Author: Augusto Echecopar

POS Trends to Expect in the Second Half of 2021

As we reach the midway point of 2021, one thing is certain: this year is monumental to the point of sale (POS) industry as the economy rushes into recovery. Read on to explore some of the top POS trends to expect in the second half of the year and beyond.

POS Trend #1: Ongoing Online Ordering Boom

In the return to normalcy, and in many regions, restaurants are reopening, and brick-and-mortar retailers are trying to resume their activities as close as possible to their pre-pandemic levels. But no matter where businesses are on their recovery journey, online ordering is here to stay, and not just because of it being the primary method available to consumers during the pandemic. In fact, consumers worldwide have discovered the convenience and benefits of online ordering and have decided to stick with that method of purchasing, even as physical businesses reopen.

Interestingly, businesses have also found additional benefits in using online ordering platforms. Advantages include an additional revenue stream flowing into their businesses, as well as the opportunity to utilize more robust loyalty programs in a less intrusive, nearly seamless way. This improved loyalty strategy can improve the customer experience and in turn create sticky customers.

Most of the initial challenges many online ordering systems and digital transactions faced have been mitigated, making them an even more appealing option for businesses everywhere. For example, new security measures like multi-factor authentication are becoming standard, allowing a business to offer promotions, discounts, and payments that are less susceptible to fraud.

POS Trend #2: Faster Technology Adoption

Complete solutions and intuitive user experiences (UX) have become essential, and although price will most definitely always be an important consideration in any technological deployment, now value and having the right solution have risen to the top of the priority list.

In a rapidly changing market, solution integrators have no time to spare to try new things that they are not sure will work or test products from uncertain vendors. Instead, they are opting to go directly to what is already working in the market and are selecting the brands with the technologies that are being adopted massively by market leaders.

POS Trend #3: An Emphasis on Health and Safety

Even after the COVID-19 pandemic passes, health and safety will remain a priority to people worldwide. To put employees and customers at ease, a new POS trend has accelerated and retail and hospitality businesses that are reopening must offer a tangible sense of safety to their customers.

Popular health and safety POS products include sneeze guards placed at the point of sale, antimicrobial covers which reduce germ transfer on high-touch surfaces, and tamper-proof labels to securely seal delivery and takeout orders.

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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POS Trend #4: Affordable and Simplified Development

The development side of the industry is also experiencing changing POS trends. Development phases are accelerating, and software providers are developing using cross-platform tools (like the StarXpand™ SDK) on the React Native platform, cutting development time and cost in half.

As most digital interactions and virtual communications are happening in the cloud, POS transactions, especially for online ordering, are not an exception. Technologies, like CloudPRNT, are allowing the seamless connection of thermal printers to the cloud. These technologies are not only cost-effective but also shorten integration and development times and are becoming the go-to solution in the market.

POS Trend #5: The Continued Rise of Self-Service Kiosks

Did you know that more than 65% of customers said they would be more willing to visit a restaurant if self-service kiosks were offered?

Clearly, self-service kiosks are a rising POS trend and as they are more widely used, consumers will hold them to a higher standard and expect them to be reliable, intuitive, and safe to use. Because of this, self-service kiosks are particularly sensitive to the quality of the components they are integrated with, so it is essential that those components are selected carefully.

Some POS hardware manufacturers, like Star, offer a vast portfolio of kiosk printers with receipt and labeling capabilities with features that can help ensure customer satisfaction. For example, a kiosk printer with a bezel allows for jam-free kiosk operations, and large-capacity paper rolls allow for extended paper autonomy.

For businesses and integrators with tight budgetary constraints, there are still options for assembling a highly sophisticated self-service kiosk solution. For example, businesses can pair a desktop printer, with the right technology built-in, with a universal tablet enclosure, a tablet, and a tablet stand. This is when finding the right one-stop shop POS manufacturer to work with that can provide all of those components becomes key.

Recommended Solution

For an affordable yet high-quality kiosk, connect the Star Micronics mCP31L multi-interface thermal printer to an iPad via the Lightning port. Next, place the iPad in a Universal mEnclosure (which locks for security purposes), attached firmly to an mUnite stand. Pairing these Star products together can turn a potentially complicated and costly kiosk project into a functional, cost-effective, and simple one.

As a one-stop shop, Star is proud to provide a complete range of POS hardware solutions for retailers, restaurants, and more.

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June 29, 2021
4 Self-Service Market Predictions in 2021
As businesses and consumers become more aware of and more familiar with what is needed to continue doing business in the new normal, a brighter light is emerging at the end of the tunnel in terms of the coronavirus pandemic – vaccines are becoming more available and the processes needed to get them into people’s arms more efficient. From a technology perspective, you may wonder which solutions that picked up steam during the past year will continue to gain momentum in the future.

One technology that has taken flight during the pandemic – and has immense potential for years to come – is the self-service market. As the economy reopens and shutdowns become less restrictive, early adopters of self-service kiosks are coming back with revamped versions of their previous kiosk’s solutions, while new adopters are considering the latest trends in the self-service market.

Read on to explore which industries are experiencing self-service market solution changes and key self-service technology predictions.

Which Industries are Experiencing Self-Service Market Changes?

