Tag: Cannabis

A Comprehensive Guide to Cannabis POS & Accessories
The cannabis industry is in full swing. With marijuana fully legal in several U.S. states and medical use being legal in almost every state, cannabis is here to stay. While this is great news for business owners looking to break into this budding industry, the tech you choose will dictate the success of your business. Without a powerful point of sale (POS) system at the foundation of your dispensary, you could lose out on critical functionality, sales, and even be subject to noncompliance issues.

The reality is, when it comes to cannabis, not just any POS setup will do. In this guide, you will discover the complete list of technology solutions that dispensaries need to compete in today’s booming market, including solutions for in-store, e-Commerce, delivery, and more.

Download the full guide >

Why an Innovative POS is Critical for the Cannabis Industry

As the cannabis industry flourishes, so does the ferocity of the competition. There are many routes businesses can take in order to stand out from other dispensaries, but choosing the right POS system is among the most important. Whether you are opening a brand new business or looking to upgrade an existing one, your POS is a foundational factor to consider.

Bottom line: you’ll need innovative tech that maximizes the efficiency of your operations, allowing you to operate smoothly and give customers an exceptional experience. By accomplishing this, you’ll be on your way to higher profits and bigger business. Here’s what to look for in a POS system and why it matters:

Cannabis POS Seed-to-Sale Software

Behind every great piece of hardware is an equally high-quality software. The right POS software should be easy to set up and save your employees time on a daily basis by making their jobs simple. It’s also essential that your cannabis dispensary POS software integrates with any seed-to-sale tracking systems required by your respective state, as well as with your accounting, payroll, marketing, and other software you use to run your business. Other important features to look for in your software include:

Compliance

Sales and inventory data

Security

Offline mode

Online ordering/e-Commerce

NTEP-Certified Scales

In the cannabis industry, compliance is everything, and one of the most important elements of cannabis retail compliance is accurately selling products by weight. Whether your dispensary offers packages of marijuana buds or flowers, edibles, vaping supplies, containers of shutter, topicals, or extracts, having scales ensures that you are not over- or under-charging customers as well as keeping inventory records accurate.

Ensure your scales are National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) certified. A local weights and measures official will use NIST standards when inspecting your scale and sealing/certifying it for legal use. You’ll also want to be sure you purchase a highly accurate scale system. While it’s commonly thought that an ounce is 28 grams, it’s actually 28.349 grams; weigh to one-hundredth of a gram to ensure you don’t short your customers or miss out on any profits.

Running a business that sells products by weight is impossible without the proper scale. Look for options that are designed for the cannabis industry and have the certification and protective measures in place to ensure accuracy, like a windshield and dust-proof/waterproof cover.

Our Scale Recommendation: mG-Scales

mG-S322: Meets all requirements in the legalized states.
mG-S1501: Certified in WA and AK for weighing less than 28.4g and in CA, OR, and CO for weighing between 10g-100g.

POS Printers

Cannabis may be becoming more widely accepted and available, but there are still strict laws that must be followed. One such law is that consumers must be able to prove their cannabis was legally obtained. That’s where printers come in. Dispensaries can provide online ordering printing or high-performance in-store printing to display proof of legal purchase.

Needless to say, proof of purchase is critical, and dispensary owners can easily provide it with receipt printers that display the sale. Mobile printers can also be used for a more modern, flexible in-store experience. In addition to proving cannabis was legally obtained, receipts can be leveraged to deliver effective cannabis advertisements.

Some ideas of what to promote on your cannabis receipt include:

Featured strains/strain of the week

Strains that are coming soon

Discounts or sales

Links to social media accounts

Customer testimonials

Now hiring messaging

Our Printer Recommendations:

mC-Print3: With CloudPRNT for online ordering, SteadyLAN®, and USB-C connectivity.

mPOP®: All-in-one printer and cash drawer solution.

Proper Product Labeling

How you package and label supplies and products is an important part of remaining compliant and staying out of trouble. With cannabis now being added to food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and beauty products, there are a variety of forms your product may come in, and not all of them will be suited for a bag, bottle, or vial. Different products will require different packaging and labels that display unique product information.

Ensuring your labels are accurate is a critical first step; with the right information on your labels, your product will be ready for seed-to-sale tracking if necessary. Additionally, your labels should be tamper-proof to ensure the security seal has not been broken. You may want to consider a linerless label printer for easy-to-reposition labels, as well as review your state-specific cannabis label requirements to ensure that your labels are compliant.

Our Label Recommendations:

TSP654IISK: Liner-free label printing.

Tamper-Proof Labels: Securely seal products and packaging.

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

That’s where Star comes in. CDG proudly integrates its software tools with a variety of Star hardware including the all-in-one mPOP®, TSP654IISK linerless label printer, Value Series Cash Drawers, and more.

Download Brochure

Cannabis Cash Drawers

The cannabis industry is a cash-heavy market for many. For this reason, having proper cash management is crucial. Your dispensary cash drawers should support error-free cash management and top-notch security. Don’t go too old-school, however; as regulators tighten down on cash business, it’s important to ensure you have a high-quality drawer solution. Look for something secure and reliable while also sleek and efficient to meet your individual business needs and government regulations.

Our Cash Drawer Recommendation:

Choice Series Cash Drawers: Extra-strength and packed with extra features.

Additional Accessories That Make All the Difference

Sneeze Guard: Sneeze guards used at the checkout counter help protect employees and customers by reducing the spread of harmful pathogens.

Tablet Stand: A tablet stand will tie together your POS and contribute to a modern, professional atmosphere and an improved customer experience.

Antimicrobial Covers*: Easy-to-use antimicrobial covers will reduce germ transfer on high-touch dispensary surfaces.

