Restaurant website builder FOODit, a JJ Food Service company, has announced it will absorb the impact of credit card surcharge fees being abolished to support UK takeaways.

Head of Product, Paul Sharp, said: "Everyone is cost conscious in the New Year and these small fees can really add up.” From January 13, 2018, it will become illegal for any EU business to charge more to pay with a card online, including food takeaway platforms.

"Some platforms may increase their prices or introduce a new fee to compensate, but we will be absorbing the cost for restaurants with a FOODit website. This will allow diners to save 50p by ordering directly from their local takeaway^s site”, said Paul.

Many online platforms such as Just Eat, UK airlines and the Driver Vehicle and Licensing Agency (DVLA) charge fees as high as 20% for using a debit or credit card.

"Rip-off charges do nothing to support independent restaurants and takeaways”, said Paul. "By absorbing the fee we are helping to put a bit of money back in the pockets of thousands of diners. It’s a win-win for consumers and independents alike.”

To further support takeaways, FOODit has announced a 2020 Price Promise. "We know how important it is for caterers to reduce costs and have stability when managing budgets,” added Paul.

The ‘Price Promise’ for all restaurants with a FOODit website includes a 10% fixed commission fee until at least 2020, no hidden costs and no monthly maintenance fees.