Tag: POS Scales

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.

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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

View Star’s Standard Warranty

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.

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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?

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March 30, 2023
Star Micronics Introduces A New Line of POS Scales, the mG-T Series
Star Micronics releases the mG-T12, mG-T30, and mG-T60 point-of-sale scales built for accuracy.
Somerset, NJ – March 28, 2022 – Continuing its “Always Leading – Always Innovating” philosophy, Star Micronics presents its new line of point-of-sale (POS) scales, the mG-T Series. Star, an industry leader in POS and online ordering solutions, has expanded its offerings to include these versatile, easily-to-integrate scales.

The mG-T Series of scales are ideal for many applications, from grocery to eCommerce, and come ready to use. They connect to POS systems effortlessly with Bluetooth or Serial connectivity and easily integrate on Windows, Android, or iOS operating systems. Built with the point-of-sale space in mind, these scales are NTEP and Measurement Canada Certified with Class III accuracy.

The mG-T line has three different models, the mG-T12, mG-T30, and mG-T60, with maximum capacities of 12lbs(5.4kg), 30lbs(13.6kg), and 60lbs(27.2kg) respectively. With a trio of capacities available, these scales are perfect for grocery, shipping, retail, frozen yogurt and ice cream shops, or bulk sales of any kind. Even cannabis operations requiring larger weights of flower can use the mG-T scales.

With the ability to connect to your POS checkout system, these scales are ideal for grocers looking to weigh:

Produce

Deli products

Butcher shops

Salad bars

Bulk items such as grains, nuts, dried fruit, candy, coffee or tea, etc.

Ice cream & frozen yogurt shops

Wash-and-fold laundry services

Farmer’s markets

And more!

Having a simple, user-friendly interface, backlit LCD Screen, and auto power-off settings, their ease of use helps streamline POS operations, enhancing the customer experience with a hassle-free checkout.

If you are ready to get scales that benefit your operations and can be integrated with your POS easily, please get in touch with Star Micronics.
Love industry news? Check out our podcast:

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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 label 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 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
April 1, 2022
Cannabis Legalization News: Which States are Next in 2022?
When it comes to the growth of the cannabis industry, there’s virtually no end in sight. According to Flowhub, the US cannabis industry is worth $61 billion, support for legal marijuana is at a record high of 68%, and a whopping 12% of Americans are currently marijuana users. Many states have already legalized medical and/or recreational usage, and more are expected to in the coming year.

In today’s blog post, explore the hottest cannabis legalization news, like which states most recently legalized, and which may legalize in 2022.

Who Legalized in 2021?

This year, four states legalized recreational usage of marijuana: Connecticut, New Mexico, New York, and Virginia. Currently 19 states (and the District of Columbia) have legalized recreational marijuana use. Additionally, following its 2020 ballot measure, New Jersey signed into law legislation legalizing recreational use.

States That May Legalize in 2022

The upcoming year is slated to be a big one in terms of cannabis legalization news. Below are the states that may legalize usage in 2022.

Arkansas

Arkansas may have two upcoming ballot measures regarding cannabis usage:

Arkansas Decriminalize Marijuana, Create Regulations and Grant Limited Immunity to Cannabis Businesses Initiative, which would decriminalize marijuana, give limited immunity to marijuana businesses, and create industry regulations.

Arkansas Recreational Marijuana Initiative, which would legalize cannabis use for people aged 21 and older.

Florida

In 2022, Florida may have three upcoming cannabis-related ballot measures:

Florida Marijuana Use and Growth Legalization Initiative, which would legalize the personal use, growth, transport, and possession for people aged 21 and older. It would also permit people to grow up to nine marijuana plants (18 maximum per household).

Florida Medical Marijuana Plants Initiative, which would amend Amendment 2 (2016) to redefine “medical use” and allow growing up to nine marijuana plants.

Florida Medical Marijuana for Mental Health Disorders Initiative, which would amend Amendment 2 (2016) and add nine mental health disorders to the state’s list of qualifying conditions to purchase and use marijuana medically.