Choosing the Right Cannabis POS Hardware Supplier

Choosing a one-stop shop POS hardware supplier with industry-leading software integration capabilities means an easier workflow for you and your staff:

Before the sale: Easy setup and configuration

During the sale: Intuitive controls and features

After the sale: Seamless maintenance and support

Discover even more tips and tricks for implementing a complete cannabis POS by downloading the full guide.
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Disclaimer: NeverGerms® makes no claims regarding the safety or health of the general public or those interacting with its products. “NeverGerms®” and “Touch Less Germs®” are registered trademarks and not intended to have literal interpretation. NeverGerms products are manufactured by NeverGerms and distributed by Star Micronics. Although these products are designed to reduce microbe populations on commonly-utilized surfaces and have been tested by the manufacturer for their antimicrobial properties, Star Micronics cannot guarantee that they will eliminate all risk of germ, including virus, transfer from such surfaces. Star Micronics, as distributor, relies entirely upon claims made by manufacturer as supported by prior research. For further information, please visit www.nevergerms.com.
June 24, 2021
5 Features to Look for in Cannabis POS Software
Cannabis point-of-sale (POS) systems have unique components that you will not find in any other industry. With legalization being closer to reality than ever, it is key to have a software system that can be flexible to adapt to the different rules set by the regulatory bodies. It is customary for providers to have a cloud-based framework that will be able to connect to all the track-and-trace providers seamlessly and adapt to these new changes. Below are five key components to look for in cannabis POS software.

1. Compliancy

Compliancy is a key component for dispensaries to maintain legitimacy with the reporting of every transaction to the regulatory body. Why? The government, depending on the state, requires the dispensary to report information directly to them. This information usually includes dispensary, inventory, customer, package, and product data. The four different American track-and-trace government software providers are as follows: Metrc, Helix, Leaf Data Systems, and Agrisoft. The largest player is Metrc with 16 states and one territory (Washington D.C) under current contract.

Law enforcement agencies use data irregularities in the track-and-trace software to detect any illegal marijuana activities. On the off chance that these irregularities are adequately extreme, an examination could be triggered that could prompt closing-down activities and heavy fines. It is critical to use a cannabis POS software that has a controlled API push after each transaction so that you can ensure all data is transmitted accurately. Keep in mind, if the track-and-trace state-mandated software is not maintaining uptime, this can cause non-compliancy issues.

2. eCommerce

Prior to the pandemic online ordering was more of a luxury than a necessity for dispensaries. According to a poll of 840 people made by Ganja Goddess, “Only 6.4% of consumers say retail shops are now their primary purchasing method, compared to 63.3% pre-COVID, representing a roughly 57% decrease.” You can associate these numbers with pandemic-influenced buying trends.

Cannabis POS software providers have different strategies when it comes to online ordering. Some decide to use a third-party eCommerce provider and others have eCommerce built into their service offering. In general, many new cannabis companies have shifted their focus to an online-first business, and the industry is seeing more online ordering systems and dispensary-branded app models pop up. Because of these trends, dispensaries must have their POS operating synchronously with the online ordering platform, meaning whatever is available to shop for online must be in-stock at the dispensary. Many e-commerce solutions can make that possible by enabling delivery, digital payments, and curbside pickup.

3. Cashless Transactions

Since cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, cannabis banking remains a finicky topic. However, cannabis banking on the state level has been enabled and because of that there are extra layers of cannabis compliancy that local banks and credit unions must adhere to. As of today, the federal government has not issued an MCC (Merchant Category Code) for cannabis dispensaries, so the different cashless payment models that exist today are as follows:

ACH/Bank-to-Bank Transfers (Similar to PayPal)

Compliant so it can convert into an actual merchant account when legal

Payment transfers occur across the ACH payment network

Completely transparent – with every party involved

Actual business representation on merchant and consumer account statements

Cashless ATMs

Rounds up to the nearest $5 and/or $20

Masks transactions as an ATM transaction

Merchants can be shut off without notice

Not sustainable

Debit and Credit Cards

Miscoded accounts

High risk of being shut off

High fees with offshore settlements

Not endorsed by the card brands

Cryptocurrencies

Very small number of dispensaries are using this as an option

Blockchain technology

Real-time settlements

Bitcoin and other various digital currencies

As you can see above, the most sustainable solution until the federal government enacts new rules is the ACH/bank-to-bank transfers. By working with a payment solution provider like Hypur, AeroPay, or CanPay, dispensary owners can be confident that their payment processing will not damage their business with any unannounced issues.

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

That’s where Star comes in. CDG proudly integrates its software tools with a variety of Star hardware including the all-in-one mPOP®, TSP654IISK linerless label printer, Value Series Cash Drawers, and more.

Download Brochure

4. Reward/Loyalty Program

Building customer retention via a reward or loyalty program is critical, especially in cannabis. As legalization becomes widespread, creating more access, the cost of cannabis to consumers will continue to decline. At the same time, the number of dispensaries is inclining at a rapid velocity and under these circumstances profit margins will naturally decline.

A highly engaging reward program will create a continuous flow of returning clients for your dispensary. Running daily specials that are sent through text messages and emails not only help retain the dispensary’s current clients, but also contributes to maintaining the strength of the dispensary’s margins. When sending out promotional messages, it is prudent that the message includes a link directly to the dispensary’s eCommerce platform and that the special being offered is highly visible after clicking the link. A successful reward or loyalty system acts like a mini-bank account for loyal customers and is a win-win; they will spend more as they strive to achieve larger discounts, and your business will thrive.

5. Inventory Management

Cannabis is unique in comparison to other businesses when it comes to inventory. If you are ordering delivery from a restaurant, most likely they will have the ingredients to fulfill your request. This is simply not the case with cannabis.

It is vital for dispensaries to know what is in stock and what needs to be re-ordered from their distributors. If a dispensary’s inventory is inaccurate, they will have unhappy customers who have ordered online and will not be able to get what they ordered.

When bulk packages arrive from distributors, it is a smart business practice to scan each package using an inventory scanner that is directly integrated into your POS. Adding inventory manually into the system can create a massive headache, and also allows for a higher possibility of human error. According to Cannabis Industry Journal, “Cannabis businesses need more sophisticated solutions to track sales, monitor supplies, oversee shipments and remain informed on where products originate from and how frequently to re-order. Native functionalities too often do not provide such robust features.” Having a consistent, standard operating procedure in your dispensary is so valuable.

