Tag: mC-Print Series

  • Star Micronics Unveils All-Steel mUnite Printer Shelf for Tablet Stands and Mounts

    Star Micronics Unveils All-Steel mUnite Printer Shelf for Tablet Stands and Mounts

    Designed for select tablet display stands and pole mounts, the recently launched mUnite Printer Shelf attachment offers an affordable and flexible solution for kiosk printing needs.

    Somerset, NJ – April 3, 2023 – Star Micronics, a leading provider of point of sale (POS) and customer engagement technologies, has announced the release of its new all-steel mUnite Printer Shelf. Designed to provide an affordable and flexible kiosk printing solution, this printer shelf attachment is compatible with the mUnite Floor Kiosk Stand, Tri-Mount, and Mount 18 tablet display solutions.

    The mUnite Printer Shelf allows businesses to easily set up self-service stations anywhere, providing customers with a seamless and convenient experience. With the ability to securely mount a thermal receipt printer on top of the shelf, users can easily print receipts or labels for customers below a tablet that is securely fastened onto the stand.

    Constructed of durable steel, the printer shelf attachment offers a sturdy and long-lasting solution for printing needs. It is also easy to install, making it an ideal solution for businesses that need to set up a kiosk or self-service station quickly.

    For more information on the new mUnite Printer Shelf, including technical specifications, please visit the Star Micronics website.

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    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 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, Twitter, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.

    Media Contact:

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

  • Star Micronics Warranties and Product Protection

    Star Micronics Warranties and Product Protection

    In today’s fast-paced business environment, having reliable point-of-sale (POS) technology is crucial to keep operations running smoothly. And when it comes to protecting your POS technology investment, Star Micronics is a trusted provider of top-quality hardware and warranties to ensure your devices are up and running whenever you need them. From printers and scanners to cash drawers and peripherals, Star offers a variety of warranties to protect your investment for up to five years.

    In this article, we’ll explore Star Micronics’ warranties, including the necessary steps to make a warranty claim, applicable warranty periods by product type, and the benefits of their Swap-A-Star® and Extend-A-Star® programs.

    Whether you’re a small business owner or a large retailer, read on to discover how Star Micronics can help you protect your POS technology investment and keep your business running smoothly.

    Star’s Standard Warranties

    Star Micronics understands the importance of having reliable and high-quality point-of-sale technology for businesses. That’s why all their products come with standard manufacturer’s warranties with bumper-to-bumper coverage against defects in materials and quality to help ensure maximum uptime.

    Having a standard warranty for Star Micronics products gives businesses the peace of mind that they are investing in technology that is backed by the manufacturer. This means that in case of any issues, companies can easily make a warranty claim and receive prompt support from the Star Micronics technical support team.

    Additionally, standard warranties provide an added layer of protection for businesses that may face unexpected downtime or lost sales due to malfunctioning equipment. Ultimately, having a standard warranty for Star Micronics products is an excellent way for companies to protect their investment and keep their operations running smoothly.

    Standard Warranty Periods by Product Type

    Star’s Supplemental Warranties and Programs

    Star Micronics offers several programs to provide added protection for your POS technology investment. These programs include:

    Swap-A-Star®

    Swap-A-Star is a product replacement service program by Star Micronics that provides fast and hassle-free replacement of your Star printer or scanner in the event of a malfunction. With Swap-A-Star, you can avoid costly downtime and lost sales by receiving a replacement device as soon as within two business days.

    Some of the benefits of Swap-A-Star include:

    • Quick and easy device replacement: Simply call or chat with a Star Micronics support team member to receive a replacement device as soon as within two business days.
    • Prepaid shipping label: Star Micronics provides a prepaid shipping label for returning the malfunctioning device.
    • Free shipping: Star Micronics covers the cost of shipping for both the replacement and malfunctioning devices.
    • No hidden fees: Swap-A-Star is a flat-rate program with no additional fees or charges.

    Extend-A-Star®

    Extend-A-Star is a supplemental warranty extension program that adds additional coverage beyond the standard warranty period. With Extend-A-Star, you can protect your Star Micronics printer or scanner investment for up to five years.

    Some of the benefits of Extend-A-Star include:

    • Additional coverage: Extend-A-Star extends the warranty period beyond the standard coverage period, providing additional protection for your investment.
    • Peace of mind: With Extend-A-Star, you can have peace of mind knowing that your device is protected against defects and malfunctions for an extended period.
    • Priority support: Extend-A-Star customers receive priority support from the Star Micronics technical support team.
    • Easy enrollment: You can easily enroll in Extend-A-Star at the time of product purchase or within 30 days of purchase.

    Overall, Swap-A-Star and Extend-A-Star are valuable programs offered by Star Micronics to provide added protection and support for their customers’ POS technology investments.

