Category: Solutions & Use Cases

  • How Food Robots are Making Waves in the Restaurant Industry

    How Food Robots are Making Waves in the Restaurant Industry

    Food robots might sound futuristic, but believe it or not, they’re already showing up in restaurants across the world. Offering both front- and back-of-house services, food robots work in a variety of roles, from cooking and cleaning up to bartending and bussing tables. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular food robots on the market today, and how restaurants can get their very own robot.

    Cooking

      • Flippy: Meet Flippy, a robot that works at Caliburger in Pasadena, California. Flippy is capable of (impressively) frying 80 baskets of food per hour and serving 300 burgers a day. And Flippy can do more than just cook – it can even monitor food and clean up. Flippy helps the burger joint minimize headcount costs, as many short-order cooks were leaving the kitchen due to high temperatures (it’s worth noting that not one Caliburger employee has lost their job due to Flippy; in fact, Flippy requires humans to operate).

      • Vincenzo: Vincenzo is a pizza-making robot at Zume Pizza in Mountain View, California. Capable of creating 370 pizzas an hour, Vincenzo can press dough, dispense and spread sauce, and lift pizzas in and out of the oven, reducing delivery times to 5-20 minutes. Interestingly, there is no storefront for Zume Pizza; all pizzas are delivered via mobile kitchen food trucks.

      • Café X Barista Bot: Café X, a San Francisco coffeeshop, utilizes a one-armed assembly line-style robot that can create two drinks in under a minute. The café’s robot helps ensure complicated orders come out correctly, and apparently the drinks even taste good, too; according to Wired, “This robot barista makes a dang good latte.”

    Bartending

      • Cyberdog Bartender Bot: When you step inside Prague’s Cyberdog, a two-level futuristic wine bar, you’ll soon realize it’s home to a robotic bartender that serves up drinks ordered via a smartphone app. The red robotic arm can pour up to four drinks simultaneously before they are placed on a tray and delivered via a mechanical system housed in the ceiling. Humorously, the robot can put on a show, too; if business is slow and the robot doesn’t have any orders to make, it gets “bored” and performs dances.

    Serving

      • Penny: Created by Bear Robotics, Penny is a robot created to help complete tedious restaurant tasks. Penny serves food to diners tables in a fun and futuristic way, and can even bus the tables. Bear Robotics CEO Jon Ha said that waitstaff appreciate not having to lift heavy trays, and have experience higher tips because they now have more time and energy to dedicate to customer service.

      • Delivery Robots: In addition to serving customers in restaurants, fleets of delivery robots are hitting the streets to also deliver food (and other items) to consumers’ homes and offices. In 2018, the delivery robot market was worth $11.9 billion, and it’s predicted to be worth a whopping $34 billion by 2024. It makes sense, when you realize that more than 60% of a merchant’s customers live within three miles of one of their stores!

    How Do Restaurants Get Their Hands on Food Robots?

    Not surprisingly, robots can come with a hefty price tag. However, renting one (versus buying one) makes them surprisingly affordable. According to one robotics company, a robot can be leased, and that lease is reported to offer immediate return. The estimated price range for a lease is $15K-$50K (USD) per year, depending on the complexity of the duties wished to be performed. It still might feel futuristic, but quick-service restaurants where customers order and pay on kiosks, and eat food that is cooked and delivered by robots, is entirely possible.

    Even if you’re unsure about employing a robot just yet, Star Micronics can help you automate other restaurant processes with self-service kiosks. Download our Kiosk Printing Solutions brochure to learn more about the durability, versatility, and industry-specific features Star offers.

  • 3 Memorial Day Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses

    3 Memorial Day Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses

    Time is flying and Memorial Day is almost here! Memorial Day is a great time for your business to honor the Armed Forces, as well as celebrate the unofficial start of summer. Last year, it was estimated that consumers spent $500 (each!) over the holiday weekend, which means stores like yours should be prepared.

    Print Memorial Day Promotions with Your Receipt Printer

    There’s no need to shell out your hard-earned cash to market your Memorial Day specials. With Star Micronics PromoPRNT, you can print custom Memorial Day marketing promotions for veterans-only sales, summer kickoff specials, barbeques, and much more – all using the receipt printer you already have. And even better yet, the promotions are printed directly on the bottom of the receipt – a place nearly every customer looks! Click here to learn more or sign up for PromoPRNT today.

