Category: Events

  • Star Micronics to Showcase POS Hardware, Partner Integrations, and the New mC-Connect Drawer at RetailNOW 2026

    Star Micronics to Showcase POS Hardware, Partner Integrations, and the New mC-Connect Drawer at RetailNOW 2026

    Visit Booth 631 to see the new mC-Connect Drawer, cloud printing, multifunction labeling, kiosk barcode scanning, and live demonstrations with MagTek and Logic Controls.

    Las Vegas, NV – July 17, 2026 – Star Micronics, a global leader in point-of-sale (POS) hardware, cloud printing, and labeling technology, will exhibit at RetailNOW 2026, the retail IT channel’s #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event. The show takes place July 26–28 at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. Visitors to Booth 631 can explore Star’s latest POS hardware through live demonstrations with leading technology partners.

    RetailNOW attendees will see Star hardware working alongside software and payment technologies used across retail and hospitality.

    Featured Solutions at Booth 631

    Attendees can explore Star’s latest POS hardware and cloud technologies, including:

    • The new mC-Connect Drawer: Modernize any cash drawer with USB, Ethernet, Wireless LAN, and Bluetooth® Low Energy connectivity, enabling direct communication with today’s POS systems, tablets, and mobile devices.
    • Cloud Printing Solutions: CloudPRNT Next and StarIO.Online simplify cloud printing for online ordering, web applications, and multi-location deployments. From direct cloud communication using MQTT to fully managed cloud printing with remote device management, Star offers flexible options for cloud-connected POS environments.
    • Multifunction Labeling Solutions: The mC-Label2 and mC-Label3 support receipts, linerless labels, die-cut labels, and continuous media from a single device, allowing businesses to print food safety labels, order labels, barcode labels, receipts, and more.
    • Kiosk Barcode Scanning: Star’s fixed-mount kiosk barcode scanners, the NLS-FM431 and the NLS-FM3280, provide fast, hands-free scanning of 1D and 2D barcodes from printed labels and mobile devices for self-service kiosks, lockers, and customer-facing terminals.
    • Enterprise POS Hardware: From receipt printers and cash drawers to barcode scanners and cloud-connected peripherals, Star’s hardware portfolio supports retail, restaurant, grocery, healthcare, cannabis, and hospitality applications.

    Live Partner Demonstrations

    Star will feature several integrated demonstrations throughout the show.

    • One Touch Label with Logic Controls KitchenGO KDS and the mC-Label3: See Logic Controls’ KitchenGO KDS working with Star’s mC-Label3 multifunction printer to demonstrate the One Touch Label feature. Kitchen staff can generate labels directly from the KDS as orders move through production, helping identify orders and improve fulfillment accuracy.
    • Direct Cash Drawer Control with MagTek and the mC-Connect Drawer: MagTek will demonstrate the mC-Connect Drawer, showing how payment devices and POS systems can control cash drawers directly without requiring a printer connection.

    Star Solutions Featured Throughout the Show Floor

    Attendees can also see Star solutions featured at the following partner booths:

    “RetailNOW brings together the channel partners, ISVs, and solution providers that help businesses deploy POS technology every day. This year, we’re demonstrating how our hardware works alongside leading software and payment providers, from the new mC-Connect Drawer and cloud printing to multifunction labeling and kiosk technologies, showing how these technologies work together in real-world deployments.”

    Meet the Star Team at RetailNOW 2026

    Francis Angoyar, Sales Accounts Executive at Star Micronics, will participate in a speaking session at the ScanSource booth on Monday, July 27, from 11:45 a.m. to 11:55 a.m., where attendees can ask questions about Star’s POS hardware and integrations.

    Star is also proud to support the Women in Technology (W2W) community at RetailNOW. Joey Richholt, Director of Human Resources at Star Micronics, will serve as a panelist during Martinis & Mentorship: The Perfect Cocktail Mixing Career Advice, Authentic Connections, and Lasting Success, taking place on Sunday, July 26, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

    Visitors are encouraged to stop by Booth 631 to see the demonstrations, meet with the Star team, and learn more about Star’s latest POS hardware and cloud technologies.

    To schedule time with the Star team or for more information, contact sales@starmicronics.com.

    Can’t get enough industry news?

    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics is a global provider of point-of-sale (POS) hardware, cloud printing, and labeling solutions that help businesses connect digital workflows to real-world operations. Serving retail, hospitality, healthcare, and service industries, Star delivers printing, labeling, cash management, self-service, and cloud-based technologies designed to support scalable, connected, and automated environments. Star’s solutions support Android, iOS, Windows, and web-based platforms and extend into the cloud through services such as CloudPRNT Next and StarIO.Online, Star’s fully managed cloud printing service.

    Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Christin Dorner
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    cdorner@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • Celebrating 50 Years of Star Micronics America

    Celebrating 50 Years of Star Micronics America

    For 50 years, Star Micronics America (SMA) has supported businesses across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Latin America through major shifts in point-of-sale technology.

    From the early days of impact printing to today’s cloud-connected, mobile, and labeling technologies, SMA has adapted alongside the industries it serves, helping businesses across retail, restaurant, hospitality, healthcare, and beyond keep pace with growing operational demands.

    But Star Micronics America’s 50-year story is about more than technology.

    It is about the people who built it, the partners who grew alongside it, and the customers who trusted Star solutions through decades of industry change.

    Across the Americas, SMA has spent five decades supporting businesses through rapid technology shifts, new and evolving workflows, and higher customer expectations.

    As we celebrate 50 years of Star Micronics America, we are reflecting on the milestones that shaped us, the culture that continues to guide us, and the people who made it possible.

    Star Event Peters Landscape
    Star visiting distributors during our Full Stack Tour

    A 50-Year History of Adaptation and Growth

    The point-of-sale industry has changed dramatically over the last five decades.

