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  • Star Micronics CloudPRNT: Exploring a New Era of POS Technology in Retail and Hospitality

    Star Micronics CloudPRNT: Exploring a New Era of POS Technology in Retail and Hospitality

    The digital transformation of the retail and hospitality industries has been in full swing in recent years, driven by the adoption of innovative technologies that better streamline operations and satisfy consumer expectations, particularly with omnichannel and online ordering. One such technology that has garnered attention is Star Micronics’ CloudPRNT, which is redefining the landscape of point-of-sale (POS) systems.

    This article takes an in-depth look at CloudPRNT, its features, and its potential implications for the retail and hospitality industries.



    Find Your Cloud Printer

    CloudPRNT: The Technology Unveiled

    CloudPRNT is a cloud-based printing technology developed by Star Micronics, a company specializing in POS, customer engagement, and self-service hardware solutions. At its core, CloudPRNT enables POS printers to communicate directly with cloud-based servers for remote printing capabilities.

    This direct server connection negates the need for traditional local network configurations, resulting in a more streamlined and efficient setup. Because of this, any Star printer with CloudPRNT technology allows business owners to utilize omnichannel and online ordering software.


    CloudPRNT technology by Star Micronics enables Star printers to print from cloud-based software.

    One crucial aspect of CloudPRNT technology is server storage. Instead of storing print jobs in the printer, the data is stored on the server. This approach prevents data loss if a printer were to fail, offering an added layer of data protection.

    Moreover, CloudPRNT eliminates the need to manage IP addresses or custom firewall/tunneling rules at the local site. By leveraging the power of the cloud, CloudPRNT removes the need for local network connections, streamlining the installation process and reducing overall costs.

    Benefits of CloudPRNT

    1. Increased Operational Efficiency

    By facilitating direct communication between the POS device and the cloud server, CloudPRNT minimizes potential bottlenecks in the transaction process. The result is faster processing times and reduced downtime, which positively impacts the overall customer experience.

    2. Enhanced Scalability and Flexibility

    Cloud-based architecture, such as that used by CloudPRNT, offers seamless scalability for businesses as they grow and their POS requirements change. The technology’s compatibility with a variety of devices and platforms also ensures that companies have the flexibility to choose solutions that suit their specific needs.

    3. Improved Data Security

    Data security is a critical concern for retailers and hospitality providers. CloudPRNT’s reliance on secure cloud servers for data storage and processing minimizes the risk of data breaches and protects sensitive customer information.


    Discover the power of Star Micronics' industry-leading point-of-sale (POS) technologies designed to revolutionize business operations in this free ebook.

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    Industry Implications of CloudPRNT

    While CloudPRNT is just one example of the innovative technologies shaping the retail and hospitality industries, its potential to redefine POS systems is noteworthy. Online ordering is growing, with more consumers coming to expect it as the years go by. This will require all POS devices to one day have cloud-based capabilities.

    As businesses continue to explore and adopt new solutions, it’s essential to always keep an eye on the evolving landscape of POS technology and consider how these advancements could impact overall operations and customer experiences. Success in the retail and hospitality sectors requires a comprehensive approach to POS management. Businesses must remain open to investing in the right tools and strategies to stay competitive.

    As CloudPRNT and other emerging technologies continue to make their mark, the future of the retail and hospitality industries promises to be both exciting and transformative.

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  • 3 Reasons Why Restaurants Should Allow Customers to Order Online

    3 Reasons Why Restaurants Should Allow Customers to Order Online

    Online ordering and delivery are so convenient that more and more people are going online and, in a few clicks, having meals delivered to their door. According to banking analysts Cowen, delivery will grow to a $76 billion industry by 2022. CNBC reports that online orders comprise half of all deliveries, with millennials and the 35-44 age group leading the pack among diners who are taking advantage of online ordering apps and services.

    Online Ordering Makes Sense for Your Restaurant

    Although most restaurants take phone orders, it’s a good idea to have an alternate ordering method so people won’t get a busy signal or wait on hold for too long. Online ordering also means the phone won’t be ringing as often, taking staff away from other tasks and making the atmosphere more pleasant for dine-in customers.

    Online ordering allows diners to enter their orders online through the restaurant’s website or app and designate whether it’s for pickup, delivery, or dine-in. Online ordering solutions also enable the customer to pay with a credit card before the order is prepared, and it streamlines workflows by sending orders directly to the kitchen. Implementing an online ordering system means a better customer service experience for patrons and allows you to gather their contact information for future marketing efforts.

