The present invention relates to a payment mat that wirelessly
communicates with a payment device for payment of items, such as goods
and/or services, in a retail environment. A customer presents the payment
device within the radiation range of an antenna contained in the payment
mat for payment. The payment mat may also include a visual indicator,
audio indicator, keypad, transaction display, advertising display,
receipt printer, and transaction card reader. The payment mat may be
constructed out of a rigid or flexible material. The payment mat may be
placed flat on counters in retail stores, nearby cash registers or order
entry devices. The payment mat may be placed on drive-thru windows in
retail environment, such as quick service restaurants (QSR) or
pharmaceutical stores. The payment mat may be placed behind a secure
order entry window.