Idaho

Idaho may have two upcoming ballot measures in 2022:

Idaho Marijuana Legalization Initiative, which would legalize the possession, use, and transfer of up to three ounces of marijuana by people aged 21 and older.

Idaho Medical Marijuana Initiative, which would create a medical marijuana program in the state.

Mississippi

In 2022, there may be a ballot measure in Mississippi called the Mississippi Marijuana and Hemp Decriminalization Initiative, which would legalize the usage of marijuana, hemp, and cannabis derivatives, allow individuals to grow up to 99 plants, release prisoners held on cannabis-related charges, and expunge cannabis-related criminal records.

How Resellers Can Cash in on Cannabis Point of Sale

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

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Missouri

Just like Florida, Missouri may have three upcoming ballot measures next year.

Missouri Changes to Medical Marijuana Program Initiative, which would amend the state’s current program and allow medical marijuana patients to grow their own cannabis, lower the cost of a patient ID card to $25, and allow up to three primary caregivers for a medical marijuana patient.

Missouri Marijuana Legalization Initiative, which would legalize the purchase, possession, consumption, use, delivery, manufacturing, and sale of marijuana for users aged 21 and over. It would also allow those facing non-violent marijuana-related charges to petition their release or have their criminal records expunged, and it would impose a 6% tax on all marijuana sales.

Missouri Marijuana Legalization and Automatic Expungement Initiative, which would legalize recreational marijuana, ban the taxation of medical marijuana, allowing driving under the influence of marijuana, and automatically expunge/release those with non-violent marijuana-related charges.

Nebraska

Nebraska has two potential ballot measures regarding cannabis coming up in 2022:

Nebraska Marijuana Legalization Initiative, which would legalize recreational use.

Nebraska Medical Marijuana Initiative, which would amend the state’s Constitution to allow for medical marijuana usage.

North Dakota

North Dakota’s potential upcoming ballot measure, North Dakota Legalize Marijuana and Allow Home Growth Initiative, is pretty self-explanatory: it would legalize cannabis use for residents 21 years of age and older, and allow people to possess, grow, process, or transport up to 12 cannabis plants for personal use.

Ohio

In 2022, Ohio’s ballot measure Ohio Marijuana Legalization Initiative would legalize the cultivation, processing, sale, possession, home growing, and recreation use of cannabis for people aged 21 and older.

Oklahoma

Next year, Oklahoma may have two relevant ballot measures:

Oklahoma State Question 817, Marijuana Legalization Initiative, which would legalize and regulate cannabis for people aged 21 and older and impose a 15% tax on sales by people who do not hold a medical marijuana license.

Oklahoma State Question 818, Cannabis Commission and Medical Marijuana Regulation Initiative, which would replace the current Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority with the State Cannabis Commission.

Wyoming

And last but not least, Wyoming may also have two cannabis-related ballot measures in 2022:

Wyoming Medical Marijuana Initiative, which would create a medical marijuana program.

Wyoming Reduce Criminal Penalties for Marijuana Cultivation, Possession, Use, and Transport Initiative, which would reduce the criminal consequences for cannabis cultivation, possession, use, and transport.

Star’s Cannabis POS Solutions

As the cannabis industry continues to flourish and new dispensaries and cannabis POS software companies continue to pop up, as a reseller it’s pertinent that you are provided a complete solution customized for cannabis. Star proudly offers all of the POS hardware dispensaries need, from certified scales to online ordering printers.

Featured Solutions

mG-S322 Scale
NTEP-certified
Measures substances 0.01g – 320g
Learn more >

mC-Print3
3” thermal receipt printer
Online ordering capabilities
Learn more >

Cash Drawers
Perfect for a cash-heavy industry
3 series with various features and price points
Learn more >

Antimicrobial Covers*
Reduce germ transfer on high-touch surfaces
Easy to apply
Learn more >

To view Star’s complete cannabis POS hardware offering, download our brochure!

