Wondering whether offering BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later) on your online store is a good idea? You’re not alone. Fractional payment solutions are exploding in France. In 2024, the French BNPL market is estimated at 8.9 billion euros, and could reach 29.4 billion by 2032, according to verifiedmarketresearch.com.
But should we really be following this trend? What does it offer e-tailers in concrete terms? And what are the risks? Let’s take a closer look, especially if you’re using a solution like PrestaShop.
Understanding BNPL in e-commerce
What is BNPL?
The BNPL allows a customer to pay for a purchase in instalments, free of charge or with reduced interest. Unlike conventional credit, validation is instantaneous and often requires no paperwork. It’s simple, fast and efficient. A 200€ purchase becomes more accessible, as it is divided into 4 50€ instalments.
It’s also a marketing tool. Split payment creates a feeling of control and flexibility. And it reduces the disincentives to purchase.
Major players in France
In France, the main service providers are :
- Alma: created in France, highly adapted to the local market.
- Oney: partner of numerous retailers (Fnac, Boulanger).
- Klarna: international player with a strong mobile UX focus.
- Scalapay: specialized in fashion/lifestyle.
- PayPal Pay Later: backed by the PayPal ecosystem, very reassuring.
These service providers manage the risk of non-payment. You, the merchant, receive the full amount immediately.
Technical integration on CMS
PrestaShop offers turnkey modules for Alma, Oney, Klarna and Scalapay. They are installed like any other module, via the back-office interface. Configuration requires a few adjustments (API key, legal notices, country activation).
With Stripe or PayPlug, BNPL can be activated in just a few clicks. The platforms handle redirection to split payment interfaces, then back to the store.
Why BNPL boosts store performance
Higher conversion rate
Imagine a customer hesitating to spend €500 on a tech product. By displaying “or 4 times 125€ free of charge”, you reassure him. They click. They buy.
Studies show that adding a BNPL option increases conversion rates by 20 to 30%, depending on the sector(guidance.com).
Increase in average basket
Customers spend more. On average 10-15% more per order.
It makes sense. The fear of spending money is greatly reduced. The price seems more bearable. Treat yourself. Add that little accessory. You move up a gear.
New customer profiles
Young adults, Generation Z, are fond of BNPL. They don’t necessarily have credit cards. But they want to buy now. BNPL fills that need.
It also attracts customers who don’t want to touch their CB limit or who are waiting for a transfer.
Optimized cash flow
Unlike installment solutions that you would manage yourself, BNPL’s service providers pay you the full amount right away. Less stress. You can replenish your stocks, pay your expenses and relaunch your campaigns.
Disadvantages to be taken seriously
Substantial commissions
The other side of the coin is the cost. BNPL service providers charge a commission of 2 to 6% per transaction. This is more expensive than a conventional card payment.
This eats into your margins, especially if you sell low value-added products.
Debt risks on the customer’s side
By making purchasing too easy, BNPL can encourage compulsive buying behavior. Some customers, especially young people, find themselves over-indebted. Not good for your image. Nor for your return rate.
Regulatory vagueness
The European Union plans to assimilate BNPL to consumer credit by 2026. This will entail greater transparency, reinforced legal disclosures and a right of withdrawal.
You’ll need to check that your service providers are compliant, and adapt your terms and conditions.
BNPL integration in a PrestaShop store
Choosing the right module
On PrestaShop Addons, search for the official modules of the above-mentioned providers. Select according to :
- Ease of integration.
- Expenses.
- Customer support.
- The ergonomics of the user experience.
Technical set-up
Install the module via the administration interface. Add your API key, define eligible countries and minimum/maximum basket thresholds.
Test the customer journey on mobile and desktop. Make sure the BNPL option is visible in the order tunnel.
UX best practices
- Display the message “Payment in 3x free of charge” below the product price.
- Add a “Payment in instalments” FAQ.
- Specify conditions (minimum amount, debit dates, etc.).
- Train your customer support team to answer questions.
What about tomorrow? Trends to watch
A fast-growing market
The French BNPL market is growing at an average annual rate of 16.2% until 2032(verifiedmarketresearch.com). Demand extends beyond fashion and tech: food, health, travel…
Technological innovations
Service providers are developing “super apps” combining payment, cashback and budget management. Klarna and Scalapay are already integrating marketplaces. The customer experience is becoming a platform in its own right.
Consumer maturity
Users are becoming more mature. They compare. They choose on the basis of conditions and transparency. BNPL will have to be ethical, educational and not just marketing.
To conclude on BNPL
Still hesitating? Ask yourself the right questions:
- Do you sell products costing more than €100?
- Are your customers young, connected and demanding?
- Can your margin absorb a 4% commission?
If so, BNPL can be a powerful lever. But use it strategically. Test, analyze the results and adapt your solution.
As a PrestaShop expert, I recommend starting with a simple integration with a module like Alma or PayPlug. You can then refine your strategy according to the results.
BNPL is not a magic wand. But used properly, it’s a real engine for growth.
Ready to implement BNPL on your site? Contact me so that together we can find the best solution!
