Merchant Buying Groups

A merchant buying group is a group of businesses that band together and negotiate as one. Because the group represents many merchants and a lot of payment volume, it has more leverage than any single business would on its own.

Under the Settlement, merchants have a clearer right to form or join these groups to negotiate better terms on card acceptance — including interchange and processing costs. You don't have to be a large business to benefit; buying groups exist specifically to give smaller merchants the kind of pricing power that big retailers already have.

• Stronger negotiating position — the group's combined volume can unlock lower rates than you could get alone.
• Access to better terms — pricing, service, and technology that are usually reserved for large merchants.
• Shared knowledge — groups often share guidance on rules, compliance, and best practices.
• Lower cost of acceptance over time, without changing how you run your business day to day.

• Look for an existing buying group or association in your industry — many trade and industry associations already offer one.
• Ask your current processor or acquirer whether group or association pricing is available to you.
• Understand the terms before you join — what you're agreeing to, any fees, and how the group negotiates on your behalf.

There's no obligation. Joining a buying group is optional, and you can evaluate whether the savings are worth it for your business.