Let’s take a closer look at which industries and solutions have been affected and needed some fine-tuning during the pandemic, and which were introduced as brand-new alternatives to existing technology.
- Healthcare and Service Providers: In the healthcare and service provider sectors, a few self-service trends have emerged. These industries have begun to require a more powerful queue management system, as well as additional features such as temperature screening, AI-powered engines, and expanded access control solutions like printing name badge labels for visitors who were cleared during the screening process.
- Banking: ATMs have recently gotten a facelift by providing additional human interaction. While ATMs are of course still a self-service solution, intelligent ATMs are pairing their automation power with a human touch by providing teller-customer communication through a speaker. The teller can answer questions, print full transactions, account details, and more.
- Retail and Hospitality: With the proliferation of online ordering, the buy-online-pickup-in store (BOPIS) model has become more popular than ever for restaurants and retailers. In some cases, it has even helped to keep businesses afloat that would not have delivery options otherwise. One popular update to the BOPIS model is the introduction of virtual lockers to pick up small-sized orders. The virtual lockers offer many options including the ability for consumers to obtain printed receipts at the locker (or virtually) instead of having to go inside the store.
Self-Service Market Technology Predictions

When we look into the future of the self-service market, many of the trends we expect to see revolve around creating fully contactless processes and transactions, improving on user experience, expectations, and their perception of feeling safe. These trends include:

1. QR Barcode Scanning / Cell Phone-Mirroring Screens

With QR barcode scanning and cell phone-mirroring kiosk screens, customers can turn their own smartphones into a remote kiosk navigation tool and can even complete payments on their own devices.

2. Touchless Touch Screens

These screens are quickly becoming part of the new standard for self-service kiosks. By using infrared (IR) and even sonar-based technologies, touchless touch screens allow users to interact without touching them, and in some cases they even allow gesture interactions.

3. New Biometric Tools

Biometric tools have been on the market for years but are experiencing updates. For example, Amazon One, available at select Amazon Go stores, uses the latest biometric technologies to allow users to pay with just a wave of their hand. Replacing fingerprint scanners that required direct contact with contactless palm scanners is something we expect to see more of in the self-service market.

4. Self-Cleaning Technologies

When touching is unavoidable, what could be better than a self-cleaning kiosk? Ultraviolet C (UVC) technology, which uses ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate germs, allows this to become a reality by ensuring the touchable areas of a kiosk are cleaned and ready for the next customer after each use. As more users become aware of the benefits that UVC technology offers, it may become something they expect in all self-service kiosks which will in turn encourage a stronger adoption of it within the self-service market.

The possibilities for the self-service kiosk market are truly endless, as the need for self-service has become more relevant and diverse than ever before. We’re excited to watch the market evolve.

Star Micronics Self-Service Solutions

Looking to expand your self-service offering? Star Micronics is proud to offer a wide variety of thermal kiosk printers capable of printing receipts, labels, tickets, and more. Ideal for virtually any self-service application, the printers include features like:
- A variety of paper sizes (2”, 3”, and 4”)
- Compact or modular footprints
- Multiple optional accessories like bezels, presenters, large paper roll holders, and more
- Interfaces like serial, USB, parallel, and Ethernet
- Operating system support for Windows, Linux, Android, Mac, and iOS
- StarPRNT emulation, allowing software developers to take advantage of all of Star Micronics’ technology like StarPRNT SDKs and its powerful line of drivers
- A dedicated integration team ready to help you build the right solution for your needs
Kiosk Printer Wizard

Star Micronics offers a full variety of self-service kiosk printers – but deciding which one fits your needs can be easy. This wizard will help you select the right printer for your specific use case, based on desired paper size, interface, footprint, operating system, accessories, and more factors.

Find your Kiosk Printer Now

Featured Kiosk Printers

SK1-211

2” Kiosk Printer
Compact and Lightweight
Supports Receipt, Ticket, or Label Media

SK1-311

3” Kiosk Printer
For Banking, ATMs, and More
Supports Receipt, Ticket, or Label Media

TUP900

4” Wide Format Kiosk Printer
Looping Presenter
Easy Paper Width Adjustments

Want to learn more about Star’s self-service kiosk printing solutions?

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March 4, 2021
Why Self-Service Kiosk Integration is Crucial for Restaurateurs
In recent years, one can’t help but notice how many self-service kiosks are popping up in businesses of all kinds. Arguably, the most noticeable increase has been in restaurants. Kiosks are often found in quick-service restaurants (QSR) but can also be spotted in airport food courts, schools, workplace cafeterias, and many other places. So, what’s all the hype about? Why should restauranteurs prioritize implementing a self-service solution? Read on to explore five main reasons why self-service kiosk integration is not just beneficial, but crucial for restauranteurs.

Better Customer Experience

At the end of the day, happy customers translate into returning customers, which in turn means a successful business. Self-service kiosks are an easy way for restauranteurs to provide a better customer experience for their diners and create sticky business.

First and foremost, kiosks mean customers spend less time waiting in line. Offering two ways to place an order – at a manned point of sale terminal and at a self-service kiosk – helps prevent a restaurant’s queue from bottlenecking. Who doesn’t enjoy quickly ordering and receiving their meal? Kiosk integration makes that a reality – and not just during slow times, but during rush hours, too.

