Residents across the European Economic Area (EEA) will now have access to a prepaid-based mobile payment solution following a new partnership between The Payments Group (TPG), the vertically integrated e-money fintech company and Bluecode, a European payment system that enables cashless payments via mobile phone.
The new prepaid service is available via the Bluecode app, can be activated in just a few minutes, and funded via SEPA transfers, credit and debit cards, or even cash at more than 550,000 retail locations. Once topped up, users can make transactions worldwide with the confidence of a prepaid payment solution, eliminating the risk of overspending while safeguarding data and funds. It has been launched to act as an alternative to dominant international card schemes.
Whether paying for groceries or travelling abroad, users benefit from full spending control without the complexities of credit checks or hidden fees. The solution also supports transaction overviews and value-added services available within the Bluecode app, making it a powerful yet simple alternative to traditional bank accounts and other payment methods.
“With this launch, we’re proud to offer a payment solution that reflects Europe’s commitment to privacy, security, and user empowerment,” said Jens Bader, CEO of The Payments Group. “Our prepaid offering gives people across the EEA access to a European way to pay – built on European infrastructure, governed by European regulation, and aligned with the values that matter most to European users.”
Accepting payments both within and beyond Europe
Users also benefit from Bluecode’s growing interoperability with European and international payment ecosystems, which ensures broad acceptance both within and beyond Europe. This is especially relevant for users working or travelling abroad, particularly those who prefer to use a European solution or find themselves in places where traditional payment methods are not always widely accepted.
“Our partnership with The Payments Group marks a major milestone in building a truly European alternative in the global payments space,” said Christian Pirkner, CEO of Bluecode. “By combining The Payments Group’s prepaid infrastructure with our interoperable network, we’re empowering users across the European Economic Area with a solution that is not only secure and convenient but also firmly rooted in European values and technology.”
Looking ahead, The Payments Group and Bluecode are committed to strengthening their collaboration to drive further innovation in European payments, including integrating the prepaid-based solution into other apps, such as merchant apps, travel apps, and more.