Appspensary Cannabis POS Software

If you’re looking for a robust cannabis POS software solution, Appspensary has what you need. Appspensary is an online ordering platform and cloud-based POS system that is tailored and branded for marijuana-related businesses. Appspensary includes features like:

Online store

Cashless payments

Delivery optimization

Curbside pickup

Text message marketing

Loyalty program

Custom development
Learn more or request a demo
June 10, 2021
Cannabis Delivery Technology: What You Need
We all know that the cannabis industry is growing at a rapid pace – but did you know that cannabis delivery in particular is one of the hottest revenue streams in the market? While COVID-19 certainly acted as a catalyst in the growth of cannabis delivery, it’s a trend that’s here to stay. Read on to explore what cannabis delivery technology you need to succeed.

Cannabis Delivery Technology #1: Online Ordering Platform

One thing is for sure: to succeed at cannabis delivery, you need a robust online ordering platform to not only manage orders but to help you facilitate all of the logistics involved in delivering product to your customers, too.

Some key features to look for in an online ordering platform for cannabis delivery are:

The ability to facilitate order placement and documentation

Deciphering which counties and cities allow or don’t allow cannabis delivery

Dispatching and tracking cannabis deliveries

Analyzing deliveries and optimizing them to increase delivery speed and lower delivery costs

Customer ID verification

The ability to dynamically calculate sales tax per region

Detailed, real-time inventory tracking

Integrated loyalty program and marketing tools

Cannabis Delivery Technology #2: Point of Sale

Related to your cannabis delivery online ordering platform is your point of sale (POS). Without a complete, integrated POS, your online ordering strategy will not live up to its full potential. So, what do you need?

Online ordering printer: When a customer places an online order for cannabis delivery, they trust that your dispensary is immediately receiving and preparing their order. Meet those expectations by choosing an online ordering printer with cloud printing technology. An added bonus of some online ordering printers like Star’s mC-Print3 is that it communicates directly to the cloud server, meaning you do not need an extra tablet – customers simply place their order, and it prints immediately at your POS.

NTEP-certified scale: When it comes to selling cannabis, accuracy is everything, and an NTEP-certified precision POS scale is non-negotiable. Further enhance your measuring by choosing a scale that features Bluetooth, USB, and serial connectivity.

Linerless label printer: Linerless labels are repositionable thermal labels that stick to nearly any surface and can be removed and reapplied without leaving any residue behind. These labels can be very helpful in preparing online orders and cannabis packaging, and a linerless label printer can be a great addition to your POS.

Integrations with aforementioned software: The POS and the online ordering software should ideally work hand-in-hand to create a seamless, headache-free sales cycle. Be sure to choose POS hardware that is integrated with the industry’s most popular software applications.

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

That’s where Star comes in. CDG proudly integrates its software tools with a variety of Star hardware including the all-in-one mPOP®, TSP654IISK linerless label printer, Value Series Cash Drawers, and more.

Download Brochure

Cannabis Delivery Technology #3: Delivery Service

When it comes to managing your own cannabis delivery service, there are several legalities to keep in mind. Per IndicaOnline,

“If you’re a storefront dispensary and you want to implement a marijuana delivery service, you must apply for the regular Retailer business license. It is extremely important to remember that once your delivery service has been approved for a license, every driver must carry a copy in their authorized vehicle. For a complete list of all the necessary documentation that must be submitted, please visit the Bureau of Cannabis Control website.”

In addition to documentation, other rules apply to cannabis delivery. For example, in California, the below rules are in place:

Deliveries must be made in unmarked, enclosed vehicles with security boxes attached to the vehicle

GPS units track each delivery route and drivers may not deviate from the route or make extra stops

Drivers can only carry $5,000 of product and that amount is reduced to $3,000 if the driver is carrying products to fill tentative orders that have not yet been placed

Only the driver is allowed to be in the vehicle

Drivers must carry and update an inventory ledger that includes in following information about all of the products in their possession: brand, weight, value, track-and-trace identifier, and price.

Please refer to your local authorities to determine your cannabis-related laws.

If you are looking to manage your own deliveries, it is also worthwhile to invest in the proper security technology, like surveillance cameras for delivery vehicles that monitor product pickups and drop-offs, activity around vehicles, and more. You will also want to make sure you have software that records when product moves and gives you real-time access to that data.

If all of that sounds overwhelming, it is okay. You can also choose a third-party delivery service like Eaze, which is often called “the Uber of marijuana” and delivers cannabis products in California. Eaze and other similar companies offer delivery service to licensed retailers and dispensaries. The services often automatically confirm delivery addresses are legal for delivery, and can deliver various products like flower, vapes, edibles, concentrates, and accessories.

Star’s Cannabis POS Hardware Lineup

Cannabis stores and dispensaries need technology solutions to match unique industry requirements and regulations. Star has developed a POS product line tailored for use in cannabis stores and dispensaries, The Cannabis POS Collection.

Download our cannabis brochure to discover:

NTEP-approved cannabis scales

POS printers and cash drawers

Mobile printers

Star Micronics Cloud Services
Download Brochure
May 25, 2021
5 Reasons You Need a Cannabis Dispensary POS System
The cannabis industry is flourishing. With recent legalizations, including New York, it is without a doubt that the market will see countless new dispensaries opening their doors in the near future. Whether you already operate a dispensary or are looking to open one, read on to learn what to look for a in a dispensary point of sale (POS) system and why they’re so important.