Another major way that kiosks benefit the customer experience is by allowing diners to customize their orders fully and rapidly. According to the North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers, a whopping 72% of consumers expect customization. While it’s true that customers can also customize their order at a manned point of sale terminal, face-to-face orders are more susceptible to miscommunication and inaccurate order-taking, something that simply doesn’t occur as often at self-service kiosks. Additionally, kiosks can accommodate order-taking in multiple languages, further boosting their ability to help all customers place their orders, their way.

Boosted Profits

Needless to say, money matters … and kiosk integration can help restauranteurs make more of it!

Did you know that it’s been shown that customers spend 30% more when ordering from a self-service kiosk? A major reason for this is due to the ability for kiosks to naturally enhance upselling and cross-selling. Diners aren’t likely to order that extra drink or dessert if the only place they see it listed is on a separate part of a physical menu, or if the option is presented to them by a cashier in a sales pitch type of manner.

However, in one case study measuring sales at self-service kiosks versus sales at manned cashier terminals, not only did kiosks experience more traffic, but on average a kiosk’s orders contained 1.4x more items than orders placed at the terminal. This resulted in an impressive increase of at least $5 per transaction. The ability for kiosks to naturally present add-on items to diners (in an appealing style) certainly pays off.

More Efficient Use of Staff

One common fear associated with self-service kiosks is that a kiosk integration means that current restaurant staff will lose their jobs. However, that tends to not be the case. In fact, McDonald’s installed kiosks in thousands of its stores – without plans to lay off its workers.

According to a Business Insider article,

“Our CEO, Steve Easterbrook, has said on many occasions that self-order kiosks in McDonald’s restaurants are not a labor replacement,” a spokeswoman told Business Insider. “They provide an opportunity to transition back-of-the-house positions to more customer service roles such as concierges and table service where they are able to truly engage with guests and enhance the dining experience.”

Just like the article states, self-service kiosks allow staff to focus more of their energy on providing better customer service to customers, staying on top of cleaning and stocking napkins, utensils, and condiments, and more. And having staff prioritize the customer experience is important: 70% of consumers say they have already made a choice to support a company that delivers great customer service.

Free Self-Service Kiosk Resources

The future of many industries lies with self-service solutions. That’s why Star Micronics is offering free online ordering resources for resellers and software developers who are helping customers future-proof their businesses with self-service solutions.

Visit Self-Service Toolbox

Marketing Benefits

Self-service kiosks present multiple marketing opportunities to restauranteurs.

First, they provide an easy way for restaurants to promote their loyalty programs. Kiosks can prompt diners to sign up for a loyalty program or remind existing loyalty program members of program benefits, creating sticky business. Did you know that loyalty program members spend 12-18% more per year at a business than non-members?

Kiosks also provide a great opportunity for restauranteurs to reinforce their establishment’s branding. The kiosk’s software, as well as its exterior, can be customized to match the restaurant’s look and feel, further enhancing brand awareness. Some kiosks are also able to print promotions on the bottom of the receipt where diners are sure to see them, using technology like Star Micronics PromoPRNT.

Improved Safety

Last but certainly not least, kiosk integration can help restauranteurs boost the safety of their restaurants, something that is more important than ever as the world navigates the new normal.

In this day and age, nearly everyone prefers less contact with other people. Self-service kiosks not only eliminate the face-to-face interaction found at manned terminals, but they can also include safety-boosting features like antimicrobial glass, a single-piece screen design to eliminate the nooks and crannies that can harbor germs, and more.

Star Micronics Self-Service Kiosk Printers

A kiosk printing leader, Star Micronics is proud to offer a full range of self-service kiosk printers that accommodate multiple paper widths, operating systems, and more. The compact, reliable, and high-speed printers are designed to bring any restaurant self-service solution to life.

Kiosk Printer Family Features:
- 2”, 3”, and 4” paper sizes
- Compact or modular footprints
- Available with multiple accessories including bezels, presenters, large paper roll holders, and more
- Support Windows, Linux, Android, Mac, and iOS
- Print receipts, tickets, coupons, or adhesive labels
- Interfaces include serial, USB, parallel, and Ethernet
- Available with StarPRNT emulation, allowing you to take advantage of the full stack of Star Micronics technology, like StarPRNT SDKs and Star’s powerful line of drivers
Are you looking to integrate self-service kiosk printers, but not sure how to decide on a printer? Download “A Guide to Selecting the Right Kiosk Printer” now.

Download Guide
October 15, 2020
3 Self-Service Kiosk Trends Restaurant ISVs Can Capitalize On
The rise in demand for self-service kiosks is undeniable – in 2019, the market was valued at $28 billion and it’s expected to reach $68 billion by 2025. During this period of such vast growth that also happens to be occurring as the world navigates the new normal, what are the hottest self-service kiosk trends in the hospitality industry?

In this blog post, we’ll explore three self-service kiosk trends that restaurant ISVs can capitalize on – while providing peace of mind to restaurant staff and consumers alike.

1. Simple, One-Piece Screen Design

Style has always mattered when it comes to self-service kiosks, but since COVID-19 has rocked the world, hygiene is becoming even more of a priority. As the globe adapts to the new normal, providing solutions that help people stay safe is going to become not just an ongoing self-service kiosk trend, but a need.

Did you know that leveraging a one-piece, bezel-free kiosk screen design can provide aesthetic and hygienic benefits? A single, completely flat glass touch interface for customers to use can easily be cleaned and avoids mechanical keys and buttons which can contain germs and viruses.

