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  • 3 Benefits of Cloud-Ready IoT and Mobile Devices

    3 Benefits of Cloud-Ready IoT and Mobile Devices

    Business owners can monetize cloud-ready IOT data by using it to gain insights into their customers’ behaviors and to communicate with and engage them more effectively.

    The Internet of Things (IoT) is a vast network of connected devices in the physical environment that share information. The things can include RFID tags, customer traffic counting technology, printers, POS systems, digital signage, and customers’ mobile devices.  IoT and mobile devices and sensors collect massive amounts of data about our habits—what applications we use the most on smartphones, the entertainment we are streaming, which retail brands we prefer and the items we purchase. Business owners can monetize this data by using it to gain insights into their customers’ behaviors and to communicate with and engage them more effectively.  Retailers can also leverage the IoT to enhance in-store shopping experiences.

    Here are three ways the IoT and mobile devices can help your business excel.could-retail-e1574796392726

    1. Device Management. IoT technology can help identify a problem before it starts. With devices that have the capability to communicate when they are in need of repair, shoppers never have to wait while a sales associate finds a replacement device.  IoT devices are often able to communicate issues before they are apparent to the user, helping to minimize downtime.

    Cloud-ready IoT and mobile devices can also be managed remotely. Business owners or managers can identify what and where the problem is while working at the store or from home, another store location or sitting on the beach via the cloud dashboard. Error status notifications can tell you in real-time what the problem is—whether a printer cover or cash drawer is left open or if a printer is out of paper or unplugged. Identifying and fixing the problem immediately helps improve efficiency and increase productivity, so you’re never wasting time hunting around for the problem.

     

    1. Data Collection. IoT and mobile devices can collect and store important customer information. A cloud-ready device gives you the ability to transform shopping receipts into valuable digital transaction data. If you don’t have the time or manpower to analyze customer data on your own, data facilitation allows retailers to send digital receipt information to third-party partners or vendors who can offer a wide range of analytic and shopper engagement services. These third-party vendors can run loyalty programs and issue customer updates about new products and promotions. Through these services, retailers can gain unparalleled information about shoppers’ habits and promotional campaigns, including which ones are effective and which ones aren’t resonating, to ultimately increase ROI.

     

    1. Data Utilization. Data collected by IoT and mobile devices and stored in the cloud can be used for other purposes, including digital signage. Digital signage is an interactive gateway that allows a business to communicate directly with a consumer, engaging them while they are in the store. Digital signage is easy to control and can be modified quickly, allowing it to be incorporated into virtually any environment. Depending on the setup and service you choose, you may be able to store your own graphics and update the signage as often as you want. This is especially useful during holiday shopping time, or if you want to promote doorbusters and flash sales during certain hours.

    Cloud-ready IoT and mobile devices can help you gain important insights into your business, customers, and operations. They can help you identify a hardware problem in-store, even when you’re offsite, and collect data that can keep messaging and promotions relevant. Evaluate how your business is collecting and leveraging data to provide better in-store experiences. Are you doing what it takes to be competitive?

  • 5 Reasons Why SMB Retailers Should Use Easy Coupon Design Software for Promotions

    5 Reasons Why SMB Retailers Should Use Easy Coupon Design Software for Promotions

    Customers love a good deal—40% of shoppers will switch products to use a coupon, while 60% of mobile coupon users are willing to change brands to cash in a promotion. Discounts and free products are a great way to build brand loyalty and thank customers for their business. However, running a coupon campaign isn’t inexpensive. The good news is merchants can reduce the cost of coupon design software by generating offers on receipts and engaging customers at the point of sale (POS) terminal.

    For retailers who prefer to create visually appealing printed coupons to distribute to a wider audience, there is easy-to-use coupon design software that is an easy-to-use alternative to shelling out money for a more expensive campaign.

    1. Quick and easy coupon design

    Retailers can use their POS systems to generate coupons and surveys on the receipts they already distribute. Merchants can choose from coupon design software templates, promotions and surveys to customize their receipts, giving them the ability to advertise and run promotions at their checkouts.

    Coupons should include a few simple elements to be effective.