    What began in an era of traditional impact printing and on-premises systems has evolved into an ecosystem of cloud platforms, mobile devices, online ordering, self-service kiosks, and advanced labeling workflows.

    Each shift brought new demands, from faster checkout and order accuracy to cloud-connected workflows and AI.

    In response, SMA expanded beyond receipt and kitchen printing to include cloud printing, cloud services, labeling, mobile POS, and a broader range of hardware for modern retail and restaurant operations.

    That ability to adapt has allowed Star to meet each new era of technology, customer expectations, and industry demands with practical solutions.

    The People Behind 50 Years of Star Micronics America

    Ask anyone inside SMA what has kept the company strong for 50 years, and one answer comes up repeatedly: its people.

    “The biggest reason Star Micronics America has remained strong for 50 years is its people. Technology and products continue to evolve, but the dedication, expertise, and commitment of our employees have always been at the heart of our success.”

    That commitment shows up not only in day-to-day work, but in tenure.

    At Star, long careers are part of the culture. Employees with 25, 30, and even more than 40 years of service have helped shape the company through major shifts, market changes, and organizational growth. That kind of longevity creates deep institutional knowledge, but it also says something important about the company itself: people stay because they find opportunities to grow.

    One philosophy that has shaped talent development at Star is the idea of having the “right people in the right seats,” a concept popularized in Jim Collins’ Good to Great. At SMA, employees are encouraged to explore new roles, move between departments, and find where their skills and interests best align. Over the years, that flexibility has helped employees build long careers while reinforcing a culture built on collaboration, growth, and change.

    Star’s commitment to understanding our employees as individuals and providing equity for their consistent growth has played a major role in the company’s long-term stability and success. 

    NRA Team 2026
    The team at the National Restaurant Show 2026

    How Star Micronics America’s Culture Has Evolved

    Star’s workplace culture has changed significantly over the decades.

    One of the biggest turning points came during COVID.

    Before the pandemic, Star operated largely as an office-based organization. Like many companies during that time, that changed quickly. Teams adapted to remote work, new collaboration tools, and new ways of supporting customers and partners. What started as a necessary adjustment ultimately reshaped how the company works today, leading to a more flexible hybrid and remote culture.

    That transition tested the company, but it also reinforced one of Star’s core values: collaboration built on trust between teams.

    While the workplace changed, the company’s core values remained steady:

    • Collaboration – fostering open communication, mutual respect, and trust across teams
    • Innovation – staying curious, proactive, and open to new ways of thinking
    • Change – embracing growth, improvement, and the ability to adapt in a shifting industry

    Star Micronics America Core Values

    Those values continue to guide how teams work together across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Latin America.

    That culture extends beyond daily work. Programs like the Yamaguchi Spirit Awards recognize employees who embody Star’s core values of collaboration, innovation, and change. These traditions help reinforce that culture is not just something that happens passively. It is something consciously practiced.

    Why People Matter to the Customer Experience

    A company’s culture does not stay inside its walls. It shapes every customer interaction, every partner relationship, and every problem solved along the way.

    That has been one of the defining parts of Star Micronics America’s 50-year story.

    SMA has long been known as a company that is easy to do business with, and that reputation was built by people. It was built by employees who know the products, understand the industries they support, and work together to solve problems quickly and thoughtfully.

    It was also built through consistency.

    Many customers and partners have worked with the same Star team members for years, sometimes decades. That continuity creates trust. It gives customers direct access to people who understand their business, their workflows, and the challenges they face.

    In an industry where technology moves fast, products matter. But trust, experience, and long-term relationships matter just as much, if not more.

    For 50 years, Star’s people have helped build both.

    VTO Earth Day 7
    Volunteer day at America’s Grow-A-Row Farm in Pittstown, NJ

    Looking Ahead to the Next 50 Years of Star

    A 50th anniversary is a time to reflect, but also a time to look forward.

    As industries continue shifting toward AI, cloud infrastructure, automation, and more connected workflows, Star Micronics America remains focused on supporting those changes with experienced teams and technology that makes a difference.

    That next chapter will depend on the same things that built the first 50 years: experienced people, practical innovation, and strong customer relationships.

    For employees, partners, and customers, those first 50 years have built something lasting: trust, consistency, and a company they know they can count on.

    And if the last five decades are any indication, the next chapter is already taking shape.

    Learn More About Solutions from Star Micronics America

    Author’s Note: Special thanks to Joey Richholt and Shazia Shafi of Star Micronics America’s HR department for their thoughtful input and timely contributions to this article.

  • Star Micronics to Showcase Labeling, Order Accuracy, and Cloud POS Solutions at the 2026 National Restaurant Show

    Star Micronics to Showcase Labeling, Order Accuracy, and Cloud POS Solutions at the 2026 National Restaurant Show

    Star will demonstrate food safety labeling, order accuracy workflows, and cloud-connected POS solutions at Booth 6454 during the 2026 National Restaurant Show.

    Chicago, IL – May 15, 2026 – Star Micronics, a global leader in POS hardware, labeling, and cloud printing technology, will exhibit at the 2026 National Restaurant Show, taking place May 16–19 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. At Booth 6454, Star will showcase integrated solutions for food safety labeling, kitchen execution, and order accuracy in partnership with leading restaurant technology providers.

    Food Safety and Traceability Workflows

    Star will demonstrate food safety labeling solutions that replace manual processes with automated, connected workflows.

    In partnership with ConnectedFresh and Kitchen Technology, Innovations by Integrated Control Corp. (KTI/ICC) attendees can see how labeling is generated during kitchen workflows using Star’s mC-Label3 and mC-Label2 multifunction label printers.

