Navigating Changes: Shopify Ends Realex and WorldPay Payment Gateways – What You Need to Know

19 January 2024

Written by Libby James

Libby James is co-founder, director and an expert in all things merchant services. Libby is the go-to specialist for business with more complex requirements or businesses that are struggling to find a provider that will accept them. Libby is regularly cited in trade, national and international media.

In this article

Share this article with others:

Notice given by Shopify to Realex and Worldpay Users

In recent news, the Shopify community has been caught off guard with the announcement that business owners can no longer use Realex or WorldPay Payment Gateways. This sudden termination has left long-standing customers searching for alternatives. As a business owner, understanding the implications of terminated payment gateways is crucial to avoid disruptions. Let’s delve into the details.

Terminated Third-Party Payment Gateways

Terminated Payment Gateways: What You Need to Know

Terminated merchant facilities can be a significant setback for businesses, occurring when the acquiring bank or payment processor closes a merchant account or payment gateway. This action may be triggered by various reasons, including a violation of terms, excessive chargebacks, or engagement in high-risk activities. However, when it comes to Worldpay and Realex, the overarching decision to terminate stems from strategic business and financial considerations, rather than individual case-by-case selection. Needless to say, it is essential to grasp these factors to ensure compliance and prevent future business disruptions.

Shopify Integrations: A Changing Landscape

The Shopify marketplace has seen exponential growth, intensifying the competition among payment gateway technologies. While Shopify Payments is the default choice, third-party providers like Worldpay and Realex (Global Payments) were popular alternatives. The notice of termination by Shopify underscores the platform’s commitment to enforcing guidelines. Merchants must now explore alternative solutions in this evolving landscape.

Shopify Alternatives

Facing Shopify Terminations: Challenges and Consequences

Shopify typically terminates merchants for violations such as engaging in high-risk activities, breaching acceptable use policies, or consistently failing to meet compliance standards. The consequences can be severe, including the immediate suspension of the merchant’s storefront and potential damage to customer trust. Adhering to Shopify’s guidelines becomes crucial to maintaining a sustainable e-commerce presence.

Finding Alternatives: Navigating the Aftermath

The termination of merchant facilities brings about several challenges for businesses:

Disruption of Payment Processing: Temporary halting of credit card payments can lead to revenue loss and hinder customer experiences.

Damage to Business Reputation: Termination may raise concerns, affecting credibility. Rebuilding trust becomes crucial but challenging.

Difficulty Finding Alternative Solutions: Securing a new merchant account provider or payment gateway can be complex, especially considering termination history.

Financial Consequences: Depending on circumstances, financial penalties like fines or withheld funds may occur, impacting stability.

Empowering Businesses with Alternatives

With Shopify no longer supporting Realex and Worldpay gateways, businesses are prompted to explore alternative payment gateway suppliers. Shopify-approved gateways can be integrated with alternative third-party, offering flexibility and potential cost savings.

How MAS Can Help: Expert Guidance for Businesses

Merchant Advice Service (MAS) specialises in assisting businesses experiencing termination. Our experts collaborate with payment gateway and merchant account suppliers, providing guidance and support during these challenging times, as well as reliable solutions. For businesses frustrated by this situation, speak to MAS experts today.

FAQs

Why has Shopify terminated Realex and WorldPay payment gateways?

Shopify terminates payment gateways for various reasons, including violations of terms of service, engagement in high-risk activities, or consistent non-compliance with Shopify’s guidelines.

What are the potential consequences of terminated merchant facilities?

Consequences may include damage to your business reputation, difficulty finding alternative solutions, and financial penalties such as fines or withheld funds.

How can Merchant Advice Service (MAS) assist businesses affected by termination?

MAS works closely with payment gateway and merchant account suppliers to help businesses navigate the aftermath of termination, offering valuable guidance for finding alternative solutions.

How does the termination of payment gateways affect my Shopify store?

The termination of payment gateways can lead to a temporary halt in your ability to accept credit card payments or process transactions, resulting in revenue loss and impacting the overall purchasing experience for your customers.

Can terminated merchants use Shopify-approved gateways with alternative merchant accounts?

Yes, businesses facing termination can explore alternative payment gateway suppliers approved by Shopify, providing flexibility based on business needs and potentially serving as a cost-saving opportunity.