What to Look for in a Dispensary POS System

First, let’s dive into a quick list of must-have dispensary POS system technologies. POS systems have several components, but they don’t need to be complicated. One way to make it easy? Choose a POS supplier (like Star Micronics) that can provide all necessary hardware and has integrations with industry-leading dispensary POS software companies. Essential dispensary POS system components include:

Receipt printer: Receipt printers are of utmost importance to dispensaries. Proof of legal purchase is essential – and there’s no better way to provide it than with a receipt. Additionally, it’s important to note that depending on your region, receipts must also contain other information, like store name and address, product category/name, and appropriate tax codes/identifiers.

Label printer: Another printer that’s important to have on hand is a label printer. Labels are integral for seed-to-sale tracking, a key requirement in cannabis regulatory models. This process tracks plants and their byproducts from planting all the way through to the plant’s sale.

Cash drawer: Currently, the majority of dispensary transactions are cash. Why? According to FindLaw.com, “Even though dispensaries supplying recreational or medical marijuana may be perfectly licensed and legal under state law, federal law still classifies marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug and considers marijuana businesses illegal. The banking system is regulated by federal law, so banks risk charges of aiding and abetting a federal crime or money laundering if they choose to do business with marijuana-related ventures.” That being said, a durable and high-volume cash drawer is key.

Scale: One of the most critical elements of a dispensary POS system is the scale. When it comes to scales, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the scale must be legal to use in your state and NTEP-certified. This certification ensures that the scales are charging the correct amount for the product being weighed. Another great feature to look for is a scale that is integrated directly into the POS as direct integration can reduce the risk of human error in data entry.

Accessories: There is a plethora of dispensary POS system accessories that can take your business to the next level, including: scanners to increase the speed of transactions and convenience of scanning, an LED customer display so shoppers can easily see item prices and the transaction total, and a tablet stand and enclosure that features hidden cable management and matches the rest of the dispensary POS system aesthetic.

Software: At the heart of a successful dispensary POS system is the right software. Like we discussed earlier, it’s key to make sure that your software is integrated with all of your POS hardware. Additionally, some software features to look for are built-in ID scanning and age verification, loyalty programs, on-demand product information, alternative payment acceptance, offline mode, inventory management, analytics and reporting, and more.

How Resellers Can Cash in on Cannabis Point of Sale

The cannabis industry has become one of the fastest growing markets. Here’s how resellers can take advantage.

Download eBook

5 Benefits of a Dispensary POS System

So now that you know what needs to be included in your dispensary POS setup, why exactly is all of this important? Here are 5 major benefits of a dispensary POS system:

Compliance: Compliance is, of course, absolutely critical for dispensaries. POS systems can help not only provide necessary proof of purchase, but can manage inventory and age and ID verification as well. Common compliance violations include failing to report inventory, patient purchase limits, sales to minors, and inadequate delivery documentation. These violations are severe and can result in notice to comply, citation for violation, interim suspension, or revocation of license.

Accuracy: Keeping product secure from seed to sale, and ensuring you’re selling the exact amount you think you are, is important. POS label printing solutions can aid in accurate seed-to-sale tracking, and an NTEP-certified scale complete with a windshield means you’re charging exactly the right amount for the product you’re selling.

Online Ordering: Did you know that cannabis delivery soared during the pandemic, and that change is likely here to stay? The right POS software will be capable of ecommerce and delivery, and will be integrated with a complete line of POS hardware. With the right POS system, staying up-to-date on digital trends is a piece of cake.

Future-Proof Integration: Speaking of being future-proof, choosing the right dispensary POS software and hardware means no matter where the market goes in terms of ecommerce or payments – as national banking eventually opens its doors to the industry – your POS system will already be prepared to handle it all.

Marketing: As the market explodes and competition becomes fiercer, marketing is key – and your dispensary POS system can help. Opt for a POS software that includes loyalty programs, gift cards, and marketing tools like email campaigns and social media integration. Your POS hardware can help too – with PromoPRNT, you can print custom promotions on the bottom of your Star Micronics receipts and labels for free.

The Proper Dispensary POS System is Important – Now and in the Future

In summary, while an ideal dispensary POS system has many parts, including software and hardware like receipt and label printers, cash drawers, scales, and more, deploying the best solution doesn’t need to be complicated. By choosing the right POS dispensary system suppliers you can start taking advantage of the many benefits a proper system offers, like compliance, accuracy, future-proofed technology and integrations, and built-in marketing benefits.

Star Micronics has the POS technology your dispensary needs to thrive today and in the future.

Download Cannabis Brochure
April 15, 2021
2021 Cannabis Industry Predictions

As legalization expands to new regions and more products hit the market, the cannabis industry is booming. In a market that seems to experience major updates every week, what cannabis industry predictions are there for 2021? Read on to review what happened in the market last year and to expect to see this year.

The 2020 Cannabis Market

The cannabis market saw a lot of growth in 2020. In fact, US national cannabis sales increased 67% in 2020, the industry was worth $61 billion, and support for legal marijuana rose to an all-time high of 68%.

The cannabis customer base is also changing and growing– according to Eaze, the gender divide that used to exist is disappearing (especially in the baby boomer age group) and last year, nearly half of customers were female (compared to just 38% in 2018).

Legalization-wise, during the 2020 election Arizona voted to legalize recreational usage, Montana and New Jersey voted to legalize adult usage, and South Dakota voted in favor of medical and recreational usage.

2021 Cannabis Industry Predictions

1. More Legalization

The legalization of cannabis has become increasingly widespread, and that trend will continue in 2021.

According to Marijuana Moment, the states that are most likely to legalize recreational marijuana usage this year include Connecticut, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, and Virginia.

Additional states are experiencing a buildup of momentum, but legalization is a bit less likely due to remaining opposition from some top leaders. These states include Delaware, Maryland, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

In terms of medical usage of cannabis, a few states are slated to legalize this year, including Alabama, Kentucky, and South Carolina.

Source: Business Insider

2. Increased Sales

Related to increased legalization, one major cannabis industry prediction is increased sales. Did you know that on July 4, 2020 alone, more than $400 million worth of cannabis was sold? According to Linchpin SEO, the market has the potential to grow as much as $130 million per year in the near future.