Star Micronics Product Catalog

Explore POS printers, label printers, kiosk solutions, and accessories for retail, restaurant, self-service, and more.

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*Disclaimer: NeverGerms® makes no claims regarding the safety or health of the general public or those interacting with its products. “NeverGerms®” and “Touch Less Germs®” are registered trademarks and not intended to have literal interpretation. NeverGerms products are manufactured by NeverGerms and distributed by Star Micronics. Although these products are designed to reduce microbe populations on commonly-utilized surfaces and have been tested by the manufacturer for their antimicrobial properties, Star Micronics cannot guarantee that they will eliminate all risk of germ, including virus, transfer from such surfaces. Star Micronics, as distributor, relies entirely upon claims made by manufacturer as supported by prior research. For further information, please visit www.nevergerms.com.
October 14, 2021
A Comprehensive Guide to Cannabis POS & Accessories
The cannabis industry is in full swing. With marijuana fully legal in several U.S. states and medical use being legal in almost every state, cannabis is here to stay. While this is great news for business owners looking to break into this budding industry, the tech you choose will dictate the success of your business. Without a powerful point of sale (POS) system at the foundation of your dispensary, you could lose out on critical functionality, sales, and even be subject to noncompliance issues.

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

Download the full guide >

Why an Innovative POS is Critical for the Cannabis Industry

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

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

Cannabis POS Seed-to-Sale Software

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

Compliance

Sales and inventory data

Security

Offline mode

Online ordering/e-Commerce

NTEP-Certified Scales

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

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

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

Our Scale Recommendation: mG-Scales

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

POS Printers

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

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

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

Featured strains/strain of the week

Strains that are coming soon

Discounts or sales

Links to social media accounts

Customer testimonials

Now hiring messaging

Our Printer Recommendations:

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

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

Proper Product Labeling

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

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

Our Label Recommendations:

TSP654IISK: Liner-free label printing.

Tamper-Proof Labels: Securely seal products and packaging.

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

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

Download Brochure

Cannabis Cash Drawers

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

Our Cash Drawer Recommendation:

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

Additional Accessories That Make All the Difference

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

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

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

Choosing the Right Cannabis POS Hardware Supplier

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

Before the sale: Easy setup and configuration

During the sale: Intuitive controls and features

After the sale: Seamless maintenance and support

Discover even more tips and tricks for implementing a complete cannabis POS by downloading the full guide.
Download Now

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

1. Compliancy

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

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

2. eCommerce

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

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

3. Cashless Transactions

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

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

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

Payment transfers occur across the ACH payment network

Completely transparent – with every party involved

Actual business representation on merchant and consumer account statements

Cashless ATMs

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

Masks transactions as an ATM transaction

Merchants can be shut off without notice

Not sustainable

Debit and Credit Cards

Miscoded accounts

High risk of being shut off

High fees with offshore settlements

Not endorsed by the card brands

Cryptocurrencies

Very small number of dispensaries are using this as an option

Blockchain technology

Real-time settlements

Bitcoin and other various digital currencies

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

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

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

Download Brochure

4. Reward/Loyalty Program

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

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

5. Inventory Management

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

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

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

Appspensary Cannabis POS Software

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

Online store

Cashless payments

Delivery optimization

Curbside pickup

Text message marketing

Loyalty program

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

Cannabis Delivery Technology #1: Online Ordering Platform

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

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

The ability to facilitate order placement and documentation

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

Dispatching and tracking cannabis deliveries

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

Customer ID verification

The ability to dynamically calculate sales tax per region

Detailed, real-time inventory tracking

Integrated loyalty program and marketing tools

Cannabis Delivery Technology #2: Point of Sale

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

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

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

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

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

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

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

Download Brochure

Cannabis Delivery Technology #3: Delivery Service

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

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

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

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

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

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

Only the driver is allowed to be in the vehicle

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

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

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

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

Star’s Cannabis POS Hardware Lineup

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

Download our cannabis brochure to discover:

NTEP-approved cannabis scales

POS printers and cash drawers

Mobile printers

Star Micronics Cloud Services
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May 25, 2021
Star Micronics and Rhombus POS Provide Free, Flexible Point of Sale Solution

Rhombus POS’ and Star Micronics’ end-to-end solution is designed for cost-conscious restaurants and retailers

Somerset, NJ – May 6, 2021 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point of sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies is excited to announce that Rhombus POS has added support for Star’s mPOP®, TSP143III, mUnite tablet stand, and mG-S8200 scale. Rhombus POS provides free, flexible software for restaurants and retailers that is designed for use on Apple iOS and Android devices, and PAX terminals.

Rhombus POS includes a robust set of features like advanced reporting, multi-store support, sophisticated item categorization, inventory tracking, and employee timekeeping. Designed for intuitive and functional operation, Rhombus POS gives customers the ability to apply order modifiers, put orders on hold, split payments, use multiple printers or a second screen for the kitchen, integrate scales, perform extensive reporting, send customer text notifications, and more. Additionally, Rhombus POS is a cloud-based continuity, meaning that all platforms work together under the same account.

To print receipts, Rhombus POS can communicate with virtually any Star printer, including the popular TSP143III model and the all-in-one mPOP. Customers can also take advantage of integrated scaling with support for the entire line of NTEP-certified Star mG-S series scales, and further streamline customer and merchant experiences with the Star mUnite tablet stand featuring clean cable management.

“We are proud to have an affordable solution for businesses of all types,” said Michael P. Hogan, CEO, at Rhombus POS. “From a restaurant chain to a boutique retailer, Rhombus POS provides an agile yet complete solution for any company looking to leverage the latest technology without breaking the bank.”

May 6, 2021
4 Benefits of Choosing a One-Stop Shop POS Manufacturer
Whether you are a reseller, a software provider, or a business owner looking for easy-to-use point of sale (POS) solutions in your establishment, there are many benefits to choosing a one-stop shop POS manufacturer. Read on to explore the many reasons to choose one POS hardware supplier, including a full product portfolio, marketing support, and more.

1. A Full Portfolio

This first benefit really applies to resellers, software providers, and business owners alike. One of the most obvious advantages of choosing a one-stop shop POS manufacturer is that they can provide a full portfolio of solutions. No one likes to spend time and energy piecing together a solution. Choosing a sole supplier who can offer you everything you need – including receipt and label printers, cash drawers, scales, tablet stands, and health and safety solutions – is the best possible option. Other benefits include:

Stress-Free Integrations: As an end user, when you choose a one-stop shop POS manufacturer that already has integrations with hundreds of software publishers you can rest assured that your entire hardware deployment will work seamlessly with your POS software of choice.

Cohesive Design: Whether you are the one using the hardware, or you’re reselling it, a perk of choosing one manufacturer is that the entire POS hardware package you use or offer will have the same clean, cohesive design.

2. Technical Support

Needless to say, when it comes to technology, the quality of technical support that you receive is critical. A solid one-stop POS manufacturer candidate should offer responsive, expert support for every facet of the business.

Software Providers: As a software publisher, a dedicated integration team that not only can provide easy-to-use SDKs, but the time and energy to help you build out a custom solution is key.

Resellers: Businesses rely on resellers to provide complete, easy-to-use solutions. As a reseller, a worthwhile POS hardware manufacturer will provide an all-inclusive product line as well as product training and assistance in building out appealing, relevant solutions that sell.

End Users: Support should remain readily available well after the sale, and as an end-user you should choose a one-stop POS manufacturer that offers robust tech support resources like live chat, a telephone hotline, a website where you can submit tickets, and an online help center filled with resources like FAQs, how-to guides, drivers, and more.

3. Marketing Support

Business executive Beth Comstock says it best: “You can’t sell anything if you can’t tell anything.” That is, marketing is essential to a fruitful business. Marketing can also be daunting – but the right POS hardware manufacturer can help in those efforts.

