The year 2004 was a massive landmark for the UK credit card market, with 63.9 million credit cards in circulation – more than one for every man, woman and child.

The availability and use of the plastic card suits the fast-paced nature of UK society. Consumers are accustomed to the speed and flexibility accorded to them by the use of such cards for everyday affairs.

The popularity of credit and debit cards is closely examined in this report, with information on consumer attitudes as well as lifestyle that is associated with usage. Mintel offers analysis on the growth of the plastics market, breaking it into credit and debit sectors. Debit cards are surpassing credit cards in popularity due to the fact that they give access to ready funds, compared to credit cards, which have a limit based on credit score.

The year 2004 was a massive landmark for the UK credit card market, with 63.9 million credit cards in circulation – more than one for every man, woman and child.

The availability and use of the plastic card suits the fast-paced nature of UK society. Consumers are accustomed to the speed and flexibility accorded to them by the use of such cards for everyday affairs.

The popularity of credit and debit cards is closely examined in this report, with information on consumer attitudes as well as lifestyle that is associated with usage. Mintel offers analysis on the growth of the plastics market, breaking it into credit and debit sectors. Debit cards are surpassing credit cards in popularity due to the fact that they give access to ready funds, compared to credit cards, which have a limit based on credit score.

Along with exclusive consumer research, this report offers valuable information on competition within the market, advertising and promotional schemes and a structured forecast to provide a better understanding of the immediate future of the market.