    Let’s explore 3 easy in-store promotions you can print using PromoPRNT (these templates are currently available for use in the PromoPRNT dashboard):

    1. Highlight a Sale for VeteransMemorial-Day-Veteran-Sale-e1574803895935

    2. Promote a BBQMemorial-Day-BBQ-e1574803911834

    3. Have a Summer Kickoff SaleMemorial-Day-Summer-Sale-e1574803926559

    Remember, all of these promotion templates are currently available on the PromoPRNT dashboard, in the Promotion Builder.

    PromoPRNT

  • How to Create the Perfect POS Solution for Your Fitness Center

    How to Create the Perfect POS Solution for Your Fitness Center

    A fitness center is a challenging environment for point of sale (POS) systems. There are staff schedules, members to track, classes to register for, and different areas of the facility that may need retail POS functionalities but don’t have the counter space to spare.

    Owners and managers who want to create the perfect POS solution for their fitness center can build it with the right components and applications. There are a wide range of technologies and POS hardware solutions that can help you elevate your fitness center to the next level.

    Free Download: POS Software and Systems Buyer’s Guide.

    Scheduling and Membership Management

    Downloadable applications for scheduling and member management are popular because they require little upfront investment, update frequently, and typically utilize the hardware you already own. This affordable alternative to traditional, on-premises POS systems keep information secure and make it easy to create schedules and maintain client records, even when you’re not on site.

    However, many web-based applications have printer connectivity issues.  A platform-agnostic print data relaying application is a popular technology solution used to remedy this problem. You’ll want to find a low-cost, versatile solution to cloud/web-based printing that allows you to generate high-quality printing for your fitness center with professional, crisp graphics.

    Solutions for Off-Site or Outdoor Fitness Classes

    Fitness center owners who host off-site events or outdoor fitness classes need to have receipt-printing capability for customers paying for retail products, classes or services. For this reason, you’ll want to find a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)-enabled printer. These portable receipt printers can range from compact models to more robust options, and at price points that suit any budget.  Choose a portable receipt printer that is small, light, and can easily be carried outdoors and used to print invoices, labels, receipts, and other documentation.

    Space-Saving, Cost-Effective Solutions

    Fitness centers aren’t cash-heavy operations, so many gym owners don’t feel the need to shell out big bucks for a full POS setup. But for a select few areas that handle cash — for example, a juice bar, babysitting, or when paying for guests or special services — an ergonomic solution for tablet POS that combines a cash drawer and printer peripheral is the ideal solution. Select a unit with a fully integrated design that works with the tablet or mobile device of your choice, so you can have a mobile solution without compromising space, quality, or functionality.

    39650111-e1574803841207
    The Star Micronics mPOP is the perfect modern, compact point of sale solution.

    Quick and Easy Connections

    Fitness center owners who choose popular iPad and iPhone POS solutions have demanded increasingly mobile and connected receipt printer solutions. Since gyms tend to be heavily soundproofed with electronic equipment or other signal blocking materials, you may struggle with connectivity.

    TSP650II-e1574803858349
    The first AirPrint-certified receipt printer, the TSP654II.

    Choose a printing solution from a line of printers that was created to take care of connectivity problems. For example, consider the TSP654II. This printer was the first-ever AirPrint® certified receipt printer on the market, meaning it prints via iOS devices easily and without driver installation. On top of its compatibility, the TSP654II also is capable of printing 60 receipts per minute and features swappable interfaces.

    The Star Micronics mC-Printers are another great option for a connected gym. The sleek, cube-shaped printers are available in 2″ and 3″ models, and boast Bluetooth, USB, Lightning, LAN, and CloudPRNT connectivity options.

    Gym owners looking for printing solutions for fitness centers should explore Star Micronics’ lineup of hardware and technology applications. Whether you are looking to add printer connectivity, mobile POS, or off-site functionality, Star has a variety of options that will help you add the capabilities you need at an affordable price.

