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What We're About

We help businesses find payment processing, finance and banking solutions suited to their needs.


Founded in 2016, Merchant Advice Service saw a gap in the market for simple, non-biased card payments advice and transparency. Other websites offered rate shopping ‘money supermarket’ type of comparisons however the team at MAS HQ wanted to bring a solution-led approach to the forefront of the card payment industry. Together we make payments BETTER!

read more of our history...

Renowned for its hard sales, complex terminology, and lack of customer support – merchant services can be a tough old game. Nevertheless, Founder Libby James brought a refreshing approach to the industry, being quoted as saying ‘we give card payments advice like you would a mate in a pub; simple, free and honest’.

Merchant Advice Service Information: The Beginning. Our clients want to be empowered to make informed decisions when it comes to their business finances. We work in a world of confusing terminology with people not always fully understanding what they’re paying for and why. So we wanted to debunk that and put them back in the driving seat.

Over the years we’ve partnered with the very best in card payments, business banking and merchant finance providers. Our tried and tested network of payments specialists allows our clients to choose a solution which works best for them. From start-ups to high risk merchants – we’ve got it all covered.

Our Values

Transparency

The Payments Directory, powered by Merchant Advice Service, where transparency leads the way. We believe in maintaining clear and open communication at every step, ensuring that you understand all aspects of payments, banking, and finance options. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions streamlining your operations.

Education

We are committed to empowering business owners through education. By providing essential knowledge and resources, we help you navigate the complex world of payments and finance with confidence. Whether you're looking for information on integration, payment methods, or bank risk appetite, we strive to make every aspect of our platform an educational tool that enhances your understanding and decision-making.

Unbiased

Our platform is tailored to your business needs, free from any external influences or biases. At Merchant Advice Service we prioritise your interests, ensuring that the guidance and recommendations offered are impartial and focused on finding the best solutions for your specific requirements. This commitment to an unbiased service helps you trust that we have your best interests at heart.

Free

We believe that valuable information should be accessible to every finance department and business owner, regardless of their size or industry type. Our platform is free to use, making it easy for you to access the insights and support you need without any financial barriers. By removing these obstacles, we ensure that all business owners can benefit from the wealth of knowledge and resources available through The Payments Directory.

Testimonials

What Our Customers Say...

I had a brief phone call with Libby to outline our needs and within an hour I was being called by a processing bank to get things moving. Our new provider has been set up within 48 hours and we are overjoyed and stress free. Thank you Libby, what ...
Great service 👍🏻
Great service, thank you
1st class service, nothing but good things to say about this business. From first contact nothing has been to much trouble.
Using merchant services has helped my business no end. Great service, really professional and nothing was ever too much trouble when asking questions. Thank you!
Great service from the team. Would highly recommend using them!
Great thanks to Merchant Advise Service and Libby James. We encountered a problem with our existing merchant that led us unable to process customer payments which as a small business was a disaster. Libby quickly matched us with a new merchant a...
I contacted Merchant Advice Service when our company received notice from a previous provider. We’re classed as “travel” due to the nature of our UK holiday business. At the time we reached out to a few providers - however the advice we received ...
Highly recommend the MAS & Libby, the service provided to us was exceptional.
    Libby James, the founder, sitting at a desk, working.

    Meet Our Founder

    Libby James founded Merchant Advice Service in 2016, driven by frustrations with the lack of transparency in the payments industry. She worked tirelessly to build a worldwide network of trusted partner banks, addressing the common challenges businesses face when accepting card payments or finding suitable bank accounts.

    With a team of industry experts, Libby developed The Payments Directory. Accomplishing her goal to provide businesses with banks that suit their unique needs—easily, unbiased, and free of charge. She believes in helping companies make informed decisions, whether through a self-serve approach or by sourcing a contact for bespoke advice, ultimately offering empowerment, choice, and transparency.

    clenched fist pointed upwards.
    Libby James, the founder, sitting at a desk, working.

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