow website affects your business:

1. Less Web Traffic & Fewer Leads

Many people expect your website to load immediately after clicking on the link. 32% of people will leave if the website takes longer than three seconds to load, the bounce rate will increase to 90% if the loading speed takes more than five seconds.

Your online leads come from the people visiting your website, and they become fewer as fewer people visit your website. Unsurprisingly, websites that load in less than two seconds have the highest e-commerce conversion rates .

2. Poor Customer Experience

Excellent customer experience entails satisfying all of your customers' needs. As mentioned, most of your customers expect your website to load within one or two seconds – slow loading speeds will ruin your customers' experience even before they explore your products.

3. Poor Visibility

Loading speed is one of the components that Google considers when ranking your website. As such, your website will rank lower than your competitors if it doesn't load faster than they do. Most web users focus on the top five results on Google SERPs, so a low rank limits your website's (and brand's) visibility.

4. Less Revenue & Stunted Growth

All of the problems resulting from your website's slow loading speed compromise your business' revenue. For example, less traffic means that there are fewer potential customers visiting your business. Poor visibility is potentially worse because it limits your company's potential to grow and expand.

Conclusion

These are just some of the many ways a slow website affects your business. Other factors that affect your e-commerce business's performance include its payment channels. Evolv offers secure payment solutions and top of the line websites. Get in touch today to learn more about Evolv's processing and digital solutions.

How Core Local® Helps Put your Business on the Map

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 15:16:00 GMT

Business local listing is essential for local business visibility and sales generation. Before mobile phones and the internet, local businesses listed their information in the Yellow Pages. However, the yellow page directory stopped printing in 2019 .

Today, businesses register their information on online directories and social media platforms like Facebook. Business online listings need regular checks and updates to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Core Local® provides a management dashboard to improve business listings' visibility to create a unique customer experience and increase sales.

1. Improve Visibility

Listing your business with as many local directories as possible increases the probability of customers finding you. Listing on so many directories comes with challenges of management. That is why you need Core Local® to manage all your listings from a single dashboard.

2. Improve Reputation With Customers

According to the Edelman Trust Barometer, 64% of customers trust search engines more than other methods of researching local businesses. So, many customers will not trust your business if it does not appear in search engines.

Customers want to know where your business is and why they should visit theirs. If they search on Google today and on Facebook tomorrow, they accept the same information.

With Core Local®, you can keep your business information consistent and organized.

3. Monitor and Respond to Customer Reviews

According to Bright Local , consumers read an average of ten reviews before trusting your business. Increase consumer interactions by managing your consumer reviews from a centralized Core Local® dashboard.

Responding fast and helping customers improve their business reputation across various review sites. You can also use Core Local® Review Generation Tool to request customer feedback.

4. Real-time Updates

One of the painful points of online listings is the delay in reflecting business information changes. The hassle of making the same changes across several listings compounds the problem.

With Core Local®'s Website Integration services, you can instantly edit business data across all listings. It ensures that your business information is accurate and up to date.

Get 24/7 access to all your online business listings on your Core Local® dashboard. We guarantee dedicated and reliable support for all our clients. Get in touch with us today.

What's New for Bank Partners

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 18:34:00 GMT

Partner trainings are hosted by our Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, Joy West. Click here to schedule one of the above trainings.

New Partnership: California Tire Dealers Association

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 22:13:56 GMT

Evolv is excited to be selected as California Tire Dealer Association's endorsed partner for payment processing!

We're thrilled to announce that Evolv has been selected as the California Tire Dealer Association's endorsed partner for payment processing. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to providing our clients with top-notch payment processing solutions. With Evolv, you can rest assured that your payment processing needs are taken care of with the utmost care and efficiency. We offer a range of services, including credit card processing, mobile payments, and more!

About CTDA

California Tire Dealers Association is the leading tire dealer association for the State of California.

To learn more about CTDA, visit:
https://www.catiredealers.com/

About Evolv

Evolv Media Relations

info@poweredbyevolv.com

Contact Evolv

Why Your Business Needs Point of Sale Systems

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 03:13:00 GMT

Businesses today not only have to worry about what type of payments to accept, but also how to accept them. The use of traditional cash registers is often marred by insecurity and time-consuming payment processes. A better alternative is integrating point of sale (POS) systems, which provide easy-to-use, convenient, and secure ways of collecting payments. That increases a business's efficiency and provides customers with expanded payment gateways.

Below are the top reasons your business needs POS software in your business.

Extended Payment Capabilities

One advantage of using point of sale solutions is that they provide a range of payment options. Customers use different e-wallets to complete mobile transactions. Granted, they prefer purchasing goods and services from a business that offers multiple payment options. That means a POS tool will help you attract more customers, which in turn increases your cash flow.

Enhanced Efficiency

Another upside of using point of sale solutions is that it increases your business's efficiency by reducing the time that cashiers spend processing money. With a POS system, you have all the tools required to handle the payment process on one platform, which also contracts the time you receive payments from your customers.

Accuracy

Generating accurate POS data and that calls for meticulousness at every point of the process. An erratic data feed can prove costly and might mean significant losses. Integrating point of sale solutions in your business guarantees accurate data because the system comes with a user-friendly touchscreen interface that displays every information you need before finalizing the payment of a product.

Proper Inventory Management

One of the most frustrating situations for a customer is clicking at your product only to find that it's out of stock. You lose business. You can leverage point of sale solutions to ensure your inventory is well managed. The systems have advanced product tracking tools that update inventory in real-time and even generate reorder triggers to ensure timely resupply of depleted inventory.

With the increase in Fintech firms, investing in POS software is more of a need than an option. Contact Evolv today and optimize your revenue!

Website Design for Small Business Owners

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 15:42:00 GMT

Every business, no matter where they operate or what kinds of products and services they sell, needs a solid online presence. Designing a great website is an absolutely essential part of doing business in the 21st century, but knowing where to start is not always an easy thing to do.

Whether you decide to build your own small e-commerce website from the ground up or outsource the job to the professionals, there are some key things you should always keep in mind. Here are 4 smart website design tips for small business owners.

Make your website design mobile-friendly.

Mobile-friendly design has never been more important, so make sure the website you create for your small business looks just as great on a smartphone as it does on a traditional computer.

Optimize your E-commerce website for lead capture.

Most visitors to your website will do some research first, looking around the site, learning about your products and reaching out for more information. Optimizing your small business website for lead capture will help both future prospects and your firm.

Make your contact information highly visible and easy to find.

People want to know that they are talking to a real person, not a faceless nameless corporation, so make it easy to contact your team. Contact information should be highly visible and the website itself should be easy to navigate.

Do your SEO homework.

Even the most beautifully designed website will not do your business any good if would-be customers cannot find it. If you want to get the most out of your website, you will need to do your search engine optimization (SEO) homework and add content that will drive your site up the rankings.

Contact us

Remember your website is an extension of your brand. The website you design for your small business is more than just a placeholder in the online world; contact us and let's start a discussion on how to make your website work for you.

5 Essential Qualities of Successful Agents and ISO's

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:19:00 GMT

In today's business world, you have to be exceptional at what you do to be successful. The fact that your competitor is aiming for the same makes it even more critical. The Merchant Service Industry is evolving, and continuous learning and improvement are essential to success.

So how do Agents and ISO's get merchants to start seeking their services? Here are five qualities of successful Agents and ISO's .

1. Give Merchants What they Want

As an agent or an ISO, the merchant is your customer, and you have to package yourself to offer the services they want. Many merchants are looking for agents who can help them improve their operations. They will be happy to give you referrals if you can offer consulting, back-office, and Anti-fraud services.

2. Passion for the Job

Successful sales agents and ISO's are passionate about going the extra mile. They care about merchants' products and customers. Merchants can see how involved you are with their products and services. Learn about their business to inspire their confidence in your services.

3. Pick a Niche

It is okay to have general knowledge of several industries, but you have to pick an industry to master if you want to excel. You get to understand your customer base better when you niche. It is also easier to get referrals and showcase similar experiences to win new clients and expand your agency.

4. Keeping up With Technology and Industry Trends

Your customers may lack time to keep up with technology and current industry trends. Successful agents take advantage of educating merchants about new technologies that can improve their operations and cut costs. Adding value will get merchants to embrace your services.

5. Working With the Right Partners

Partnering with the right merchants and payment processors is your fast lane ticket to success. Choose a partner who will help you grow. Corporation and transparency are key factors for a favorable partnership.

At Evolv , we offer growth opportunities and a vast product portfolio to help agents and it evolves the way they do their business. Contact us Today, to find the solution that is right for you.

Ecommerce Website and All the Benefits

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 20:47:00 GMT

Although there are tens of thousands of businesses online right now, some businesses have still resisted jumping into the ecommerce website space. More consumers are finding it convenient to shop online instead of in a store, so every business needs to consider what they can do in the ecommerce space to best serve their customers.

Digital Maturity Can Help Grow Any Business

Consumers are always looking for businesses that have been well established. They want to see the track record before they decide to make a purchase. When you want to attract more customers, it is important to show them that your brand has the digital maturity to successfully handle their transactions. According to a 2020 survey conducted by Deloitte Insights , there are seven specific digital pivots that any business can make to expand digital maturity and increase financial performance.

The Proof is in The Rankings

Businesses that are already well established with an ecommerce website are consistently ranked at the top . While your business may never have the need to compete directly with the likes of an ecommerce giant like Amazon, you can use the same strategies that the company has used to make sure you are the top ecommerce result in your specific niche.

Growing With Your Audience

Once you have secured your spot in the ecommerce space, it is important to make sure you are growing and changing with the needs of your customers. It is essential that you evaluate your website on a regular basis to see if you are still meeting their needs and look for ways you can go beyond to exceed their expectations with design, ease of use, and security for every single transaction. That will be the key to keep your business growing online.

Are you looking to set up or improve your ecommerce website? Please contact us to see how we can assist you.

Competitive Credit Card Processing Rates

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 21:14:00 GMT

Competitive Credit Card Processing Rates

In each business transaction involving credit cards, processing fees take a bite out of the total profits. The average credit card processing fees range from 1.5% to 3.5% of each transaction, although the final percentage depends on a whole host of factors. If you are a business owner who wants to accept credit as payment, you should do all you can to understand and minimize credit card processing fees.

What is a credit card processing fee?

A credit card processing fee is simply the fee you have to pay to get proceeds from a credit card transaction. While your merchant account provider determines the actual fee, multiple entries will receive a portion of the funds you pay for every transaction. This fee can vary depending on the type of credit cards you accept, and they include three different layers of charges: interchange fees, payment processor fees, and assessment fees.

Who decides on credit card processing rates?

Generally, there are three parties involved in credit card processing- the card issuer, the payment processor, and the card network. The card issuer is the financial institution that issues cards directly to clients. The payment processor is the bank that works in the background to securely process and complete a debit or credit card transaction. The card network is the means a merchant uses to receive payment. Nearly every business these days needs to accept credit cards and debit cards, but choosing a credit card company for your small business can be difficult. To select the best credit card processing provider for your business, you have to weigh your needs against the actual costs of accepting payment. The best one offers transparent and low pricing, little in the way of fees, flexible terms and the ability to expand as your business grows. We at Evolv, can beat your current processing rates. We offer top-of-the-line customer service as we evolv the way you do business. Contact us today to find the solution that is right for you.

Brew Up A Partner in Merchant Solutions: Evolv

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 18:55:00 GMT

Looking for a new Merchant Solution Provider?

evolv , formerly Approval Payment Solutions, has revolutionized Merchant Services Programs, offering competitive pricing and exceptional service, including a dedicated Director of Strategic Partnerships (DSP) to help you grow your Merchant Services Program.

Who is evolv? Formerly Approval Payment Solutions , evolv offers payment processing and digital marketing solutions to merchants to help increase customers and sales. evolv is endorsed by over 100 financial institutions including Worldpay from FIS, Indiana Bankers Association, Illinois Bankers, Pennsylvania Bankers Association, and Bankers' Bank of Wisconsin.
We deliver products and services that are aimed at helping your commercial customers grow and thrive, even in challenging times. By partnering with multiple leading Payment Networks, we are able to service most of your clients regardless of their processing solution needs. Our goal is to provide secure, efficient, and cost effective processing for your depositors.
We Make It Easy

Unlike other payment processing vendors, we take care of the entire process, including:

Pre-Sales Support and Training
Marketing Materials
Staff Incentives
Merchant Appointments & Close
Hardware Installations
After-Sales Merchant Support

Competitive Pricing With our competitive pricing, we give you the ability to compete with the largest of institutions in your market.
Retain High-Value Clients With our competitive pricing, we give you the ability to compete with the largest of institutions in your market.
Exceptional Service Get hands-on, face-to-face access to a local representative who handles everything so you don't have to get in the middle of sales, implementation, or service.
Benefits to Your Institution Our merchant services program helps your financial institution thrive. Our merchant services program builds business customer relationships in new ways. Not only will your financial institution stay relevant you will also be an invaluable resource in any merchant segment.

Real-time reporting and referral tracking
No liability to your financial institution
Superior recurring fee income
Digital Marketing solutions, including website development and social media
Full-suite of payment processing solutions, including Cash Discount and eCommerce
Dynamic marketing initiatives
Online visibility to merchant volume, fees, and processing statements
Education and training
Working with partners to implement best practices
Strategies for lead cultivation
Access to four processing platforms
Attract and retain commercial depositor relationships

Programs for Verticals evolv offers programs for all business, small to large, in any vertical, including, but not limited to:

Retail
Restaurants
Micro Merchant
Healthcare & Veterinarian
Attorney
Housing Authority
B2B

Safely Accept All Payment Types Whether your merchants sell online, in-store, or through mobile devices, we make it easy for customers to pay by accepting the payments they prefer, including major credit cards, signature debit cards, eChecks, and digital payment solutions.

Virtual Terminal
Point-of-Sale
Pin Debit
Mobile & Contactless
eCommerce
Smart Terminal

Check Recovery Program Our Check Recovery Program offers FREE Electronic Check Recovery Services (RCK) to merchants and collects the merchant’s NSF checks and pays 100% of the face value of the check to the merchant. Debt Repayment Between consumers' demands for convenience and businesses' desires to reduce costs, debit acceptance for loan repayment has elevated to the payment method of choice. High Risk Solutions We provide solutions for business types that are not able to find processors such as CBD stores. Cash Discounting Cash Discounting offers a way for your merchants to drastically lower their processing fees, while maximizing your revenue.

Get Your Merchant Services Program Started Today!

Responsive Website Design

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 20:22:00 GMT

If you don't know already, responsive website design is a way of putting together websites such that they render perfectly on all devices, mobile or static, and whatever size of the browser window or screen being used. The approach has been around for approximately 20 years but remains under-utilized by many businesses.

Responsive Website Design Sites Aren't Costly to Maintain

Something that puts some businesses off going the extra yard and optimizing their site for all internet users is the ongoing cost of maintenance. Although some coding for updates and changes can be harder, the costs involved are not much more than normal sites, and sometimes even lower!

Responsive Website Design Sites Rank Higher

Google likes responsive website design. If a Google search sends a surfer to a site that they cannot read properly, then their trust in the search engine drops a little. Therefore, well-optimized sites tend to fare better in Google results rankings.

Over Half of Internet Searches Are Mobile Nowadays

The latest research shows how 60% of all this sort of online activity is carried out on mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, these days. Given the aspect ratios of mobile devices are not always great for websites designed for desktops, a responsive site will improve visitor retention greatly.

Non-Responsive Sites Are Ditched Quickly

If you have a non-responsive site, then you may still get high visitor numbers. However, when a site is not responsive, visitors will move on due to frustrating user experience.

Are you an independent business owner who wants to find out more about how responsive website design can help to build your enterprise's growth? Get in contact with evolv today to see how we can help your business grow with a powerful website and other solutions to help grow your business.

What the Rebrand Means for our Partners

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 14:53:00 GMT

If you are one of our bank or association partners, we are considering this a “slow roll out.” We have been Approval Payment Solutions (APS) for over twenty years with over 150 partner endorsements. We anticipate this update to take some time.

Here’s what you should expect

An introduction (or re-introduction) to your Director of Strategic Partnerships
Updated marketing collateral with our new branding
Product, sales, and resource training opportunities

Here’s what your merchants should expect

Merchants can expect the following changes:

If the merchant’s statements are branded with the APS logo, the statements will be updated with our new Evolv logo.
If the merchant is billed by APS for any fees, the descriptor on their bank statement will be updated to Evolv .

What’s exciting about our rebrand is all the products and services we have to offer your merchants, including:

Digital Marketing solutions to increase exposure and boost sales
Cash Discounting tools to drastically reduce the cost of accepting credit cards
Online payment options and eCommerce development to keep business running virtually
Contactless and smart terminals to accept all type of payments curbside and on-the-go

The alliance of partners under the Evolv rebrand offers increased support both internally and across the United States, with representation in more than 20 states, empowering us to serve you and your merchants better.

If you would like to get in touch with your Director of Strategic Partnerships to get access to our new marketing collateral or to get more information about our new products and services, please click here.

APS has officially rebranded to Evolv

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 14:53:00 GMT

Earlier this year, Approval Payment Solutions (APS) announced it was rebranding to Evolv . As we continue to make this change, we know it is important to keep our merchants, partners, and sales channel informed.

On July 1, 2021, APS officially rebranded publicly to Evolv .

Here’s why we made this change

For over 23 years, we have been serving merchants, partners, and our sales channel, nationwide. Throughout the years, we have established over 150 partner and endorsement relationships, which has allowed us to serve over 16,000 business owners – all of which we have done from our humble headquarters in Indiana.

In 2017, we embarked on a journey to augment our operations, and over the last five years, we have seen tremendous growth.

We purchased a new facility and improved our resources, upgrading our technology and expanding our customer and technical support departments.
We invested in VIV , a small digital marketing company, enhancing our product offering to include a full suite of digital marketing solutions. We’ve since acquired a majority interest in VIV, and our growing Digital Marketing Division serves the marketing needs of nearly 1,000 small businesses.
We established and introduced a Shared Services Program, centralizing administrative functions of sales offices across the United States. Through our Shared Services Program, we have partnered with over a dozen sales offices, expanding our representation across more than twenty states.
We acquired more than two dozen portfolios from sales offices and independent agents, increasing our total merchant base, and allowing us the opportunity to negotiate exceptional rates with our Payment Processing Partners.

Like every business and individual alike, we were affected by the COVID pandemic. Like everyone, we were forced to make changes. We worked remotely, upgrading our equipment to carry on virtually. We found new ways to connect with our partners and merchants. We modified our services to meet the demands of our merchants, including

upgraded terminals to contactless to help keep customers and employees safe
added virtual payment options to help keep customers and employees safe, and allow businesses to accept payments even if they had to close their doors
created eCommerce stores to keep businesses operational and expand their ability to do business
introduced Dual Pricing to offset credit card processing expenses
expanded our recurring credit and ACH payment options for merchants

In early 2021, we examined the last five years, exhausted from the crusade but proud of our accomplishments. We found one thing to be consistently true – evolution is in our blood. What began as a small sales office in 1998 has grown into something so much more. As we looked to the future, we knew it was time to change once again, this time, our entire brand.

Moving forward, we will bear the name Evolv, which we believe better represents our company, its divisions, and our partners.

We invite you to connect with us on our social channels:

@poweredbyevolv

facebook | linkedin

If you’re curious, here’s more:

To learn more about our Shared Services Program, click here.
To learn more about what this rebrand means for our merchants, click here.
To learn more about what this rebrand means for our partners, click here.
To download our new logo, click here.
For a FREE audit on your website and digital marketing efforts, click here.
To schedule an appointment with an agent to discuss Contactless or Virtual Payment Options, eCommerce, Dual Pricing, or Digital Marketing solutions, click here.

What the Rebrand Means for our Merchants

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 14:32:00 GMT

If you have a merchant account with Approval Payment Solutions (APS), now Evolv, you can expect the following changes:

What’s exciting about our rebrand is the products and services we have to offer our merchants, including:

The alliance of partners under the evolv rebrand offers increased support both internally and across the United States, with representation in more than 20 states.

To contact a representative for more information about our enhanced service portfolio, including Digital Marketing, Dual Pricing, Virtual Payments, or Upgraded Terminals, please click here.

A POS System Can Benefit Your Business

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 15:41:00 GMT

What A POS System Can Do

Are you still trying to figure out the best payment solution for your business? If so, you should seriously consider a POS or Point of Sale software. The innovative technology offers a wide range of benefits that can make your company run more smoothly than traditional manual systems. Regardless of your particular niche or industry, a POS system can help take your business to the next level.

Track Employee Data

A POS system can easily track each employee's total sales over a period of time. This type of data can provide insight, so you can quickly identify which employees are the top sales people and which ones may need more training or coaching. You can also use the data to reward employees based on their monthly performance and inspire everyone on the sales team to work harder. The software system can also make it easier for you to keep track of each employee's productivity, which can be difficult if you have a large workforce.

Customer Rewards and Loyalty Program

Besides gathering employee sales data, a POS system can also collect information about your customer's past purchases and other useful details. Armed with this information, you can develop a custom rewards and loyalty program to entice them to buy more products from your business. Many POS software systems are also integrated with other marketing channels.

Customized Business Reports

Lastly, another way you can use a POS system to benefit your business is to use the data to develop customized business reports that will allow you to make better strategic decisions in the future. You can use the reports to spot potential sales trends and identify which items are popular so you can effectively manage your company's inventory.

Interested In A POS System?

Please contact Evolv today if you'd like to learn more about our POS payment processing solutions, or have questions about how to help grow your business. We have a solution for all. Give us a call at 888-311-7248.

Approval Payment Solutions (APS) Announces Rebrand

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 14:33:00 GMT

[Evansville, IN. June 30, 2021]: Approval Payment Solutions (APS), a top 40 US credit card processing company, just announced its rebrand. Moving forward, the company will operate as Evolv which better represents its divisions, partners, and suite of products and services.

Founded in 1998, Evolv started as a credit card processing sales office registered with NPC. Fast forward two decades, and Evolv has grown into a multi-processor sales office, with more than 130 financial institution partnerships and association endorsements, including FIS Community Bank Program.

In 2017, Evolv expanded its facility and enhanced its resources to provide a stronger relationship to its partners and merchants, adding a digital marketing offering and introducing a Shared Services Program. The Shared Service Program has allowed Evolv to centralize administrative functions of many offices across the United States, which have come together to streamline, not only their operations, but merchant onboarding, equipment deployment, support, buying power, and so much more.

Since its inception, Evolv has been dedicated to the support of referral partners and banks, merchants, and its vastly growing sales channel. For that reason, Evolv is staffed by relationship advocates, partner development managers, both internal and external sales agents, a deployment team, an operation team, a lead generation team, an accounting team, and a marketing team. These groups work together to support their growing network of referral partners, merchants, and agents.

Evolv can provide customers with various solutions, including cash discounting, point-of-sale systems, smart terminals and other payment processing equipment, qualified level II and level III processing rates, ecommerce and website development solutions, and other digital marketing services.

“What I love about Evolv is it perfectly describes this company,” said Chief Development Officer, John Johnson. “What was once a simple sales office has transformed into something much more complex as we’ve grown and changed with the industries we serve. We’re able to offer our partners, agents, and merchants what they need with a level of customer service they can trust.”

“What sets Evolv apart from other companies in our industry is the unique service offering of payment processing and digital marketing. We’re a one-stop-shop for many merchants,” said Chief Executive Officer, Allan Noe. “For our bank partners and agents, that’s huge. We can offer their merchants more and help them increase their sales, decrease their costs, and mitigate their risk.”

Evolv maintains over 16,000 merchants, processes more than $5 billion in annual transactions, and secured nearly a dozen acquisitions in less than three years. Evolv supports more than 20 regional and independent sales offices nationwide.

Please contact us directly to learn more about evolv and the full suite of services they provide.

California Rural Water Association Announces Partnership with GovCard

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 15:22:00 GMT

SACRAMENTO, Calif., March 23, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The California Rural Water Association (CRWA), has announced a new strategic partnership with GovCard, a division of Approval Payment Solutions.

GovCard specializes in providing electronic payment options that allow citizens to pay bills from the comfort and security of their homes. Citizens can pay with a credit card, debit card, or via ACH. Payments can be made through their user-friendly customer interface or by calling your local office for manual input.

The program will also eliminate your cities or towns processing costs. The program works by passing along the processing costs to the customer as a service fee, allowing government organizations to maximize their receivables. With GovCard, your city/town saves thousands on processing fees, improves cash flow, enables automated payments, and reduces in-office traffic.

GovCard's powerful payment processing technology has helped cities and towns all over the nation with online payments. If you do not have a website, GovCard will provide a web page and add an online pay button for your citizens.

About GovCard

GovCard specializes in providing electronic payment options that allow citizens to pay bills from their homes' comfort and security. Citizens can pay with a credit card, debit card, or via ACH. Payments are made through their user-friendly customer interface or by calling your local office for manual input.

About Approval Payment Solutions Powered by evolv

APS is a 22-year-old, national, top-40 payment processor. APS maintains an 89% merchant retention rate compared to the industry average of 78%. The APS mission is to build partnerships through excellence in customer service. For more information about how GovCard can assist with online payments, please contact Cole Lawrence, Municipal & Utility Specialist, at 888.311.7248 ext. 3002, or email clawrence@apsolutions.net . Visit the GovCard website at http://www.apsolutions.com .

About California Rural Water Association

The California Rural Water Association - CRWA has been California's leading association for on-site technical aid and specialized training for wastewater and rural water systems since 1990. The CRWA team of experienced water and wastewater professionals, administrative staff, governing Board of Directors, and technical field experts work together to deliver a broad range of essential programs and services to CRWA members.

The California Rural Water Association helps water and wastewater utilities achieve high service standards by providing training, resources, technical assistance, and information.

Contact:
Dustin Hardwick
Deputy Director
916-553-4900 ext. 108

Evolv Announces Partnership with Republic Bank & Trust Company

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 21:04:00 GMT

NEWBURGH, Ind., March 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Evolv , formerly Approval Payment Solutions (APS), a leader in the merchant processing industry, is proud to announce their partnership with Republic Bank. This partnership will provide a wide array of merchant services solutions to Republic Bank's customers.

The venture will go to market as " Evolv , Republic's Merchant Solutions Partner".

"We are excited about our new partnership with Republic Bank," said R. Allan Noe, Founder and CEO of Evolv . "Their dedication to the communities they serve is impressive. Evolv merchant solutions will help Republic Bank's clients increase sales, decrease costs and mitigate risks."

Evolv and Republic Bank's partnership will provide products, tools, and services crucial to running a successful business. Business owners will be able to expand their credit card processing services through innovative software solutions. Evolv provides clients educational resources, consultation, and extraordinary customer service.

About Republic Bank

Republic Bancorp, Inc. (the "Company") is the parent company of Republic Bank & Trust Company (the "Bank"). The Bank currently has 42 full-service banking centers throughout five states: 28 banking centers in 8 Kentucky communities – Covington, Crestview Hills, Florence, Georgetown, Lexington, Louisville, Shelbyville, and Shepherdsville; three banking centers in southern Indiana – Floyds Knobs, Jeffersonville, and New Albany; seven banking centers in six Florida communities (Tampa MSA) – Largo, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg, Seminole, Tampa, and Temple Terrace; two banking centers in two Tennessee communities (Nashville MSA) – Cool Springs and Green Hills; and two banking centers in two Ohio communities (Cincinnati MSA) – Norwood and West Chester. The Bank offers internet banking at www.republicbank.com . The Bank also offers separately branded, nation-wide digital banking at www.mymemorybank.com . The Company has $6.2 billion in assets and is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. The Company's Class A Common Stock is listed under the symbol "RBCAA" on the NASDAQ Global Select Market.

Contactless Payment Options Are Vital

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 22:40:00 GMT

In the wake of a global pandemic, businesses have had to make shifts in many day-to-day operations. While it has been a significant challenge, it has helped identify areas for improvement. One point of concern is the payment terminal, where the consumer uses their cash or card to make their purchase. It involves many points of contact as an exchange occurs between the clerk and customer. Additionally, the customer often touches the same screen hundreds of other customers have touched on the same day. Contactless payment is a technology that is increasing in popularity and plays an important role for businesses during the pandemic in reducing contact points and offers benefits to both the consumer and the business.

What is Contactless Payment?

There are now multiple forms of contactless payment options for consumers, including online payments, a contactless chip card, and a smartphone universal wallet. An online payment occurs when the consumer makes a purchase remotely from their personal device. In contrast, a contactless chip card and smartphone universal wallet can be used on-site without contacting the payment terminal. They use Near Field Communications (NFC) technology, which allows the consumer to simply move the device within a few inches of the terminal to complete the transaction. It doesn’t even require a pin or signature.

Benefits

Grotta, S. (2020, November). Contactless Payments: We Can Do Better. Digital Transactions, 17(11), 16-18. doi:https://www.digitaltransactions.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DTNovember2020.pdf

Evolv Selected as Woodford State Bank Preferred Merchant Services Provider

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 20:33:00 GMT

MONROE, Wis., Feb. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Woodford State Bank (WSB), has announced its recent endorsement of Evolv, Inc. DBA Approval Payment Solutions (APS).

Now more than ever, it is vital for merchants to have the ability to accept all forms of payment. Efficiency and ease of ordering goods and services can be a deciding factor for whether a business will struggle or flourish during this pandemic. To help businesses succeed in their community, Woodford State Bank has carefully sought out a merchant service program for their member financial institutions.

Evolv offers a complete menu of electronic payment solutions to businesses of every type and size. They are a full-service provider, offering an all-inclusive solution for the payment processing needs of any business.

Evolv has helped brick-and-mortar businesses introduce online shopping and click-to-order solutions with cost-neutral credit card payment acceptance. evolv safeguards customer information with in-house Payment Card Industry (PCI) security standards. A partnership with a reliable merchant services provider solidifies community merchants to their financial institution.

About Approval Payment Solutions (APS) Powered by evolv:
Evolv is a 22-year-old, national, top-50 payment processor. Evolv maintains an 89% merchant retention rate compared to the industry average of 78%. Evolv's mission is to build partnerships through excellence in customer service.

Evolv is a full-service provider offering credit and debit card processing, gift, loyalty, EBT, Voyager, Wright Express, Check Conversion, Check Guarantee, Check Recovery, Core Local services, Search Engine Optimization, and Website Design.

About Woodford State Bank (WSB):
For over 100 years, Woodford State Bank has been meeting the changing needs of local families, businesses, and farmers by offering the financial solutions they need and want. Our team of experienced professionals provide complete banking services in an exceptionally friendly and personal manner. We have a tremendous interest in the prosperity of the communities we serve because we live in these communities too. Our employees and Board members shop where you shop. Our kids go to school with your kids. We are members of the same organizations and churches you belong to.

We are committed to remain locally owned and operated with a focus on smart growth and profits. Additionally, as an active community sponsor and partner, Woodford State Bank is seen as a business leader and good citizen in each of its host communities. You will find that our attention to customers, to communities, and to service is what sets us apart from the rest of the financial service industry.

Approval Payment Solutions (APS) is Evolving in 2021

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 20:13:00 GMT

Newburgh, IN – Approval Payment Solutions (APS) is excited to announce the rebranding to Evolv in 2021. Throughout the year, the APS logo will bear a tagline with the words “We are Evolv-ing,” a theme APS has been executing for many years.

While proving payment processing solutions to merchants across the country for over 23 years, APS has also been building and maintaining relationships with independent agents, financial institutions, and associations. In 2017, APS expanded its facility and enhanced its resources to provide a stronger a relationship to its partners and merchants, including adding a digital marketing offering and introducing a “shared services” model of business to sales agents and offices.

This “shared services” model has allowed APS to centralize administrative functions of many offices across the United States, which have come together to streamline, not only their operations, but merchant onboarding, equipment deployment, support, buying power, and so much more.

In November 2020, APS procured “Evolv” as the name for the shared services organization, and later this year, will transition fully into Evolv, bearing a name consistent with the company itself. The Evolv partners will bear a tagline with the words “Powered by Evolv.”

Together, this group maintains over 16,000 merchants, processes more than $5 billion in annual transactions, partners with more than 100 financial institutions and associations, pays over 400 monthly downlines, secured nearly a dozen acquisitions in less than three years, supports more than 20 regional and independent sales offices covering nearly the entire country.

Evolv Selected As North Carolina Bankers Association Endorsed Vendor

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 20:19:00 GMT

MONROE, Wis., Feb. 23, 2021/PRNewswire/ -- Woodford State Bank (WSB), has announced its recent endorsement of Evolv, Inc. DBA Approval Payment Solutions (APS).

Evolv has helped brick-and-mortar businesses introduce online shopping and click-to-order solutions with cost-neutral credit card payment acceptance. Evolv safeguards customer information with in-house Payment Card Industry (PCI) security standards. A partnership with a reliable merchant services provider solidifies community merchants to their financial institution.

About Approval Payment Solutions (APS) Powered by Evolv:
Evolv is a 26-year-old, national, top-50 payment processor. Evolv maintains an 89% merchant retention rate compared to the industry average of 78%. Evolv's mission is to build partnerships through excellence in customer service.

Traditional vs. Mobile POS Systems

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 16:23:00 GMT

Contact a rep today to learn more about our traditional and mobile POS systems.

Core Local® Helps Businesses During COVID

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 16:26:00 GMT

There's no question about it, COVID restrictions have affected businesses across the nation. One small thing that still remains beneficial is to ensure your information online is correct. During this time of change, your customers will likely turn to your local listings online to find out information about curbside pickup, hours, etc. Ensure all your information is correct online with Core Local® during COVID.

Core Local®

An easy solution to monitoring and editing your information online is through Core Local®. Core Local® is a tool that helps business owners manage their local listings, so they perform better in local search results. Core Local® allows you to control the facts about your business across more than 60 digital services including Google, Yahoo, Bing, Open Table, and more. Your customers can then find the correct information they need about the business online. The different tools within Core Local allow you to do various things. These are some of the most common.

If you’re looking for a tool to help your business during these unprecedented times, Core Local® is a vital solution. Contact a local representative to learn more about Core Local®.

Mobile Wallets Are The New Thing

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 15:31:00 GMT

Our lives are drastically different than what they were a year ago. The way we do normal daily activities is different due to COVID-19 restrictions. A big thing that is changing because of all this is the way we pay for things. Over the last few months, there has been a massive increase in mobile wallets. Why? Here’s why we think mobile wallets are the new thing.

Mobile Wallets

When we say mobile wallets, we are referring to the no card payment option many places are accepting nowadays. All your card information is stored in a mobile wallet that allows you to pay without a card. Some of the most common wallets include

These go-to payment methods are becoming more popular because they require no touch. It is an entirely contactless payment option, which is ideal, given our current circumstances. According to Digital Transactions , contactless payment in the U.S. has increased by 150% since March 2019. As a business owner, it would be a good idea to accept mobile wallets as a form of payment because of their increasing popularity. So how do you do that?

What’s Next

If your business doesn’t already accept these wallets, we can help! We offer a variety of processing services, including gateway solutions, chip card readers, contactless terminals, tablet solutions, and more! We are dedicated to independent merchants and will work closely with you to identify the best payment processing system for your business. In addition, we offer competitive rates, 24/7 customer service, and so much more. Contact a local rep to learn more about integrating mobile wallets into your business.