Digital payments platform Alipay is partnering with global restaurateur HMSHost to supply its mobile payment experience in airports across North America.
Alipay is one of China’s most popular digital payment providers and the primary means of online and mobile payment for Chinese consumers.
Through this deployment, Chinese travelers visiting the USA and Canada will be able to pay using the Alipay app when making purchases at HMSHost-operated restaurants in most major airports across North America.
Alipay is targeting late Q4 2018 for the first integration of HMSHost locations with the payment service.
Yulei Wang, general manager, Alipay North America, said, “This is a key strategic partnership for Alipay as we grow our North American presence and help extend the Alipay experience to Chinese consumers visiting North America.
“We are thrilled to partner with HMSHost to provide Chinese consumers with a more familiar way to pay while dining at airports.”
The USA and Canada are among the most popular destinations for Chinese travelers and students, with around four million visits and over half a million Chinese students per year.
Joy Butler, treasurer at HMSHost, added, “We are committed to providing service to make convenient and enjoyable experiences for all guests when they choose to dine with HMSHost.
“We are very excited about partnering with Alipay to expand the service we offer and to continue providing all consumers with their preferred payment options.”