    Built-In Marketing Tools

    Printing receipts is great, but why not kill two birds with one stone and market to your fitness center members at the same time? Star Micronics PromoPRNT, a value-added, cloud-based marketing tool, lets you do just that. PromoPRNT uses existing Star receipt printers to print custom promotions directly on the bottom of receipts., You can easily log on to the cloud dashboard and design promotions from templates, boosting customer engagement and retention. Promotions can advertise sales, special events, loyalty programs, and much more. Learn more or sign up today!

    Need more guidance building out your ideal fitness center point of sale system? Contact us today!

  • Cannabis Legalization Check-In: What’s New

    Cannabis Legalization Check-In: What’s New

    It’s hard to believe that 2019 is almost halfway complete. Time is flying, and if one thing is true, it’s this: the cannabis industry is budding.

    It seems like there’s a major cannabis legalization update with each week that passes. With that legalization (and cultural acceptance) comes dollar signs: it’s predicted that the global legal cannabis market will be worth $63.5 billion by 2024. Whether or not you’ve dipped your toes into the cannabis market, it’s important to stay informed, which is why we’ve compiled a mid-year cannabis legalization check-in. Discover what’s new in cannabis legalization in the U.S. and beyond below.

    Cannabis Legalization: Where the U.S. Stands

    At the time this blog post was written, the medical use of cannabis is legal in 33 states, four out of five permanently inhabited U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. Meanwhile, the recreational usage of cannabis is legal in 10 states (Alaska, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington). And interestingly, a 2018 Gallup poll found that two-thirds of Americans feel marijuana should be made legal.

    The following states have bills to legalize (and for the most part, regulate) adult marijuana use:

    • Alabama
      • Bill(s): SB 98; would legalize less than two ounces of cannabis, but does not include a regulated system
    • Connecticut
      • Bill(s): HB 7371, SB 1085, HB 5595, HB 6863, SB 496, SB 690 SB 744; on March 25, HB 7371 passed out of the General Law Committee
    • Florida
      • Bill(s): S. 1298; proposes a constitutional amendment that would go to voters for adults to grow, possess, and use cannabis
    • Hawaii
      • Bill(s): HB 1515, HB 1581, HB 708, SB 606, SB 686, SB 702; these bills did not advance out of committee before a deadline
    • Illinois
      • Bill(s): SB 7, HB 902, HB 2477
    • Indiana
      • Bill(s): SB 213; did not advance out of committee before a deadline
    • Iowa
      • Bill(s): SF 469; did not advance before a legislative deadline
    • Kentucky
      • Bill(s): SB 80; the legislature adjourned without voting on the bill
    • Louisiana
      • Bill(s): HB 509, HB 564, HB 462; HB 462 would create a constitutional amendment to allow cities to call elections to legalize and regulate adult use of cannabis
    • Maryland
      • Bill(s): SB 771 and SB 656; HB 632 proposes a constitutional amendment that would go to voters in 2020
    • Minnesota
      • Bill(s): SF 619 and HF 420; HF 265 and HF 465 propose a constitutional amendment that would go to voters in 2020; the Senate bills were voted down in committee in a 6-3 vote
    • Mississippi
      • Bill(s): SB 2349 died in committee
    • Missouri
      • Bill(s): HB 157, HB 551
    • Montana
      • Bill(s): HB 770
    • New Hampshire
      • Bill(s): HB 481, which the House voted 200-163 to pass on April 4, 2019, sending the bill to the Senate
    • New Jersey
      • Bill(s): S 830, A 1348, A 3819; the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee and the Assembly Appropriations Committee voted on November 26, 2018 to advance S2703 and A4497; both bills carried over to 2019; the Senate Judiciary Committee reported a revised bill out on March 18, 2019
    • New Mexico
      • Bill(s): HR 356, SB 577; the House approved HR 356 in a 36-34 vote, then the bill died in the Senate Finance committee; the legislature has adjourned
    • New York
      • Bill(s): A. 1617, S. 1527, and S. 1509 and A. 2009, which are budget bills that include taxing and regulating cannabis for adult use
    • North Carolina
      • Bill(s): SB 58
    • Pennsylvania
      • Bill(s): HB 50
    • Rhode Island
      • Bill(s): H 5828 and H 5151; H 5151 is a budget bill that includes taxing and regulating cannabis for adult use
    • Texas
      • Bill(s): SB 460, SJR, 8, proposes a constitutional amendment that would go to voters in 2020
    • Virginia
      • Bill(s): HB 2371, HB 2373, both of which died in committee
    • West Virginia
      • Bill(s): SB 143, HB 2331, HB 2376, HB 3108; these bills did not advance before the legislature adjourned

    Adult-use legalization bills are predicted in Delaware and Wisconsin, as well.

