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Elavon
A global acquirer backed by U.S. Bank, offering reliable terminals, integrated gateways, and tailored support for UK merchants.
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Exclusive Rates From as Low as 0.26%
What is Elavon?
Elavon is a global payment processor and acquirer operating in over 30 countries. Owned by U.S. Bank, Elavon provides merchant services, including hardware, ecommerce platforms, and payment hubs to retailers, restaurants, charities, and more. In the UK, it powers brands like Opayo by Elavon (formerly Sage Pay), supplying card machines, POS integrations, virtual terminals, and omnichannel payment solutions under a unified infrastructure.
Elavon focuses on delivering stability, secure processing, and responsive local service. With robust support for multi site operations and global clients, Elavon enables businesses to accept payments across physical, digital, and remote channels while maintaining access to analytics, fraud detection, and merchant level account management.
At Compare Card Fees, we help UK merchants compare Elavon with other major acquirers, providing insights, hidden fee checks, and hands-on support to unlock optimal rates and customised solutions.
Key Features of Elavon
Who Should Consider Elavon?
Elavon is a strong choice for:
- Retail chains, cafes, and restaurants
- Businesses needing phone order or remote payments
- Charities and event based organisations
- Hospitality venues, bars, and hotels
- Merchants seeking a global acquirer with local service
It’s less well suited for micro enterprises or sole traders looking for quick, no contract solutions like SumUp or Zettle.
Pricing & How Elavon Compares
Elavon operates on custom pricing based on turnover, sector, channel mix, and risk. Typical fee structures include:
- Transaction charges: 1.0%–2.5%, depending on debit, credit, or corporate cards
- Terminal rental fees: £15–£30/month, varying by model and connectivity type
- Service/PCI fees: nominal monthly charge (£4.99–£9.99)
- Setup & integration costs: may apply, especially for multi-site or gateway EL
- Contract terms: typically 12–36 months (early exit possible with fee)
How it measures up:
Elavon combines high street terminal hardware and gateway flexibility better than most bank led acquirers. Its charges are comparable to competitors like Lloyds Cardnet and Barclaycard, but it stands above fintechs like Dojo or Square on reliability and detailed support. It’s also the backbone for Opayo, one of the UK’s leading ecommerce solutions. For multi channel and multi site merchants, Elavon offers a seamless, consistent experience across all environments.
At Compare Card Fees, we routinely negotiate improved pricing across Elavon’s terminal and gateway services giving you access to better commercial terms and strategic support.
Pros and Cons of Elavon
PROS
Broad coverage of payment types and channels
Strong support for hospitality and multi site operations
Dedicated UK team and 24/7 helpdesk
Multi currency and group merchant tools
Reliability backed by global infrastructure
Cons
Requires custom quote, no online transparency
Fixed term contracts, may include early exit fee
Some fees for PCI/compliance tools
Less accessible for micro sized merchants without negotiation
FAQs about Elavon
Elavon merchant services include card terminals, merchant accounts, online gateways, and fraud tools, delivered via direct contract or channel partners.
Yes. Elavon terminals support all contactless methods, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Typically 2–5 working days for standard setup; more complex configurations (e.g., ecommerce or multi-site networks) take 1–3 weeks.
Yes. Elavon is PCI DSS Level 1 certified and provides merchants with compliance support and resources.
Yes, you can use hosted pages, APIs, or a virtual terminal, suitable for ecommerce, charities, or remote selling.
Yes, many contracts offer next day settlement by default; some may offer same day as part of a negotiated package.
Yes, centralised dashboard allows franchisors or head offices to manage all outlets.
Yes, dedicated UK account managers and a 24/7 helpline with local staff.
Absolutely, we negotiate improved merchant service fees, lower terminal rates, and bespoke contract terms for our clients.
Yes, migration between gateways and acquirers is possible with integrated support; Compare Card Fees can manage the transition.
Is Elavon Right for Your Business?
Elavon is a powerful choice for UK businesses seeking integrated, multi channel payment solutions with consistent settlement and support across sites. Backed by U.S. Bank resources, it offers reliability and scalability, especially for hospitality, charities, franchises, and organisations that juggle terminals, online portals, and phone orders.
While smaller merchants may opt for simpler alternatives, for chains or hybrid sales environments, Elavon delivers infrastructure, flexibility, and dedicated UK service.
Still exploring options? Compare UK payment providers here to find the best fit for your business.
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