Australian fashion retailer, Incu has implemented Pay by Link technology from global payments platform, Adyen, to reach customer markets which had been shut off by the COVID-19 lockdown.

Prior to stores closing in March, Incu staff used Chinese messaging service, WeChat, for social selling. It operated as an interactive mailing list, to share new product updates, answer sizing and styling questions, and transact with Mandarin-speaking customers. Purchases were then finalised through in-store Point of Sale (POS), or via direct transfer.

When the lockdown commenced, Incu was seeking a secure way for its customers to complete orders through WeChat, and Pay by Link was implemented in just two weeks.

Customers opening these links now see their purchases on a personalised screen and can choose from a range of payment options including credit cards, Alipay, WeChat Pay, China UnionPay, Apple Pay and Google Pay. At the back end, Adyen’s platform gives Incu a clear view of links sent and payments received.

Pay by Link has also enabled the retailer to fast-track an update to its online store, the roll-out of training and development for store managers, and the reintroduction of channels such as phone orders.

“Pay by Link has delivered promising results – it has helped us to maintain the same level of sales from our WeChat customer base as pre shutdown,” Incu CEO Douglas Low said.

“Customers can make a purchase through a payment link from home and arrange delivery, or walk by our stores to collect their items. We can also initiate a FaceTime or Zoom call and guide people through our collections and purchase.

“I am thrilled to have Pay by Link in our arsenal. It’s opened up a lot of possibilities by bringing human connection back to a world that’s become very digital,” Low added.

Adyen country manager for Australia and New Zealand, Michel van Aalten said Pay by Link has been useful for businesses that needed to adapt quickly to the lockdown.

“Pay by Link has meant that our merchants can be chatting to a customer over the phone, via an app or web chat, send them a secure link and have the payment completed before the conversation is over. It’s easy for retailers and their customers to use and, importantly, means our merchants can continue to operate during these challenging times,” he said.