Resellers and Software Providers: For the best chance at success, choose a POS manufacturer that offers a partner and/or loyalty program that includes perks like co-branded marketing collateral, tradeshow sponsorships, lead referrals, and more.

End Users: As a business owner you’re likely acutely aware of how competitive the market is for restaurants, retailers, and more. It’s important to choose a POS manufacturer that prioritizes helping you market your business by developing products that help you with promotion – like receipt marketing tools – and involves you in case study opportunities, if desired.
Star Empower Partner Program

Available to Star’s software and reseller partners, the Empower Program includes exclusive discounts, marketing benefits, and more.

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4. A Total Focus on YOU

For some companies that produce POS hardware, their POS division is just a drop in the bucket of their overall business architecture. When that is the case, they may not be fully dedicated to creating the most innovative POS solutions because they have their attention spread among multiple industries.

On the other hand, many POS manufacturers that provide the entire POS solution – and just that! – have their focus entirely on your needs. Read on to learn more about what that means for your business.

Resellers and Software Providers: A POS-focused manufacturer likely has its entire sales channel devoted solely to you – and is always focused on how to improve and strength your relationship and mutual solutions.

End Users: Your POS is your priority, and a POS-focused manufacturer’s job should be to care about your entire solution and make sure your business is doing the best it can and adapting to current circumstances. They can do this by adapting their solutions constantly so you can enjoy future-proof and cutting edge solutions at any given time.

Choosing the Right POS Manufacturer

The benefits and guidelines outlined above are just a starting point when it comes to what to consider while choosing the right POS manufacturer. In a nutshell, choosing a provider (like Star Micronics) that specializes in POS hardware and can provide an entire solution can help you enjoy innovative, plug-and play technology, as well as advanced marketing and technical support. The right partner will be with you before and after the sale – and only succeeds when you do, too.

The Star Empower Partner Program

The Star Micronics Partner Program offers our reseller and software provider partners the best pricing and support available. It is built to support our loyal partners and help them to grow their business with Star. If our partners win, we also win.

The Empower Partner Program offers the following:

All registered partners receive product discounts

Sales and marketing support and resources

Development resources from Star’s dedicated Integration team

Deal Registration

Star Micronics Partner Portal access with custom dashboard

And much more!

Sign up today to unlock your full benefits.

Star Micronics proudly provides a complete POS hardware solution designed to benefit resellers, software providers, and small business owners.

Download Product Catalogue
May 4, 2021
Reopening Retail Stores: The Full Guide
As the world begins to recover from COVID-19, business owners everywhere like yourself may be wondering how to move forward. Reopening retail stores is not as straightforward as simply returning to business as usual; the pandemic has forever changed consumers’ shopping habits, as well as their sanitation standards. Read on to discover some key considerations to keep in mind as you plan reopening your retail store.

Reopening Retail Stores: 4 Tips

1. Create a Long-Term Health and Safety Plan

Even as many people become vaccinated against COVID-19, health and safety is a topic that is sure to stay on shoppers’ minds in the future. It’s likely that consumers will be more concerned with how they can to avoid the common cold, the flu, and more, even as COVID-19 becomes less prevalent.

To plan for the changing priorities of your consumers, it’s important to develop a long-term cleaning plan, including which areas will be cleaned, how often, with which supplies, by whom, and how the cleaning procedures will be logged. It’s also important to develop a set of safety protocols for your shoppers and employees, including things like if and when masks should be worn, social distancing guidelines, when sneeze guards should be used, and more.

Certain easy-to-use health and safety products – like the Star Micronics POSShield sneeze guard and antimicrobial covers – are more-or-less “set it and forget it” solutions that can assist you as you prioritize health and safety in the long run.

Health & Safety Solutions Brochure

Discover which solutions can keep your business squeaky clean and help customers feel confident at your brick-and-mortar location.

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2. Assess Your Tech Needs

The pandemic acted as a catalyst in the growth of many tech-centric retail trends including online ordering, curbside pickup, and contactless payments. Not only did these digital trends blow up during the lockdown, but people will likely continue to use and prefer these technologies. For example, did you know that 58% of people in the United States are more likely to use contactless payment methods than they were before the pandemic?

If you haven’t already, it’s time to consider what technology your store needs to adapt to the ongoing digital transformation. A receipt printer that has the capability to automatically print online orders, like the mC-Print3, is key, as well as a label printer like the TSP654IISK which can print liner-free labels to be used for labeling buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) and curbside pickup orders.

Does a large chunk of your clientele still shop in-store? You may still need a tech refresh. An all-in-one point-of-purchase that combines a receipt printer, cash drawer, device stand, and scanner can be helpful for businesses that are experiencing more contactless payments now as retail stores reopen. And cash-heavy businesses, such as cannabis dispensaries, can consider upgrading to the latest cash drawers which feature added strength and security.

3. Evaluate and Adjust Store Setup

As the digital transformation continues to permeate the retail industry, you may find that your store’s inventory needs adjusted. For example, if you are experiencing more online orders than you previously did, you may need to adjust the ratio of your back-of-store and front-of-store inventory to support that need.

In a similar vein, if your store experiences a large volume of BOPIS orders, that will likely continue, and it is wise to establish a permanent space within the store to be used for storing and delivering those orders.

4. Communicate

Once you’ve updated your health and safety procedures, your point of sale technology, and your store setup, there’s one very important thing left to do: communicate all of these changes to your loyal customers!

They say communication is the most important element of a relationship, and the same applies to business-customer relationships. Be sure to make your shoppers aware of your new hours, online ordering/delivery options, and safety protocols, if applicable.

Some marketing ideas to help deliver your news include:

Email marketing: Put that email database to use and send some updates to your shoppers letting them know about your news and updates.

Social media: Adults in the US spend an average of 2 hours and 6 minutes on social media each day. Take advantage of that and be sure to post your latest updates for your loyal followers to see (and share).

In-store signage: Want to let in-store shoppers know about your “endless aisle” or the measures you’re taking to keep them safe? In-store signs placed near the store entrance and point of sale can drive the message home.

Receipt marketing: One place that customers are sure to look? Their receipt! Consider using your Star printer to print custom promotions on the bottoms of your receipts (for free).

Star Micronics Solutions for Reopening Retail Stores

Star Micronics has what it takes to make retailers stand out – today and in the future. We proudly provide end-to-end retail POS solutions that are compatible with today’s top applications. Star’s wide variety of retail POS hardware and systems solutions for the modern retailer include:

Receipt printers

Ticket/label printers

Portable printers for mobile sales, curbside payments, and line-busting

Sneeze guards

Antimicrobial covers

NTEP-certified scales

Check readers and endorsers

Self-service kiosk printers

Value-added cloud marketing services

And more!

Recommended Small Business Bundle:

mPOP®

Printer – cash drawer – scanner – device stand
Available with Flat Bill cash management
Compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows

POSShield

Portable plexiglass sneeze guard
Limits the spread of germs
No countertop mounting or drilled required

Antimicrobial covers*

Reduce the transfer of germs on high-touch surfaces
Designed for use on door handles, checkout counters, and more
Thoroughly tested, EPA-registered, latex-free

Ready for a reopening refresh?

Browse Star’s Retail Solution
April 20, 2021
5 Reasons You Need a Cannabis Dispensary POS System
The cannabis industry is flourishing. With recent legalizations, including New York, it is without a doubt that the market will see countless new dispensaries opening their doors in the near future. Whether you already operate a dispensary or are looking to open one, read on to learn what to look for a in a dispensary point of sale (POS) system and why they’re so important.

What to Look for in a Dispensary POS System

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Resellers Can Cash in on Cannabis Point of Sale

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

Download eBook

5 Benefits of a Dispensary POS System

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Download Cannabis Brochure
April 15, 2021