    Supplemental Warranty Lifecycle

    Before making a supplemental warranty claim, it’s important to follow these necessary steps:

    • Purchase Star Micronics product
    • Purchase and register any supplemental warranty within 30 days of purchasing the product
    • Make a warranty claim during the allotted time period

    Upon purchasing a supplemental warranty, Star Micronics will send you an enrollment letter that includes important details regarding your warranty purchase. It is recommended to keep this letter for your records.

    How To Create a Connected Workstation in 5 Easy Steps

    Connected workstations are perfect for modern-day hospitality, retail, and restaurant businesses, offering a unique setup to optimize workflows.

    Invest in the Trusted POS Hardware Provider

    In conclusion, investing in reliable and high-quality point-of-sale technology is essential for businesses of all sizes. And with Star Micronics’ comprehensive warranties and programs, businesses can have peace of mind knowing that their investment is protected against any unexpected defects or malfunctions.

    Whether it’s printers, scanners, cash drawers, or peripherals, Star Micronics offers a range of warranties to suit different product types and needs. By following the necessary steps to make a warranty claim, businesses can receive prompt support from the Star Micronics technical support team and get their operations back up and running with minimal downtime.

    Additionally, their Swap-A-Star and Extend-A-Star programs provide added protection and support for businesses looking to maximize their POS technology investment. Overall, Star Micronics is a trusted provider of warranties and programs that can help businesses protect their investments and stay ahead of the competition.

    Interested in integrating with Star Micronics?

  • Ascent Solutions and Star Micronics Revolutionize ERP for Salesforce Users

    Ascent Solutions and Star Micronics Revolutionize ERP for Salesforce Users

    Ascent Solutions creates true point-of-sale (POS) software built on the Salesforce platform, complemented by Star Micronics’ WebPRNT technology and POS hardware.

    Ascent Solutions is an exciting enterprise resource planning (ERP) software offering features to help businesses manage their inventory and sales processes. What’s impressive is that Ascent Solutions’ inventory management system is powered by Salesforce, a leading customer relationship management (CRM) platform. So, businesses enjoy the best of both worlds: leveraging Salesforce’s powerful features for the front office (i.e., sales, service) with Ascent Solutions’ back office inventory management operations.

    Companies can easily monitor inventory levels, automate inventory replenishment, and simplify order fulfillment processes with Ascent Solutions. And if you need data-driven insights, the software also offers real-time reporting and analytics to help you make informed decisions.

    A standout capability of Ascent Solutions is its mobile functionality. The software comes with mobile apps that allow businesses to manage their inventory from anywhere, anytime. The mobile apps are packed with features like real-time inventory tracking, barcode scanning, and other tools to help businesses stay on top of their inventory management operations.

    In addition to its inventory management features, Ascent Solutions offers various other tools called Apps 360, which help businesses streamline their sales processes, such as lead management, quote-to-cash, and order fulfillment.

    CD4 Choice series cash drawer with mC-Print3 thermal receipt printer by Star Micronics.
    Ascent Solutions software includes the option of a CD4 cash drawer and mC-Print3 receipt printer.

    Ascent Solutions worked with customers across industries and identified a need for better payment management tools in brick-and-mortar locations that leverage Salesforce. To bring this solution to market, it’s partnering with Star Micronics, a leading provider of point-of-sale (POS) hardware solutions. This partnership continues to bring incredible results, as businesses can now enjoy the benefits of Ascent Solutions’ inventory management software with Star Micronics’ POS hardware, like the mC-Print3.

    Star’s mC-Print3 thermal receipt printer is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a high-speed, compact, and feature-rich printer. The mC-Print3 offers various connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet (LAN), WLAN, and Lightning USB, enabling it to work seamlessly with devices like tablets, smartphones, and computers.

    With Ascent Solutions integration with Star Micronics’ hardware, businesses can easily manage their inventory and sales processes, from the point-of-sale to the back-end inventory management system.

    Fortunately, I was lucky enough to speak with Bryan Hutchinson, CEO of Aethon Consulting, a premier partner of Ascent Solutions. We talked about his role at Ascent and how partnering with Star Micronics brings business owners using Salesforce one of the best POS solutions out there.

    Can you tell me a bit about your background and role with Ascent Solutions?

    I’m a businessperson turned programmer, which gives me the best of both worlds – the ability to see and understand, even define requirements, and execute them myself. As you said, I’m one of the top partners with Ascent Solutions, doing product implementations alongside CRM and financial implementations, providing that end-to-end, lead-to-financials business system.

    What role in the market does Ascent Solutions fulfill, and how?

    Ascent provides a flexible and robust ERP solution on Salesforce, and it’s so much more than just resource planning. It allows customers to mold it to their own business processes while enforcing the necessary rules in the backend.