The simple screen design is possible even if the self-service kiosk’s use case requires some grooves to help users feel their way across a surface, thanks to the ability for the glass to be precision machined without giving up the sleek, safe, and easy-to-clean one-piece design.

2. Antimicrobial Glasses/Coatings

Now that we’ve discussed the benefits of a bezel-free screen design, how can you go about making sure that glass stays as clean and germ-free as possible? The answer is antimicrobial glasses and coatings.

Antimicrobial glass – or glass that includes an ionic silver component that effectively reduces bacteria’s ability to multiply – exists on the market today. Additionally, this glass is designed to be scratch- and crack-resistant, helping to prevent cracks and crevices that bacteria can call home.

Just like self-service kiosks are growing in popularity, so is antimicrobial glass. It’s projected that the North American antimicrobial glass market alone will grow over 6% – to $270 million – by 2023. Additionally, the food and beverage market is expected to see a growth of over 7% over by 2023.

Free Self-Service Kiosk Resources

The future of many industries lies with self-service solutions. That’s why Star Micronics is offering free online ordering resources for resellers and software developers who are helping customers future-proof their businesses with self-service solutions.

Visit Self-Service Toolbox

3. QR Codes on Receipts

Contactless payments – or payments that can be made by consumers via a quick tap of their credit/debit card, smartphone, or smart watch – are in high demand, especially during the new normal. Luckily, there are many ways for restaurants to take advantage of the trend even if they do not want to adopt a payment terminal that accepts NFC (near field communication) payments.

A more affordable option for restaurants that are looking to easily take advantage of contactless payments so that their customers don’t need to touch a card or pin pad to pay is by taking advantage of QR codes printed on receipts. Whether the receipt is printed at the point of sale terminal or at a self-service kiosk, providing the customer with a printed QR code enables them to simply scan the code with their smartphone which then opens a direct link between the restaurant and the customer, where they can complete the transaction. This method is easy, cost-effective, and contactless.

According to Kiosk Marketplace,

“As restaurants, independent retailers and micro-businesses begin their recovery efforts from the COVID-19 pandemic, a growing number of merchants are embracing QR code technology as a simple, low cost alternative for payments and customer interaction as demand grows for a safe and cost efficient payments solution.

While widely popular in China and other overseas markets, QR codes have generally lagged NFC as the preferred methods of digital payment technology in the U.S. However for a growing number of micro-businesses and boutique merchants, they are giving QR codes a hard look as the safest, fastest and most cost efficient path to get customers willing conduct in person transactions.”

QR codes aren’t just for payments, either – restaurants can take their business to the next level with them. Restaurants can create QR codes that when scanned direct customers to join a loyalty program, visit social media accounts, access special promotions, and more. And when restaurants use a Star Micronics printer, they can easily customize and design these promotions and QR codes for free with PromoPRNT.

Star Micronics Self-Service Kiosk Printers

Always leading and always innovating, Star Micronics is proud to offer a full range of self-service kiosk printers that accommodate multiple paper widths, operating systems, and more. The compact, reliable, and high-speed printers are designed to bring any restaurant self-service solution to life.

Kiosk Printer Family Features:
- 2”, 3”, and 4” paper sizes
- Compact or modular footprints
- Available with multiple accessories including bezels, presenters, large paper roll holders, and more
- Support Windows, Linux, Android, Mac, and iOS
- Print receipts, tickets, coupons, or adhesive labels
- Interfaces include serial, USB, parallel, and Ethernet
- Available with StarPRNT emulation, allowing software developers to take advantage of the full stack of Star Micronics technology, like StarPRNT SDKs and Star’s powerful line of drivers
Download Brochure

Infographic: Self-Service Kiosks in Foodservice

Looking to learn more about the impact of self-service kiosks on the restaurant market? Explore the infographic below to discover more about:
- The growth of the industry
- How kiosks help restaurants boost profits
- Operational benefits of kiosks
- Marketing, branding, and loyalty perks of kiosks
- And more!
August 13, 2020
The Benefits of Self-Service Kiosks During the New Normal
During the COVID-19 pandemic, times are challenging for most businesses that are working hard to remain afloat while keeping up with continuing fixed operating costs and coping with less revenue being generated. The question of, “What can be done?” is a part of almost every conversation.

The benefits of self-service kiosks have been and will continue to be a key element in supporting not only the trying businesses, but companies integrating and selling solutions in those markets. As the market demand for contactless solutions continues to grow and those solutions become a part of the new normal, self-service kiosks will become even more of a focal point in the industry.

Read on to learn more about the various benefits of self-service kiosks during the new normal, whether it’s traditional kiosks taking on a new twist, or new kiosk concepts coming to light as market demands rapidly evolve.

Tried-and-True Kiosks Will Remain Relevant

Many things are changing right now, but many well-known and fully tested self-service solutions will remain in the market for specific sectors.

For example, simple and cost-effective queue management systems using small footprint kiosks will likely remain relevant, and ATMs will probably remain untouched, with some operational processes being adjusted by banks and financial institutions to accommodate the new normal.

Not all solutions will stick around, though – it’s probable that many solutions that used to work wonderfully will fade away and start being replaced with new trends.

Fresh Kiosk Concepts for the New Normal

Speaking of new trends, you most likely have noticed that some companies are not only remaining open, but are actually thriving because of the new opportunities generated by the current challenges we all face. It’s hard not to notice how dynamic a motivated company can be in reinventing themselves and their solution offerings in such a short period of time.

In terms of self-service, some of these innovations include:
- Temperature screening kiosks
- Kiosks featuring touchless technology and contactless payment acceptance
- Automated cleaning operations, such as UV-C devices which disinfect kiosks in between uses
- Contactless hand/palm vein pattern scanning, which is just as accurate as a fingerprint scanning but contactless
- Kiosk screen mirroring using a customer’s personal smartphone to prevent touching the kiosk screen
Free Self-Service Kiosk Resources

The future of many industries lies with self-service solutions. That’s why Star Micronics is offering free online ordering resources for resellers and software developers who are helping customers future-proof their businesses with self-service solutions.

Visit Self-Service Toolbox

What Remains Important

Regardless of the solution being designed and presented to the market, the quality of the final product, its ability to provide the needed service as expected, and its post-sale support will separate a successful solution from the rest. Because that aspect of business is not expected to change, selecting the right kiosk manufacturer, integrator, and components are essential.

Consumer needs also remain a priority. Focusing on consumer expectations and making sure they feel safe and accommodated when using these new or adapted self-service solutions will dictate which companies and solutions succeed in the new normal.

For example, as QSR franchises temporarily closed their dine-in areas (essentially leaving indoor kiosks unused) some businesses decided to repurpose the kiosks by moving them outside to serve the growing online delivery and takeout markets. This is a prime example of thinking outside the box and using self-service resources to better accommodate consumers’ current demands.

Together as an industry, as we wait for the economy to stabilize, it’s important and worthwhile to think creatively and become a part of the process of adapting to the new normal – while also remembering that product quality, technical support, and consumer needs remain a priority.

Star Micronics Self-Service Kiosk Printers

Star Micronics is proud to offer a robust lineup of self-service kiosk printers for virtually any business need. Available with 2”, 3” and 4” printing capabilities, the kiosk printers include options such as LED bezels, anti-jam receipt capturing, and large paper roll holders so that the printers require fewer paper roll changes. Easy to integrate, the kiosk printers are fully compatible with all operating systems and platforms, including iOS, Android, and Windows tablets with easy to integrate universal SDKs, and are backed by a dedicated integration team.

Capable of printing receipts, tickets, and labels, Star Micronics’ kiosk printers are ideal for:
- Quick service/fast casual restaurants
- Stadiums and parks
- Banks
- Retail
- Parking facilities
- Transportation hubs such as airports and bus and train stations
- And more!
Take a closer look at the Star Micronics kiosk printer family in the below video:

Star Micronics’ self-service kiosk solutions are ideal for restaurants, retail, and more.

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July 28, 2020
Why Resellers Should Offer Kiosk Service and Support
COVID-19 has quickly become one of the biggest challenges our modern world has faced. The pandemic has rocked the global community, and we as a society are adapting by redefining how we interact. Our daily habits which have been built over decades are changing to ensure the public’s safety, and as a reseller now is the time to consider how you can help your customers move forward safely and efficiently.

One of the most important factors in successfully navigating this new normal is learning about what tools are available to overcome the challenges presented by COVID-19, and one of these tools is the self-service kiosk. Because the kiosk industry is becoming more refined and relevant on a daily basis, it is becoming more important than ever for resellers to offer a full range of kiosk services, including everything from installation services to post-sale support.

In this blog post, we will explore why resellers should offer kiosk services and support, especially during such a critical time for businesses.

Why Should Resellers Offer Kiosk Service and Support?

Simply put, offering kiosk services is critical because the self-service industry is expected to boom as the world defines its new way of doing business and living life.

Self-service solutions were already on the rise, but now that contactless interaction is preferred and social distancing is ingrained in daily life, self-service is expected to flood our space. It is important to note that self-service is slated to grow in some verticals where it was never considered before.

Many technologies that previously only existed as concepts are now becoming valuable and accepted as building blocks for our new normal. Some of these technologies include:

Biometric Access Control: Access control solution providers are considering replacing fingerprint readers with contactless technologies like vein pattern biometric authentication. In addition to being less intrusive in nature, some of these solutions may also even be more accurate than their predecessors.

Contactless Interaction: Touch-free is here to stay, and fully voice-activated kiosks which allow users to interact in a safe, contactless manner and incorporate new AI technologies will likely increase in popularity.

Health Screening and Disinfection: With the pandemic comes a new set of public health priorities, and self-service solutions can help. Full-body thermal scanners can be used to prevent people with a fever from accessing populated spaces, and antibacterial gel dispensers can be integrated with existing kiosks to provide disinfection in use cases where, for now, contactless interaction is not an option.

Digital Signage Communication: In many regions, businesses are required to comply with new occupancy regulations, and automated digital signage kiosks can be used to communicate an establishment’s capacity.

As these technologies evolve and thrive, it is important to offer kiosk hardware that enables quick and easy installation and maintenance. For example, a kiosk printer that includes remote status monitoring and the ability to troubleshoot various aspects of its operation from a centralized location will bring value to virtually any business.

How to Offer the Right Kiosk Service and Support

It’s likely that these new self-service solutions will become the norm, and it’s important to consider that your service and support offerings may also need to change. A surefire way to do this is to not only offer cutting-edge technology but to confirm you partner with self-service manufacturers that prioritize innovation and are dedicated to continuously improving the technologies they offer.

One example of what this might look like is Star Micronics’ StarPRNT SDK which offers peace of mind to ISVs and end-users alike through the following features:

Future-proof development tools

Compatibility with all operating systems and platforms

Remote monitoring of kiosk printer paper status (low or no paper)

The ability to detect if the kiosk printer is offline or is experiencing operating issues

And more

In the self-service industry, many things are changing and will continue to change for some time. Kiosk integrators and manufacturers need to rely more than ever on fully customizable and easy-to-integrate components like world-class SDKs, platform-agnostic integration technologies, and best-in-class hardware for mission critical processes. Service and support for each of these factors is a key part of a sustainable solution and should be considered from day 1 when planning a go-to market strategy.

How Star Micronics is Innovating During COVID-19 and Beyond

As time passes and kiosk solutions become the new normal across the globe, Star Micronics is dedicated to continuously innovating to help businesses seamlessly navigate these changes. We will continue to integrate printing components with advanced tools like our universal SDK, as well as cloud-based and browser-enabled printing technologies, allowing the next generation of solutions to emerge.

As a reseller, consider consulting with experienced integrators and manufacturers like Star Micronics during every stage of your kiosk service and support project to guarantee you deliver solutions that help your customers seamlessly stay current with today’s new standards.

Meet the Star Micronics Kiosk Printer Family

Explore Star’s Kiosk Printer Lineup

At Star Micronics, our hearts go out to anyone impacted by COVID-19, either directly or indirectly, especially to those who are sick, to whom we extend our heartfelt wishes for a full recovery. To learn more about what we are doing as an organization to reduce the global impact of COVID-19, in terms of health and business, please click here.

To browse all of our blog posts covering tips for small businesses during COVID-19, please visit our #StarForSmallBiz blog collection.

Free Resources During COVID-19 & Beyond

Now more than ever, safety is a priority in retail and hospitality environments. Star Micronics is proud to offer a line of solutions and resources for businesses during this challenging time, designed to keep consumers and employees safe, as well as mitigate business impact caused by COVID-19.

Visit Our Health & Safety Toolbox
May 28, 2020
3 Innovative Kiosk Solutions You Should Consider in 2020
Self-service solutions, like many other technologically intensive solutions, are becoming smarter and better designed due to the unstoppable improvement of the available tools and the involvement of more experienced participants in the sector. The sustained increased demand for innovative kiosk solutions is also a factor as it provides the resources to keep the cycle going.So, you may be asking yourself: why are kiosks becoming so popular, and which new solutions should I consider offering to my customers this year? Read on to find out.

Why Kiosks?

As consumers become more aware of the advantages of self-service kiosks – like more accurate ordering and easier order customization – merchants are becoming more open to considering them as a part of their operations.

By choosing to implement kiosk technology, merchants not only improve their customers’ experience, but also positively affect their operation’s bottom line with automated and optimized processes designed for success. And calculating the ROI (return on investment) of kiosks isn’t ambiguous: understanding the value has become easier than ever with the ever-increasing availability of business intelligence reporting within the kiosk itself.

With innovative kiosk solutions available for virtually any market – restaurant/QSR, retail, hospitals, and even corporate office buildings – it’s important to note that not all kiosks are created equal, and kiosk solutions can be customized to meet your customer’s specific needs. Below are three innovative kiosk solutions you should consider in 2020:

1. Intelligent Queue Management Systems

The process of pulling a preprinted number through a fixed dispenser with the sole purpose of organizing customers into an orderly queue is a thing of the past thanks to kiosks. Intelligent and feature-rich solutions are now available to bring value to both merchants and most importantly, their customers.

Customer-facing features like being able to check on current queue times from home, getting in line before arriving to the premises, scheduling an appointment remotely, checking in upon arrival through a mobile app, and receiving notifications for scheduled appointments and the best route to follow considering traffic are just a few things already possible through the use of the currently available smart queue management solutions. It’s important to remember to include walk-in customers in your kiosk considerations too and be sure the kiosk is capable of issuing receipts, service tickets, and more at each location for those who did not take advantage of the remote features of the solution.

2. Digital Signage with Printing Options

Smart advertising is emerging in many verticals, not only because of its ability to disseminate content, but also because of the advanced technologies used to deliver that messaging.

Imagine being able to watch digital advertising while walking at the mall and at any point be able to request a printout with information, promotions, and special messages relevant to what you were watching. Furthermore, imagine this information being able to dynamically change based on each individual consumer’s purchasing habits.

The way companies are reaching their potential customers is changing and innovative kiosk solutions are absolutely going to be a part of that change.

3. Advanced Access Control Solutions

Self-service kiosks can now be integrated with many biometric technology features like:
- Facial recognition
- Retina and fingerprint scanning
- Gender and age validation
- And more
With these technologies in place, access control solutions are now capable of identifying people attempting to go through their systems with an almost zero-failure rate. Not only does this improve safety and security, but this also allows for faster and more accurate screening, turning a potentially bottlenecked process into a perfectly flowing one, opening the door for new possibilities in the sector.

Kiosk Solution-Selling Tips

Solutions will continue to evolve as their demand stays in an upward trend. As a solution provider, it is important to be innovative in your proposals and to remain a leader in your space. Providing real-world experience and trusted consultative services to your customers will set yourself apart from the competition.

To deepen your self-service kiosk solution offering, be sure to partner with other companies that also have a breadth of experience and knowledge on the latest kiosk trends. For example, Star, a kiosk printer provider, has sales and marketing teams with over 370 years of collective experience in the POS industry. Additionally, we are proud to have a Kiosk Product Champion on board, as well as an integration team that is well-versed in making sure Star’s solutions work with the industry’s leading POS software solutions.

Together you and your kiosk partners can successfully move forward in this ever-changing technocentric world through mutual excellence and solution selling, not product pushing.

Free Self-Service Kiosk Resources

The future of many industries lies with self-service solutions. That’s why Star Micronics is offering free online ordering resources for resellers and software developers who are helping customers future-proof their businesses with self-service solutions.

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Explore Star’s Kiosk Solutions

Star is proud to offer a complete line of kiosk printing solutions perfect for a variety of industries such as hospitality, stadium/recreation, banks, retail, parking facilities, transportation hubs, and more.

Star’s Kiosk Printers At-a-Glance:
- Available in multiple paper widths (2”, 3”, 4”)
- Open-frame and housed printers available
- Multiple footprints available, from compact to modular
- Available interfaces: serial, USB, parallel, Ethernet
- Operating system compatibility: Windows, Linux, Android, Mac, iOS
- Multiple accessories available including bezel, presenter, and large paper roll holders
Click here to easily decide which kiosk printer is right for you.

Meet Star’s Kiosk Printers

Star provides the highest quality and largest variety of kiosk printing solutions.

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March 26, 2020
3 Reasons Self-Service Kiosk Solution Providers Should Choose a Printer with Android SDK Support
The growth of the self-service kiosk industry is undeniable: 2019 was the third consecutive year of double-digit growth for the industry, according to Kiosk Marketplace. This data confirms that the industry is a very attractive specialized vertical to focus on, and as a kiosk solution provider, being prepared to provide what the market needs – with the right technology and innovation – is key.One example of this innovation is the ability for a kiosk to support tablets, including Android-based systems. Why is supporting Android tablets so important? As a kiosk solution provider, read on to discover three reasons you should choose a printer with Android SDK support.

Free Self-Service Kiosk Resources

The future of many industries lies with self-service solutions. That’s why Star Micronics is offering free online ordering resources for resellers and software developers who are helping customers future-proof their businesses with self-service solutions.

Visit Self-Service Toolbox

Reason #1: Android as a Replacement Device

The times are changing, and so are the go-to devices found in self-service kiosks. As the industry grows and sectors that were previously indifferent to self-service solutions become a part of the demanding force, the need for cost-effective, flexible, and easy-to-integrate solutions has emerged.

One ideal solution to meet this need is the Android tablet. Affordable, compact, and simple to use, Android tablets are replacing computers, all-in-ones, and touchscreens across the industry, and it’s important to support them.

Reason #2: Android as a Cost-Effective Solution

The tablet world has evolved at lightning speed with bigger and more powerful devices available at every price point imaginable. Interestingly, this shift was not triggered by self-service kiosk solutions, but it has changed the way kiosks are designed and has disrupted the industry at its core.

Although highly customized Windows- and Linux-based kiosks running costly CPUs and larger-than-life touchscreens are still available for those with the budget and need, the self-service market has been disrupted by newer, cost-conscious tablet solutions, with Android becoming the leading operating system for this type of integration.

Reason #3: Android as a Sleek Design

When it comes to self-service kiosks, the design follows the function, meaning that the most effective kiosks are designed with their specific use cases in mind.

Not surprisingly, as the demand for self-service solutions increases, ideal solution designs have also changed. In many cases, this means a smaller footprint, a minimalist style, and more intuitive interfaces – all of which can be found in an Android-based system.

In addition to the device itself, selecting the right set of components to accompany your Android tablet-based kiosk will dictate how successful your proposed solution will be today and into the future.

In Summary: Why It’s Imperative to Support Android

One size does not fit all when it comes to self-service kiosks. Some kiosks print sales receipts in quick service restaurants (QSRs), others print shipping labels in courier companies, some print tickets in parking garages, and so on.

With so many potential applications (and potential customers), offering the right operating system support is extremely important. And with their high quality, compact size, affordable price point, specific functionality, and easy compatibility, Android devices are now the norm for the market. To ensure your entire kiosk solution is Android-friendly, it’s a must to choose a printer with Android SDK support.

How to Choose an Android-Compatible Kiosk Printer

The self-service kiosk journey does not end at the tablet. To ensure maximum efficiency and success, it’s important to choose a kiosk printer that not only supports Android but is also reliable and high-performance. Here are some kiosk printer features to look for:
- Paper Size: One of the first considerations when it comes to a kiosk printer is what size paper you need to be printing. Common widths include 2”, 3”, and 4”.
- Interface: Next up on your list of kiosk printer features to think about is the interface. Will you need serial, USB, parallel, or an Ethernet connection? Be sure that the kiosk printer you choose is compatible with the interface(s) you plan on using.
- Footprint: Another important consideration is the kiosk printer’s footprint. Do you need the most compact printer possible? Or do you need a larger, more modular printer?
- Position: Like the printer’s footprint, you must also consider whether the printer needs to be in a horizontal or vertical position and choose a printer that can accommodate that requirement.
- Accessories: Last but not least, be sure to assess which kiosk printer accessories you will need and make sure the printer you are considering is offered with them. Common accessories include a bezel, a presenter, a large paper roll holder, and more.
Meet Star’s Kiosk Printers

Star is proud to offer a wide range of kiosk printers featuring multiple paper widths, interfaces, footprints, positions, and available accessories – all compatible with the Android operating system! Learn more about Star’s kiosk printer family in the below video, featuring Star’s Kiosk Printer Champion Augusto Echecopar:

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Looking for more help choosing a kiosk printer? Download our free cheat sheet: How to Select Your Kiosk Printer.