Another contributing factor to the predicted increased sales is the fact that more and more businesses are selling cannabis products, and in particular, products containing cannabidiol (CBD). According to The Motley Fool,

“What Wall Street and investors seem to find most attractive about the rise of CBD is that it may appeal to consumers who might otherwise want nothing to do with the cannabis industry. Since CBD-based products typically contain no traces of, or minute amounts of, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the cannabinoid that gets a user high, consumers on the medical and recreational side of the equation tend to be more willing to try CBD-based products.”

Furthermore in 2019, CBD sales grew 71.3% in the natural channel alone to $91 million in sales, and sales grew an impressive 872% in the mainstream channel. Mainstream adoption is largely due to the 2018 Farm Bill which made it so that hemp is no longer a “controlled substance,” helping risk-averse retailers embrace selling hemp-derived CBD topicals. Many specialty retailers now carry CBD products, as well as larger chains like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Ulta Beauty, GNC, Urban Outfitters, Whole Foods, Target, and more.

3. A Broader Product Offering

Veryvell CBD sparkling water by Molson Coors (source: The Denver Post)

One cannabis industry prediction is that the number of types of cannabis products available on the market will increase substantially. On one hand, it’s likely that new strains will be created, and on another hand, particular products are projected to become more popular and readily available. For example, Molson Coors has already created a CBD-infused sparkling water to sell in Colorado. The drink, called Veryvell, contains zero calories and zero sugar and is available in three flavors: Focus (grapefruit tarragon), Mind & Body (strawberry hibiscus), and Unwind (blueberry lavender). On the edible front, it’s predicted that the variety of products available will increase.

How Resellers Can Cash in on Cannabis Point of Sale

The cannabis industry has become one of the fastest growing markets. Here’s how resellers can take advantage.

Download eBook

4. Diverse Customers

As time passes, the cannabis consumer base grows more diverse. Linchpin SEO predicts that there will soon be more older and female customers, as well as a greater mix of both recreational and medicinal cannabis users.

If you’re curious about the current breakdown of cannabis users by age, check out the below chart from Flowhub:

5. New Use Cases

During a time when cleanliness is on the forefront of many people’s minds, who could have guessed that cannabis could potentially be used as a health and safety product? According to the US National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health,

“Several cannabinoids have been found to have potent antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive pathogens such as MRSA isolates. Endocannabinoids have also been shown to be effective in eradicating biofilms.”

This is just one example of a new use case for cannabis and as legalization and research efforts continue, it’s predicted that even more will arise.

6. Banking and Finance Updates

One major cannabis industry growing pain that has remained is the issue of banking. However, changes could be made on that front this year. According to TRYM,

“All eyes are on the United States Senate this coming year. Many believe they will finally pass legislation to grant legal cannabis businesses access to banking and financing services. The cannabis industry’s ‘Essential’ designation is ironic when many have to lug around bags of cash, putting them into vulnerable and dangerous situations.

Opening up banking services alone will make a huge impact on the legal marijuana industry as a whole. Investment would flow in more, valuations might increase, and most importantly, marijuana business transactions will become much easier.

A cannabis company could seek bridge loans from the bank rather than taking hard money loans which come at increased risk and high interest rates. In the expanding legal marijuana industry, scaling is important to maintain market share. But scaling requires an injection of money that operators may not have.

The ability to turn to banks for traditional financing would help organizations of all sizes grow their business in the legal marijuana industry.”

As the cannabis industry continues to boom, are you searching for compliant, secure, and easy-to-integrate cannabis POS solutions? Star has what you’re looking for.

Explore Star Cannabis Solutions

March 23, 2021
Why It’s Time to Invest in Dispensary POS

As more states legalize cannabis use, it’s time for dispensaries to invest in the right dispensary point of sale (POS) technology. New Jersey, Arizona, Montana, South Dakota, Vermont, Oklahoma, and Maine have opened their doors to legal cannabis use, and thus have created a huge opportunity for business owners. In fact, the cannabis industry market value is expected to reach $30 billion by 2025.

Something that every cannabis business owner needs is dispensary POS technology solutions. Whether you operate a brick-and-mortar location or a delivery service – or both – dispensary POS is a must-have business essential. Read on to take a deep dive into several reasons why it’s time to invest in dispensary POS.

More States Legalizing Adult Use

Recently, each year has brought the news of more states legalizing cannabis usage or loosening their laws surrounding its usage. There may be no better time for those changes to occur than now. As the world slowly recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, states are urgently looking for ways to bolster their economies and cannabis can certainly fit that bill. The pandemic has undoubtedly had a huge economic impact across the country and globe, and cannabis tax revenue could be used to assist in economic recovery.

As mentioned above, New Jersey, Arizona, Montana, South Dakota, Vermont, Oklahoma, and Maine have officially legalized cannabis usage, and more changes are coming. In 2021, Marijuana Business Daily predicts that Texas’s CBD-centric medical program may see reform, and several states could legalize adult-use marijuana markets including New York, Virginia, Connecticut, New Mexico, and Maryland. In the case of New York, the state is projecting a go live date of April 2021, and Governor Andrew Cuomo has requested legislature to include a measure in the 2021 fiscal year budget to enact cannabis state law.

How Resellers Can Cash in on Cannabis Point of Sale

The cannabis industry has become one of the fastest growing markets. Here’s how resellers can take advantage.

Download eBook

Major Merger in Canada, Micro-Growers Gaining a Foothold

Sometimes too much of something is indeed not a good thing. Take cannabis in Canada, for example. Some of Canada’s largest licensed producers are grappling with oversupply. According to Cannabis Business Times, last year Health Canada, the federal agency that oversees Canadian cannabis producers, reported producers had an excess of 600,000 kilograms (1,322,773 pounds) of unpackaged dried cannabis and 46,413 kilograms (102,323 pounds) of unpackaged flower – not counting what is held in stock by distributors and retailers.

