Gloria Jean’s, a popular café chain, is making a significant change by going cashless at its company-owned stores starting September 11. The move aims to create a safer environment for staff and enhance service efficiency.
Controversy and Customer Reactions

The decision has sparked controversy among customers. Some have expressed their dissatisfaction on social media, threatening to boycott the café. Critics argue about the potential issues if the internet goes down and the added surcharges associated with digital payments.
There are concerns about accessibility and the elimination of cash payment options, which some see as inconvenient.
The Shift Towards Cashless Payments
Australia is leading the global trend towards a cashless society. According to the Reserve Bank of Australia, cash transactions have dramatically declined, with only 13% of payments made using cash in 2022, down from 70% in 2007.
This shift has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of digital payment methods, such as smartphones and watches. Dr. Angel Zhong from RMIT predicts a “functionally” cashless society by 2030, where cash payments are rare.
While Gloria Jean’s move to a cashless system is part of a broader trend, it highlights the challenges and debates surrounding the transition to a cashless society.
Source news.com