    Online ordering is a great way to boost revenue and attract new customers. The addition of Amazon Eats and Seamless are making it easier than ever for restaurants to introduce online ordering. If you haven’t already, here are three reasons why your customers should be able to point, click, and eat:

    1. Increased sales and larger orders

    Restaurants that introduce online ordering increase their takeout revenue, on average, by 30%. For small restaurants or ones with limited hours, adding online ordering and delivery generates an additional revenue stream without impacting your dine-in customers.

    Online ordering encourages larger orders by giving customers extra time to look through the menu and discover new items they would like to try. Diners are in control of the ordering process and they can take their time reading the menu without feeling rushed, securely process their payments, and never get a busy signal.

    2. Improved order accuracy

    Taking phone orders means an employee must be able to clearly hear the customer on the phone, accurately and legibly write down an order, and then input it into the point of sale (POS) system. Sometimes the employee may not hear the order correctly or make mistakes while entering it into the POS terminal. Removing these steps means less opportunity for errors and a reduction in the amount of time and resources wasted remaking orders prepared incorrectly.

    3. Expand your customer base

    More of your customers will seek out restaurants with online ordering, so it’s important to have every option available—phone, online and ordering app. According to a survey by the National Restaurant Association, 61% of people said they consider delivery and takeout options important for table service restaurants.  The experts at QSR Web reported that online ordering is outpacing dine-in patrons by 300%. If reservations at your restaurant are hard to get, or there are only a few tables, online ordering makes it easy for people to satisfy their craving or try it for the first time quickly and easily.

    Restaurants are preparing more meals for take-out than they are serving to on-premises customers, so make sure they can place their orders using the technology they want. Online ordering is the key to drawing in new customers and increasing revenue.



    CloudPRNT

  • Why Retailers Should Select a Receipt Printer that Doubles as a Label Printer

    Why Retailers Should Select a Receipt Printer that Doubles as a Label Printer

    If you’ve been using a printer only for receipts, it’s time to consider using a receipt printer that also doubles as a label printer. Label printers give SMB retailers the ability to print price tags, labels for online orders, shelf tags and even labels with your logo that help brand your business.

    If you’re in the market for a new printer, choose one that can work double duty for labels and receipts. Not convinced? Here are three reasons why you should be:

    Improved Customer Service

    The holiday shopping season is upon us, and according to a survey conducted by the National Retail Federation, people will spend an average of $967.13 this year. Buy online pickup in store is hugely popular, with more than 49% of the people surveyed saying they would take advantage of this option. The pickup counter is going to be busy, so using printed labels instead of a receipt taped onto a bag or box helps speed up customer service by cutting down the time it takes an employee to locate an order.

    Stores using a label/receipt printer combination can produce proof-of-purchase labels for bag-free shopping as well as labels for returns that help store associates return products to inventory more easily and accurately — something they’ll especially appreciate after the holidays.

    Better Branding

    Labels and receipts take the guesswork out of determining where your customers purchased something. These small takeaways should be a consistent extension of your brand.

    Custom Labels

    Your store’s logo, address, phone number and website can be added to the label template, so each label is easily identifiable. A customized label is an advertising opportunity that helps drive new and repeat business to your store. Using Star Micronics Cloud Services you can easily customize your receipts and get the most out of your printer.

    Star Micronics Label Solutions

    From printing product labels in a warehouse to quickly attaching linerless labels to coffee cups in a café, Star Micronics understands labeling solutions aren’t “one size fits all.” Designed with the application and user in mind, Star Micronics offers label printers with the technology needed for today’s digital, fast-moving world, and label paper for virtually any business scenario.



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    Receipts

    Label printers also have templates for customized receipt printing, so your store’s branding is cohesive. Every receipt should be customized with your store’s logo, brand messaging, website and tag line so people can easily see where it came from.

    Increased Operational Efficiency

    Mobile label printers can be used anywhere on the sales floor to print product labels, shelf tags and price tags for new products or markdowns. A mobile printer eliminates added back and forth to the point of sale terminal to print labels, so restocking and display changes can be done quickly.

    SM-L300
    SM-L300

    An example is the Star Micronics’ SM-L300 portable receipt printer, which doubles as a fully integrated label printer for retail store, restaurant, delivery and warehouse applications. The SM-L300 supports thermal receipt paper and lined or linerless MAXstick label paper, making it the perfect mobile label printing solution for any business setting.