    These demonstrations highlight how operators can:

    • Generate prep, expiration, and traceability labels at the point of food preparation
    • Replace handwritten logs with consistent, printed labeling
    • Use die-cut or linerless media depending on workflow needs

    More advanced integrations also demonstrate how real-time data can automatically trigger labeling, allowing operators to capture food safety processes without manual input.

    KDS and Order Accuracy in the Kitchen

    Star is also highlighting how kitchen display systems (KDS), labeling, and verification workflows work together to improve order accuracy in high-volume environments.

    In collaboration with Logic Controls, attendees can follow how orders move from the front of house to the kitchen via the KitchenGO KDS platform, where staff can view items on-screen and instantly trigger labels through Star’s labeling workflow tools.

    These workflows enable staff to:

    • Apply sticky linerless labels directly to orders for clear identification
    • Reduce missed or misrouted items during peak service
    • Maintain consistency across prep and handoff

    Additional demonstrations showcase scan, weigh, and print workflows using integrated hardware, including the mG-T30 POS scale, BSH-32B barcode scanner, and SK1-311 thermal kiosk printer.

    These verification workflows allow operators to:

    • Scan items to confirm order accuracy
    • Verify portioning or weight-based items
    • Generate labels or receipts as part of a single process before fulfillment

    Cloud and Omnichannel POS Integration

    Star’s booth also features cloud-connected POS workflows that support modern restaurant operations across in-store, kiosk, and online ordering environments.

    Attendees will see how cloud-based systems can:

    • Route orders across multiple stations and locations
    • Print directly from online ordering platforms without local servers
    • Support consistent workflows across dine-in, takeout, and delivery

    Using solutions such as StarIO.Online and CloudPRNT Next, Star enables reliable communication between digital ordering systems and physical kitchen hardware, helping restaurants maintain consistency across locations and service models.

    Star will also showcase the mC-Connect cash drawer controller, which allows tablet and cloud POS systems to control cash drawers directly without requiring a printer connection. Designed for modern and space-constrained POS environments, the device supports flexible cash management workflows across retail and hospitality operations.

    Partner Ecosystem on Display

    At Booth 6454, Star features integrations with a range of restaurant technology partners, demonstrating how hardware and software work together to support real-world operations.

    “Restaurants are managing more complexity than ever across ordering channels, kitchen workflows, and compliance requirements. At the National Restaurant Show, we’re focused on showing how integrated solutions, from labeling to KDS to cloud printing, can help operators bring more control, order accuracy and consistency to their day-to-day operations.”

    Free Order Accuracy and Workflow Audit

    In addition to live demonstrations, Star Micronics is offering a complimentary audit for restaurant operators looking to evaluate their current workflows.

    The audit identifies gaps in order accuracy, labeling, and kitchen communication, while providing practical recommendations to improve consistency across prep, packaging, and handoff.

    Attendees are invited to visit Booth 6454 to see the solutions in action, meet with partners, and schedule a one-on-one workflow review with the Star team.

    For more information, visit starmicronics.com.

    Can’t get enough industry news?

    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics is a global provider of point-of-sale (POS) hardware, cloud printing, and labeling solutions that help businesses connect digital workflows to real-world operations. Serving retail, hospitality, healthcare, and service industries, Star delivers printing, labeling, cash management, self-service, and cloud-based technologies designed to support scalable, connected, and automated environments. Star’s solutions support Android, iOS, Windows, and web-based platforms and extend into the cloud through services such as CloudPRNT Next and StarIO.Online, Star’s fully managed cloud printing service.

    Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Christin Dorner
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    cdorner@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • Star Micronics Powers Scalable Kitchen Workflows at MURTEC 2026

    Star Micronics Powers Scalable Kitchen Workflows at MURTEC 2026

    Visit Booth 112 to experience Star’s integrated labeling, KDS, and food safety solutions designed to improve consistency across multi-unit restaurant brands.

    Las Vegas, NV – March 9-11, 2026 – Star Micronics, a global leader in point-of-sale (POS), labeling, and cloud technology, is proud to announce its participation in MURTEC 2026, taking place March 9–11 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Attendees are invited to visit Booth 112 to experience Star’s latest restaurant-ready hardware and connected kitchen solutions.

    At MURTEC 2026, Star Micronics will demonstrate how restaurant operators, enterprise brands, and technology providers can improve order accuracy, strengthen food safety compliance, and streamline kitchen workflows using integrated labeling and printing solutions built for modern foodservice environments.

    Attendees can explore live demonstrations at Booth 112, including:

    Food Safety Label Technology

    • KTI Food Safety Solution featuring i.Print3™: A live demonstration showing how Star’s mC-Label2 multifunction label printer, integrated with the i.Print3 automated prep labeling system, supports accurate date labeling, expiration tracking, and cloud-based traceability. Designed for high-volume kitchens, this workflow helps multi-unit operators strengthen food safety compliance and maintain consistent standards across locations.

    KDS Solutions

    • KitchenGO KDS Order Accuracy Demo with Logic Controls: A connected workflow demonstration showing how Logic Controls’ KitchenGO KDS and Star’s mC-Label3 multifunction printer work together to reduce missed modifiers, improve fulfillment timing, and increase order accuracy across dine-in, takeout, and off-premise channels.

    Online Ordering Cloud Printing Solutions

    • mC-Label Multifunction Cloud Printer Series (mC-Label2 and mC-Label3): Multifunction printers built for restaurant environments that support linerless labels, die-cut labels, and receipt media. Ideal for prep labeling, delivery workflows, and on-demand kitchen printing, the mC-Label series delivers flexibility and cloud-ready performance in a compact footprint.

    • TSP143IV SK X4 Linerless Label Printer: A compact 3″ linerless sticky label printer designed for high-volume foodservice environments. The X4 model delivers every modern connectivity option directly on its interface, including USB, LAN, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Android Open Accessory (AOA), and dual-band wireless, ensuring flexible deployment across tablet, mobile, and traditional POS systems. Supports repositionable linerless labels for cleaner operations and reduced waste.