This oversupply makes it unsustainable for all of the large producers to operate at one time with how the market is evolving and has caused a large merger to occur. According to Marijuana Business Daily, in December 2020 Canadian cannabis giants Aphria and Tilray announced plans to merge. This merger would create a very large international marijuana firm with a combined equity of nearly $3.9 million USD.

This mass scale of cannabis production doesn’t mean smaller producers are out of luck. Because of this large-scale merging, Canada’s small-scale micro-growers are finding a foothold in the market, thus creating a craft cannabis market. It’s likely that many consumers are interested in cannabis not produced on a mass scale and are willing to locate and open their wallets to smaller, craft producers.

USDA Re-Evaluating Hemp

Another reason why it’s time to invest in dispensary POS is because it is anticipated that new leadership at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will result in the agency taking a second look at rules for nationwide hemp regulatory framework. What exactly does this mean? One example is that the USDA could give the hemp industry a win with remediation of hot hemp – “hot hemp” has more than the 0.3% limit of THC and must be disposed of by a federal agent under current rules. There is potential for a rule change so that hot hemp could be remediated with certain equipment, reducing THC levels – this shift would eliminate the need to destroy it, saving the industry millions of dollars and leaving space in producers’ budgets to invest in dispensary POS technology.

Star Restaurant POS Solutions

From online ordering printers to kitchen buzzers, Star is proud to offer POS solutions for restaurants, QSRs, food stands, and more.

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Cannabis Delivery

Delivery has become a staple of modern living: takeout, groceries, household goods, pet food, and more are delivered … and now, cannabis is no different. Many cannabis retailers who weren’t previously delivering, now are. One reason for this is that during the COVID-19 pandemic many cannabis retailers were deemed “essential businesses” and thus needed to pivot and meet their customers’ demands in a safe, socially distanced way. Delivery, as well as drive-thru and curbside pickup options, will surely stick around well beyond the pandemic. After COVID-19 fades, consumer behavior will remain entrenched in what provided them the most convenience during the pandemic which means consumers will still expect pickup and delivery options when it comes to getting their cannabis orders filled. To be prepared, cannabis business owners must be sure they have the dispensary POS technology to facilitate all of these delivery methods.

A Continuous Need: Dispensary POS

Recent and ongoing changes to legislature and market mergers – as well as the continued growth of online ordering, delivery, drive-thru, and curbside pickup services – are creating a lasting need for all kinds of cannabis industry technology, including dispensary POS solutions. Indeed, there has never been a better time to invest in dispensary POS.

Interested in learning more about Star’s latest dispensary POS technology solutions?

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January 14, 2021
Star Micronics and Marijuana Software to Offer a Simple E-Commerce Solution for Cannabis

OMMPOS adds an online ordering plugin for cannabis dispensary customers using Star Micronics mC-Print3 with CloudPRNT

Somerset, NJ – July 8, 2020 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point of sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is proud to announce that OMMPOS.COM from Marijuana Software, LLC has certified a number of Star Micronics hardware peripherals to support their POS software and online ordering solution for cannabis dispensaries. OMMPOS supports Star’s mC-Print3 receipt printer, TSP743II label printer, Star’s CD3 Value Series of cash drawers, and mG-Scales, to offer the full hardware and software POS solution to their cannabis dispensary customers. OMMPOS has decided to expand their offering even further to help their customers during the COVID-19 outbreak by offering a simple solution for online ordering.

OMMPOS is offering their new online ordering feature for cannabis dispensaries at $15 per month, and $1 per order, making it a cost effective and competitive solution in the market. The online ordering plugin offers an API that allows current OMMPOS customers to transfer their current menu in their POS to their new e-commerce website seamlessly, using templates to custom brand their website with their own domain name. The API also allows cannabis dispensaries using other POS software to use the OMMPOS online ordering feature. The solution is compatible with WordPress and Wix for full website customization.

When OMMPOS users set up their e-commerce website, customers can then place their order for pick-up or delivery through that site. When customers place their order, the order gets sent to Star’s mC-Print3 receipt printer using CloudPRNT. CloudPRNT will work with the OMMPOS software to store and create print jobs, and communicate status with the printer. The store owner or service providers do not need to maintain an SSL certificate for this CloudPRNT printers since the printer communicates with the server as a client.

“We are excited to be able to offer this powerful, easy-to-use solution for online ordering. It used to take a lot of technical know how to set up a website shopping cart, and until now it has been very difficult for dispensaries to keep the inventory on their website accurate,” says Raja Afrika, Co-Founder of Marijuana Software, LLC. “Now, with our push button solution, anyone can instantly add a shopping cart to their existing website or use our instant website option if they don’t already have one. Our online ordering solutions supports delivery and curbside pickup as well as online payments with CanPay.”

July 8, 2020
Star Micronics and C-Trax to Offer a Simple POS Solution for Cannabis Dispensaries

C-Trax, paired with Star Micronics printers, helps cannabis dispensaries and CBD retailers to streamline business operations

Somerset, NJ – June 10, 2020 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point of sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is proud to announce that C-Trax has added support for Star’s mPOP, along with the mUnite POP and 2D Imager to offer a complete point of sale solution for cannabis dispensaries and CBD retailers. With C-Trax and Star Micronics, hemp retailers have the ease of mind knowing that their sales and store management are being done right.

C-Trax is the only point of sale that has been designed with the hemp retailer in mind. Designed with franchises and multi-store management in mind, C-Trax brings easy to use POS functionality tied together with a comprehensive back-office management solution. In addition, C-Trax is the first cannabis point of sale software to be fully integrated with payments solutions.

Star Micronics mPOP is ideal for retail businesses with a lower volume of cash transactions. The all-in-one receipt printer and cash drawer is sleek and compact, taking up less valuable counter space, and allowing retailers to operate from a modern, tablet point of sale. The latest addition to the mPOP offers Flat Bill cash management, with a stacked cash till, offering management for 4 bill and 4 or 6 adjustable coin slots. Additionally, the mPOP comes with its own custom tablet stand, helping to manage cables and keep your point of sale sleek and clean.

