Opinions are divided this week as coffee giant Gloria Jeans announces it will stop accepting cash at the cafes it owns later this month. The trial to go cashless is sparked by “customer payment preferences” as well as for the safety of staff members.

A spokesperson told 9News, “We believe that going cashless will not only create a safer environment for our staff but also streamline operations, allowing us to serve our customers more efficiently.”

It’s important to note that Gloria Jeans will only be going cashless at the stores owned by the Retail Food group – franchises will operate at their own discretion.

“The vast majority of Gloria Jean’s outlets are owned and operated by our valued franchise partners who set their own policies regarding cash handling,” the spokesperson continued.

It’s not the first time lately that a large chain has gone cashless.

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Chicken restaurant chain Nando’s stirred up conversation online with its decision to go completely cashless in Australia. While the move may not come as a surprise to some, it sparked discussions across comment sections among loyal patrons who still prefer to carry cash.

Although it seems that Nando’s has been operating on a cashless basis for some time, news of the card-only policy gained traction thanks to a Reddit post. A diner shared a photo of a sign at one Nando’s location, which hilariously preempted the inevitable online chatter.

The sign reads, “Sorry, guess we’re part of the New World Order now. Just kidding, card payments mean we spend less time counting coins and more time perfecting your chicken.”

By eliminating cash transactions, Nando’s aims to streamline its operations and enhance efficiency, allowing staff to focus more on delivering delicious, flame-grilled chicken to hungry customers.

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The decision to go cashless reflects broader trends in the food service industry, where digital payments are increasingly preferred for their convenience and hygiene benefits, particularly after the Great Unpleasantness of 2019-2024. Cashless transactions not only reduce the risk of theft and errors but also contribute to a faster and more seamless dining experience.

However, the move hasn’t been without its critics. Some customers express concerns about the exclusion of cash as a payment option, citing issues such as privacy, accessibility, and even their streamlined marital deception, with one commenter saying, “So what you’re saying is I can’t get $20 out at the servo, blame high prices and use that 20 to have some cheeky nandos without the missus knowing. Well you’ve lost a customer!”

In the other camp were customers supporting the movie, “Not only does it make you vulnerable to being robbed (which has happened a lot lately esp with the cost of living crisis), it always takes so long if you have to count coins.”

Nevertheless, Nando’s remains committed to its cashless policy, emphasising the advantages it brings to both customers and staff. As the restaurant industry continues to evolve in response to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements, Nando’s decision to go cashless looks a lot like the new normal.

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