    • The store’s logo and a picture
    • Easy-to-read text that conveys the intent
    • A call to action that tells people how to redeem the coupon
    • The retailers address, phone number and webpage

    1. Remote promotion management across locations

    If you want to generate a coupon or survey via receipt, owners and managers can use the tools in their POS. Simply choose a template, customize it and then send the settings to the printers. The coupon design software can be deployed to every store printer from your desk, home or another computer.

    3. Customer communication

    Your receipt can be a direct channel of communication with your customers. Train staff to highlight coupons or offers and tell customers about them before they leave the store. A customer satisfaction survey that invites feedback is also a valuable tool. Surveys can help you understand your customers’ needs and evaluate employee performance.

    4. Customer retention and loyalty

    Issuing coupons or discounts is a great way to generate goodwill with your customers because it makes them feel their business is appreciated. Customers are more likely to return to your store if they feel they are being rewarded for buying items they need anyway, even if they can get it online or at another store for less.

    5. Increase profit margins

    Printing coupons and brand messaging on customer receipts allow you to reach a higher percentage of shoppers for less money than a print or digital campaign. And unlike a print or email campaign, you can be sure your target audience receives the message or coupon. This is especially effective if you are looking to introduce a new product or service—the 2K17 Valassis Coupon Intelligence Report revealed that 86% of people said that they were persuaded to purchase a new product because they had a coupon for it. And once people try something at a discount and like it, they are more willing to pay full price in the future.

    Coupons are a great way to add value to your customers and make them feel appreciated. Retailers that print and distribute coupons on receipts can save money on marketing and reap the same benefits of a costly digital or print campaign. Leverage the easy-to-use coupon design software that is available to you.

    Discover Why You Shouldn’t Underestimate Coupons as a Promotional Tool in our Free eBook!



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  • Star Micronics to Showcase New mPOS Solutions at 2017 RSPA RetailNOW

    Star Micronics to Showcase New mPOS Solutions at 2017 RSPA RetailNOW

    Somerset, NJ – July 31, 2017 – Star Micronics, leading provider of point of sale and proof of transaction technology, will be exhibiting new solutions at the 2017 RSPA RetailNOW expo at booth #707.

    The show will be held from August 6th through August 8th at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas, NV. RetailNOW® is one of RSPA’s signature events, billed as “the place where the industry meets” with over 170 exhibitors.

    Star Micronics will be showcasing a number of our newest mPOS peripherals and solutions including the mPOP™ with new peripheral options, TSP100IIIU, and SM-L300 portable printer, all compatible with Star Cloud Services digital receipt and customer engagement solutions.

    mPOP™

    Star Micronics has upgraded our popular all-in-one mPOP to add even more functionality. Now the mPOP will support a number of peripheral options including a 1D or 2D bar code reader, a customer-facing line display, three NTEP legal-for-trade point of sale scales, and an additional cash drawer. Users can now transform their mPOP into a complete point of sale hub, while still saving space.

    TSP100IIIU

    Star Micronics will be introducing the latest version to the TSP100III series, the TSP100IIIU at RetailNOW 2017. Now offered with a simple “plug and play” USB connection, users will be able to enjoy the upgrades of the TSP100III series including faster print speed and a paper de-curl mechanism that provides a flat receipt, even when the receipt paper is at the end of its roll. The TSP100III also facilitates data communication and device charging using only one lightning cable for iOS users.

    SM-L300

    The brand new SM-L300 is Star’s first Bluetooth low energy receipt, label, and MAXStick® portable printer. The SM-L300 is Bluetooth (3.0/4.0) compatible with all operating systems including Windows, Android™, and iOS, and is equipped with a receipt de-curl function and easy “drop-in and print” paper loading.

    Star Micronics is also proud to host our partners: CAP Software, Weigh & Pay Solutions, TouchBistro, GreenBits, AppSuite, Appetize, eMobilePOS, and Vend. Visit booth #707 for demonstrations of our partners’ POS software solutions with Star POS and mPOS peripherals.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Star Micronics Releases Peripheral Support with the mPOP™ Mobile Point of Purchase

    Star Micronics Releases Peripheral Support with the mPOP™ Mobile Point of Purchase

    Somerset, NJ – June 1, 2017 – Star Micronics, leading provider of point of sale and proof of transaction technology, presents the mPOP™ with added peripheral options. Star’s mPOP now supports an optional scale, 2D bar code scanner, customer display, and external cash drawer. With these added peripherals, retailers and restaurateurs can now transform their mPOP into a complete point of sale hub to accept more versatile transactions in higher volume.

    mPOP-Press-Release-June-2017

    Star Micronics has integrated support for three Detecto APS scales. The APS scales supported are offered for varied use cases. The APS10 (max. 15 kg) is ideal for candy shops, delis, frozen yogurt shops, etc., where the APS20 (max. 15 kg) is better for larger items like bags of fruit and vegetables at a farmer’s market or grocery store. The APS12 (max. 160 oz.) is best in similar environments as the APS10, or any other location than prefers to measure in ounces.

    Star has integrated a 2D bar code scanner for the mPOP. Now, users have the option of choosing between the Star 1D scanner and the new 2D scanner. The 2D bar code reader will be beneficial to accept coupons in the form of QR code, or access item information. In addition to 2D bar code scanner support, Star has designed a two-line, blue backlit customer display with up to 20 characters per line. With this support, the retailer can not only show the customer their transaction price, but they can also add advertising messages for when the mPOP is not being used.

    Lastly, Star added a cash drawer connection port (DK port) to the mPOP™ to support an extra cash drawer. This is ideal for users who need a point of sale system with a small footprint, but still have a higher cash flow, such as a bar or deli.

  • Star Micronics Introduces the TSP100IIIU Thermal Receipt Printer

    Star Micronics Introduces the TSP100IIIU Thermal Receipt Printer

    Somerset, NJ – May 15, 2017 – Star Micronics, leading provider of point of sale and proof of transaction technology, is proud to introduce the newest addition to the TSP100III series, the TSP100IIIU. Already offered with LAN, WLAN, or Bluetooth interface, Star Micronics is now offering the TSP100III with simple USB connectivity for intuitive use and easy integration.

     

    TSP100IIIU-hero-image-e1574793879725

    Users will be able to enjoy the upgrades of the TSP100III series including faster print speed and a paper de-curl mechanism that provides a flat receipt, even when the receipt paper is at the end of its roll. Star Micronics has also brought back the power switch on this upgraded version of the TSP100IIIU, so business owners can shut down their printer and save power when closing shop. With its simple “plug and play” connectivity, and its new USB serial number feature, the PC will detect the TSP100IIIU on its Windows platform using any USB port. Star Micronics has also added product serial numbers to all of our TSP100IIIU printers for easy asset management.

    With included internal power supply, power cables, complete mounting kits, and paper roll, the TSP100IIIU is the perfect printer for any mPOS bundle. As an upgrade of Star’s TSP100ECO printer, the TSP100IIIU can seamlessly replace your old printer to offer faster speed and increased reliability. It offers a small form factor and prints up to 43 receipts per minute (RPM) with “drop-in & print” paper loading for thin paper support and a guillotine auto-cutter. The TSP100IIIU is also compatible with Star Cloud Services, allowing users to offer their customers digital receipts through the AllReceipts™ app, and to engage with their customers for free.

  • Star Micronics and Elo Partner to Provide a Modernized All-In-One POS Solution

    Star Micronics and Elo Partner to Provide a Modernized All-In-One POS Solution

    Somerset, NJ – May 8, 2017 –Star Micronics, leading provider of point of sale and proof of transaction technology, has announced their partnership with Elo, a global supplier of touchscreen solutions, to provide a new all-in-one POS hardware bundle for point of sale. This solution combines the Elo I-Series for Android and Windows tablets with a flip stand that houses a Star Micronics TSP100III, TSP650II, or TSP700II thermal printer. This bundle provides a perfect solution for hospitality, enterprise stadiums, and other environments where space saving and durability are essential. The flip stand is designed to seamlessly transform your point of sale into a self-service kiosk solution or a customer-facing display, and is ideal for small counter spaces with integrated cable management.

    “Elo and Star recognize that demand is growing for POS solutions with mobile architecture combined with the configurability of traditional POS systems,” said Sonal Apte, Senior Director of Product Management at Elo. “With this new mPOS platform, customers can instantly transform a traditional POS station into a self-service countertop kiosk that integrates a best-in-class Star printer, an EMV payment device, and a barcode scanner into one seamless design.”

    The all-in-one POS bundle allows users to print receipts using their choice of WLAN, LAN, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity with Star’s TSP100III or TSP650II thermal receipt printers. In addition, Star’s TSP700II offers a solution for receipt and label printing with the I-Series tablet and stand. With high-speed printing, “drop-in and print” paper loading, and a receipt de-curl mechanism that allows receipts to print smooth and flat, Star Micronics’ printers are easy to use in fast-paced environments.

    “Star Micronics is very excited about this new partnership and can expect this bundle to gain a lot of popularity in the hospitality and retail markets,” says Christophe Naasz, Business Development Director of Star Micronics. “There has been a major increase in the use of tablets in these markets over the past few years. Star Micronics and Elo have worked together to create a POS bundle that still has a sleek and compact look, but provides a durable solution for high-volume point of sale environments.”

  • Star Micronics Introduces Access Point Mode Support for the TSP100IIIWLAN Thermal Receipt Printer

    Star Micronics Introduces Access Point Mode Support for the TSP100IIIWLAN Thermal Receipt Printer

    Somerset, NJ – March 6, 2017 – Star Micronics, leading provider of point of sale and proof of transaction technology, introduces Access Point Mode support for the TSP100IIIWLAN thermal receipt printer. The TSP100IIIWLAN upgrade now provides a simpler solution for users to join the network from any location, using any device. The TSP100IIIWLAN with Access Point will provide a solution to some of the limitations present in the previous Ad-Hoc mode. Now, in its out-of-box configuration, the printer will behave more like a router, offering a simpler way for all devices to connect to the printer for setup.

    The TSP100IIIWLAN upgrade now makes it easier to set up with Windows, Android, and iOS devices and can be used out of the box with any operating system. Star’s TSP100IIIWLAN is also available to use with Star Cloud Services’ free digital receipt and customer engagement solutions. Star Cloud Services allows users to print receipts that can be digitally saved and stored by the customer using Star’s AllReceipts™ app, or that can be used for digital expense management with the Itemize app.

    “We very pleased to be adding Access Point Mode support for our TSP100IIIWLAN printer,” said Jon Levin, Product Integration Manager of Star Micronics. “Before, our customers were struggling to connect via WPS or Ad-Hoc and we knew we needed a solution. With Access Point, more users can utilize this printer peripheral with its out of the box set up that can be used with any mobile device.”

  • Star Cloud Services Introduces the Eco-Friendly Micro Receipt™

    Star Cloud Services Introduces the Eco-Friendly Micro Receipt™

    Somerset, NJ – Jan 31, 2017 –Star Cloud Services (SCS), a subsidiary of Star Micronics, is proud to officially announce the release of the Micro Receipt service, available to use with the AllReceipts™ or Itemize app. Within these applications, customers can scan the QR code provided on the SCS enabled receipt to capture and store a digital copy of the receipt in their mobile device. Star Cloud Services has created the Micro Receipt, which prints only the store name, time stamp, and the AllReceipts QR code, so retailers can save on paper and increase their profits.

    The Micro Receipt is a printed 2D barcode (QR code) paper receipt. This QR code can be scanned by any smart phone using the AllReceipts or Itemize app to claim a digital copy of the full, itemized receipt. This allows retailers to reduce the paper size of the receipt up to 80% from its original size.

    With the option of claiming and saving a digital copy of the receipt, the receipt can be saved for long periods of time, shared with friends, or used for electronic expense management using the Itemize app. Along with the purchase information, retailers can utilize the back side of the digital receipt by adding coupons, promotions, terms and conditions, and more, all while saving paper.

    Star Cloud Services is compatible with any Star Micronics thermal receipt printer, including desktop printers, portable printers, and the all-in-one mPOP™ peripheral, and also works with any operating system. With the StarPRNT SDK for iOS, Android and Windows, retailers can integrate Star Cloud Services with other customer-facing applications such as loyalty and the retailer’s own mobile applications.

    Look for the “SCS Certified” logo to find out which Star Software Partners offer the Micro Receipt™ with Star Cloud Services.

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

    Solutions for Printing from Web Browser-Based Applications: PassPRNT

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

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

    Print from a Web Browser-Based Application with PassPRNT

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

    How it Works

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

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

    Why Choose PassPRNT?

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

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

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



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