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March 17, 2020
3 Ways to Set Up a Successful Kiosk Implementation in 2020
So, you’re looking to take advantage of self-service kiosk technology. You know that self-service solutions can boost profits, increase order accuracy, and improve the customer experience. But how do you ensure a successful kiosk implementation?First and foremost, it’s important to remember that understanding the environment in which the self-service kiosk will operate is crucial to its success. If the kiosk will remain unattended for the most part of its operational cycle and if attending it for any reason (being it technical or merely operational) is costly due to distances or any other logistic aspect, then focusing on the kiosk’s autonomy is key.

Explore Star’s self-service kiosk solutions.

Your best chance for an autonomous kiosk boils down to three important factors:
- A powerful and effective set of components,
- A strategic location, and
- A high-quality supplier.
Read on to learn more about each factor.

Kiosk Implementation Rule #1: A Kiosk is as Powerful and Effective as the Sum of its Components

For any kiosk integrator, selecting the proper components when putting together a kiosk solution is one of the most important aspects of their kiosk design. Three things to look for when selecting kiosk components are ruggedness, a large paper roll holder, and user-proof features.
- Ruggedness: A good rule of thumb is to make sure the kiosk printer that you select is durable and includes components that are long-lasting. In terms of a kiosk printer, that includes consumables such as the print head, automatic cutter, and more.
- Large Paper Roll Holder: One easy way to instantly cut down on maintenance time (and associated fees) is by selecting a large paper roll holder for your kiosk. Considering a larger paper roll diameter (length) allows the kiosk to operate for a longer period of time without attention since it can accommodate many more printed receipts without any additional paper roll changes.
- User–Proof Features: Designing a kiosk to be user-proof is very important. What exactly does user-proof mean? It means creating a self-service solution which process is inherently straightforward and easy-to-adopt for end-users. One way to do that is by considering the use of an optional presenter to allow all the printing and cutting to happen inside the kiosk unit prior to making it available to the user. With a presenter, there’s no question about whether or not the receipt is ready.
Choosing the right technology in your self-service solution allows your kiosk to be remotely monitored, so that operators can more effectively and efficiently plan maintenance visits regarding paper replenishing, technical service, replacement of consumable components, etc. At the end of the day, this efficiency means less downtime, more profit, and happier customers!

Kiosk Implementation Rule #2: Location, Location, Location

You know what they say: location is key! That same rule applies to self-service kiosks.

Selecting the right place for your self-service kiosk solution not only can increase sales, but may also affect its reliability, durability, and customers’ perceptions of quality of service provided.

A couple of tips for choosing a location include:
- Consider an easy-to-access, well-illuminated, and high-traffic area to give your kiosk the greatest chance for success in terms of adoption and sales.
- Make sure that when you select the kiosk’s location, you are considering how the location will benefit or affect both the end-user and the kiosk’s success. For example, if your kiosk is serving as a parking self-service payment station, it should be placed in a natural path towards the parking garage to allow end-users to access it without having to go to a different area or being unsure of where to pay.
Kiosk Implementation Rule #3: Your Supplier Matters

Last but not least, your supplier matters … a lot. In order to choose a supplier that will be able to assist you in the long run no matter what your use case, be sure to go with one that acts as a trusted adviser, offers a wide range of kiosk printers, and provides top-notch support.
- A Trusted Adviser: Choosing a supplier that doesn’t just sell, but consults, is just as important as selecting your kiosk’s components and location. To do this, look for a manufacturer with a healthy amount of industry experience who can act as a trusted adviser. Working with companies specialized in the vertical being attended, in this case the self-service kiosk vertical, is critical. Absorbing decades of experience and having access to the most innovative technologies and options will benefit your final solution, and in some cases will open the door to create solutions previously inconceivable.
- A Wide Range of Kiosk Printers: Kiosks are not “one size fits all.” Choose a supplier that offers a range of kiosk printers, including open-frame and closed-frame, with a variety of possible positions, connectivity options, and accessories.
- Superb Support: Your self-service journey doesn’t end when the kiosk implementation is complete. Your long-term success depends on choosing a supplier that offers a robust level of support, such as easy-to-find drivers, manuals, warranty information, and FAQs/troubleshooting, as well as on-site technical support staff.
We hope that these kiosk implementation tips were helpful, and will guide you as you select kiosk components, locations and use cases, and suppliers.

Free Self-Service Kiosk Resources

The future of many industries lies with self-service solutions. That’s why Star Micronics is offering free online ordering resources for resellers and software developers who are helping customers future-proof their businesses with self-service solutions.

Visit Self-Service Toolbox

Get to Know Star’s Kiosk Printers

Explore all printers.

Looking for more kiosk help? Download our free Guide to Selecting the Right Kiosk Printer.

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February 27, 2020