Following the successful launch of the REWE Bonus benefits programme, the next digital innovation is now coming to the REWE app: REWE Pay. With the mobile payment function, customers can now pay for their purchases quickly, conveniently and securely via their smartphone directly at the REWE store. All they need to do is scan the app code from their smartphone at the checkout or SCO checkout. The purchase amount is debited from the current account by direct debit.
This service extension was developed in response to increasing consumer demand for fast and efficient payment methods. After all, only one in three people still pay in cash at retail outlets*. REWE Pay is integrated into the app code within the REWE app and offers customers a simple and secure shopping experience. By scanning the code, customers can simultaneously use REWE Bonus, collect loyalty points and pay for their purchases directly. The prerequisites are: Users must activate payment via the app ("REWE Pay"), identify themselves once with their Girocard (recognisable by the Girocard logo) in the REWE store and give their consent to direct debit (standing mandate) by signing at the payment terminal. REWE Pay cannot be used with debit and credit cards.
The development of REWE Pay focussed on the comprehensive protection of the payment process and customer data as well as user-friendliness. The payment method is not linked to the REWE customer account and can only be used on the mobile device** that was used for authorisation in the store the first time it was used. In addition, a security mechanism - such as Face ID, Touch ID or the device password - is required for every payment with REWE Pay. (If a user has not set up a security mechanism, the payment function will be prevented from being set up on this device)
The introduction of REWE Pay is not only an improvement in the shopping experience for our customers, but also an important part of REWE Group's broader digitalisation strategy. This strategy focuses on better serving consumers through innovative technologies and optimising internal processes at the same time. The payment method was developed by paymenttools, a subsidiary of REWE Group, and is now being launched first at the Group's largest sales line.
By integrating digital solutions such as REWE Pay, REWE Group is at the forefront of technological transformation in the retail sector. Digitalisation enables more efficient processes and a personalised customer approach that offers customers the best possible networked and therefore improved shopping experience.
* Statista: Distribution of payment methods in retail in Germany 2024, published by Jennifer Gerhus, 20 May 2025
** REWE Pay requires a smartphone with an iOS (iOS 16 or higher) or Android (Android 8 or higher) operating system.