    Star will also feature linerless labeling solutions powered by media partners Iconex and StickyPOS. These repositionable linerless labels eliminate backing liners to reduce waste while maintaining strong adhesion and print clarity for prep, delivery, and compliance labeling applications.

    “At MURTEC, we’re focused on helping restaurants solve real-world operational challenges inside the kitchen. Working alongside partners like Logic Controls and KTI, we’re demonstrating how connected KDS, labeling, and printing workflows improve order accuracy, strengthen food safety compliance, and support consistent execution across every ordering channel.”

    Restaurant operators, enterprise IT leaders, and technology providers are encouraged to visit Booth 112 to see live demonstrations and schedule one-on-one meetings with the Star team.

    To book a demo or for more information, contact sales@starmicronics.com.

    Can’t get enough industry news?

    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics is a global leader in POS hardware and transaction technology, providing printers, secure cash management, and connected peripherals for retail and hospitality environments. Known for reliability and developer-friendly integration, Star solutions work seamlessly with Android™, iOS, Windows®, and web-based POS platforms to power receipt, label, ticket, and order printing across modern commerce environments.

    Star’s cloud technologies extend printing beyond the counter. CloudPRNT Next enables scalable direct cloud printing, while StarIO.Online is Star’s fully managed cloud printing service that removes the need for server infrastructure and simplifies remote printer management across distributed locations. Star also offers a broad portfolio of POS peripherals, including barcode scanners, scales, and tablet stands, designed to work together as a complete hardware solution.

    Learn more at starmicronics.com or follow Star on LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    Media Contact:

    Christin Dorner
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    cdorner@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • What NRF 2026 Revealed About the Future of Retail and Restaurant Technology

    What NRF 2026 Revealed About the Future of Retail and Restaurant Technology

    The National Retail Federation’s Big Show has long served as a bellwether for where retail technology is headed, offering a clear view each year into how the industry is evolving. NRF 2026, however, surfaced a more defining shift.

    The future of retail and restaurants is being built right before our eyes, as hardware, AI-powered platforms, and workflow design operate as a single system, with order accuracy forming the foundation for lasting customer loyalty. What stood out at NRF 2026 was not any single breakthrough, but how these technologies are increasingly designed to work together in real-world environments.

    Across the show floor, one theme surfaced repeatedly. Technology is no longer being evaluated in isolation. Operators are assessing complete, end-to-end workflows, from ordering and production to fulfillment and the final guest interaction. The conversation has moved beyond experimentation and toward execution, reliability, and scale.

    At NRF 2026, retail and restaurant technology clearly entered a phase of operational maturity, with solutions increasingly judged by how well they perform across locations, channels, and peak demand moments.

    Here are the key takeaways from NRF 2026, and what they signal for the rest of 2026.

    Table of Contents

    Self-Service Is No Longer Optional

    Self-service has moved beyond experimentation. At NRF 2026, kiosks, unattended stations, and automated pickup workflows were everywhere, across QSR, retail, travel, and hybrid environments.

    Operators are adopting self-service to address labor challenges, increase throughput, and meet customer expectations for speed and convenience. That shift places new demands on hardware reliability. When self-service fails, there is no staff member to step in.

    What this means for 2026:

    • Kiosks and unattended workflows will continue expanding into new verticals
    • Open-frame and kiosk printers must deliver high uptime and jam-free performance
    • Hardware flexibility will matter as much as software innovation

    Self-service is no longer a differentiator. It is the baseline.

    Order Accuracy Has Become the Guest Experience

    Speed gets orders out the door. Accuracy determines whether customers come back.

    One of the strongest signals at NRF 2026 was the growing emphasis on order accuracy, especially for off-premise dining, third-party delivery, catering, and pickup. As order volumes increase and channels multiply, operators are turning to labeling and verification workflows to reduce errors.

    Labeling is now being used to:

    • Identify individual items within an order
    • Seal bags for tamper-evident delivery
    • Improve kitchen communication and fulfillment accuracy
    • Support food safety and expiration tracking

    What this means for 2026:

    • Label printing will continue shifting from optional to mission-critical
    • KDS-driven label printing will become more common
    • Linerless and die-cut labels will be selected based on workflow, not trend

    Order accuracy is no longer only a back-of-house concern. It is central to the brand experience.

    Visit Star Micronics at booth 5757 during NRF 2026.

    Cloud Infrastructure Is Getting Simpler by Design

    ISVs and platform providers sent a clear message at NRF 2026. They want fewer systems to manage, not more.

    Rather than building and maintaining proprietary print servers, many developers are looking for hosted, API-based solutions that remove infrastructure overhead. Cloud printing is evolving from a technical challenge into a managed service expectation.

    What this means for 2026:

    • Hosted cloud printing will see increased adoption
    • API-first platforms will outperform custom infrastructure
    • Remote device monitoring and management will be table stakes

    The cloud stack is not getting more complex. It is becoming more streamlined.

    Web-Based POS and Chrome OS Are Gaining Momentum

    Another major takeaway from NRF 2026 was the continued rise of web-based POS applications and Chrome OS deployments. Developers are prioritizing flexibility, faster updates, and browser-based workflows that reduce OS dependency.

    This shift places new requirements on POS hardware. Devices must work seamlessly across Android, web, and kiosk environments without extensive integration work.

    What this means for 2026:

    • Web-based POS applications will continue to grow
    • Chrome OS kiosks will expand in retail and hospitality
    • Hardware that works across platforms will be preferred

    Platform flexibility is becoming a key purchasing criterion.

    POS Hardware Design and Ergonomics Matter More Than Ever

    NRF 2026 highlighted a growing focus on workspace design. Operators are paying closer attention to how POS environments look, function, and scale over time.