    Think about Quote, Ordering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, Contract Manufacturing, Inventory Management, Warehouse Management, Demand Planning, Financial Management, and Integrations – it’s all part of the Ascent Solutions suite of applications on the AppExchange.

    And what we, as partners, do is review a customer’s business processes, discuss pain points, KPIs, etc., and utilize the Ascent products as the backbone of that process.

    What POS hardware does Ascent currently use from Star Micronics?

    Currently, we’re using the mC-Print3 printer and CD4 cash drawer. We’re also exploring the mPOP® receipt printer/cash drawer combination, as its versatile connectivity and clean presentation are highly attractive.

    What made Star so easy to partner with?

    The Integration Team at Star was supremely helpful and always ready to hop on a call to help us troubleshoot. Star’s WebPRNT technology really worked out with our POS software because it works with Salesforce, a web-based platform. We also loved how the mC-Print3 offers free access to Star Micronics Cloud Services because it allows business owners to customize receipts and schedule promotional material.

    Why would businesses want to use Ascent Solutions ERP software? What types of companies would benefit the most?

    I help everyone, from small businesses to large enterprise organizations, begin to use the Ascent platform, from oil and gas industries to medical, third-party logistic companies to resellers, value-added resellers, and construction companies that buy, sell, and provide services. The range of customers is so vast because of how flexible and powerful Ascent technology is.

    Visit Ascent Solutions’ website for more information, or check out the application on the Salesforce AppExchange.

    Ready to learn more and take the next step?

  • Receipt Marketing: A Powerful Tool to Boost Your Business

    Receipt Marketing: A Powerful Tool to Boost Your Business

    Receipt marketing, or receipt advertising, is a strategy businesses can use to promote their products or services by printing marketing messages or offers on receipts. Receipts are a powerful marketing tool because they are something that customers will always receive after making a purchase. This means businesses can use receipts to promote their brand, products, or services and incentivize customers to return.

    In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of receipt marketing and provide some tips on how to implement a successful receipt marketing campaign.

    The Benefits of Receipt Marketing

    Couple looking at their receipt with receipt marketing.

    Increased Brand Awareness

    One of the primary benefits of receipt marketing is that it helps increase brand awareness. Printing your company logo, tagline, or website on your receipts reminds customers about your brand every time they look at it. This repetition can help your brand stick in the minds of your customers and encourage them to return to your business in the future.

    Increased Customer Loyalty

    Receipt marketing can also help to increase customer loyalty. Offering discounts or promotions on receipts can incentivize customers to return to your business. This can lead to repeat business and increased customer loyalty. Customers appreciate getting a little something extra, and the personal touch of a promo or discount on their next purchase can make them feel valued and appreciated.

    Cost-Effective Marketing

    Another benefit of receipt marketing is that it is cost-effective. Receipts are something that your business already prints, so there are no additional costs associated with creating new marketing materials. This can make receipt marketing an attractive option for companies looking to promote their brand without spending much money.

    Tips for Implementing a Successful Receipt Marketing Campaign

    1. Keep it SimpleWhen designing your receipt marketing campaign, it’s essential to keep it simple. Customers will only spend a few seconds looking at their receipts, so make sure your message is clear and concise. Keep your design clean and easy to read, and focus on promoting one or two key messages.
    2. Offer Incentives – To make your receipt marketing campaign more effective, it’s a good idea to offer incentives to customers. This could include discounts, free gifts, or the opportunity to join a loyalty club. By providing customers with an incentive, you can increase their chances of returning to your business.
    3. Track Your Results – It’s essential to track your results when running a receipt marketing campaign. Doing so lets you determine what works and what doesn’t and make adjustments as needed. This could include changing the messaging or design of your receipts or adjusting the incentives you offer.

    PromoPRNT Receipt Marketing Tool

    PromoPRNT from Star Micronics is an innovative online tool that allows businesses to create and print custom coupons, surveys, and other promotional material directly on their receipts. With PromoPRNT, companies can easily create customized promotions and engage customers, all while improving their overall brand image.

    The tool is entirely free and can be accessed through a web browser, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes. The models that can currently access PromoPRNT are the TSP143IV, mC-Print2, and mC-Print3 receipt printers.

    PromoPRNT offers a wide range of customization options, including adding logos, images, and text. Businesses can create coupons for discounts on specific products or services and surveys to gather customer feedback. The tool is easy to use, and companies can make them in just a few minutes.

    Using PromoPRNT, businesses can increase customer loyalty, drive sales, and gain valuable insights into customers’ preferences and behaviors. It’s a powerful tool that can help businesses improve their marketing efforts and drive growth.

