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Tag: Restaurant & Hospitality

  • Star Micronics to Showcase Innovative Solutions at the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show

    Star Micronics to Showcase Innovative Solutions at the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show

    Star’s latest POS solutions are sure to spice up the mix for the hospitality industry in Chicago, IL.

    Somerset, NJ – May 20, 2023 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point-of-sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is thrilled to announce its participation in the National Restaurant Association Show, taking place in Chicago, IL, from May 20-23, 2023. The company will be exhibiting at Booth #6783 in the North Hall, where attendees can experience live demonstrations of their cutting-edge products designed to enhance the foodservice industry.

    Star Micronics is eager to present its latest POS and online ordering innovations that have been sizzling on the world stage. Among the highlights are:

    • The new mC-Label3 with the faster SteadyLAN+, CloudPRNT, & Android TetherLAN capabilities – an optimized label and receipt printing solution that does the work of multiple printers in one.
    • A fresh new line of 1D/2D Star-branded barcode scanners with ultra-high resolution.
    • The latest mPOP® (mobile point-of-purchase) with direct iOS connectivity; power and data transfer for all-day use.
    • The mG-T series of POS scales; ideal for yogurt and ice cream shops, delis and butcher shops, and grocery stores.
    • The acclaimed TSP143IVUE with Android Open Accessory (AOA) support and a USB/LAN dual interface.
    • The future-proof Universal Mini mEnclosure that eliminates the need to purchase a new tablet enclosure with every new device.
    • Plus, a wide variety of POS accessories to customize for any environment.

     

    The National Restaurant Association Show is an excellent opportunity for Star Micronics to connect with industry professionals and showcase its groundbreaking solutions tailored for the foodservice market. Star’s reliable, high-quality products are designed to meet the diverse needs of restaurants, bars, and cafes, ensuring seamless transactions and enhanced customer experiences.

    “We’re thrilled to be a part of the National Restaurant Association Show this year. Many of our innovative point-of-sale solutions use our CloudPRNT technology, which is perfect for the growing online ordering trend. Restaurants everywhere are using it. Star is committed to providing the industry with whatever they need to stay competitive.”

    Christophe Naascz, Global Director of Business Development at Star Micronics

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    Star Micronics logo, point-of-sale (POS) hardware and technology company.

    Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, self-service, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers in tandem with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, Chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.

    Media Contact:

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

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

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

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

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



    Find Your Cloud Printer

    CloudPRNT: The Technology Unveiled

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

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


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

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

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

    Benefits of CloudPRNT

    1. Increased Operational Efficiency

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

    2. Enhanced Scalability and Flexibility

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

    3. Improved Data Security

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


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

    Star Micronics Industry-Leading Technology

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



    Download Now

    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?



    Contact Integrations Now

  • Are You Compromising Your Star Printer’s ROI with Cheap Paper? Choose Star Receipt Paper & Labels

    Are You Compromising Your Star Printer’s ROI with Cheap Paper? Choose Star Receipt Paper & Labels

    As a business owner, you understand the importance of maximizing your investments. So why jeopardize the ROI of your top-quality Star printer by using cheap, unbranded paper? Many paper alternatives found on the market today are abrasive, gradually eroding the printhead and damaging your Star printer over time.

    Don’t get left feeling crumply! Star Blue and Star Blue Eco paper offer exceptional quality and compatibility with your Star printer to ensure optimal performance and peak longevity. Our paper has a perfectly smooth, crisp white surface to proudly represent your brand while protecting your printhead from erosion and damage. Plus, Star Blue Eco is BPA-free, non-toxic, and Prop 65 compliant, ensuring safety for those in regular contact with the material.

    In this article, we’ll explore the numerous advantages of using Star Blue paper and examine the various types of paper Star offers, highlighting the benefits and key features of each.



    Shop Star Paper Now

    Star Blue Paper: The Ultimate Choice for Your Printer


    Star Blue receipt and label paper rolls by Star Micronics.

