Morden Restaurant Shifts to Cash-Only Model Amid Rising Transaction Costs
In a bold move highlighting the financial pressures facing small businesses, a popular dining establishment in southern Manitoba has eliminated credit and debit card payments entirely. Moment in Thyme Neighbourhood Grill, located in Morden, has implemented a strict cash-only policy, with owner Alex Kanski citing escalating processing fees as the primary driver behind this operational change.
The Financial Reality Behind the Decision
Kanski explained that the restaurant's transition to accepting only physical currency stems from what he describes as unsustainable credit card processing fees that have been steadily eroding profit margins. "When you're running a neighborhood establishment, every percentage point matters," Kanski stated while preparing food at his grill on January 27, 2026. "The fees we were paying to payment processors had reached a point where they were significantly impacting our ability to maintain reasonable prices for our customers while keeping the business viable."
This decision reflects a growing trend among small business owners across Canada who are grappling with similar financial challenges. While many consumers have grown accustomed to the convenience of card payments, restaurant operators like Kanski are finding that the associated costs have become increasingly burdensome, particularly in the current economic climate.
Customer Response and Operational Adjustments
The restaurant has taken several steps to facilitate the transition for patrons:
- Clear signage has been posted at all entrances and payment areas
- Staff members have been trained to politely inform customers about the new policy
- The establishment has installed an on-site ATM for customer convenience
- Menu prices have been adjusted slightly downward to reflect the reduced operational costs
"We understand this represents a change for many of our regular customers," Kanski acknowledged. "But the feedback has been largely positive once people understand the reasoning behind our decision. Most appreciate that we're trying to keep our prices reasonable while maintaining the quality they expect from our establishment."
Broader Implications for Small Business Operations
The move by Moment in Thyme Neighbourhood Grill highlights several important considerations for Canadian small businesses:
- Payment processing costs represent a significant operational expense that many consumers don't consider
- Smaller establishments with tighter margins are particularly vulnerable to fee increases
- Alternative payment strategies can provide financial relief but require careful implementation
- Customer education becomes crucial when changing established payment practices
While cash-only policies were once common, they became increasingly rare as digital payment methods gained popularity. However, Kanski's decision suggests that some business owners are reconsidering this approach as they seek ways to control costs without compromising service quality.
The restaurant owner emphasized that this change represents a strategic business decision rather than a temporary measure. "We've done the math, and this approach makes sense for our operation," he explained. "While we recognize it might not work for every business, for our neighborhood grill, returning to cash transactions allows us to focus resources on what matters most: providing great food and excellent service to our community."