    Take Advantage of Receipt Marketing

    Receipt marketing is a powerful tool businesses can use to promote their brand, products, and services. By printing marketing messages or offers on receipts, companies can increase brand awareness, customer loyalty, and cost-effectively engage customers. When implementing a receipt marketing campaign, it’s essential to keep your design simple, offer incentives, and track your results to ensure campaign success. Doing so can drive sales and build lasting relationships with your customers.

    The Value of Receipts: Printed and Digital

    There’s no getting away from it: receipts hold great value and are an irrefutable part of everyday life.

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  • How Restaurants Use Thermal Printers for Online Ordering with DoorDash, Uber Eats & More

    How Restaurants Use Thermal Printers for Online Ordering with DoorDash, Uber Eats & More

    In today’s digital age, online ordering is more popular than ever, especially in the restaurant industry. DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats are just a few of the most popular online ordering platforms, and many restaurants are now using these services to reach a wider audience and increase sales.

    But with the influx of online orders on top of in-person customers, managing things can become overwhelming.

    That’s where proper thermal receipt printers come in.

    Some thermal receipt printers are better for printing online orders than others because they connect to cloud- and web-based POS systems directly. They’re faster, more efficient, and easy to use. They print out orders as soon as they arrive, allowing the kitchen staff to fulfill them immediately.

    Many of these printers are designed to work with a wide range of devices, including mobile phones and tablets, making them an ideal choice for online ordering.

    Find your Android-compatible Star solutions here >

    Ordering food online on phone.

    How Do Restaurants Use Thermal Receipt Printers?

    So, how can restaurants use thermal printers with online ordering applications like DoorDash and Uber Eats? Usually, online ordering applications will suggest certain printers to use, or their software also comes with hardware. However, some people may need to purchase a thermal receipt printer on their own. 

    In any case, here are some tips on how to get started with the proper receipt printer to use with online ordering applications like DoorDash and Uber Eats:

    1. Choose a Compatible Thermal Printer

    To start, it’s important to choose a thermal printer that is compatible with the online ordering platform you are using. DoorDash and Uber Eats have guidelines for compatible printers, and it’s essential to make sure that the printer you choose meets these requirements. Some of the most popular printers used for online ordering include Star’s TSP100 and mC-Print3 series.

    2. Connect the Printer and Set it Up

    Once you’ve chosen a compatible printer, you’ll need to connect it to the online ordering application. This typically involves pairing the printer to the tablet or connecting it to the router of your restaurant. The application provider will provide instructions on how to do this. Still, if you have complications, you may also want to consult a professional to ensure the setup is done correctly.

    3. Customize the Printer Settings

    Finally, you can customize the printer settings to meet your specific needs. For example, you can adjust the font size, add your restaurant’s logo to the printout, and customize the order layout to make it easier for your kitchen staff to read and fulfill the orders.

    Find out which online ordering platform works with which Star Micronics printer with our Online Ordering Guide for restaurant and QSR owners.

    Online Ordering Solutions:
    A Quick Guide

    Want to know which Star printers are compatible with some of the most popular online ordering applications?

    Streamline Business with the Correct Printer

    By using thermal printers like Star’s TSP100 series for online ordering apps like DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats, restaurants can streamline operations and improve efficiency. Orders will arrive faster, print in real-time, and be sent directly to the kitchen.

    This lets kitchen staff start orders immediately and ensures customers receive their food quickly. Plus, the improved accuracy and organization of online orders with the proper printers can help reduce errors and improve the overall customer experience.

    If you are a restaurant owner and want to start using online ordering applications like DoorDash or Uber Eats, purchasing the correct thermal printer for what you need can streamline operations and help boost revenue.

    With the right printer and a little setup, start taking orders from popular online apps and expand your restaurant’s clientele. Just keep in mind you’ll be busy!

    Get the complete POS solutions from Star Micronics.
    Star Micronics has the POS hardware and technology to help keep your business ahead.

    How to Get Your Restaurant Ready for Online Ordering

    Are you looking for a new way to grow your restaurant business? Accepting online orders keeps you relevant and competitive.

    Wondering where you can buy Star?

  • Conquer Your Omnichannel Strategy with Cloud-Based Solutions

    Conquer Your Omnichannel Strategy with Cloud-Based Solutions

    In today’s connected world, dining and shopping experiences are no longer limited to physical restaurants and stores. Restaurateurs and retailers leverage cloud-based, omnichannel order management and fulfillment solutions to reach customers across various mobile and digital channels. In the post-pandemic era of retail and hospitality, technology is critical.

    Throughout the pandemic, cloud-based, omnichannel ordering options kept restaurants, stores, and customers connected. In addition, convenience and ease of use helped scale online ordering, curbside pickup, and delivery services, all becoming a mainstay of the modern customer experience.

    What Does Omnichannel Mean?

    Even before the global pandemic, studies have shown that consumers and merchants were pivoting to digital and mobile technologies. As consumers lean into new technologies, retail and restaurant brands must increasingly adapt and compete on multiple fronts to win and retain their customers.

