Europe’s payments landscape is evolving fast, shaped by innovation, regulation, and shifting consumer expectations. To explore how global collaboration can support merchants through these changes, Paul Tunstall, VP of International at the Merchant Advisory Group (MAG), spoke with Kevin Baker, Managing Director, Head of Merchant Services & Commercial Card Sales, EMEA at Bank of America. They discuss the MAG’s role in supporting international growth, advocating for merchants, and sharing cross-border insights that drive the future of payments.
Paul: How can the MAG's global expansion benefit merchants in regions such as Europe?
Kevin: International expansion has become a key pillar of growth for many companies, especially those that sell goods and services online. With new markets come new challenges, from multiple local payment methods and regulations to different consumer behaviours and preferences. It’s a tremendous opportunity for the MAG to showcase its expertise in helping merchants in these new markets. Stakeholders in these markets will be sure to benefit from the MAG’s guidance on roadmap creation and innovation best-practices as technology evolves and makes its way across the various regions.
Paul: In your view, how does interaction with the MAG help merchants stay ahead of payments technology trends?
Kevin: MAG brings together the leading players from the payments industry, allowing merchants to interact with a variety of partners simultaneously. Acquirers, payment service providers, fraud solutions, card schemes, and other providers all offer unique perspectives on the current payments landscape, and MAG events provide merchants with an incredible opportunity to network and collaborate with these industry experts that they may not otherwise have a direct relationship with.
Paul: What role does the MAG play in advocating for merchants globally, and why is this important?
Kevin: MAG acts as a single voice for merchants globally at industry events, with trade associations, and the press to influence and ensure an effective, innovative, and fair industry. The collective voice of the MAG can be more impactful than a merchant may have on their own, meaning the entire industry can benefit from the MAG’s influence. Advocacy through the MAG also helps stakeholders understand the impact industry decisions can have on merchants and consumers, as well as help address immediate needs and facilitate future decision-making.
Paul: How does engaging with the MAG help businesses navigate international payment challenges?
Kevin: MAG merchant members can be at different places on the spectrum when it comes to things like international expansion and the complexity of payments acceptance programs. Chances are that someone else within the MAG has experienced what you are trying to achieve and would be happy to share their journey and perspective.
Paul: How do you stay on top of the ever-changing payments landscape, particularly across various regions?
Kevin: It’s important to stay plugged into industry groups like the MAG to remain current on payments trends and industry best practices. Networking events, education sessions, and advocacy efforts all provide valuable resources to companies across the globe, with a focus on remaining both compliant and innovative.
As the payments industry becomes increasingly interconnected, collaboration and knowledge-sharing across regions are more important than ever. Through its expanding global presence, the MAG continues to offer European merchants and beyond a platform to stay ahead of trends, overcome challenges, and shape the future of payments. Insights from leaders like Kevin Baker emphasise the power of a collective voice and the value of partnerships in navigating the complexities of today’s payments landscape. For more information on how to get involved with the MAG internationally, reach out to Paul Tunstall.
