Why You Need to Be Using Buy Now, Pay Later

Last Updated on January 13, 2025 by Holland Rocha

What Is Buy Now, Pay Later?

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) is a payment system where customers make a purchase and pay for it later in installments. Unlike traditional credit cards, BNPL plans often feature low or no interest rates, making them an attractive option for consumers.

Historically, BNPL has been a hit with younger shoppers. Millennials and Gen Z are the primary adopters, with usage skyrocketing by 600% among Gen Z from 2019 to 2021. However, older generations like Gen X and even Baby Boomers are catching on, proving its broad appeal across age groups.

How Does Buy Now, Pay Later Work?

The BNPL process is straightforward:

  1. Choose BNPL at Checkout: Customers select BNPL as their payment method during checkout.
  2. Agree to Terms: The BNPL provider outlines the payment schedule, typically splitting the cost into several equal installments.
  3. Soft Credit Check: Most providers perform a quick credit check that doesn’t impact the customer’s credit score.
  4. Start Payments: Customers begin paying over time, either through the provider’s app or automated deductions from their accounts.

The Benefits of Buy Now, Pay Later

For Shoppers

  1. Accessible and Flexible: BNPL offers an alternative to credit cards, particularly for those without access to traditional credit.
  2. Lower Costs: Many BNPL plans feature no interest or lower fees compared to credit cards.
  3. Convenience: Shoppers can afford larger purchases without breaking the bank upfront.

For Merchants

  1. Higher Average Order Value (AOV): Customers are more likely to purchase premium products or additional items when they can spread out payments. Retailers using BNPL services have reported up to a 50% increase in AOV.
  2. Reduced Cart Abandonment: Flexible payment options address concerns about affordability, leading to fewer abandoned carts.
  3. Improved Cash Flow: Merchants receive full payment from the BNPL provider, ensuring financial stability while customers pay in installments.
  4. Younger Customer Base: BNPL resonates strongly with Millennials and Gen Z, helping businesses attract younger shoppers who prefer alternatives to credit cards.

Top Buy Now, Pay Later Providers

When selecting a BNPL provider, consider terms, limits, and locations served to find the best fit for your eCommerce business. Here are some of the top BNPL apps:

  1. Affirm: Popular for its transparent terms and compatibility with high-ticket items.
  2. Afterpay: Focused on smaller, interest-free installment plans, ideal for fashion and retail brands.
  3. Klarna: Offers multiple payment options, including pay-in-4 and financing for larger purchases.
  4. PayPal Pay Later: A convenient option for businesses already using PayPal, integrating seamlessly with checkout processes.
  5. Shop Pay Installments: Exclusive to Shopify merchants, Shop Pay Installments can increase AOV and reduce abandoned carts.

Offering Buy Now, Pay Later is a game-changer for merchants looking to grow their eCommerce business. This payment option not only increases average order value but also reduces cart abandonment by providing customers with manageable payment plans. Merchants benefit from improved cash flow, as BNPL providers pay them upfront, and they can attract younger, tech-savvy shoppers who prefer alternatives to credit cards. By incorporating BNPL into your payment options, you can create a better shopping experience while boosting sales.