    So, what does omnichannel mean, and why is it essential for your business?

    Frost & Sullivan, a major consulting firm, has defined omnichannel as “seamless and effortless, high-quality customer experiences that occur within and between contact channels.”

    In simpler terms, omnichannel is a more individualized form of retail. It’s a customer-focused business strategy that integrates all channels to provide the perfect experience for the consumer. Patrons connect with businesses online and in person. They order through both. Their experiences from one channel to the next are natural and more tailored to them.

    Man making a purchase on his mobile phone.

    Mass Implementation of Omnichannel Strategy

    Beyond being a buzzword, omnichannel strategy is a tactical reality for business owners who can’t afford to get sidelined in the race to fast and secure commerce. Surviving and thriving in the digital-first economy means reaching customers anytime and anywhere, including after hours.

    COVID-19 created a renaissance for multiple industries, including hospitality, retail, and the emerging cannabis sector. Stores invited customers to take virtual tours and try cosmetics and apparel in digitally-enabled dressing rooms. Restaurants introduced online ordering and curbside pick-up.

    The power of cloud and omnichannel solutions enabled these companies to deliver an uninterrupted experience while driving orders, marketing, and customer service across all channels, platforms, and devices.

    The Right Technology for Omnichannel Success

    Omnichannel ordering options are an expectation, not an exception. Consumers have become accustomed to patronizing their favorite brands from multiple touchpoints. Our experts have compiled the following list of items needed for developing a consistent brand experience across all channels.

    Cloud enablement: Invest in hardware and software that operates with the cloud to ensure your omnichannel strategy runs smoothly.

    Single-access view: Create a secure portal where you can monitor all of your channels to
    streamline communications and manage operations from one place.

    Automated task management: Implement order displays, cloud printing, and other purpose-built
    technology to save time and labor by automating basic procedures.

    Enhanced connectivity: Select products that connect with the cloud to create a cohesive work
    environment and use peripheral connectivity to improve and accelerate business processes.

    How to Create a Connected Environment

    In 2021, retail e-commerce sales amounted to approximately 5.2 trillion U.S. dollars worldwide. This figure is forecast to grow by 56 percent over the following years, reaching about 8.1 trillion dollars by 2026. In addition, global online food delivery services are poised to reach nearly $344 billion this year, projected to reach more than $466 billion by 2027. With such high ROI at stake, getting products to customers via cohesive online or mobile channels is essential.

    Our experts compiled these six products every business should invest in to get the most out of omnichannel ordering. To read about these crucial omnichannel technology solutions, download our free ebook:

    Conquering Omnichannel Order Management with Cloud-Based Technology Solutions

    Consumers have spoken! The future of retail and hospitality is omnichannel, cloud-based, and connected. Is your business prepared?

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  • The Future of The Hospitality Industry is Connected

    The Future of The Hospitality Industry is Connected

    The future of hospitality is connected, and for many tech-enabled businesses that offer alternative dining and shopping experiences, that future is already here. Companies need new technology to reach customers and give them convenient ways to purchase products and services. As consumers acclimate to mobile and online reservations and ordering, advanced hospitality technologies facilitate a seamless and enjoyable customer experience.

    How SaaS Impacts The Restaurant and Retail Industry

    The hospitality ecosystem supports an array of technology solutions. Single-suite providers can simplify point-of-sale (POS) deployments, from hardware devices to cloud-based tools, through subscription-as-a-service (SaaS) models. SaaS models are increasingly popular in hospitality due to their cost-effectiveness and flexibility. 

    Subscription services enable merchants to pay for hardware and software monthly instead of making an upfront investment. These services include automatic upgrades or enhancements that keep technology up to date. Many of these services provide ongoing IT support. 

    Hospitality leaders, attracted by lower costs and extended lifetime value, choose single-suite SaaS partners with cloud-based tools and connected commerce solutions. In addition to easy installations, remote management, and IT support features, SaaS solutions offer regular software updates, hardware swap-outs, enhanced security, and flexible, customizable software.

    Conquering Omnichannel Order Management with Cloud-Based Technology Solutions

    Consumers have spoken! The future of retail and hospitality is omnichannel, cloud-based, and connected. Is your business prepared?

    Implementing Omnichannel Ordering

    Remote manageability is just one facet of hospitality’s connected future. Restaurateurs and hoteliers have added online and mobile ordering in record numbers to meet consumer demand for touchless experiences. Omnichannel solutions provided these during Covid-19, but their convenience and ease of use have made them permanent fixtures in the hospitality landscape. 

    In the pandemic’s aftermath, omnichannel ordering is an expectation, not an exception, for consumers. However, as many business owners have found, implementing omnichannel ordering adds complexity to business operations and requires staff to be mindful of both online and in-store order flows. To keep operations running smoothly, hospitality businesses need many tools to create a cohesive, connected workspace.

