iDEAL rebrand to Wero incoming

iDEAL is a household name in the Netherlands. We have been using this online payment system since 2005. But nothing lasts forever, and that also applies to iDEAL. Within the next two years, iDEAL will likely be renamed Wero. This change is part of a broader European effort to modernise and unify payments. For webshop owners, it is very important to start preparing early. This ensures a smooth transition without losing customer trust. We explain more about the name change from iDEAL to Wero and the steps you should take.

Why is iDEAL being replaced by Wero?

iDEAL holds more than 70 percent of the Dutch payment market. Each year, it processes over a billion transactions. We see iDEAL as the standard for online payments. So why is this trusted system being replaced? The main reason is the growing need for European-wide payment solutions. This need led 16 European banks and payment providers to join forces. They now work together under the name European Payments Initiative, or EPI. Their goal was to develop a single digital payment system for all European consumers. That is how Wero was created.

Why is Wero different from iDEAL?

One major difference is who can use it. iDEAL is a Dutch system. It only works with Dutch banks. It does not support banks from other countries. Wero works at the European level. The new method is designed to allow account-to-account payments without any third party. Wero will not only replace iDEAL in the Netherlands. It will also take the place of other payment systems in other countries. For example, it may replace Bancontact in Belgium.

Rolling out Wero in each country

Wero will become the new standard across Europe. That means all European consumers will be able to use the same payment method at all European webshops. We are not there yet. Wero must first be introduced country by country. That rollout has already begun. Germany was the first. On 2 July 2024, Wero launched with two German banks. France followed on 30 September 2024. On 19 November 2024, Wero became available for Belgian users. For the Netherlands, the switch is expected at the end of 2025 or early 2026. This gives Dutch webshop owners time to prepare for Wero.

Key action points for Dutch webshop owners

iDEAL will be replaced by Wero. That is certain. The transition must go smoothly. This avoids confusion and failed payments. It also protects customer satisfaction. Shop owners should act now to ensure a smooth switch. We will outline the most important steps for you.

Update your payment provider plugin

Many shops use a plugin or extension to support iDEAL. You need to contact your payment provider. Ask if a Wero-compatible version is available. If you don’t update in time, compatibility issues may occur. In the worst case, your customers may not be able to complete their purchase. You can prevent this by updating early.

Remove all iDEAL references from your website

iDEAL is the default in the Netherlands. Many shops proudly show they support it. These mentions must now be removed. Delete all iDEAL logos and banners. Don’t forget the payment instructions. Replace everything with Wero branding. Check your web copy, email footers, newsletters, and offline materials. Replace iDEAL with ‘Wero’. Also update all visuals and design elements.

Start talking about Wero on your website

Webshop owners and consumers are entering a transition phase. It is important to explain that iDEAL is being replaced. Use phrases like “Wero – formerly iDEAL” during this time. This helps customers get used to the new name. It also makes clear that the service continues. This builds trust.

Communicate with your returning customers

Returning customers know your webshop well. Any changes may unsettle them. To avoid confusion, inform them about the move from iDEAL to Wero. A great way to do this is with a digital newsletter. Focus on the benefits of Wero. Reassure your loyal customers and keep them in the loop.

Train your customer service team

Make sure your support team knows about the change. They must be ready to answer questions from customers. Provide all the information they need. If needed, organise a short internal training. Your team must be able to handle questions quickly. They should also know how to ease concerns about the new payment system.

Test the payment process thoroughly

Do not activate Wero in your live webshop right away. First, run thorough tests. Complete some test payments. Check how reliable and fast Wero is. If you find bugs or issues, fix them before going live. Test again after fixing them. This is the only way to make sure Wero works smoothly. A solid payment system is key to building trust and keeping customers happy.

Update your webshop terms and privacy policy

Your general terms and privacy policy may still mention iDEAL. Review both documents carefully. Replace all references with Wero. It is important that your legal documents match the new payment method. Keep your paperwork up to date.

Monitor and evaluate Wero’s performance

After going live with Wero, keep a close eye on how it performs. Track the number of transactions. Note any failed payments. Listen to feedback from customers. Evaluate how Wero works in practice. This helps you spot and fix any issues. Over time, this will improve the efficiency of your payment process.

With Wero, your webshop is ready for the future

For 20 years, iDEAL was the standard. Now we are entering a new chapter with Wero. This system will change payments across Europe. That may take some getting used to. But for webshop owners, this is the moment to act. Follow the steps we gave you. That will help you make a smooth transition. With Wero, your webshop will be ready for the future. And ready to grow across the European market.