    Protect your profit margin and inventory by labeling your items properly and displaying the prices. Proper labeling helps maintain accurate inventory counts in the POS system and protects you from pricing errors that can eat away at the bottom line. Many stores are subject to laws pertaining to pricing conflicts. For example, if a full-priced item is accidentally marked 50% off, the retailer to sell the item at the lowest marked price, even if it’s a mistake.

    Get the most out of your printer investment with a model that can provide both labels and receipts to increase efficiency and accuracy, enhance customer service and ensure that online orders can be picked up easily.

  • Star Micronics adds CloudPRNT Support for TSP700II, TSP800II, and SP700 Printers

    Star Micronics adds CloudPRNT Support for TSP700II, TSP800II, and SP700 Printers

    Somerset, NJ – June 26, 2017 – Star Micronics, leading provider of point of sale and proof of transaction technology, is proud to announce that they have added CloudPRNT support for their TSP700II and TSP800II thermal printers and SP700 impact printer. These Star printers will retrieve and print orders from any online ordering service integrating Star’s communication protocol.Cloud-PRNT-TSP700-e1574794772508

    Star’s CloudPRNT technology provides benefits to both restaurants and retail stores alike by eliminating the need for an extra tablet to send an online order to the printer. Instead, the ordering service will be able to communicate directly to the printer.

    Star’s TSP700II label and receipt printer will allow pizzerias or coffee shops to accept and print an online order receipt or label to stick directly on the pizza box or coffee cup for take-out or delivery orders. For industries outside of food service, the TSP800II wide-format (4” wide) thermal printer will allow delivery services to print labels on the go directly through the cloud from a smartphone or mobile device.

    Finally, the SP700 is Star’s most durable printing solution for kitchens. It is designed specifically to work in environments where heat and humidity can erode the type on the kitchen order. Paired with Star’s CloudPRNT communication protocol, restaurants can receive and print online orders directly to the SP700 kitchen printer to be prepared for pick-up or delivery.

    These CloudPRNT supported printers also offer an intelligent interface to support POS functionality along with the online order system. The TSP700IIcloudPRNT and TSP800IIcloudPRNT are also compatible with Star Cloud Services, allowing users to offer their customers digital receipts through the AllReceipts™ app, and to engage with their customers for free.

  • Solutions for Printing from Web Browser-Based Applications: PassPRNT

    Solutions for Printing from Web Browser-Based Applications: PassPRNT

    Receipt technology has advanced dramatically in the last several years. Previously, in every transaction, a customer would pay for their purchases at the POS terminal and accept a printed sales receipt as a proof of purchase in case they needed to make a return or exchange. Mobility, however, has revolutionized POS and changed the process of providing a customer with a receipt.

    Star Micronics has developed a variety of printing solutions for mPOS, including two that facilitate receipt printing from Web-based applications via HTTP(s) and from a project on an Android™ device or Apple hardware such as an iPad®, iPhone®, or iPod touch®. These solutions, WebPRNT and PassPRNT, solve common problems merchant often encounter with mobile printing.

    Print from a Web Browser-Based Application with PassPRNT

    PassPRNT is the newest printing application for iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, and Android devices. The app resolves issues associated with printing from POS solutions supported by native iOS, Android, or Web applications by sending the receipt data using a URL scheme. The PassPRNT native application accepts the data, formats the receipt for the printer, and sends it to any Star Bluetooth, Ethernet,or USB (Android only) printer connected to the iOS, Android, and Windows devices.

    How it Works

    For the first time, PassPRNT links with Star’s POS and portable printers to enable printing using the company’s unique URL scheme-based printing method and the PassPRNT companion app.

    Its easy-to-use integration allows users to print from any Web application in any Web browser including Safari/Chrome using a URL scheme to print on a Star Bluetooth printer. The operating system is capable of automatically switching from a host application to the PassPRNT application and back, with a simple and user friendly “one tap” request to print from any iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch to a Star Bluetooth printer.

    Why Choose PassPRNT?

    • Uses Star’s unique URL scheme-based printing method
    • Available for receipt, label, and kitchen printer models
    • Automatically switches from host to PassPRNT app and back for “one tap” printing
    • Very little coding involved in the main application to communicate with PassPRNT
    • Empowers users to print from any iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch and Android devices when using Filemaker

    To learn more about PassPRNT and to find out if your Star Micronics receipt printer supports PassPRNT, please visit https://starmicronics.com/PassPRNT.

    Download our eBook to learn more about Star’s mPOS printing solutions, how they work, the problems they solve, and when to use each.



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