    Cloud-Based Operations

    A cloud technology system will keep your business running smoothly by providing solutions that work well together, such as cloud printing. Used by retail and restaurant owners, cloud printing seamlessly expedites and organizes online ordering. Additionally, these agile systems are easy to integrate and deploy as you scale your business. 

    CloudPRNT technology from Star Micronics sends online orders directly to your kitchen printer and is supported by an array of devices and peripherals, including the TSP143IV, mC-Print2, and mC-Print3 thermal printers. These thermal solutions are compatible with POS scales, scanners, and cash drawers with many connectivity options, such as Lightning and USB connection, Bluetooth, LAN, WLAN, and more. They are also easy to integrate with POS systems.

    Mobile and Online Ordering


    Black and white mC-Print2 and mC-Print3 thermal receipt printers by Star Micronics.
    The mC-Print2 & mC-Print3

    Currently, online food ordering accounts for about 40% of total restaurant sales in the U.S., and researchers expect these numbers to continue to climb. Restaurants with an online ordering system tend to raise their takeout profits by 30% over those that do not. In 2022, the number of Americans using apps to order food and other groceries is expected to rise from 27.9 million to 30.4 million. In addition, about 92% of all top-performing restaurants offered mobile order-ahead and loyalty rewards programs, or a combination of both. If your restaurant is not giving the consumers what they want, you’re missing out on some serious revenue. With the right technology, it’s easy to add mobile sales and online ordering to your business.

    Let’s take a look at some technologies that help boost efficiency and customer satisfaction:

    Printers

    Embrace cloud-based solutions and online ordering with Star Micronics’ reliable Cloud Ready thermal printers. A receipt printer that connects to your cloud- or web-based point-of-sale software is a must-have. Cloud Ready printers reliably print orders directly to the kitchen as they come in.

    CloudPRNT technology from Star Micronics sends online orders directly to your kitchen printer and is supported by an array of devices and peripherals, including the TSP143IV, mC-Print2, and mC-Print3 thermal printers. These thermal solutions are also compatible with cash drawers, POS scales, and barcode scanners. They’re offered with multiple connectivity options, such as Lightning and USB connection, Bluetooth, LAN, WLAN, and more, and Star makes integration with your POS software a breeze.

    The TSP143IV thermal receipt printer by Star Micronics comes in black or white.
    The TSP143IV Thermal Receipt Printer is Cloud Ready

    Labels

    While labels may be the last thing on your mind, equipping your cloud technology suite with the proper labeling capabilities is vital when completing your connected workstation. Whether your business requires traditional or linerless labels, ensure you have the appropriate solution. You may need food service and delivery labels, like tamper-proof labels or labels showing nutritional, shipping, or inventory information.

    Traditional label printing solutions like the TSP743II or repositionable linerless label printers like the TSP654IISK are high-speed graphics printers able to connect to supported cloud- or web-based software. Food orders with special dietary requests can automatically be printed on takeout or delivery labels. Linerless labels are sticky but can be removed and re-applied following an online order from start to finish. These methods can help prevent potentially devastating mistakes.

    The TSP654II thermal receipt printer and the Resto for Quebec, and the TSP654IISK Thermal Sticky Label Printer by Star Micronics
    The TSP654IISK Linerless Label Printer

    Payment Solutions

    Connected hospitality businesses also need flexible, cloud-based payment software that supports many traditional and mobile POS systems and payment schemes. When linked to omnichannel ordering, these software applications enable customers to pay in-store, online, and via mobile apps using credit cards and mobile wallets. 

    Contactless POS systems support mobile wallets, wearables, and contactless cards, meeting consumer demand for touchless payment methods. Mobile payment applications that support pay-at-table solutions are popular fixtures in stores and restaurants. 

    As you search for the right payment solution, look for technology compatible with leading operating systems and interfaces and consider Star Micronics. From contactless payments to paper checks – and everything in between – Star solutions support various payment software applications. Star also has a high-quality selection of portable printers, which may be precisely what your business needs.


    All five 2D barcode scanners by Star Micronics - white and black wireless, one desktop, and a white and black wired handheld.
    Star’s Line of 2D Precision Barcode Scanners

    Barcode Scanners

    Star’s 1D/2D barcode scanners perfectly fit omnichannel hospitality environments. These drop-resistant scanners are accurate when scanning barcodes or QR codes on paper, screens, or uneven media. The wireless handheld model has up to 12-hour battery power, and the white models are made with antimicrobial agents, helping to reduce the spread of germs and bacteria.

    These highly reliable scanners can also be used in a warehouse setting to scan items on the floor for inventory purposes or to locate orders, product details, and stock availability. Scanner technology also helps businesses streamline everyday necessities. Check out this article for more information.

