Tag: Omnichannel

Why VARs Surpass Online Marketplaces for POS Tech

In the digital age, the allure of online marketplaces can be too hard to resist. With just a few clicks, a business owner can access a vast array of products, from stationery to high-tech point-of-sale (POS) systems. But while the convenience is undeniable, there’s a compelling case for a different approach when purchasing critical hardware and technology: buying directly from Value-Added Resellers (VARs).

A Value-Added Reseller (VAR) is a business partner that enhances and customizes technology solutions for you, ensuring they’re tailored to fit your unique needs, backed by expert insights and dedicated support.

In the POS industry, VARs specialize in retail and POS system technology, bringing unparalleled expertise and deep understanding to ensure you’re equipped with the best solutions tailored to your business needs.

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Let’s unpack the many advantages of sourcing your retail and hospitality POS tech directly from VARs:

1. Tailored Solutions, Not Just Products

When you purchase from an online marketplace, you often receive a one-size-fits-all solution. But every business has unique requirements. VARs understand this. They don’t just sell products; they provide solutions tailored to individual business needs. By integrating software, hardware, and services, VARs offer a holistic solution, ensuring that every component works harmoniously.

2. Expertise at Your Fingertips

Online marketplaces might offer user reviews, but they can’t match the deep industry knowledge of a VAR. When you buy from a VAR, you’re not just purchasing a product; you’re tapping into a reservoir of expertise. They understand the nuances of the POS/retail tech channel and can provide insights and advice, helping you make the most informed choice.

3. End-to-End Support

Imagine purchasing a POS system online, only to face challenges during setup. Who do you turn to? With VARs, the answer is clear. They often offer comprehensive support, from installation to post-sale service. This level of care ensures that your systems are up and running quickly and optimized for your operations.

4. Future-Proofing Your Business

The world of POS and retail technology is ever-evolving. VARs are often at the forefront of industry trends and innovations. By partnering with a VAR, you’re better positioned to adapt to future technological shifts. They can guide upgrades and ensure your business remains cutting-edge without starting the purchasing process from scratch.

5. Building Long-Term Relationships

Buying from a VAR isn’t a one-time transaction; it’s the beginning of a partnership. As your business grows and evolves, your VAR can grow with you, anticipating needs and offering solutions before challenges even arise. This relationship can be invaluable, offering a sense of security in the often tumultuous world of retail technology.

6. Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While online marketplaces might occasionally offer lower upfront prices, the value provided by VARs often makes them more cost-effective in the long run. The integration of solutions, the reduction of downtime through expert support, and the optimization of your systems can lead to significant savings over time.

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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Wrapping Up the Benefits of Buying from VARs

The temptation to buy quickly and cheaply from online marketplaces is understandable in our fast-paced, digital-first world. But for those willing to look beyond the immediate, the value of purchasing directly from a VAR becomes evident. It’s not just about buying a product; it’s about investing in the future of your business.

So, the next time you’re evaluating where to purchase your POS or retail tech solutions, remember the multiple advantages of turning to a VAR.

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August 25, 2023
Meeting the Online Order Surge: How Hardware Impacts Efficiency
As online ordering charts an upward path, businesses find themselves in a whirlwind trying to adapt and catch up. The post-pandemic era has redefined modern convenience for good, with customers prioritizing speed and touchless transactions from platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and many more.

To stay competitive as a business owner, you must be able to handle the surge in online orders, and one crucial aspect of this is re-evaluating your hardware systems.

The Online Order Surge is Here to Stay

Recent data underscores an undeniable truth: online ordering is not just a fleeting trend—it’s an entrenched consumer habit well-established in everyday life. In the past couple of years alone, there’s been a substantial increase in customers opting for online food orders, grocery shopping, cannabis, and even retail.

We’ve all heard friends and people at the office saying they’re going to “DoorDash” for lunch or dinner.

Undeniably, this shift is mainly due to the desire for safer, faster, and more convenient shopping experiences. The appeal is hard to resist.

Hardware Solutions for Online Ordering

Challenges Faced by Businesses
In effect, the growing trend of online ordering brings inevitable challenges for every business owner. Businesses are expected to maintain profitability and customer satisfaction no matter what comes their way.