    Where Other Countries Stand

    Here is where some other countries stand in terms of legalization:

    • Argentina: CBD legalized/partially medically legalized/decriminalized
    • Australia: Medically legalized/partially decriminalized
    • Canada: Full federal legalization
    • Chile: Medically legalized
    • Colombia: Medically legalized/decriminalized
    • Croatia: Medically legalized
    • Czech Republic: Medically legalized
    • Germany: Medically legalized/decriminalized
    • India: Federally illegal, but legal in some states
    • Israel: Medically legalized
    • Italy: Medically legalized
    • Jamaica: Partially medically legalized/decriminalized
    • Macedonia: Medically legalized
    • Mexico: Medically legalized/decriminalized
    • Philippines: Medical cannabis legislation in progress
    • Poland: Partially medically legalized
    • Puerto Rico: Medically legalized
    • Turkey: Medically legalized
    • Uruguay: Legalized

    Looking to Grow in the Cannabis Market?Capture-Cannabis-brochure-e1574802612781

     

    Star Micronics has what it takes to compete in the cannabis industry. Our cannabis point of sale offering includes everything from NTEP-certified scales and high-volume cash drawers to pre-printed cannabis labels and in-store marketing tools.

    Are you a reseller looking to cash in on cannabis point of sale? Discover what makes the cannabis industry different from other retail industries, what POS systems are required to legally sell cannabis, and more!

  • 3 In-Store Mother’s Day Marketing Ideas Using PromoPRNT

    3 In-Store Mother’s Day Marketing Ideas Using PromoPRNT

    Ah, moms. They are there for us since day one, and they remind us to take care of ourselves when we are adults. Clearly many people appreciate their mothers, and feel that there’s no better way to thank mom than to treat her on Mother’s Day. In fact, according to the National Retail Federation, in 2018, 86% of American consumers celebrated the holiday, and they spent $179.77 each (with the biggest spenders shelling out nearly $225)!

    It’s simply a no brainer that businesses large and small should cash in on the loving holiday. Implementing an in-store Mother’s Day marketing campaign in particular is great idea. Why? Because collectively, 64% of consumers will shop at department stores and specialty stores (like florists and jewelers), versus just 31% of shoppers who plan to shop online. Additionally, nearly 30% of moms claim they would love to receive the gift of an experience, like a spa day or entertainment tickets.

    PromoPRNT: The Perfect Solution for Mother’s Day Marketing

    Lucky for retailers and restaurants, with Star Micronics PromoPRNT, there’s never been an easier way to take advantage of in-store marketing. PromoPRNT works with your existing Star receipt printer (at no additional cost) and enables you to print customized promotions – directly on the receipts that go into your customer’s hand! Benefits of PromoPRNT include:

    • Increase customer retention
    • Make each customer visit unique
    • Manage promotions from anywhere
    • Make custom promotions from templates
    • And more!

    Click here to learn more about PromoPRNT, or check out our short intro video below:

    To help you out, Star has created three customizable Mother’s Day promotion templates, which are available now in the Promotion Builder. Check them out now:

    Promo 1: Invite Customers to Take Mom Out

    Mothers-Day-Moms-Night-Out-e1574803752679

    Promo 2: Promote Your Mother’s Day Sales

    Mothers-Day-Massage-BOGO-e1574803766652

    Promo 3: Host a Giveaway

    Mothers-Day-Instagram-Contest-e1574803783156

     

    Remember, all of these templates are now available to use in Promo Builder!

    Ready to learn more or register for PromoPRNT? Click here to learn more and register your Star printer.

  • The Faster Payments Council: What You Need to Know

    The Faster Payments Council: What You Need to Know

    The payments industry is changing – fast. According to Statista, digital payments (including any payment made over the internet and payments made via mobile device at the point of sale) are expected to grow 12.7% year over year, and will account for over $6.5 trillion worldwide by 2023.

