Tailored tools like embedded payments improve productivity and drive revenue. 

Trades and field services are the foundation of everyday life in the U.S. From HVAC technicians and electricians to roofers and landscapers, they understand that having the right tool for the job is key to their success. 

TFS businesses are under pressure to operate smarter and get paid faster in the face of rising costs, talent shortages and growing customer expectations. They’re finding that business management software is the right tool, and it’s no longer optional. Nearly 80% of TFS businesses say it will be even more important in the next three years, playing a central role in managing jobs, finances and customer interactions.  

To understand how these businesses are adapting, Worldpay for Platforms surveyed 78 U.S.-based TFS businesses using industry-specific software solutions for its 2025 Trade and Field Services Software User Report. The results reveal the critical technologies reshaping the industry. 

Leading that evolution is embedded finance. 

Adapting to industry pressures 

The report highlights five key challenges that are pushing TFS businesses toward smarter, integrated software solutions: 

• Labor shortages: A third of respondents have difficulty hiring and retaining skilled workers. That has a direct impact on job delivery. 

• Administrative overload: Around 15% say unpredictable supply chains and other issues can reduce productivity and hurt operations. 

• Finding customers: Almost as many, about 14%, say acquiring and retaining customers is ever more challenging in the face of rising costs and agile competitors. 

• Cash flow gaps: One in nine say late payments create financial instability and strain operations. 

• Rising costs: The same group say managing inflation and supply constraints is squeezing margins. 

In response, TFS companies are investing in technology. Nearly half the businesses Worldpay surveyed – 45% – are raising their software budgets this year, especially in solutions tailored specifically to their industry. The goal is to drive revenue growth, reduce administrative burden and maintain tighter control over financial health.  

Business management software becomes essential  

TFS businesses require hassle-free transactions and want to make key components of the customer experience – like booking, providing quotes and processing payments – a point of differentiation that sets them apart from competitors.  

Already, 27% of surveyed businesses rely on integrated payment capabilities. Nearly a quarter – 24% – say their software has improved customer service and access to business-critical information. 

In addition, 91% of TFS businesses want card payment capabilities built directly into their software. This simplifies administration, automates some previously manual payment tasks and increases cash flow. Combined with perks like cashback, lower processing fees and built-in credit options, adopting embedded payments can become a profit-driving engine.  

Despite recognizing the benefits, some businesses are reluctant to take the plunge. Those that are hesitating often cite: 

• Insufficient customization 

• Staff training needs 

• System reliability  

Until software providers can ease these concerns, adoption in the industry may lag, and TFS businesses may miss out on the value embedded payment experiences can bring.  

The complete package for long-term success 

With 94% of TFS businesses saying software is essential to daily operations, it’s clear the industry is embracing digital transformation. These businesses want an all-in-one platform that integrates everything they need to operate and fuel their growth.  

Embedded payments can be at the heart of this innovation by simplifying processes, improving financial health, and giving customers the fast and smooth experience they expect. Such solutions also must be easy to implement and tailored to the unique needs not just of the industry but of each business.  

Unlock the full report 

Are you ready to become the everything platform for your unique users? Download the Worldpay 2025 Trade and Field Services Software User Report or contact our team at platforms.worldpay.com.