    Clean countertops, effective cable management, and ergonomic mounting solutions are no longer cosmetic concerns. They impact staff efficiency, safety, and customer perception.

    What this means for 2026:

    • Modular and adaptable hardware setups will increase
    • Mounting and peripheral integration will be planned together
    • POS design will be viewed as part of the brand experience

    Hardware must perform well and look intentional.

    Sustainability Is Becoming an Operational Advantage

    Sustainability conversations at NRF 2026 were quieter, but more serious. Operators are increasingly evaluating solutions that reduce waste, simplify operations, and support compliance without adding cost or complexity.

    Linerless labeling stood out as a clear example. It reduces liner waste, improves efficiency, and supports modern labeling workflows without changing user behavior.

    What this means for 2026:

    • Waste-reducing technologies will gain broader adoption
    • Media choices will factor into purchasing decisions
    • Sustainability and efficiency will continue to align

    Environmental considerations are becoming practical, not promotional.

    Partnerships Are Driving the Most Compelling Solutions

    Some of the most effective solutions at NRF 2026 were not built by a single company. They were the result of deep partnerships across hardware, software, and platform providers.

    Integrated ecosystems reduce friction for resellers, simplify deployments, and deliver better outcomes for operators. Collaboration is accelerating innovation faster than isolated development ever could.

    What this means for 2026:

    • Ecosystem-driven solutions will gain traction
    • Channel-friendly integrations will matter more
    • End-to-end workflows will outperform point solutions

    Looking Ahead to the Rest of 2026

    NRF 2026 made one thing unmistakable. Retail and restaurant technology is moving into a more disciplined and outcome-driven phase. The emphasis is no longer on adding disconnected features. It is on building systems that work together reliably under real operating conditions.

    As hardware, AI-powered platforms, and workflow design continue to converge, operators are prioritizing solutions that improve execution at every step of the journey. Order accuracy, uptime, and consistency across locations are becoming the true measures of success because they directly shape customer loyalty and long-term performance.

    For the rest of 2026, expect continued investment in:

    • Self-service and unattended workflows
    • Labeling and order verification
    • Cloud-managed and web-based platforms
    • Modular, adaptable POS hardware
    • Integrated partner ecosystems

    At Star Micronics, these shifts reinforce a long-standing focus on building reliable, flexible hardware that adapts as workflows evolve. When technology operates as a unified system rather than a collection of parts, it quietly enables better execution, stronger operations, and better experiences for customers.

    NRF 2026 did not just highlight what is emerging. It clarified how the next generation of retail and restaurant operations will be built.

    How VARs and ISVs Can Maximize ROI with Advanced Kiosk Printing Technology

    This ebook reveals how ISVs and VARs can harness the transformative potential of kiosk printing technology to maximize ROI for both their clients and their own businesses.

    Learn More About Star POS & Labeling Solutions

  • Star Micronics Brings Scalable Retail POS, Labeling, and Cloud Printing to NRF 2026

    Star Micronics Brings Scalable Retail POS, Labeling, and Cloud Printing to NRF 2026

    Visit Booth 5757 to see how Star’s hardware and cloud tools support omnichannel retail workflows, enterprise deployments, and cloud POS platforms.

    New York, NY – January 11-13, 2026 – Star Micronics, a global leader in point-of-sale (POS), labeling, and cloud technology, is excited to announce its participation in NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show, taking place January 11–13, 2026, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. Attendees are invited to visit Booth 5757 to experience Star’s latest retail-ready hardware and cloud printing solutions.

    At NRF 2026, Star Micronics will demonstrate how enterprise retailers, omnichannel brands, and retail technology providers can improve order accuracy, simplify deployments, and scale printing across complex environments using Star’s customer-first solutions.

    Attendees can explore live demonstrations of Star’s retail technology and cloud tools, including:

    • The mC-Label Series (mC-Label2 and mC-Label3): Cloud-ready, multifunction printers designed for modern retail environments. The mC-Label series supports receipts, linerless labels, die-cut labels, and continuous media, enabling on-demand labeling for BOPIS, curbside pickup, third-party delivery, and in-store fulfillment. X4 models offer USB, LAN, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity, along with advanced wireless features and cross-platform support.
    • StarIO.Online: A fully managed cloud printing service that removes the need for local servers or custom infrastructure. Developers and ISVs can use a single dashboard to monitor device health, push remote updates, and manage printers across multiple locations, improving visibility and control.
    • CD5 Max Series Cash Drawers: Star’s most durable cash drawer line, built for cash-heavy retail. With all-steel construction, dual printer-driven and USB interfaces, a five-year warranty, and optional accessories, the CD5 Max Series provides secure, long-lasting cash handling for high-volume environments.
    • LED Cash Drawer (CD4 Choice Series with LED Status): A Star first, this cash drawer features built-in LED indicators that provide instant visual confirmation of drawer status, helping staff quickly identify open or closed drawers in busy checkout environments and improving speed and accuracy at the point of sale.
    • mC-Connect™ Drawer: Another Star first and an industry milestone, this compact connectivity hub brings Ethernet, USB, wireless LAN, and Bluetooth® LE together in one device, unlocking true flexibility for cash drawer deployments. Built for modern, tablet-driven POS environments, it bridges traditional cash management with next-gen retail infrastructure, so retailers can evolve their systems without replacing what already works.
    • Star Eco and Star Blue Eco Paper & Labels: Star’s expanded media line offers value-focused and premium eco-forward options, including BPA/BPS-free and Prop 65-compliant formulations and recyclable thermal receipt paper. Engineered for consistent thermal performance and guaranteed compatibility with Star printers, these solutions help retailers support sustainability initiatives without compromising print clarity or reliability.