    Get Advanced Omnichannel Solutions Today!

    If you want to be part of hospitality’s connected future, partnering with a single-suite technology provider will help your business scale. Advanced omnichannel solutions, coupled with front- and back-of-house systems, will securely and efficiently manage orders across multiple channels, driving efficiency and growth. 

    Your single-suite provider will simplify integrations, keep your systems running optimally and meet all your technology needs. Contact your Star Micronics representative today if you’re ready to take your business into the future.

  • Star’s Christophe Naasz On The TEConnect Podcast: Cloud-Based Solution Selling

    Star’s Christophe Naasz On The TEConnect Podcast: Cloud-Based Solution Selling

    Christophe Naasz, Director of Global Business Development here at Star Micronics America, spent some time with Dean and John from BlueStar’s TEConnect Podcast to discuss cloud-based technology and solutions. The three lay out how VARs can approach customers about utilizing the cloud for their businesses to stay competitive and relevant.

    Consumers are moving forward with the latest technologies available, and cloud-based services are no longer an option for businesses. From online and omnichannel ordering to remote updates and secure data storage, the cloud offers business owners advantages that cannot be garnered elsewhere.

    From TEConnect:

    We all know that cloud computing is where it’s at, but not all businesses, especially retail & hospitality, are on board just yet. This week, Star Micronics’ Christophe Naasz is here to help VARs explain the benefits of cloud-based solutions.

    • How do cloud-based solutions improve customer experience?
    • What are the best talking points and questions to ask your customers?
    • How do cloud solutions benefit management and back-of-the-house insights?
    • Finally, what’s Star’s philosophy on the cloud?

    It’s the episode laying in the grass saying, “Hey, that cloud looks like recurring revenue!”

    Have a listen:

    Cloud-Approved: Star’s 2D Precision Barcode Scanners

    Having quality barcode scanners and imagers are must-haves for businesses working in the cloud! As a complete POS solution provider, Star Micronics offers a line of sturdy and reliable 1D/2D barcode and QR code scanners to complete your cloud-based solution. Whether swiftly ringing up your customers or taking in a wide variety of inventory, Star’s scanners are precise, drop-resistant, and work as quickly as you do.

    We offer a desktop, handheld usb, and Bluetooth wireless handheld for your convenience, with our wireless model holding up to 12 hours of battery life.

    • More Comfort, More Productivity
    • Fast, Reliable, & Drop-Resistant
    • 12-Hour Battery Life for Mobile
    • Scan on Paper or Screen
    • Protection from dust and water

    Captures high-density, high-volume, and distorted barcodes on paper or screen.
    Plus, all work seamlessly with our line of trademark printers!

  • Star Micronics Boasts Their Latest at RetailNOW 2022

    Star Micronics Boasts Their Latest at RetailNOW 2022

    With a steady offering of innovative solutions, Star continues to meet market demand, showcasing recent highlights at RSPA’s RetailNOW show in Orlando, FL.

    Somerset, NJ – July 20, 2022 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point-of-sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is excited to show off their latest technology and solutions at RSPA’s RetailNOW 2022 on Sunday, July 24th through the end of the show Tuesday, July 26th at the Gaylord Palms Hotel in Orlando, Florida. Star will be at booth #308, displaying and demonstrating an assortment of industry-leading solutions as they connect with attendees.

    Over the last year, Star Micronics’ has worked hard to offer new solutions to meet market demand despite current supply chain issues, offering innovative benefits to many retail verticals.

    Star has launched a variety of modern POS and self-service solutions since the last RetailNOW show, and these will all be at their booth, including:

    • The new TSP143IV in two models; the TSP143IVUE with Android Open Accessory (AOA) support and a USB/LAN dual interface, and the TSP143IVUW with USB-C and dual-band WiFi connectivity.
    • A kiosk printing solution that uses repositionable linerless label paper, the SK1-311 SK.
    • Three models within the new mG-T series of POS scales, the mG-T12, mG-T30, & mG-T60; ideal for shops, grocery stores, and farmer’s markets.
    • New WiFi-loving models of the popular mC-Print2 & mC-Print3 series; two thermal printing solutions from the state-of-the-art mCollection.
    • A revamped Star Micronics Cloud Services platform, great for software developers and business owners alike, including offsite device monitoring in real-time, custom-designed promotions, and more.

    “Star Micronics has been investing in several areas to help channel partners succeed. Following our ‘Always Leading, Always Innovating’ decree, this includes diversifying and expanding our product offerings and bolstering our supply chain operations and sourcing. Globally, Star has been strategic, expanding manufacturing capacity aggressively… Star is dedicated to providing our channel partners with a full solution suite.”

