Wholesale banknote and coin distribution is a key part of the cash cycle. It helps enable the public to use the notes and coins they want to. Although cash use is declining, many people still prefer to use it and we are committed to supporting cash as a viable means of payment.
We are developing a new system for wholesale cash distribution so people who want to use cash to pay for things, can. The system needs to be efficient, resilient and sustainable.
To help us create this new system, we’ve brought together relevant people from the industry. To support and oversee this work, we’ve set up a Wholesale Distribution Steering Group (WDSG). To find out more about this steering group, you can read its Terms of Reference.
The Wholesale Distribution Steering Group (WDSG) has published this consultation paper (CP) in order to seek views on a model, supported by independent industry analysis, for the future of the wholesale cash distribution supply chain.
The objective of the WDSG is for any future model to be effective, resilient and sustainable in order to support continued access to cash. This is an important step to enable the public to continue using the notes and coins they want to, even as cash usage declines.
In particular, the WDSG intends this CP to allow the wider cash industry to input feedback on any additional factors that should be taken into account in making the decision to move to this model, or its subsequent design. The responses received will ensure that future phases of work take into account the widest possible views on the potential impact of such a move.
The consultation closes on 24 August 2020.
The Bank invites feedback on the proposals set out in this consultation. Please address any comments or enquiries to WDSG@bankofengland.co.uk.
Consultation Paper