    At NRF 2026, Star Micronics will be joined in the booth by technology partners ImageHolders, Logic Controls, and Lenovo InstoreScreen to highlight how browser-based POS, kitchen, and printing workflows are shaping modern retail and foodservice environments. The show also marks a new partnership between Star Micronics and Logic Controls, bringing KDS software and labeling together to improve order accuracy and accountability across in-store, kiosk, BOPIS, delivery, and catering workflows. 

    In addition, Star will feature kiosk and drive-thru applications in the Food Service Innovation Zone alongside MicroTouch, highlighting scalable self-service and high-throughput ordering environments. 

    Star Micronics will also host an exclusive partner appreciation event during NRF 2026, offering invited guests the opportunity to connect with peers and industry leaders in a relaxed setting above the city. “Night Above NYC,” Star’s NRF rooftop gathering, will take place on Sunday, January 11, at the Sandbar Rooftop (23rd floor of the Hilton), featuring skyline views, refreshments, and networking. Attendance is limited, and advance registration is required.

    Retailers, ISVs, and solution providers are encouraged to visit Booth 5757 to see Star’s solutions in action and schedule one-on-one meetings with the Star team.

    To book a demo or for more information, contact sales@starmicronics.com. 

    Can’t get enough industry news?

    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, self-service, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers in tandem with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT Next, StarIO.Online, and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more. 

    Media Contact:

    Christin Trilone
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    ctrilone@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • Star Micronics to Bring Leading Cannabis POS, Labeling, and Cloud Printing to MJBizCon 2025

    Star Micronics to Bring Leading Cannabis POS, Labeling, and Cloud Printing to MJBizCon 2025

    Visit Booth C25822 to see how Star’s hardware and cloud tools support cannabis POS platforms, weighing systems, labeling stations, and multi-store deployments.

    Las Vegas, NV – December 3-5, 2025 – Star Micronics, a global leader in point-of-sale (POS), labeling, and cloud technology, is pleased to announce its participation in MJBizCon 2025, the cannabis industry’s largest B2B conference and expo. The event takes place December 3–5, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, where Star will welcome attendees at Booth C25822.

    At MJBizCon 2025, Star will demonstrate how cannabis retailers, vertically integrated operators, and POS software providers can improve accuracy, compliance, and operational efficiency by integrating Star’s Customer First Solutions into their workflows.

    Attendees are invited to explore live demonstrations of Star’s cannabis-ready hardware and cloud tools, including:

    • The mC-Label2 Multifunction Printer: A compact, front-loading, 2-inch printer with ultra-sharp 300 DPI resolution. Ideal for cannabis packaging stations and weighing counters, it prints receipts, tags, strain labels, shelf labels, linerless labels, and die-cut compliance labels from a single device. The X4 models offer all four connectivity options (USB, LAN, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi) and support One Touch Label for fast, stored-label printing in high-volume environments.
    • The TSP143IV X4 and SK X4 Series: Advanced thermal printers with four connectivity interfaces, Bluetooth-assisted Wi-Fi setup, and CloudPRNT Next compatibility for reliable multi-location and delivery routing. The SK X4 model supports removable sticky linerless labels, making it well-suited for prescription bags, order pickup, curbside/drive-up, and online cannabis ordering workflows.
    • StarIO.Online: A fully managed cloud printing service that removes the need for local servers or custom infrastructure. Cannabis retailers and ISVs can use a single dashboard to monitor device health, push remote updates, and manage printers across multiple dispensaries, improving visibility and control for delivery services, grow facilities, and vertically integrated operators.
    • CD5 Max Series Cash Drawers: Star’s most durable cash drawer line, built for cash-heavy cannabis retail. With all-steel construction, dual printer-driven and USB interfaces, a five-year warranty, and optional accessories, the CD5 Max Series provides secure, long-lasting cash handling for high-volume dispensaries.
    • Star Blue Eco Receipt Paper and Labels: Eco-friendly, BPA/BPS-free, Prop 65 compliant paper and label rolls that support compliant printing for weighing slips, product labels, pickup receipts, and customer transactions. Designed for optimal performance with Star printers, Star Blue Eco helps cannabis businesses meet sustainability expectations without sacrificing print clarity.

    Star Micronics continues to support cannabis retailers as the industry evolves, providing technology built to increase accuracy, simplify compliance, and improve workflow efficiency across every point of the cannabis retail experience.

    Attendees are encouraged to visit Booth C25822 to see these innovations firsthand and schedule one-on-one demonstrations with the Star team.

    To book a demo or for more information, contact sales@starmicronics.com. 

    Can’t get enough industry news?

    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, self-service, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers in tandem with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, Chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT Next, StarIO.Online, and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more. 

    Media Contact:

    Christin Trilone
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    ctrilone@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • Star Micronics Showcases the Latest POS & Labeling Innovations at VARTECH 2025

    Star Micronics Showcases the Latest POS & Labeling Innovations at VARTECH 2025

    Step into Booth 311 to experience Star’s full lineup: printers, cash drawers, BPA/BPS-free Star Blue Eco paper and labels, and next-gen cloud solutions.

    Nassau, Bahamas – September 15-16, 2025 – Star Micronics, a global leader in point of sale (POS), labeling, and cloud technology, is pleased to announce its participation in VARTECH 2025, BlueStar’s premier channel partner event. The conference takes place September 15–16, 2025, at the Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas, where Star will welcome attendees at Booth 311.