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    About Star Micronics

    Star Micronics, a world’s leader in point of sale, has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, scanners, scales, stands, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment in POS and mPOS environments. Embracing the mobility wave, Star’s complementary SDKs allow users to utilize Star in tandem with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, Chit, and labels for its printers. In addition, Star Micronics is always leading and innovating, enabling web-based printing solutions, including remote cloud printing, wireless cash drawer solutions, proximity-based printing, and secure cash management. For more information, visit www.starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or LinkedIn.

    Media Contact:

    Christin Dorner

    Star Micronics America, Inc.

    cdorner@starmicronics.com

    848-216-3318

  • 2.4GHz or 5GHz: Which Do I Need For My Small Business?

    2.4GHz or 5GHz: Which Do I Need For My Small Business?

    If you’re a small business owner, understanding the difference between traditional 2.4GHz wireless bandwidth and the newer 5GHz might save you time, money, and future headaches. 

    Many consumers assume the higher number must be better, so they choose to use that for their devices. However, neither bandwidth is actually “better” than the other. They’re simply different, with each having pros and cons. Whether you want to use 2.4GHz or 5GHz bandwidth all boils down to what you need.

    First, let’s find out what the difference is between the two:

    The Differences Between 2.4GHz & 5GHz WiFi

    2.4GHz

    When it comes to wireless internet, 2.4GHz has been the standard used in various devices, including WiFi routers, microwave ovens, cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, and wireless cameras. It allows devices to connect over a longer range and penetrates better through solid objects such as walls. It’s a perfectly high-functioning bandwidth but falters when it comes to how much data can be exchanged (uploaded or downloaded) within a particular length of time. Plus, it’s prone to disturbance and interference from other devices on the network because of overcrowding.

    5GHz

    As mentioned above, many devices use the 2.4GHz band. As the signal becomes overcrowded and causes a lot of interference, it slows down the network considerably. In this scenario, 5GHz appears to be the rescuer, having little to no interference. Many devices still don’t use it, so it’s less clogged. It relieves internet consumers from slow network speed and facilitates a higher data range. Its only drawback is that it doesn’t cover large areas or easily penetrate through solid objects.

    Connected city of the future.

    Is 2.4GHz or 5GHz WiFi Best For My Business Environment?

    After learning the pros and cons of both frequencies, the most frequent question consumers ask is which band is preferable. Both certainly have perks, but you must consider some critical factors as a small business owner. 

    Start with determining the size of your workplace. Although the coverage area is decent and the bandwidth is more robust, 5GHz won’t be able to cover an extensive area. With larger spaces, 2.4GHz may be best suited for you. If your workplace has multiple devices using 2.4GHz wireless, it may cause interference and slow down your connection. In that case, perhaps 5GHz would be better for you.

    What devices are you using?

    Also, consider the devices you are using. How many only need a 2.4GHz network? Bluetooth devices and microwave ovens will only be using 2.4GHz, so if your business uses many, you may need 5GHz for other devices, like smartphones. Microwave ovens are staples in professional kitchens, so if you own a restaurant or food delivery service, you may also want to look into 5GHz.

    Remember that 2.4GHz uses long transmission waves that easily penetrate through solid walls and objects. It’s ideal for internet browsing, but 5GHz is the go-to for streaming or playing online games.

    Whether in retail or the restaurant industry, your answer depends on your business needs. Choosing which wireless bandwidth to employ is all about what best suits the environment of your workplace. Some businesses may get by using only 2.4GHz bandwidth, while others may need the extra power of 5GHz to make it work. The key is having the correct information and knowing what you need.


    Black and white mC-Print2 and mC-Print3 thermal receipt printers by Star Micronics.
    mC-Print21W & mC-Print31W

    With the mC-Print21W, the mC-Print31W, or the TSP143IVUW thermal receipt printers from Star, you get printing solutions that work on either bandwidth.

    Whichever bandwidth you need, Star Micronics has your printing solution. The mC-Print21W, mC-Print31W, and TSP143IVUW all support dual-band (2.4GHz / 5GHz) WiFi. Networks that need long-distance coverage can use 2.4GHz. The more powerful 5GHz is best for reducing lag and interference, especially in busy kitchens with microwaves and hardware that compete for bandwidth on a 2.4Ghz network. By offering a choice to use one of the two frequencies, 2.4GHz or 5GHz, these Star printers provide maximum flexibility when connecting to any network.


    TSP143IV thermal receipt printer by Star Micronics
    TSP143IVUW

    These thermal printers are also Cloud Ready, able to connect to any cloud application that supports Star’s CloudPRNT technology. With the addition of Star Micronics Cloud Services, including Digital Journal, cloud promotion print management, and device monitoring. They offer retailers and restaurateurs the next generation of POS printing, enabling marketing and receipt tools for the omnichannel world.

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