Canteen Stores Department (CSD), one of Pakistan’s largest retail chains, has gone live with Raast QR payments across its retail network, introducing QR-based scan-and-pay capabilities for customers. The development marks another step toward expanding cashless payment acceptance in Pakistan’s retail sector, with CSD now using Raast QR solutions alongside soundbox devices designed to support digital payment transactions. The initiative is being supported by Finnect, which is assisting with the deployment of Raast QR and soundbox devices across CSD locations.
The introduction of Raast QR allows customers to make payments by scanning a QR code through a supported banking or digital payment application rather than relying on cash for purchases. QR-based payments have become an increasingly important part of Pakistan’s digital payments ecosystem as businesses look for convenient ways to accept electronic transactions. The addition of soundbox devices can further support merchants by providing audio confirmation of successful payments, helping staff verify transactions at the point of sale without depending solely on a mobile application or payment screen.
The rollout at CSD is significant because of the organization’s extensive retail presence and role as a major chain serving customers across Pakistan. Expanding Raast QR acceptance across a large retail network can provide more consumers with access to a domestic digital payment option during everyday purchases. It also supports broader efforts to increase the use of electronic payments and reduce dependence on physical cash. For retailers, QR-based payment acceptance can provide an additional channel for receiving customer payments while integrating digital transaction processes into existing retail operations.
Finnect is supporting the deployment of Raast and soundbox devices as part of the rollout, working alongside Bank Alfalah and other stakeholders involved in the initiative. The collaboration reflects the role of technology providers and financial institutions in extending digital payment infrastructure to retail businesses. Bank Alfalah’s involvement provides banking and payment infrastructure support, while Finnect is assisting with the deployment of the payment and soundbox solutions. The initiative has also received recognition from stakeholders involved in Pakistan’s wider financial and retail ecosystem.
The CSD rollout adds to the expansion of Raast QR-based payments across Pakistan and highlights the growing adoption of QR technology for retail transactions. As more large retailers introduce scan-and-pay facilities, consumers can gain greater access to digital payment options for routine purchases, while businesses can increase the range of payment methods available at checkout. The deployment of soundbox devices alongside Raast QR further supports transaction verification at retail counters. With Finnect continuing to support the rollout of Raast and soundbox devices across the country, the CSD initiative represents another development in Pakistan’s move toward wider digital payment acceptance and a more cashless retail environment.
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