    At VARTECH 2025, Star will demonstrate how independent software vendors (ISVs), value-added resellers (VARs), and technology partners can accelerate business growth by integrating Star solutions into their portfolios. Visitors will see live demos of Star’s latest products and services, including:

    • The mC-Label2 Multimedia Printer: A compact, front-loading, 2-inch printer with ultra-sharp 300 DPI resolution. Capable of printing receipts, tags, linerless labels, and die-cut labels, the mC-Label2 is built for tight spaces and versatile use. The X4 models offer all four connectivity options (USB, LAN, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi) while featuring One Touch Label for instant, stored label printing.
    • The TSP143IV X4 and SK X4 Series: Advanced thermal printers with four connectivity interfaces, Bluetooth-assisted Wi-Fi setup, and compatibility with CloudPRNT Next for fast, reliable cloud printing. The SK X4 model supports removable linerless sticky labels, making it perfect for food prep, online ordering, and retail/BOPIS workflows.
    • StarIO.Online: A fully managed cloud printing service that eliminates the need for servers or custom infrastructure. From one dashboard, businesses and ISVs can monitor printer status, push remote updates, and manage devices across multiple locations, reducing overhead while improving multi-location visibility and scalability.
    • CD5 Max Series Cash Drawers: Star’s most durable, premier cash drawer line, built for cash-heavy retail and hospitality environments. With all-steel construction, dual printer-driven and USB interfaces, a five-year warranty, and multiple accessory options, the CD5 Max delivers unmatched reliability and flexibility.
    • Star Blue & Star Blue Eco Receipt Paper and Label Rolls: Solutions providers can meet the demand for eco-friendly, BPA/BPS-free, and Prop 65-compliant receipt paper and labels with Star Blue Eco. It’s one of the products in Star’s full line of consumables designed for optimal performance and compatibility with Star printers.

    Star Micronics Showcases the Latest POS & Labeling Innovations at VARTECH 2025
    Step into Booth 311 to experience Star’s full lineup!

    As a trusted BlueStar partner, Star Micronics is proud to support VARTECH 2025 and its mission of connecting distributors, resellers, and software providers. Attendees are encouraged to stop by Booth 311 to see the latest Star innovations in action and schedule one-on-one demos with Star representatives.

    To book a demo or for more information, contact sales@starmicronics.com.

    Love Industry News? Explore our Podcast:

    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, self-service, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers in tandem with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, Chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT Next, StarIO.Online, and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more. 

    Media Contact:

    Christin Dorner
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    cdorner@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • Star Micronics Exhibits Innovative Retail Solutions at RSPA RetailNOW 2025

    Star Micronics Exhibits Innovative Retail Solutions at RSPA RetailNOW 2025

    RSPA Members can see and demo Star printers, cash drawers, BPA/BPS-free Prop 65-compliant paper and labels, and cloud solutions in Booth 411 at RetailNOW 2025.

    Las Vegas, NV – July 17, 2025 – Star Micronics, a trailblazer in point of sale (POS), cloud printing, and retail technology solutions, is excited to announce participation in RetailNOW 2025, the annual Retail Solutions Provider Association (RSPA) trade show, education conference, and networking event. RetailNOW will take place from July 27 to 29, 2025, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, and attendees can meet with the Star team in Booth 411.

    Star will demonstrate how independent software vendors (ISVs), value-added resellers (VARs), and other solutions providers can grow their businesses by adding Star products and services to their portfolio. At RetailNOW, Star will highlight its retail and hospitality solutions, including:

    • The mC-Label2 Multifunction Printer: This front-loading, 2-inch label printer is designed for compact stations, delivering ultra-sharp 300 DPI resolution in a wide range of print widths. It prints traditional and linerless labels, tags, die-cut labels, and receipts, all from one device. The mC-Label2 X4 models feature all four connectivity ports (USB, LAN, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi) in a single interface, providing maximum flexibility. Like the popular mC-Label3 multimedia printer, it features the One Touch Label function that streamlines workflows.
    • The TSP143IV X4 and SK X4 Series: This line of advanced thermal printers features all four modern interfaces, effortless Wi-Fi connectivity, and support for linerless labels (SK X4 model). These printers are perfect for online ordering, labeling, and POS environments and redefine efficiency and scalability.
    • StarIO.Online: StarIO.Online is a fully managed cloud printing service that gives businesses and ISVs the ability to monitor and manage their entire fleet of Star printers from a single dashboard—no servers or custom infrastructure required. With real-time device monitoring, remote updates, and multi-location visibility, it’s the simplest way to bring Star printers into a cloud-first ecosystem.
    • New CD5 Max Series Cash Drawers: As the highest-tier model in Star’s cash drawer lineup, the CD5 Max Series sets a new standard for secure, heavy-duty cash management. Designed for cash-heavy environments, these drawers combine rugged durability with flexible configurations, like dual printer-driven and USB connectivity options. Backed by Star’s five-year warranty and full range of accessories, the CD5 Max helps position Star as the new leader in modern cash drawer solutions for retail and hospitality.
    • Star Blue Receipt Paper and Label Rolls: Solutions providers can meet the demand for eco-friendly, BPA/BPS-free, and Prop 65-compliant receipt paper and labels with Star Blue Eco. It’s one of the products in Star’s full line of consumables designed for optimal performance and compatibility with Star printers.

    Star Micronics is a long-time RetailNOW sponsor and an RSPA vendor member, committed to the success of its channel partners. Technology and solutions providers attending RetailNOW 2025 are encouraged to schedule private demos with Star representatives to get a closer look at these cutting-edge solutions.

    Schedule private demos with Star representatives by contacting sales@starmicronics.com.

    Love Industry News? Explore our Podcast:

    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, labeling, secure cash management, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, Chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Christin Dorner
    Star Micronics America, Inc.
    cdorner@starmicronics.com
    848-216-3318

  • Grocery Tech and Takeaways from NRF 2025: How Self-Service and AI Are Shaping the Future

    Grocery Tech and Takeaways from NRF 2025: How Self-Service and AI Are Shaping the Future

    Walking through the head-turning aisles of NRF 2025, it was impossible to ignore the pull of grocery technology. Kiosks. Self-checkout. POS scales. Everywhere you turned, there they were—showing us just how much this retail sector is leaning into innovation. In a major way, grocery tech wasn’t just a theme; it was the star of the show.

