The cost to the banks of each cash transaction taking place in the UK averages 8p, as compared to about 45p for each cheque, and 30p for each card payment and 20p for each electronic transaction. Most cash transactions take place outside the banking system. It therefore seems unlikely that banks would wish to price cash out of circulation. Even if they did want to do so, it is likely that other organisations would step in to fill the gap in the market by undercutting the prices charged by banks. Given the stubborn persistence of cash, it is important both to plan for its provision to customers as efficiently as possible and to understand its long lasting appeal.
Cash has benefits for consumers which are frequently underrated.
Furthermore, before rushing to replace cash, it is vital to ensure that costs will be decreased by its substitution, which in turn means that the costs of non-cash payment will need to be brought down.