“There is enough to worry about as a cannabis retailer, maintaining equipment shouldn’t be one of them,” states Sean Tolliver, CEO C-Trax. “Our partnership with Star Micronics helps us relieve some of the pressure by providing a reliable and cost-effective hardware solution.”

June 10, 2020
The Ultimate List of Must-Have Cannabis POS Hardware

The cannabis industry is booming – and it’s expected to continue doing so. According to Grand View Research, the global legal marijuana market is expected to reach $66.3 billion by the end of 2025, and each year brings new legalization across the world.

Whether you’re in the business of opening a cannabis business yourself or are looking to provide cannabis point of sale (POS) solutions to your customers, it’s important to understand the critical role cannabis POS hardware has and how to determine which products are right for your business.

Why Star for Cannabis?

Before we dive into the list of must-have cannabis POS hardware, let’s explore Star’s qualifications in the cannabis industry, and why you can trust our knowledge in the space.

Star is the top POS hardware provider in the cannabis industry. A true one-stop shop, we provide all the hardware solutions a dispensary could need, from front of house dispensary sales to labeling and weighing product during curation. Additionally, Star has integrations with approximately 85% of all cannabis POS software on the market today.

The Star team has a distinct understanding of the need for cannabis dispensaries to keep extremely detailed records –including inventory and movement of the product. We also understand that cannabis dispensaries tend to have a very clean and modern aesthetic, and have designed our products to fit that sleek standard.

Must-Have Cannabis POS Hardware

Now that we’ve covered Star’s qualifications and position in the cannabis industry, let’s get started with the ultimate list of must-have cannabis POS hardware. It’s important to note that while Star offers an entire portfolio of cannabis POS hardware, we don’t want to box anyone in, and this list can be referred to as a vendor-neutral guide, as well.

Receipt Printers

Receipt printers are extremely important in the cannabis market. When it comes to cannabis, proof of legal purchase is key – and there’s no better way to provide it than with a receipt printer. In some places, like Canada, it is illegal to possess cannabis deemed illicit, and without proof of purchase, all cannabis is assumed to be illicit. Carrying that illicit cannabis could result in a $5,000 fine or a five-year prison sentence! In the US, laws vary greatly by state and must also be carefully obeyed.

Along with providing proof of purchase, it’s important to note that depending on your region, receipts must also contain other information, like store name and address, product category/name, and the appropriate tax code/identifier.

Star’s Pick: mC-Print3

When you choose a sleek, modern, and connected printer, like the Star mC-Print3, legality and stylishness coexist to strengthen your brand.

Click here to learn more about the mC-Print3.

Label Printers

Next on our list is another kind of printer: the label printer. An important part of seed-to-sale tracking, printed labels have an important role in the entire cannabis production and retail process. Seed-to-sale tracking is a key requirement in cannabis regulatory models, and refers to the process of tracking plants and their byproducts from planting all the way through to the plant’s sale. Star is proud that its label printers are used by many cannabis ISVs for proper labeling during this process.

Star’s Pick: TSP743II

Label printing is made easy with the Star TSP743II, which features fast printing speed, high reliability, web and cloud connectivity, and more.

Click here to learn more about the TSP743II.

Custom Cannabis Labels

As mentioned above, labels are incredibly important for the cannabis industry. Star currently offers cannabis labels pre-printed with official, state-required universal symbols. These pre-printed cannabis labels are available in various sizes for all recreational markets.

Click here to learn more about Star’s media.

Scales

Yet another critical piece of cannabis POS hardware is the scale – but not just any scale will do. First, you must ensure the scale you are considering is legal to use in your state and NTEP-certified. Being certified means that the scales are ensured to charge the correct amount for the product being weighed. Another great feature to look for is a scale that is integrated directly into the POS. Why? Reduced risk of human error that is associated with standalone scales that cannot integrate with the POS.

Star’s Pick: mG-Scales

All three scales in the mG-Scales series are NTEP-certified and offer software support for Windows, iOS, and Android, making the process of adding a scale to an existing system a simple process. They are certified to sell cannabis in Washington, Alaska, and California, and come with a waterproof and dust-proof cover. Each scale has the ability to connect through three types of interfaces including Bluetooth BLE, USB, and Serial. The scales can be powered through an outlet or by battery to allow for portable use.

Click here to learn more about Star’s mG-Scales.

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

That’s where Star comes in. CDG proudly integrates its software tools with a variety of Star hardware including the all-in-one mPOP®, TSP654IISK linerless label printer, Value Series Cash Drawers, and more.

Download Brochure

Cash Drawers

Chances are you’re aware that the cannabis industry is currently predominately powered by cash. While marijuana is legal in many parts of the country, it remains illegal under federal law, which means dispensaries’ access to credit card processing options is slim. Thus, a reliable, high volume cash drawer is key!

Star’s Pick: Star CD3-1616

A part of the Star Value Cash Drawers line, the CD3-1616 is affordability meets performance. With a size of 16” x 16”, this cash drawer can accommodate a high volume of cash, is made of durable steel, and is available in black or white to match the existing POS. The CD3-1616 can accommodate Canadian and United States currency types, and includes a bottom exit cable.

Click here to learn more about Star’s CD3-1616.

Scanners

Scanners are an important part of the entire seed-to-sale process, from back-end warehouse operations, to scanning products at the point of purchase. Important features to look for are connectivity options and a design/color that matches the existing POS, if applicable.

Star’s Pick: 1D/2D Imager

These scanners are available in black or white, feature USB connectivity, include the cable, and more.

Click here to learn more about Star’s accessories.

PromoPRNT

Just like other businesses, cannabis dispensaries need to advertise, but what sets them apart is that they must adhere to strict advertising laws. For example, in multiple states including California and Colorado, over 70% of cannabis advertisement audiences must be over the age of 21.

