PoS IN RETAIL
to take better advantage of the data available. For this, it is increasingly important the e-commerce software, CRM, PoS software, inventory and logistics software etc. are integrated to give complete customer data. “Data is key, not only for stock control but also identifying major selling items and levels, which in turn can drive loyalty campaigns. Being aware what the customer is buying (or returning) and then offering discounts around associated items and other areas is central to achieving this. Without a doubt, monitoring and understanding data certainly enables retail businesses to provide enhanced customer service.”
move away from purely hardware-led conversations and focus on operational outcomes. “Retailers are under enormous pressure from rising staffing costs, inflation and margin compression,” he says. “Simply selling a mobile PoS device is no longer enough. “The most effective conversations are centred around labour optimisation, automation, customer throughput, reducing queue times and improving store efficiency. “Resellers should position themselves as advisers on retail transformation rather than just suppliers of checkout technology. “In many cases, that means discussing whether mobile PoS is actually the right solution at all — or whether kiosks, self- checkout or hybrid unattended models would deliver a stronger return on investment. Retailers increasingly want measurable business outcomes, not just new devices.” Future These factors will inform buying decisions in the future, which resellers need to be alive to. “The industry is clearly moving toward greater automation and reduced reliance on staff-assisted transactions,” says Peter. “Mobile PoS will remain relevant in specialist retail, assisted selling and hospitality environments, but the wider market direction is increasingly centred on self-checkout, kiosks, AI-assisted retail, computer vision and frictionless payment experiences. “The key driver behind this shift is economics. Rising labour costs and ongoing staffing shortages are forcing retailers to redesign store operations around efficiency and scalability. “As a result, the future of PoS is less about mobility and more about autonomous retail experiences that allow stores to operate with fewer staff while still delivering convenience and speed for consumers.” n
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The most effective conversations are centred around labour optimisation, automation, customer throughput, reducing queue times and improving store efficiency.
Reseller conversations In conversations with retail businesses about PoS systems, there are certain aspects resellers should focus on. Nick says resellers need to work closely with individual retail businesses to design PoS systems that are fit for purpose now and in the future, with features that promote and enhance customer service. “As a result, any issues businesses have with a current PoS system and any additional features required such as the ability to offer click and collect, returns labels, purchasing online or in store for next day delivery, need to be addressed,” he adds. “Having the right PoS and the right features is key to successfully
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operate in an omnichannel world.” Peter says that resellers need to
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