Diverse Ordering Platforms:

In today’s digital age, consumers have multiple avenues to place orders. From branded apps and third-party delivery platforms like Grubhub and DoorDash to direct website orders—businesses must juggle between different systems simultaneously. This can lead to potential mismanagement and oversight of specific orders.

Real-time Order Management:

With the expectation of prompt deliveries and real-time order updates, businesses face pressure to manage orders in real-time, particularly with popular delivery apps. Any lag or delay can lead to a ripple effect, causing dissatisfaction, negative reviews, and, ultimately, the loss of new and loyal customers.

Accuracy and Detailing:

With online orders, there’s a greater emphasis on customization and details. Whether it’s food allergies, special requests, or bespoke products, businesses must capture and execute every detail correctly. Any oversight here could lead to costly re-dos or, in extreme cases, health hazards.

Inventory Management:

The rapidity of online orders requires businesses to have a robust inventory management system. Running out of crucial ingredients or products not only hampers current orders but can lead to a loss of potential future orders from disappointed customers.

Integration with Physical Storefront:

For businesses operating both online and offline, there’s the added challenge of ensuring seamless integration. Physical in-store purchases must be harmonized with online orders to prevent over-commitment or under-utilization of resources.

Staff Training and Adaptation:

The digital landscape is constantly changing. As new systems and technologies emerge, businesses must ensure their staff are adequately trained and can adapt swiftly. This continuous learning curve can sometimes be daunting for long-term employees or those less technologically inclined.

Ultimately, to mitigate these challenges and streamline operations, the importance of well-structured, ergonomic, and technologically sound hardware workstations cannot be stressed enough.
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 for online ordering?

Hardware for Online Orders

The Role of Hardware in Streamlining Online Order Management

The efficiency of any online ordering system is, to a large extent, influenced by the hardware it runs on. Multi-tasking is the name of the game. Therefore, an optimized workstation featuring a multi-tablet system can be transformative.

With one or two tablets dedicated to processing incoming orders from different online ordering applications and another for customer interactions or auxiliary operational needs, businesses can achieve optimal efficiency.

Ergonomics and User Experience

Beyond functionality, there are the added concerns of ergonomics, organization, installation, and user comfort. These concerns should not be taken lightly. A good workstation isn’t just about speed—it’s about ensuring staff can install, view, access, and use every piece of hardware easily, reducing the potential for frustration and errors.

Proper workstation placement can significantly improve operational flow, enhance user experience, and boost overall employee morale.

Star Micronics: Meeting the Needs of Modern Businesses

For years, Star Micronics has emphasized the critical nature of efficient workstations. In today’s dynamic landscape, each piece of hardware must integrate flawlessly with the next, ensuring a streamlined workflow for hassle-free operations. This synergy is essential to meeting evolving demands and maximizing customer satisfaction.

Designed with the modern business landscape in mind, Star’s mCollection® features a multitude of standout products like the mPOP and the mC-Print series. But the mCollection is much more than POS printers. With the mUnite line of tablet stands and pole mounts, the hardware collection provides the adaptability necessary to declutter and structure even the busiest of workstations.

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Focusing on Multi-Tablet Workstations
Attached to the popular mUnite Mount 18 pole mount, the VESA mount accessory allows businesses to easily elevate their online order management by creating a versatile dual-tablet station. It’s cost-effective and ideal for companies seeking an organized, multi-functional workstation in busy retail and hospitality environments.

The VESA pole mount accessory turns the Mount 18 into a two-tablet display

Key Features of the VESA Pole Mount Accessory on Mount 18:

Instantly creates a cost-effective & flexible two-tablet workstation

Great for organizing online ordering or customer engagement tablets

Compatible with any tablet enclosure using 75/100 VESA mounting

Tablet mount is securely fastened, protecting the tablet or device

Made of durable steel

Easy installation & removal
mUnite Tri-Mount Multi-Tablet Display

Furthermore, the mUnite Tri-Mount pole mount is perfect for multi-tablet and online order setups, especially for restaurants that receive orders from platforms like DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats, which often require different printers and tablets.

Easily installed on most countertops, its sleek design conserves space, making it ideal for restaurants managing online orders across multiple devices. It securely accommodates up to three tablets (see here for specifications), ensuring easy access and protection in fast-moving settings.

Discover mUnite Tablet Stands & Pole Mounts

The Tri-Mount multi-tablet display by Star Micronics

Future Readiness in the Age of Digital Ordering

The surge in online ordering continues to reshape the business landscape. To stay competitive, businesses must invest in organized, ergonomic, and efficient hardware solutions. By doing so, they position themselves to meet current demands and be well-prepared for future challenges and opportunities.

So, as technology continues to evolve and consumer preferences shift, is your business infrastructure flexible enough to adapt? Remember, the choices you make today will shape your success in the digital ordering era of tomorrow.

Learn about Star Micronics reliable hardware for online orders:

Solutions for Today’s Business
August 11, 2023
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.

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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.

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.

Star Micronics Industry-Leading Technology

Find out what Star’s innovative printing technologies can do for your business success with 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.

Interested in integrating with Star Micronics?

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May 12, 2023
Star Micronics Prepares Channel Partners for Future POS Industry Changes

As we face new challenges in the coming year, Star Micronics is ready to provide support to its channel partners with upcoming technology and solutions. Star’s Christophe Naasz, Director of Global Business Development, shares his insights on anticipated industry changes and top trends for 2023 and beyond in this Q&A piece.

What Changes Do You Anticipate the Payments Industry Will Bring to Channel Partners?

The buying and absorption of companies will slow down. When the interest rate was very low, we saw a frenzy in acquisition, but now that the market has gone down and the interest rate has gone up, many companies are now focused on their profit margin and reducing their debt level.

In addition, blockchain and decentralization in the payments industry need to be watched closely. Blockchain, mainly, as it could reduce the number of managed databases and multi-players of applications into one. Information related to billings, taxes, customer ratings, orders placed per day, and inventory can be stored and distributed across the blocks in the chain.

However, a Crypto wallet as a way of payment is still a long way. Software development and deployment will change dramatically in the short term, but Crypto payment will be much slower. Point-of-sale (POS) hardware will not be affected in the short term. People still pay by check, cash, debit, and credit card. A few will slowly move to Crypto.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has recently become a massive player in the POS market. A key benefit of AI POS systems is the ability to handle all kinds of payment methods instantly and efficiently, like online, mobile, chat or social media, and even facial recognition payments. However, when we think about AI in POS, we think about how AI can detect trends in products and sales, offer promotions, upsell, and adjust pricing suggestions as appropriate. AI POS systems are up to 20% more effective than traditional, AI-free marketing campaigns.

What Technology will Companies Need to Accommodate?

AI involves a lot of processing power that can only be done in the cloud. This means that all future POS software solutions must be hybrid or fully cloud-based. All hardware will need to be cloud-based compatible.

Will We Finally Go Back to Pre-Pandemic Business in 2023?

We are not there yet. We are in an adjustment phase. Low interest rates, excess savings, work from home, and pent-up demand for services and goods are all things of 2022. High interest rates, overstock, and requests to come back to the office are what we need to deal with in 2023.

Attendance at trade shows is still lower than in 2019, but decision-makers are back on the floor. However, vendors are reviewing the number of shows out there and are pickier about the ones they attend.

Star’s strategy has always been to offer the best hardware products in POS for SMBs. Our product reliability, customer support, and innovative product development have pushed our customers to request more and more products from us. We are now offering our customers all the accessories needed for the POS industry (except payment terminals). Star has become the one-stop shop for all: one vendor, one consistent support team, and one integration.

Star will continue investing in its people, partners, and new technologies. In 2021, we invested in a new partner program to allow our partners to stay competitive when selling our product line on any market. We want everyone to succeed.

Pre-pandemic, Star had begun to deploy new collaboration tools like Zoom and Teams, which allow us to communicate internally and externally through video conferencing. This new technology has worked wonderfully for us, and we decided to offer a hybrid work model.

Most of us work from home 2 to 3 days a week, but we request everyone to come to the office twice a week. We need to support and train our new employees, which can only be done in the office. We also need to keep the Star family environment that made us successful. We believe the social aspect of the office is vital to a company’s success.

What Challenges Are Star and Its Channel Partners Experiencing That They Expect Will Continue into the Next Year?

The main challenges we expect to continue to see are shipping Issues, staffing shortages, and costs. However, for Star, shipping issues are 95% solved. Even container pricing is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels.

As for our staffing needs, we are fully staffed. The pandemic did not affect our employee retention rate. However, with a strong gross, we needed to hire. It took a few months to find the right people.

With shipping costs going down, product pricing should also come down. We believe inflation is a thing of the past, and pricing should stabilize or come down in the coming months — no need to hoard products anymore. Distributors have plenty of inventory. However, planning and forecast habits should be kept. A large inventory now does not mean it will stay that way in the future.

What Trends and Technologies Do You Predict Will Become Popular in 2023?

Ergonomics in POS is huge since retail space is at a premium. Most counter space should be used to promote and display products for sale. You do not want the POS to take over the counter. That is why Star offers stands designed to take up the smallest amount of space and integrate our peripherals. All-in-one is popular for its small footprint, but one of the caveats of that is that if anything breaks, everything needs to be changed.

Sustainability is also becoming more popular. Star is designing all new products to minimize their environmental impacts. We are reducing product consumption in power and media, eliminating liners from the back of labels, using standard plugs and power supplies, and continually developing built-to-last products.

Please take some time to learn what Star is doing to help combat climate change and promote diversity in our Environmental Impact Report.

Star Micronics’ 2021 Environmental Report

Learn what Star is doing to help combat climate change and promote diversity in this environmental impact report.

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There is also a shift to a hyper-connected, smart world with the growing popularity of AI and the Internet of Things (IoT). Star is now the leader in providing cloud-connected peripherals to current POS solutions, allowing our customers to be confident that our products are future-proof.

Invested in Innovation

Star values our partnerships and is investing to help channel partners succeed. We are expanding our product lines and technology in the next year to keep up with changes. The world will shift, but we will be ready and continue to be your #1 go-to.

Interested in integrating with Star Micronics?

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March 22, 2023
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

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
Keep it Simple – When 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.

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.

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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February 21, 2023
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.

Discover Today’s Online Ordering Tech

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.

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.

Learn About CloudPRNT Tech by Star

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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October 21, 2022
4 Reasons Your Dispensary Needs to Start Delivering Now
Since 2012, cannabis has been legalized in 18 different states in the United States for people above 21. For medical and pharmaceutical purposes, however, the number rises to 38 states. This trend will only continue. According to an article by U.S. News, the following states have been or will be fully legalized by the end of 2022:

Colorado

Washington

Alaska

Oregon

Washington, D.C.

California

Maine

Massachusetts

Nevada

Michigan

Vermont

Guam

Illinois

Arizona

Montana

New Jersey

New York

Virginia

New Mexico

Connecticut
Check out this link to see a handy map and chart displaying the legality of cannabis per state. Now, just because the plant is fully legalized for adult use doesn’t mean you can just set up shop and start selling! Please check with your state and local laws before pursuing any business endeavor selling cannabis.

The point is, as the plant is legalized more and people’s consumption increases, dispensaries will only continue to multiply, and competition will grow. Because of the pandemic, many dispensaries started providing cannabis delivery services to stay afloat. The move has since proved to be highly popular with consumers, and it’s helped dispensary owners not only stay in business during the shutdowns but greatly increase profits as well.

And the trend isn’t going away.

4 Reasons Why Your Dispensary Needs Delivery Service

There are many reasons why starting a delivery service for your dispensary is the business-savvy thing to do, but here are four:

INCREASE YOUR MARKET REACH

To start, adding an online delivery marketplace for your dispensary will have you spending more time on the internet trying to reel in activity on your website. This will undoubtedly give you more exposure, whether you’re on social media or running digital ads. More people will eventually be interacting with your e-commerce store, which will drive more traffic toward it. The more exposure you have, the more people will know to visit your website and buy from your online dispensary.

If you didn’t have a website before (hopefully, this isn’t the case), this will get your store online. If you did, adding a delivery service is simply another way to utilize your online space to drive more revenue.

There are so many apps these days designed specifically for cannabis delivery that it’s never been easier to try it out. A Google search will get you started.

INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY

Simply put: cannabis delivery services make it easier for your customers to receive your product. Especially if they are using cannabis for medical purposes, some people may not be able to get to your shop as easily as others. They also may be extra cautious about the pandemic because of current health issues.

The truth is, we have no idea (and no business asking) why someone would rather have their cannabis goods delivered. But if we offer it as an option, we open our services to a segment of the market that may desperately need an alternative to physically entering a dispensary. They will show the love, too.

INCREASE ORDER SIZE

Next, delivering cannabis from your dispensary will increase your customers’ order sizes. People are busier than ever and may not spend as much time inside a physical dispensary as they could browsing your shop online. From anywhere, a customer can look through your e-commerce store a little in the morning, go about their day, and then browse a little during lunchtime, putting some items in their shopping cart.

Then, later that evening, or whenever they want, they can go back and finally checkout, having their cannabis products delivered to their doorstep as they take care of other things around the house. It’s a beautiful thing.

Also, people in stores may be limited by how much cash they have on them at the time. They also may feel rushed in a physical store. When I go out shopping with friends or family, it’s impossible to browse everything I want (or even visit the stores that I want). Having an online dispensary with delivery allows customers to take their time shopping.

Because of this, they usually buy more.

INCREASE BRAND AWARENESS

Finally, starting a dispensary delivery service will increase awareness of your brand. Going digital puts your brand in front of way more eyeballs, helping to build recognition of your company with greater speed. There’s a reason more and more companies are moving their operations online, a trend that isn’t going away.

When customers become familiar with your brand logo and get to know your offerings, your vibe, they are way more likely to buy from you. A fully functioning e-commerce website with delivery for your cannabis operations will put your brand out into the stratosphere way better than a physical store alone.

Bottom Line: Cannabis Delivery Services Drive Revenue

All the above reasons boil down to one: cannabis delivery services drive revenue. Whether your dispensary is getting more exposure or becoming more accessible to different types of customers, setting up a delivery service for your products will boost business. With all of that extra revenue, you can continue to grow, stay competitive, and ultimately stay profitable.

An article from High There says it all: “States that have already legalized cannabis, like California, are seeing a spike in business thanks to the overwhelming convenience of cannabis delivery… What many are considering the next trend for cannabis business, delivery services can help surge revenue for the retailers that jump in to take advantage. The cannabis industry is already a record $10 billion and climbing. A particularly explosive section of this industry is almost exclusively the new cannabis delivery sector.”

That was written in 2019 before the pandemic pushed states to legalize more delivery services across the country. If your dispensary isn’t getting in on a piece of the action, you’re missing out on a wide-open market. If your state allows cannabis delivery, then expand your operations’ reach, boost business, and stay ahead of your competition by starting a dispensary delivery service now.

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April 8, 2022
7 Easy Tips on Selling Merchant Services
When it comes to selling merchant services, the landscape can be quite competitive. With many options on the market for your customers, it’s critical to take the time to focus on how you can differentiate yourself as a solution provider. While it might sound intimidating, in today’s blog post we will share seven tips on selling merchant services, designed to make your journey simple – and successful.

7 Easy Tips on Selling Merchant Services:

1. Provide a Total Solution

One of the best ways to differentiate as a merchant services provider is to not just offer one piece of the payment puzzle, but to provide a total solution. Customers want a one-stop shop, and offering a complete solution that provides value, including credit card processing through a merchant account and a full portfolio of necessary point of sale (POS) hardware, is a great way to create happy, sticky customers.

2. Be a Trusted Advisor

Although this blog post contains tips on selling merchant services, one of the most important things you can do sometimes is to not sell. What does this mean? Simply put, strive to be your customer’s trusted advisor, rather than just a salesperson. The foundation of being a trusted advisor is built on listening: listening to your customer’s needs and acting as a consultant to offer ideas and solutions, rather than just pushing products. Some other traits of trusted advisors include:

Putting your customer’s needs first, not your own; always think of their challenges and priorities before your own

Always asking questions to understand more about your customer’s specific situation – “tell me more!”

Providing a variety of solution options, so that they can decide on the best choice for themselves

Embracing the fact that you don’t always know the answer and build the confidence to admit that – doing so will demonstrate honesty and trustworthiness

3. Be Available

This next tip may sound obvious, but it still deserves to be said: be available for your customer! Often times, many businesses will sign up with ISO agents and then find themselves never hearing from the agent again after the contract has been signed. Don’t fall into this pattern! Make a conscious effort to touch base with your customers and be that trusted advisor who is always looking out for their best interests.

4. Offer Affordable Options

Besides offering a total solution, acting as a trusted advisor, and being available on a regular basis, another thing that your customers are sure to value is affordable pricing. A low cost is always a priority, especially during uncertain times. Reduce the cost of entry into your solution by offering a SaaS (Solution as a Service) model which features low monthly payments. This operating expense (OPEX) model versus a capital expense (CAPEX) model means that rather than a business needing to spend a larger lump sum for a solution, it can instead spend a lower amount as needed each month. This model helps businesses receive the best possible solution in an affordable way.

5. Be Transparent

Who doesn’t value transparency? It’s important to feel like you are dealing with an honest and ethical provider. Your customers also value transparency, so be sure to be understandable in every way possible. It’s especially important to make your transaction fees crystal clear and remember to be competitive with your revenue share. Being honest and laying these numbers out on the table will earn you trust as you sell merchant services.

6. Provide a Straightforward Timeline

Time is money, and to a business, money is a top priority. Be sure to prioritize your customer’s time by providing a straightforward go-to-market timeline. When providing this timeline, also remember to include the expected ease and speedy of any integrations that will be required.

7. Offer Omnichannel Capabilities

Today’s businesses require today’s payment options. Gone are the days when simple, piecemeal merchant services could suffice. If possible, be sure to offer an omnichannel solution, meaning a variety of card acceptance methods, along with a fully integrated solution. Acting as a one-stop shop and offering an omnichannel solution can lead to creating a sticky customer that is less likely to be tempted away by a competitor.
What can Worldnet’s Omnichannel Integrated Payments do for you?

Worldnet is proud to offer a simple omnichannel integration that brings your eCommerce, Back Office and Cardholder Present payment solutions together, and presents all that data directly into your software solution, ERP, or CRM system.

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Successfully Selling Merchant Services can be Simple

To wrap things up, keep in mind that selling merchant services doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, focusing on simplicity is key. Prioritize offering total solutions to your customers, as well as genuine consulting with an emphasis on the customer’s needs instead of your own product. Being seen as a trusted advisor that can also act as a go-to, one-stop shop for modern payment solutions is sure to help you successfully sell merchant services.

mPOP™: Perfect for Today’s Payments

Have you met the Star Micronics mPOP? This sleek all-in-one POS hub, built for modern small businesses, accommodates high-volume credit card and cash transactions and features:

Printer, cash drawer, scanner, and device stand

Compatibility with iOS, Android, and Windows

Cash drawer with 4 bill and 6 or 8 adjustable coin slots

Print Flat Technology

Learn More about mPOP
Star Micronics is proud to offer POS hardware with the features merchants need and the connectivity to bring together applications and payment processing.

Explore Star’s Payment Solutions
July 14, 2020
Why Guest Wi-Fi is an Important Asset for Small Businesses

If one thing is true about today’s consumers, it’s that they are constantly (or nearly constantly) connected. With the rising trend of omnichannel retail experiences, it’s more important than ever to provide an easy, free way for your customers to connect to the internet. Implementing a guest Wi-Fi network does more than connect your shoppers to their favorite apps and websites, though – it can also improve your business in many ways! Here’s how:

Enhance Marketing

Speaking of omnichannel marketing, having a guest Wi-Fi network is an excellent way to expand your omnichannel strategy. One way to do so is to engage in Wi-Fi marketing, a method where you use your network as a channel to communicate with your shoppers. Using Wi-Fi marketing, you can promote campaigns of your choice, which can serve as a part of your in-store marketing strategy.

When guests log on to your Wi-Fi network, their phones will redirect to a splash page where they’ll view a branded message, as well as details about the network and its terms of use. On the page, users will enter credentials such as their email address, which can help you build customer profiles and gather leads. With this additional insight into shoppers’ demographics, you can further tailor your marketing tactics to better suit them, and that can help create more sales. For example, a Deviscape survey found that half of businesses report that customers spend more money now that they have a Wi-Fi network!

Safeguard Internet of Things (IoT) Devices

Better marketing and more sales are nice, but did you know that implementing a guest Wi-Fi network has security benefits, as well? If you incorporate IoT-connected devices into your store, such as automated checkouts and smart shelves, you probably already know that they’re more vulnerable than traditional devices. If you connect those smart devices to your main network, the chance that hackers can access your other devices – like your main server or physical security system – is increased. By connecting your smart devices to a guest network instead, you create an additional layer of protection against attacks; Even if a cybercriminal hacks into one of your devices, they won’t be able to penetrate your main network, where your most valuable information lies.

Improve Customer Experience

Last but not least – and this probably goes without saying – guest Wi-Fi networks greatly improve the customer experience. Depending on your store location and your customers’ cellular provider, providing shoppers a guest network saves them data and gives them a potentially faster network. And there are stats to back it up – nearly 62% of businesses with free Wi-Fi report their customers stay in the store longer, which likely means they’re having a better shopping experience, spending more money, and are more likely to return.

From boosting sales to securing your sensitive data, there are many reasons to utilize a guest Wi-Fi network!

February 5, 2019
Retail Stores are Boosting In-Store Customer Experiences with Receipts
At Star Micronics, we’ve been innovating POS tech customer engagement solutions for years as an innovation hub for POS.

Recently we have solved how retail stores can achieve digital receipts and micro receipts that engage customers, and this year we’re rolling out PromoPRNT, a seamless feature that allows stores to easily reach their customers with POS Ads in-store on receipts.

PromoPRNT as an Innovative Location Marketing Tool
- PromoPRNT is a new service available to Star Micronics Cloud–registered members that empowers retailers to create printed promotions in addition to receipts.
- PromoPRNT is a suite of tools that allow small businesses to easily reach their customers with the creation, design, and execution of location marketing campaigns on receipts.
- Ultimately, with these PromoPRNT tools, retailers will be able to deliver incentives directly to shopper’s hands at a fraction of the cost of other marketing tools.
Mobile In-Store is Catching On

According to a survey by iVend Retail’s 2018 Global Path to Purchase, 60.1% of shoppers said they used their smartphones in brick-and-mortar stores. This means mobile is an important touch-point for physical retailers and stores to elevate the customer experience. In 2017, Star created a seamless way for customers to upload their receipts to their smartphones called AllReceipts.

Photo Credit: Kate Taylor, Business Insider

Customer-centric apps allow retailers to boost their sales. A good example of this is how Starbucks has created a seamless way to do mobile ordering.

Deployment 2.0 of Starbucks reworks the workflow of employees to better optimize their time that caters to the new mobile ordering feature at Starbucks locations, with a dedicated place for customers to pick up their orders.

Starbucks insists that digital sales are a key for its future and displays one of the top in-app experiences of any global retailer. Dedicated employees for mobile ordering tasks means Starbucks have sped up their customer-experience to enable mobile ordering to become an ever-increasing portion of their sales.

In-Store Mobile Experience Trends

Shoppers who receive special offers via mobile while they are inside physical stores show higher conversion rates than in other customer journeys, according to Retail Dive. Mobile is also increasingly the starting place for research into products and retail locations that are local. At Star, we recognize the importance of both digital and physical cues for shoppers and thus have dedicated digital receipts and location marketing suite of services that is an omnichannel solution to better engage the modern shopper.

Digital Signage that Combines Mobile Loyalty with Digital Displays

With more consumers using mobile at physical retail locations, Star also has another new program that leverages POS Digital Signage, with digital signage partner, Sophatar.

Sophatar® POS Signage is another new service available to retailers who are registered Star Micronics Cloud users, for a low monthly subscription cost. Combining POS Data, with digital signage screens, the solution is able to increase the basket size of the most popular selling items at hospitality, grocery, retail, and apparel boutique locations.

In this article, we have covered how retailers and brick-and-mortar small businesses can easily combine mobile, location-marketing receipt tech and POS digital signage to create a better in-store customer experience that increases retail sales.
July 11, 2018