An easy way to ensure marketing efforts are being communicated only to the intended audience is by printing those promotions on your receipts. With Star’s cloud-based PromoPRNT tool, dispensaries can create custom promotions from templates which increase customer engagement and retention, and can be used to promote sales, new products, loyalty programs, and more.

Click here to learn more about PromoPRNT.

Tablet POS Stand

As we discussed above, dispensary aesthetics are extremely important, not only from a branding and customer experience perspective, but also to legitimize the business to outsiders and newcomers. A great place to tie in style is at the POS, and an easy way to do that is by incorporating a sleek, space-saving POS stand into your arrangement.

Star’s mUnite tablet POS stand could be right for you. Made to be used with any iOS, Android, and Windows tablet or touchscreen computer, the mUnite features universal VESA mounting, hidden cable management, and is meant to be used with the mC-Print3, mPOP^TM, and TSP143III/TSP654II. Note: device, enclosure, and printer not included.

Click here to learn more about the mUnite.

Kiosk Printers

Dispensaries are sometimes limited to how many people they can allow inside at one time because budtenders need to be able to pay special attention to customers, and make sure they are recommending the right products. Some dispensaries are using kiosks to allow waiting customers to pick out what they want on screen, take the slip to the budtender, and simply just collect and pay for their items.

Star’s Pick: SK1-311

The SK1-311 kiosk printer is the best of the best. Compact and lightweight, it features a fast printing speed, supports receipt, ticket, or label media, and has many available accessories to choose from. An added bonus, the SK1-311 is available with StarPRNT emulation, meaning easy integration of kiosk solutions into any environment already featuring other Star printers.

Click here to learn more about the SK1-311.

Final Words

At Star, we’re proud to help dispensaries become more compliant in their operations. This compliance helps to change the perspective on the industry as a whole, getting everyone one step closer to federal legalization, and legal credit card payments. And of course, it is important for cannabis customers to receive printed receipts of their purchases to prove that their marijuana was purchased legally, and to receive applicable promotions.

We look forward to continuing to lead and innovate in the cannabis industry by developing sleek, feature-packed products designed to make every aspect of a dispensary’s operation streamlined, legal, and fruitful.

How Resellers Can Cash in on Cannabis Point of Sale

The cannabis industry has become one of the fastest growing markets. Here’s how resellers can take advantage.

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November 19, 2019
Star Micronics Scales: For More Than Just Cannabis
When you think of Star Micronics scales, you might think of cannabis retail use cases. To be fair, our mG-Scales series – including the mG-S322, the mG-S1501, and the mG-S8200 – is authorized to sell cannabis in Washington, Alaska, and California. But did you know that Star Micronics scale uses extend way beyond cannabis? Star’s mG-Scales boast the the following features:
- NTEP certification, which is required for all U.S. retail sales
- Included water- and dust-proof cover
- Software support for Windows, iOS, and Android
- Bluetooth BLE, USB, and Serial interfaces
- Can be powered through an outlet or by battery, enabling portable use
Download the Free Scale Buyer’s Guide.

Star Micronics scales are great for cannabis retailers – but check out six other industries that are also a perfect match for our scales:

1. Delis

As every grocery shopper knows, deli items like meats and cheeses are almost always sold by weight. Many large-scale delis, such as those in grocery stores, use specialty scales that are high-performing and large in size, but come with a hefty price tag. On the contrast, smaller delis don’t need such a big footprint, and most importantly, they need a more affordable integrated scale option. Star Micronics scales fit that bill perfectly, with their compact design, affordable price, and protective and easy-to-clean cover.

2. Candy Stores

Because many candies are sold in bulk and high-end candies, such as truffles, are sometimes sold by weight, scales are a must for candy retailers. With their bright and modern design, candy stores are also a perfect environment for sleek, tablet-based point of sale solutions – but there aren’t a lot of scales on the market that can integrate with tablet point of sale. That’s where Star Micronics scales come in to play: our scales’ Bluetooth connectivity – combined with iOS and Android software development kits (SDKs) – enables them to work easily with modern tablet-based solutions. How sweet!

3. Spice Shops

Like candy, spices are also generally sold by weight and with certain spices like saffron costing up to $10,000 per pound, it’s extremely important to accurately weigh them. Star Micronics scales combine high accuracy with a small footprint – perfect for a spice shop! Our scales also have the ability to be battery operated, meaning that items like spices can be sold at a farmer’s market with no power – without sacrificing accurate measurement.

4. Jewelry Stores

Speaking of expensive items, Star Micronics scales are a great match for jewelry stores. Jewelry is another high cost-per-weight industry, and precious metals and gems must be measured extremely accurately. Star’s most sensitive scale, the mG-S322, can measure to 0.01g accuracy and the units can be switched to carats for measuring materials like diamonds. And thanks to the scale’s included glass enclosure, air movement doesn’t move the jewelry or affect measurements.

5. Frozen Yogurt Shops

Taking a step back to modern, sugary industries, frozen yogurt is another business category where tablet-based point of sale is becoming very popular, making it critical to have an iOS/Android-compatible scale, like Star’s. Additionally, frozen yogurt shop counterspace is at a premium, making Star scales’ small footprint a must. In terms of actual measurements, Star Micronics scales can measure in ounces, the industry’s most popular unit of measurement, and with lots of potential for messiness in the shop, the scales’ protective and easy-to-clean covers certainly come in handy.

Star’s TSP800IIRx Thermal Printer is also perfect for pharmacies

6. Pharmacies

Candy is delicious and jewelry is beautiful, but in the pharmacy industry, accurately measuring items can be a matter of life and death. In fact, there’s no industry where it’s more important to reliably measure to a high degree of accuracy. Connectivity to software is also important, as measurements are often validated by software to reduce errors. Star Micronics scales have all of that and more – they also include a counting function that’s useful for counting pills. And with an accompanying pharmacy thermal printer, Star is truly one of the most functional, reliable, accurate options on the market for pharmacies.

Looking to up your retail scale game? Learn more about Star Micronics scales now!
February 7, 2019