    With the rapid growth of faster payments – or “payments in which the transmission of the payment message and the availability of final funds to the payee occur in real time or near-real time, and on as near to a 24-hour and 7-day basis as possible” – comes a variety of concerns, from accessibility to security. Not surprisingly, the industry’s leaders want a say in the path that’s being paved.

    That’s where the U.S. Faster Payments Council (FPC) comes in. Lead by some of the payment industry’s key players, the FPC aims to enable all Americans to “safely and securely pay anyone, anywhere, at any time, and with near-immediate funds availability.” Let’s take a deeper dive into the FPC and its goals.

    Discover how mobile point of sale (mPOS) is revolutionizing payments.

    When Was the FPC Formed?

    The FPC was created in November 2018 by the Faster Payments Task Force, a group of hundreds of stakeholders that came together – with Federal Reserve support – to form the Governance Framework Formation Team (GFFT). The GFFT was tasked with developing and implementing a governance framework that was inclusive of all of its stakeholders and facilitated faster payments in America, which is the FPC.

    Who is a Part of the FPC?

    The FPC is open to all stakeholders in the U.S. payment system, and it welcomes everyone from corporations to small businesses to individuals. Founding sponsors of the FPC include:

    • Bankers’ Bank
    • Ceridian
    • Corporate One
    • Early Warning
    • ICBA Bancard
    • Mastercard
    • NEACH
    • North American Banking Company
    • Open Payment Network
    • SHAZAM
    • Target
    • TD Bank
    • The Bankers’ Bank
    • The Clearing House
    • Visa Inc.
    • The Bank of New York Mellon
    • First Data
    • Goldman Sachs Bank USA
    • JPMorgan Chase Bank & Co.
    • Walmart

    What is the FPC’s Mission?

    Simply put, the FPC’s mission is to enable ubiquitous faster payments in the U.S. According to its website, the FPC has three pillars of guiding principles: inclusiveness and fairness; flexibility and responsibility; and transparency. More specifically, some goals the FPC has are:

    • Addressing issues that inhibit the adoption of faster payments
    • Enhancing the safety and security for service providers and users of faster payments
    • Developing guidelines to address opportunities and issues
    • Creating an education and awareness program to foster a better understanding of faster payments

    Click here to view the FPC’s full framework.

    What Comes Next

    The FPC is planning to hold its first in-person meeting at the end of May 2019, so we expect to hear an update on its next steps shortly after. The council is also currently searching for its permanent Executive Director. During a time when payments are changing faster than ever, we’re interested to see how the FPC will affect the industry!

  • Star Micronics and Kiosk Group, Inc. to Provide Self-Service Solution

    Star Micronics and Kiosk Group, Inc. to Provide Self-Service Solution

    Kiosk Pro, with Star Micronics printer peripherals makes self-service kiosks easy for government, healthcare, museums, and more

    SOMERSET, NJ – APRIL 24, 2019 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point of sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is proud to announce that Kiosk Group, Inc. has added support for Star’s all-in-one mPOP for their Kiosk Pro solution. Kiosk Pro transforms ideas into interactive kiosk experiences with Star’s modern and sleek hardware for the ultimate customer experience.

    Kiosk Group offers ready-to-ship and custom-made solutions through their Kiosk Pro software. It is a flexible solution for any use case that also supports web-friendly content and media. Kiosk Pro Enterprise provides retailers and restaurants with interactive kiosk solutions for price checking or self-service check-out. Kiosk Pro also offers solutions for government, healthcare, museums, and more.

    Star Micronics’ mPOP offers a compact and sleek mobile point of sale peripheral with a built-in receipt printer and cash drawer. In addition to the mPOP, Kiosk Group also supports Star’s TSP654II, TSP743II, TSP847II, and TSP143IIIU printers through their Kiosk Pro Enterprise solution. With these hardware options, Kiosk Pro provides their customers with an easy and reliable way to complete transactions with printed receipts.

    “We’ve seen an increasing number of customers using Kiosk Pro for self-created POS applications,” said Becca Rice, Director of Software Development at Kiosk Group. “As an all-in-one cash register and printer solution, the mPOP is a great fit for our platform.”