    Using low-quality paper can significantly reduce the lifespan and performance of your printer, negatively impacting your bottom line. Star Blue and Star Blue Eco paper are specifically designed to work with Star printers, ensuring optimal performance and maximizing printer lifespan.

    These Star paper rolls work efficiently with your printer to extend the life of the printhead, preventing embarrassing paper jams and clogs that can ruin the customer experience. Star paper is clean, bright white, instead of the gray or yellowish receipts often found on the market today. Get crisp, clearly legible receipts every time for a professional, tidy presentation.

    Star’s paper has longer paper lengths for fewer roll changes. Every roll is guaranteed to fit and is fully compliant with any Star warranties. Star’s paper comes in many varieties, including thermal receipt paper, linerless label paper (both removable sticky and permanent adhesive), and traditional die-cut label paper. Each type has its unique benefits and features. Star also offers 1-ply and 2-ply bond paper for your Star impact printer.

    1. Star Receipt Paper

    Keep your Star printer rolling in optimal condition with the exceptional quality and compatibility of Star Blue receipt paper.

    Star Blue and Star Blue Eco receipt paper offers:

    • Thermal and bond choices
    • High-quality, crisp printing for improved readability and branding
    • Smooth surface to stop printhead erosion and printer damage
    • Prevents annoying jams and clogs that slow business operations
    • Star Blue Eco is phenol-free and made from non-toxic materials, making it full Prop 65 compliant

    2. Linerless Sticky Label Paper

    Stick with Star Blue and Star Blue Eco linerless label paper for versatile, eco-friendly, and repositionable labeling solutions that leave no glue residue behind. Our linerless rolls have all the benefits of Star Blue in sticky label fashion.

    Star Blue linerless label paper provides:

    • A waste-reducing design that is more environmentally friendly
    • Easy repositioning for improved label placement with ZERO residue left behind
    • Versatile applications, from food packaging to retail labeling
    • Different adhesive strengths available

    3. Traditional Label Paper

    When it comes to traditional label paper, Star Blue adheres to the highest standards of quality and performance. Enjoy all the benefits of the Star Blue promise in a variety of sizes.

    Star Blue and Star Blue Eco traditional label paper features:

    • High-quality adhesive for secure, long-lasting labels
    • Excellent print clarity for enhanced readability
    • Wide range of sizes to suit various applications
    • Code-compliant cannabis labels are also available



    Find Out More

    Preserve Your Printer’s ROI Now with Star Blue & Star Blue Eco Paper


    Star Blue receipt, label, and linerless label paper with white mC-Print3 thermal printer by Star Micronics.

    While competitors’ paper may leave you feeling rough around the edges, Star Blue and Star Blue Eco paper promise a smooth and seamless printing experience. Not only will they help maintain your printer’s optimal performance and extend its lifespan, but they also ensure high-quality, clear printing that meets the needs of various industries, including retail, restaurant and hospitality, and cannabis.

    By investing in Star Blue paper, you’re protecting your printer’s ROI and providing the best possible experience for your customers. Switch to Star paper today and experience the difference for yourself.

    Find more information about Star paper here and access the complete paper line spec sheet here.


    The Value of Receipts: Printed and Digital ebook from Star Micronics.

    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. Use them for your business’s benefit!



    Download Now

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  • Sandwiching Success: Unveiling the Power of POS Tech in Our Latest Deli eBook

    Sandwiching Success: Unveiling the Power of POS Tech in Our Latest Deli eBook

    In the fast-paced, competitive world of food service, delis, butcher shops, and fish markets require efficient, tech-driven solutions to stay ahead. In our latest eBook, “3 Ways POS Tech and Hardware Improve Deli Operations and Customer Experiences,” we delve into the transformative power of modern point-of-sale (POS) technology and how it can optimize deli businesses.



    Improve Your Deli Operations Now

    Addressing Key Challenges in Deli Operations

    Handling perishables, managing a vast array of items, and delivering top-notch service is no easy feat. Our eBook sheds light on how innovative POS tech addresses three key areas: order accuracy, customer service, and inventory management.

