San Bruno, CA, Aug. 2, 2021 — Global digital commerce specialist Astound Commerce today announced that it has expanded its partnership with Klarna, the leading global retail bank, payments provider and shopping service. Astound Commerce’s U.S. clients can now offer flexible payment services and marketing tools under the Klarna for Business platform, including Klarna’s interest-free “Pay in 4” service.
“Astound Commerce is a leader in digital transformation,” said Vanessa Cartwright, Chief Operating Officer for Astound Commerce. “Combined with Klarna, the leader in payments and shopping, we are able to offer unmatched solutions and results for brands that strive for customer loyalty and higher conversion rates.”
According to Klarna’s recent 2021 Reopening Report, 69% of shoppers say the pandemic changed their shopping habits, with 80% saying they now prefer to shop online, and 74% now looking for flexible payment options at checkout. The Klarna for Business platform enables retailers to accommodate these new preferences by offering consumers a smarter way to shop and pay that fits their budgets and lifestyles, rather than the requirements of the traditional payments and banking industries.
“Consumers today are mindful of budgets and are increasingly moving away from traditional forms of credit towards more transparent and innovative payment options,” said David Sykes, Head of North America for Klarna. “We look forward to continuing to work with Astound to bring significant value and flexibility to shoppers nationwide, while also accelerating the growth of our joint retail partners.”
This expansion follows the success of the Astound and Klarna partnership in the U.K. launched in 2020, with joint merchant partners including Fat Face, Boux Avenue, Boohoo Group and Space NKl.