  • Join Star Micronics at ETA TRANSACT 2019

    Join Star Micronics at ETA TRANSACT 2019

    SOMERSET, NJ – APRIL 22, 2019 – Star Micronics, a leading global manufacturer of mobile, point of sale (POS), and customer engagement technology solutions will be showcasing and demonstrating a range of featured products and software at ETA TRANSACT, an impressive show where industry leaders and entrepreneurs gather to focus solely on the business of payments technology. TRANSACT is held on Tuesday, April 30th through Thursday, May 2nd in Las Vegas, Nevada. Star Micronics will be at booth #3509, displaying an assortment of industry-leading solutions and connecting with attendees.

    Featured products and services include:

    • PromoPRNT – a seamless way for retailers to create and design printed promotions and receipts.
    • mUnite stands – durable steel POS solution stands that offers both function and style.
    • mCollection – a collection of durable, stylish printers and accessories designed to be easy to use.
    • CloudPRNT – a modern way for users to print to Star printers directly through a cloud service.

    In addition to providing information on featured products and services, Star will be offering software demos for:

    • Zuza on mPOP –ZUZA works with hundreds of processors and ISVs making its sales channels one of the fastest growing in the industry.
    • CardFlight on TSP100IIIBi – CardFlight is a leader in payment technology and mobile point-of-sale solutions for merchant service providers, banks, and independent sales organizations.
    • eMobilePOS on SM-S230i – A pioneer and leader in mobile POS, eMobile offers full-featured mobile POS software for Android, Apple iOS, and Windows smartphones and tablets.
    • Acadia POS on mC-Print3 – Acadia provides robust, cloud-based point-of-sale and business management solutions for retailers.

    Star Micronics’ collection of printing and POS solutions are designed to align with the needs of business owners and support their brands.

    “We are eager to connect with other industry leaders, technology innovators, and forward-thinkers in the payments industry. ETA TRANSACT is an ideal place to learn who and what is shaping the payments industry, and form lasting connections that promote mutual success,” says Christophe Naasz, Director of Business Development for Star Micronics.

    Join Star Micronics at ETA TRANSACT 2019 and get an in-depth look at cutting edge software, solutions, and services that are making waves in the industry.

  • 5 of the Most Beautiful Cannabis Dispensaries in America

    5 of the Most Beautiful Cannabis Dispensaries in America

    The cannabis industry is huge in the United States – and it’s just getting started. In 2017, the industry employed 121,000 people and took in roughly $9 billion in sales. With more and more states legalizing its use, those numbers are expected to steadily rise and many more cannabis dispensaries will surely open their doors. Curious about the dispensaries already in operation? Let’s take a look at five of the most beautiful cannabis dispensaries in America – in no particular order.

    1. Barbary Coast | San Francisco, California

    When it comes to providing a safe, clean, and comfortable atmosphere for its clients, Barbary Coast goes above and beyond. With a wide range of lab-tested flowers, pre-rolls, premium vape cartridges, concentrates, edibles, and more, it’s no wonder this place became a hot spot in The City by the Bay.

    barbary-coast-2-e1574803586892
    Barbary Coast in San Francisco, California

    Barbary Coast offers a dab and vape bar, as well as a stylish personal lounge for customers to relax, enjoy themselves with friends and family, and make new friends. Visitors may browse, receive one-on-one recommendations from staff, and experience the strong sense of community established in the dispensary.

    2. Emerald Pharms | Hopland, California

    According to its website, when you visit Emerald Pharms, “you might think you’re in an art gallery or a green technology wonderland rather than a medical marijuana dispensary.”

    Emerald Pharms is a one-of-a-kind dispensary that focuses on natural, sustainable, and locally grown cannabis. The site manages a 12-acre Solar Living Center which features renewable energy sources, eco-friendly buildings, biodynamic gardens, and more. Customers can even refuel their cars with recycled biodiesel, or charge up their electric vehicles (via solar panels).

    emerald-pharms-e1574803601171
    Emerald Pharms in Hopland, California

    At the Pharm, visitors can walk across the lush landscape and view thousands of organically grown edibles, wildflowers, and ornamental plants. All are welcomed and encouraged to explore the off-the-grid “permaculture oasis” and attend its events including product demos, yoga, art classes, picnicking, and more.

    3. The Herbal Cure | Denver, Colorado

    The Herbal Cure is a family-owned business that takes great pride in its work and is committed to its award-winning marijuana strains. The dispensary’s mission is simple: to provide the highest quality cannabis and customer service to its clients.