    Why? Because it’s where the retail rubber meets the road. This isn’t just about flashy setups or eye-catching displays (although there were plenty of those). It’s about the undeniable shift toward convenience, efficiency, and—most importantly—revenue potential. For VARs and ISVs, this is a moment to seize.

    The Self-Service Revolution: Grocery Edition

    Grocery technology at NRF 2025 didn’t just stand out; it shouted its presence. Self-service kiosks and checkout stations were front and center, and not just for the sake of automation. They’re solving real problems for grocery retailers: long lines, labor shortages, and the skyrocketing customer expectation for speed and ease.

    Kiosks and AI: The Perfect Pairing

    The buzz wasn’t just about kiosks; it was about what’s powering them. AI is no longer just a futuristic idea—it’s here, and it’s delivering ROI for retailers. Picture this: AI-driven self-checkout systems that don’t just weigh produce but predict trends, analyze purchasing patterns, and suggest product placements. As Jim Roddy put it, “Nobody cares if you used AI. They just care about the ROI.”

    For grocery, AI transforms self-checkout from a convenience feature into a data powerhouse. It’s identifying theft with computer vision, optimizing inventory in real-time, and even delivering personalized coupons at the point of sale. For VARs and ISVs, knowing how to leverage these tools can turn their clients’ grocery operations into well-oiled, revenue-generating machines.

    How VARs and ISVs Can Capitalize

    This is where it gets exciting. Self-checkout systems, kiosks, and AI aren’t just shiny new toys; they’re solutions that bring measurable results. VARs and ISVs who understand the potential of this tech can become the heroes of their clients’ grocery businesses.

    Here’s how:

    1. Show Them the ROI: Whether it’s through AI-powered theft prevention or kiosks that reduce labor costs, explain how these solutions save money and boost revenue.
    2. Offer Scalable Systems: Grocery operations aren’t static. Provide hardware and software that can grow with the business, from small neighborhood grocers to big-box chains.
    3. Be the Trusted Advisor: As Jim Roddy pointed out, retailers are drowning in options. Be the guide who cuts through the noise and points them to the right tools.

    Star Micronics: Hardware Built for Grocery Success

    Star Micronics has the tools to help VARs and ISVs make the most of the grocery tech boom. From kiosk printing to POS scales, our hardware is designed to meet the demands of modern grocery environments tenfold.

    The latest mG-T POS scales from Star Micronics are perfect for grocery stores and environments.

    Kiosk Printers

    Behind every seamless self-checkout experience is a reliable kiosk printer quietly doing its job. From printing crisp receipts to generating order tickets and labels, kiosk printers are the unsung heroes of modern grocery stores. Star Micronics brings precision and speed to the table, offering solutions built to keep self-service stations efficient and customers happy—even during the busiest rush hours.

    SK5-31 Kiosk Printer

    Designed for high-demand environments, the SK5-31 combines a sleek, fully enclosed design with advanced features like anti-jam technology, paper eject assistance, and an adjustable paper guide with 12 positions. With a print speed of 250mm/s and versatile connectivity options (USB/Serial or USB/LAN), this printer ensures smooth, efficient, and reliable operations.

    Explore the SK5-31 >

    mC-Print3 Receipt Printer

    The Star Micronics mC-Print3 combines high-speed printing with advanced connectivity options like Ultra-C and CloudPRNT Next. Its Ultra-C USB-C port provides seamless power and data transfer with any device, while CloudPRNT Next offers enhanced remote printing using the MQTT protocol, ideal for modern POS environments.

    Discover the mC-Print3 >

    How VARs and ISVs Can Maximize ROI with Advanced Kiosk Printing Technology

    Find out how ISVs and VARs can harness the transformative potential of kiosk printing technology to maximize ROI for both their clients and their own businesses.

    Precision POS Scales

    mG-TUDB Scales

    Designed for precision and versatility, the mG-TUDB scales are a perfect fit for grocery self-checkout stations, produce sections and bulk item sales. With trade-legal certification for the U.S. and Canada, these scales offer Class III accuracy and seamless connectivity via Bluetooth, serial, or USB-C. Their large platter and optional pole display accessory ensure effortless setup with your POS system, making them ideal for a wide range of applications, from delis to farmer’s markets.

    Find Out More >

    Cash Management

    CD5 Max Series Cash Drawers

    Designed for high-cash volume businesses, the CD5 Max Series cash drawers deliver durability, security, and sleek design. With all-steel construction, dual lock mechanisms, and under-till compartments for added organization, these drawers are ideal for grocery stores, cannabis dispensaries, and other busy retail settings. Available in multiple sizes and with dual DK and USB interface options, the CD5 Max Series integrates seamlessly into any POS system.

    Explore More >

    Scanning Technology

    Star’s 1D/2D Barcode Scanners

    Star offers a comprehensive range of IP-rated 1D/2D barcode scanners, ideal for diverse business needs. From retail to healthcare, our versatile scanners excel in parsing driver’s license and ID barcodes, ensuring swift and accurate data capture. Choose the perfect fit for your setup—desktophandheld, or wireless Bluetooth options available.

    The Takeaway: Grocery Tech Is a Golden Opportunity

    Grocery retail is truly exploding with possibilities. NRF 2025 made it clear that self-service, kiosks, and AI are here to stay, and they’re revolutionizing how grocers operate. For VARs and ISVs, this is the moment to step in, guide clients toward the right solutions, and build partnerships that drive growth.

    With Star Micronics by your side, you’re equipped to offer the tools grocery retailers need to stay competitive now and into the future.

    Ready for the grocery tech you need?