    Order Accuracy with Cutting-Edge POS Tools

    Delis juggle diverse offerings, making error-free orders crucial. This eBook illustrates how cutting-edge POS tools like integrated deli scales, receipt and label printers, and tablet stands keep things running smoothly.

    Enhancing Customer Experience and Satisfaction

    Delis thrive on repeat patrons, and exceptional experiences are non-negotiable. The eBook highlights POS-driven technologies like CloudPRNT and SteadyLAN®, self-service kiosks, and accessories, all aimed at streamlining the customer experience, boosting satisfaction, and nurturing loyalty.

    Streamlining Inventory Management

    Learn how real-time tracking and automation through advanced POS systems save time and curb errors, making stock management a breeze.

    Elevate Your Deli with POS Technology by Star Micronics

    Our eBook is a must-read for deli owners seeking to harness POS technology and stay ahead of the game. Don’t miss out—elevate your deli today!


    3 Ways POS Technology and Hardware Can Improve Your Deli Business ebook.

    3 Ways POS Technology and Hardware Can Improve Your Deli Business

    Get the latest point-of-sale (POS) technology and hardware to streamline deli, butcher shop, or fish market operations.



    Download Now

    Want to know more about what Star can offer your business?



    Contact a Sales Rep

  • Receipt Marketing: A Powerful Tool to Boost Your Business

    Receipt Marketing: A Powerful Tool to Boost Your Business

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

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

    The Benefits of Receipt Marketing

    Couple looking at their receipt with receipt marketing.

    Increased Brand Awareness

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

    Increased Customer Loyalty

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

    Cost-Effective Marketing

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

    Tips for Implementing a Successful Receipt Marketing Campaign

    1. Keep it 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.
    2. Offer Incentives – To make your receipt marketing campaign more effective, it’s a good idea to offer incentives to customers. This could include discounts, free gifts, or the opportunity to join a loyalty club. By providing customers with an incentive, you can increase their chances of returning to your business.
    3. Track Your Results – It’s essential to track your results when running a receipt marketing campaign. Doing so lets you determine what works and what doesn’t and make adjustments as needed. This could include changing the messaging or design of your receipts or adjusting the incentives you offer.

    PromoPRNT Receipt Marketing Tool


    PromoPRNT receipt marketing logo by Star Micronics.

    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 ebook from Star Micronics.

    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.



    Download Now

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

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

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

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

    That’s where proper thermal receipt printers come in.



    Discover Star Printers

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

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

    Find your Android-compatible Star solutions here >

    Ordering food online on phone.

    How Do Restaurants Use Thermal Receipt Printers?

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

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

    1. Choose a Compatible Thermal Printer

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

    2. Connect the Printer and Set it Up

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

    3. Customize the Printer Settings

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

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

    Online Ordering Solutions:
    A Quick Guide

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



    Find Out Now

    Streamline Business with the Correct Printer

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

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



    Online Ordering Solutions

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

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

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


    How to Get Your Restaurant Ready for Online Ordering ebook by Star Micronics.

    How to Get Your Restaurant Ready for Online Ordering

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



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    Yes! Please tell me!

  • What is Artificial Intelligence, and How Does it Impact Your Point-of-Sale?

    What is Artificial Intelligence, and How Does it Impact Your Point-of-Sale?

    When people hear the term “artificial intelligence” (AI), it might conjure images of futuristic androids or sentient computers from movies such as I, Robot or AI. But while those things are still in the realm of science fiction, AI has become increasingly engrained in the modern technology we now use every day, from our smartphones to our point-of-sale (POS) systems. AI helps consumers and workers streamline their activities and increase productivity.

    But what is artificial intelligence? The Oxford English Dictionary defines AI as “the development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and translation between languages.”

    Before AI began to appear in retail technology, large-scale monitoring of employees, inventories, transactions, customer purchase histories, or sales was next to impossible due to limited data management and analysis capabilities. Now, your POS system can incorporate AI to generate smart reports and optimize your data into actionable insights.

    Person doing data analysis at their laptop computer.

    Those insights may give you a potent competitive edge. In the recent results of 2022’s McKinsey Global Survey on AI revealed that the number of businesses using AI technologies since 2017 has more than doubled. On top of that, the companies that use AI for marketing and other purposes consistently outperform those that do not.

    In fact, a recent blog posted by Techjury revealed that the AI market is projected to grow at CAGR of 38.0% from 2021 to 2030, and that 77% of the devices we already use feature one form of AI or another.  

    By integrating AI into day-to-day operations, companies can:

    • Boost efficiency by spending less time sifting through vast streams of data from a variety of disparate sources
    • Focus on what really matters for their business
    • Speed up time to action

     

    So, what is artificial intelligence in the context of POS technology, and what does it look like for merchants?

    AI Combines and Analyzes POS Data with Real-Time Reports

    AI and POS software work together to create continuous intelligence. According to the Gartner Glossary of Information Technology, continuous intelligence is “a design pattern in which real-time analytics are integrated into business operations, processing current and historical data to prescribe actions in response to business moments and other events.” It provides decision automation or decision support.

    AI technology and data analysis helping a cafe business owner.

    This intelligence involves a variety of technologies, such as machine learning, event stream processing, optimization, and business rule management. Some of the technologies that can help generate better real-time data include:

    • Facial Recognition: This technology can generate customer profiles, enhance security, track behaviors, and make specific suggestions that improve sales by providing a personalized experience.
    • IoT-Enabled Sensors: The Internet of Things (IoT) enables communication and data exchange between objects with computer devices connected to the Internet. A smart POS system can utilize electronic shelf labels to track user behavior, update inventory, and complete transactions anywhere in the store through connected sensors. This function prevents long queues with smart scan technology during peak hours or end-of-season sales (EOSS). It also automatically alerts the inventory manager when items are nearly out of stock, prompting timely reorders and preventing disappointed customers.

     

    With these AI technologies paired with traditional POS reports, merchants can take their data strategy to the next level by leveraging predictive analytics to enhance their insights into inventory management, customer marketing, and sales, creating actionable plans.

    AI-Based POS Reports Create Actionable SMART Insights

    With more advanced, AI-based reports, you can create SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely) goals and actionable plans. These reports provide managers and owners with information that uncovers deeper insights.  

    You can take it a step further with AI power that makes recommendations for you. Some AI programs give you insights and suggest the best responses. 

    Leverage smart insights to discover shopping patterns and preferences, which you can turn into successful sales strategies. For example, the information you gain can help you decide which products to place near each other and where to position the best or most profitable items for higher sales based on buyer behavior reports and foot-traffic heat maps.

    AI point-of-sale for QSRs and restaurants.

    Other SMART insights might assist with decisions and strategies, such as:

    • Generating loyalty programs for preferred customers who visit your store regularly
    • Placing additional staff in new locations for customer support
    • Creating electronic displays that change using facial recognition to show products and promotions tailored to a recognized customer’s profile

    Optimize Your Business Operations with AI POS Software

    Once you have SMART insights and create strategic responses, watch as your operations speed up and become more optimized. You’ll use your reports to take action to eliminate long checkout lines, reduce stock-outs, and enhance the customer experience in-store and online.

    Your actions will bring:

    • More efficient workflows that eliminate redundancies
    • Streamlined stocking and other in-store maintenance
    • Automation of previously manual, tedious processes, freeing your staff to devote more attention to customers

     

    So, what is artificial intelligence when paired with POS solutions? It’s the key to true business intelligence.

    Data analysis and AI technology for business.

    Get Your AI from a Smart Provider

    AI is readily available to merchants ready to invest in their businesses, streamline their processes, and take control of their data. It starts with understanding which AI technology is best for your business needs, gathering and analyzing your data to generate actionable insights, then optimizing your operations.

    Get everything you need to utilize AI with your POS system from your trusted POS hardware provider. Star Micronics has been dedicated to innovation for more than five decades. To learn about the latest POS hardware options to improve your business, contact us today.


    Full 2022 Product Catalog by Star Micronics.

    Check out Star’s full Product Catalog!

    Discover the innovative technology solutions Star Micronics has to offer.



    Download Now

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  • 7 Features to Look for in the Best Tablet Stand

    7 Features to Look for in the Best Tablet Stand

    With the right point-of-sale (POS) tablet software and a well-designed tablet display stand, you can transform a simple tablet into an agile, versatile workstation. POS tablets are gaining traction in numerous industries, including restaurants, stores, boutiques, hotels, and entertainment venues. Their lightweight form, affordability, and ease of use make tablet-based POS solutions popular among small and midsize business owners. A recent study by Statista predicts that U.S. tablet usage will reach nearly 155.3 million units by 2025. 

    When compared to traditional PC-based systems, POS tablets offer a healthy ROI. Unlike legacy integrated POS systems or terminals, which can cost upwards of $5,000 per unit, tablet-based POS solutions are competitively priced, offering a range of low-cost hardware and software options. They take up less space and give your POS a sleek, modern look and feel.


    LIFESTYLE EZ3 stand mCPrint3 printer Restaurant QSR

    Having the proper display stand to hold your tablet can not only provide a single secure workspace for your busy store or restaurant, but it keeps your tablet protected as well. Low cost does not mean the POS tablet has no value!

    Let’s look at what makes a great tablet display stand:

    7 Features to Look for in the Best Tablet Stand

    The right tablet stand for your business operations will not only enhance and protect your tablet POS investment but also boost customer experience, enhancing your brand’s appeal. Designs vary, but market-leading tablet stands share fundamental characteristics and are easy to spot.

    Secure Tablet Mounting

    VESA mounting, an industry standard used by numerous industries and manufacturers, enables a tablet stand to accommodate virtually any type of tablet enclosure that holds the tablet and secures it to the stand. However, there are perfectly fine stands out there that do not use VESA. The key is that the attachment is 100% firm and secure. Otherwise, your valuables will end up on the floor.

    Clean Cable Management

    Sleek, aesthetically designed tablet stands route cables internally, making a favorable first impression and saving precious counter space.

    They do more than make your POS station look clean, however. The best POS tablet stands help protect cables from spills, dust, or other accidents that could cause damage.

    Enclosure Option

    Tablets should be housed in protective enclosures that also look nice. A universal mEnclosure holds virtually any tablet and enables it to be mounted horizontally or vertically. This way, you can change your tablet without buying a new enclosure.

    Compatibility with a Variety of Printers

    Many shops and restaurants using tablets for their POS also use POS printers. The ability to support a variety of receipt and label printers increases your point-of-sale tablet stand’s functionality, keeping your tablet safe and protecting and housing your printer.

    This adds to a stand’s overall versatility. With your POS hardware in one place, you and your staff manage multiple tasks from a single point of access. It’s better for security and better for the customer experience as well.


    The EZ POS tablet stand by Star Micronics. Shown in black with TSP143IV receipt printer.

    Sturdy & Made to Last

    An all-steel tablet stand with VESA compatibility can reliably support and protect any tablet, future-proofing your investment.

    Easy Installation & Readily Available Support

    Installation and use should require minimal effort, with best-in-class technical support if needed via live chat and phone, giving you more time to focus on business priorities.

    Business-Boosting Features

    Optional configuration settings, combined with easy-to-tilt maneuverability and a customer-facing option, can boost your brand and customer experience. When customers see you have a neat and put-together POS, it gives them more trust in your business overall.

    Star’s mUnite Tablet Display Stands


    Lifestyle kiosk stand small

    Star Micronics has created the mUnite series of tablet display stands and mounts, the latest addition to its acclaimed mCollection series. The stands and mounts are sleekly designed, highly configurable, and easy to set up and use.

    A perfect choice for POS and self-service environments, mUnite stands and mounts include the following key features:

    Universal VESA Mounting

    Most mUnite stands use universal VESA mounting hardware to support all tablet and computer manufacturers, including the Star Micronics mPOS and mCollection lines. But there are a couple of fantastic tablet display stands that do not. Either way, the hold on your tablet is long-term.

    Clean Cable Management

    mUnite stands hide wires and cables within their sleek housing while routing power supplies under the counter, maximizing valuable countertop real estate.

    Easy to Tilt for Customer Interactions

    mUnite stands have excellent maneuverability, making them adaptable to numerous settings and easy to tilt for order review, signature capture, and additional functions.

    Supports Two Screens

    Many mUnite stands can support additional customer-facing displays as well as horizontal and vertical tablet views, extending and enhancing the mUnite experience. 

    Discover mUnite


    Some tablet display stands and mounts from Star Micronics' mCollection, shown with tablets in Universal mEnclosures.

    Take back your counter with Star’s sleek and functional mUnite stands. Their clean designs keep your tablets connected and optimized while hiding cables, wires, and power supplies. Enhance your brand and delight customers with purpose-built, aesthetically pleasing mUnite tablet stands.

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  • The Tech Needed to Create Connected Workstations in Your Industry

    The Tech Needed to Create Connected Workstations in Your Industry

    Your clients are facing some of the most severe challenges they’ve ever encountered. Overhead and labor costs are rising, online competition has increased, customer loyalty is fleeting, and labor is hard to find. Merchants committed to business growth need new solutions to overcome these hurdles – and they need value-added resellers (VARs) and other point-of-sale (POS) solution providers to provide guidance and technical expertise to implement them successfully.

    Connected workstations that feature terminals or tablets and stands, printers, scales, and online ordering integration increase productivity and efficiency to help merchants future-proof their IT investments. 

    Providing and adding value to these solutions can also strengthen relationships with your clients and boost your bottom line as you help them use technology to navigate these challenges and achieve success. 

    But first, what exactly is a connected workstation?



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    What is a Connected Workstation?

    A connected workstation is a grounding place where POS software connects with multiple hardware devices to create cohesive workflows. Employees or customers can enter and manage orders, purchases, payments, inventory, and more.

    In an era where customer expectations and industry demands are continuously evolving, the value of a connected workstation cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in boosting productivity, optimizing workflow, and, ultimately, driving business success.

    A connected POS workstation in a QSR with the TSP143IV thermal printer, a 2D Wireless barcode Scanner and Kiosk tablet display Stand by Star Micronics.

    The Value of a Connected POS Workstation

    Connected workstations have become increasingly vital in the retail and hospitality industries as they greatly help streamline operations and enhance customer experiences. By integrating various devices and applications in one area, businesses can create a seamless, data-driven environment that enables real-time communication, improved order accuracy, and efficient inventory management.

    Furthermore, a connected workstation offers a centralized platform for staff to access crucial information, empowering them to make better-informed decisions and provide exceptional service.

    Future-proofing these POS or back-of-house workstations can help combat the most significant struggles faced by the hospitality industries:

    • Online ordering management
    • Labor shortages
    • Delivery automation
    • New payment methods

     

    Let’s dive into each of these issues:

    Online Ordering and Delivery

    Online ordering and delivery have become necessary to compete in the hospitality industry. By implementing these solutions, your clients can improve cash flow; however, it requires a range of new software and hardware solutions for effective management.

    A backend-connected workstation, including printing solutions for labels and receipts for third-party delivery services, can help a restaurant organize these operations, ensuring every customer receives accurate, on-time orders. Additionally, a solution like CloudPRNT gives employees managing online orders and delivery the freedom to print from any location in the restaurant by communicating directly with web-based POS applications.

    Find out more about the benefits of creating connected POS workstations by downloading the rest of our free ebook:


    Future Proof Tech for Connected Workstation Ebook

    The Future-Proof Technology You Need To Create Connected Workstations For Your Industry

    Discover how future-proof technology can create optimized workstations to keep your business ahead of the competition.



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  • Conquer Your Omnichannel Strategy with Cloud-Based Solutions

    Conquer Your Omnichannel Strategy with Cloud-Based Solutions

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

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



    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.

    Man making a purchase on his mobile phone.

    Mass Implementation of Omnichannel Strategy

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

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

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



    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 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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