    On the exterior, visitors see a log cabin-style depot with a “cannaboose” train car on the property that was inherited with the land. The back of the dispensary features local graffiti and murals, which are rotated through the year. Inside, clients are introduced to exotic strains, fair prices, and the result of dedicated professionals perfecting their craft. Shoppers will also find a strong family-like vibe among the staff, or as they are called, “The Cure Crew,” who make it a priority to make every visitor feel welcome, comfortable, and secure.

    the-herbal-cure-e1574803618231
    The Herbal Cure in Denver, Colorado

    4. Om of Medicine | Ann Arbor, Michigan

    What makes Om of Medicine stand out is its ambition to create a collaborative, safe, and inspiring environment that promotes the rights of its patients and improves their quality of life. Establishing a welcoming environment for all ages and bridging the gap between nature and technology, Om of Medicine captures the duality of life and perfect balance.

    om-of-medicine-2-e1574803634917
    Om of Medicine in Ann Arbor, Michigan

    Notable features within the dispensary include a living wall installation, an aquarium, and local art galleries. Together with its state-of-the-art products and its compassionate staff, the dispensary holds events such as medical research sessions, grow seminars, comedy shows, yoga classes, film showings, and more, to not only serve the community, but to be a part of it.

    5. Hashtag Cannabis | Seattle, Washington

    The first thing you notice about Hashtag Cannabis is COLOR! The bright purple exterior of this cannabis dispensary features a colorful fish mural and a neon blue door to boot. With two locations in Fremont and Redmond, Washington, Hashtag Cannabis offers customers smokable flower, concentrates, infused edible products, capsules, tinctures, and lotions.

    hashtag-cannabis-e1574803651322
    Hashtag Cannabis in Seattle, Washington

    Designed to provide product to both customers seeking recreational cannabis, as well as those who need assistance with medical issues, Hashtag Cannabis strives to improve its customers’ quality of life. The dispensary also aims to help its community, and has raised thousands of dollars for non-profit organizations focused on hunger and immigrant family rights.

    Some call it art, some call it science, but no one can deny the increasing consumer demand for cannabis dispensaries in the United States (and beyond) today. Are you a reseller looking to cash in on this booming industry? Download our e-book today.

  • 4 Easter Marketing Ideas for Your Store Using PromoPRNT

    4 Easter Marketing Ideas for Your Store Using PromoPRNT

    Spring has sprung and Easter is almost here! If you haven’t developed an Easter marketing plan for your store, you are missing out. In 2016, a whopping 8 in 10 Americans planned to celebrate the holiday, and they spent $17.3 billion that year (and $146 per person). That’s a lot of festive customers at your fingertips, ready to make you some “egg-cellent” profits.

    Ready to get started? Did you know that with PromoPRNT, you can use your existing Star Micronics printer to create custom Easter promotions that are printed directly on the bottom of receipts? Here’s a quick rundown of PromoPRNT’s features:

    • Make custom promotions from templates
    • Manage promotions from anywhere
    • Increase customer retention
    • Make each customer visit unique

    You can now easily get your Easter marketing hopping with our pre-made PromoPRNT templates. Check them out:

    Promo 1: Promote Easter Sales

    Easter-Sale-e1574803416964

    Want to grow some business this spring? Host an Easter weekend sale! The template is editable, so customize it to match your store’s specific sale.

    Promo 2: Highlight Special Easter Products

    Easter-Products-e1574803432768

    If you offer Easter- and spring-themed products, this is your time to shine. Promote them now on your receipts so your current customers become repeat customers.

    Promo 3: Host a Social Media Contest

    Easter-Contest-e1574803454268

    Who doesn’t want to win something? Host a social media giveaway contest and not only gain sticky customers, but also some followers.

    Promo 4: Advertise an Easter Event

    Easter-Event-e1574803470251

    If you happen to be hosting an Easter-themed event, using PromoPRNT is a great way to advertise it. Make sure to remind your staff to alert customers of the event information located on their receipts.

    Remember, all of these templates are now available to use in Promo Builder!

    Haven’t signed up yet for PromoPRNT? No problem. Click here to learn more and register your Star printer, or watch our video: