Automated pay machines introduced at Melita stores

Fourteen per cent of payment transactions at Melita stores in Valletta and Paola over the past four weeks have been made through automated pay machines, the company said.

The machines were installed at the stores under a pilot project five weeks ago in a bid to examine the potential of an additional payment channel. The initiative falls under an investment programme into customer experience improvement.

Similar in principle to petrol station pay machines, the installations are simple to use: Customers need only insert their Melita bill so that the barcode is scanned and the amount due appears on the colour screen. Users then slot in cash, and change and a receipt are issued.

The process lasts no more than a few minutes.

Based on the results of the pilot project, Melita is to study the possibility of deploying automated pay machines to any of its other stores, or at locations like shopping centres or supermarkets.

Melita subscribers who prefer to pay their bills in cash, rather than online, through internet banking or by cheque, are being assisted by in-store customer care team members to familiarise themselves with the machines’ functions.

Increased usage will cut queuing times for customers who visit Melita’s stores for other requirements besides payment.

The pay machines’ capabilities – which currently include information display – may also be extended to offer other services.

Melita customers are able to settle their bills in cash at Melita stores or Maltapost branches.

The company has, meanwhile, seen a constant increase in registrations for its ‘My Melita’ portal where subscribers may manage their accounts and payment online.

The portal is used by around 30,000 customers.