Demographic differences in usage and attitudes toward the Saudi Arabian EFTPoS system

Abstract

After only five years in operation, the Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale (EFTPoS) system of Saudi Arabia has made a significant impact on the Kingdom’s commercial environment. Recent EFTPoS statistics indicate growing consumer acceptance of the system. To help decision makers identify areas for further improvements in usage, the study reported in this article examines how EFTPoS usage and overall attitudes toward the system vary across different consumer demographic groups. Results of the study indicate that in general, consumers have favourable attitudes toward using the EFTPoS system. However, they are concerned about the possibilities of losing control over expenditures when purchases can be charged to electronic cards. Significant differences in EFTPoS usage and attitudes are found between men and women, consumers of different national backgrounds, and monthly income categories. Age and educational level do not have significant effects on attitudes. Practical and theoretical implications of the findings are outlined and discussed.