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Star Software Update: How To Install futurePRNT Driver Update (Ver 7.5.1)
Welcome to the Star Software Update, the regular series of blog updates where Star’s Integration Team informs you about the latest important Star Micronics software updates.

What’s New:

Star Micronics has released the futurePRNT v7.5.1 to address issues related to a Windows 10 update issue.

About the Issue

Windows 10 updates released on June 8, 2021 have been reported to cause printing problems with USB printers, and may also cause some cash drawers to not close properly.

More information on the issue can be found here: https://starmicronics.com/help-center/knowledge-base/resolving-usb-printer-queue-issues-related-to-june-2021-windows-update/

The Solution

In addressing the printer/cash drawer malfunctions related to recent Windows 10 Updates, Star Micronics developed a driver update to resolve this matter. Please use the following links to download the driver and access the installation guide.
- TSP100 futurePRNT Software Ver. 7.5.1: https://www.starmicronics.com/support/Default.aspx?printerCode=futurePRNT
- “How to” Installation Guide: https://www.starmicronics.com/help-center/knowledge-base/how-to-install-futureprnt-driver-update-ver-7-5-1/
Questions or Comments?

Contact Star Integration Now
July 13, 2021
UBMe and Star Serve Up Curbside Success to C&H Hawaiian Grill

C&H Hawaiian Grill was a long-time passion project, founded by Hensan and Cora Timo. They have been in business for 16 years, starting in Killeen, TX, serving hearty island BBQ. The Timo family wanted to share the “Aloha” spirit with their community combining the essence of vibrant Hawaiian experiences with a laid-back atmosphere. They recently opened their Austin, TX location and plan to open in San Antonio, TX in May, 2021.

Download the full case study >

The Situation

Like many other independent restaurants, C&H Hawaiian Grill felt the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and were forced to shift their business model. Prior to the pandemic, C&H used third-party delivery services such as Uber Eats and DoorDash, and hired someone full-time to handle delivery and pickup orders via phone. When the global pandemic hit, the amount of delivery and pickup orders coming in via phone quickly became too much to handle manually.

The Solution

Since their current third-party ordering services did not have a solution for curbside pickup, and many of their orders were still call-ins, C&H knew they needed another solution. That’s where UBMe and Star Micronics come in.

UBMe offers a social, mobile technology that is built to help local businesses connect with their customers. UBMe’s seamless technology allowed C&H customers to search and order food directly through the app for curbside pick up. Even more, the app allowed C&H to communicate with these customers when they arrived to pick up their orders with specific safety instructions and procedures.

C&H started by installing the UBMe platform without the Star printer, but quickly realized it was too difficult to track the orders coming to their tablet or phone. Once they installed Star’s mC-Print3 with CloudPRNT technology, online ordering became a breeze. Orders placed through the UBMe app would print directly to the kitchen so they could begin food prep right away.

“UBMe and Star helped solve an issue that we never expected to arise,” says Hensan Timo, Owner of C&H Hawaiian Grill. “Curbside pickup seemed to grow overnight, and many of the existing online ordering apps did not have an easy solution for this transition. With UBMe and Star, online ordering has never been easier.”

After seeing success with UBMe and Star in their Killeen location, they installed the solution in their Austin location as well.

The Results

From the time that C&H installed the UBMe and Star solution, they nearly doubled their profits from online orders. C&H has printed hundreds of curbside pickup orders at their Killeen location. The system has been easy to use for both employees and customers, and the customers love being able to communicate directly with the restaurant through the UBMe app.

With UBMe’s 5% flat commission per order, the solution is maintainable and affordable for C&H Hawaiian Grill.

Take a closer look at C&H’s curbside success.

Download Success Story

Recommended Bundle

Recreate this success story by pairing UBMe software with:

mC-Print3

The Star mC-Print3 with CloudPRNT technology is ideal for printing online orders.

July 8, 2021
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.

Download Now

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.

Download Product Catalogue

June 29, 2021
A Comprehensive Guide to Cannabis POS & Accessories
The cannabis industry is in full swing. With marijuana fully legal in several U.S. states and medical use being legal in almost every state, cannabis is here to stay. While this is great news for business owners looking to break into this budding industry, the tech you choose will dictate the success of your business. Without a powerful point of sale (POS) system at the foundation of your dispensary, you could lose out on critical functionality, sales, and even be subject to noncompliance issues.

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

Download the full guide >

Why an Innovative POS is Critical for the Cannabis Industry

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

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

Cannabis POS Seed-to-Sale Software

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

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

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

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

Our Scale Recommendation: mG-Scales

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

POS Printers

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

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

Some ideas of what to promote on your cannabis receipt include:
- Featured strains/strain of the week
- Strains that are coming soon
- Discounts or sales
- Links to social media accounts
- Customer testimonials
- Now hiring messaging
Our Printer Recommendations:

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

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

Proper Product Labeling

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

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

Our Label Recommendations:

TSP654IISK: Liner-free label printing.

Tamper-Proof Labels: Securely seal products and packaging.

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

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

Download Brochure

Cannabis Cash Drawers

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

Our Cash Drawer Recommendation:

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

Additional Accessories That Make All the Difference

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

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

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

Choosing the Right Cannabis POS Hardware Supplier

Choosing a one-stop shop POS hardware supplier with industry-leading software integration capabilities means an easier workflow for you and your staff:
- Before the sale: Easy setup and configuration
- During the sale: Intuitive controls and features
- After the sale: Seamless maintenance and support
Discover even more tips and tricks for implementing a complete cannabis POS by downloading the full guide.

Download Now

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

1. Compliancy

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

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

2. eCommerce

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

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

3. Cashless Transactions

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

ACH/Bank-to-Bank Transfers (Similar to PayPal)
- Compliant so it can convert into an actual merchant account when legal
- Payment transfers occur across the ACH payment network
- Completely transparent – with every party involved
- Actual business representation on merchant and consumer account statements
Cashless ATMs
- Rounds up to the nearest $5 and/or $20
- Masks transactions as an ATM transaction
- Merchants can be shut off without notice
- Not sustainable
Debit and Credit Cards
- Miscoded accounts
- High risk of being shut off
- High fees with offshore settlements
- Not endorsed by the card brands
Cryptocurrencies
- Very small number of dispensaries are using this as an option
- Blockchain technology
- Real-time settlements
- Bitcoin and other various digital currencies
As you can see above, the most sustainable solution until the federal government enacts new rules is the ACH/bank-to-bank transfers. By working with a payment solution provider like Hypur, AeroPay, or CanPay, dispensary owners can be confident that their payment processing will not damage their business with any unannounced issues.

Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

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

Download Brochure

4. Reward/Loyalty Program

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

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

5. Inventory Management

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

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

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

Appspensary Cannabis POS Software

If you’re looking for a robust cannabis POS software solution, Appspensary has what you need. Appspensary is an online ordering platform and cloud-based POS system that is tailored and branded for marijuana-related businesses. Appspensary includes features like:
- Online store
- Cashless payments
- Delivery optimization
- Curbside pickup
- Text message marketing
- Loyalty program
- Custom development
Learn more or request a demo
June 10, 2021
OrderUp Partners with Star Micronics to Provide Restaurants with a No-Cost Dine-In Digital Ordering System

Paired with Star’s mC-Print3, OrderUp allows customers to place dine-in orders from their mobile device

Somerset, NJ – June 8, 2021 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point of sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is proud to announce that OrderUp has added support for the Star mC-Print3 printer. OrderUp offers contactless ordering and payment solutions to empower restaurants, hotels, and stadiums to provide five-star service while increasing revenues and cutting costs.

OrderUp’s digital menu and ordering platform helps restaurants benefit from 16% faster table turns and 10% larger basket sizes, with 98% of diners who used OrderUp indicating they prefer this new ordering and payment experience over traditional service.

Star’s mC-Print3 offers a splash-proof design with USB hub functionality to connect additional peripherals, making it ideal for kitchen printing in restaurants. With Star’s mC-Print3 with CloudPRNT printer support, guest orders get sent immediately to the kitchen, eliminating order-running and allowing staff to focus on service instead of busywork.

“OrderUp understands safety has become a long-term priority to restaurant employees and diners,” said Chris Gilpin, CEO of OrderUp. “Our application paired with Star’s CloudPRNT technology allows our restaurants to provide a safer and more convenient environment for their customers by offering a truly contactless solution.”

June 8, 2021
4 Contactless Payment Trends to Take Advantage Of
As the economy reopens, things have changed. The pandemic was a catalyst of retail innovation and will have a lasting effect on consumers’ payment preferences. Read on to learn more about what exactly contactless payments are, some key contactless payment trends, and how you can leverage them.

What is a Contactless Payment?

The term “contactless payments” is an umbrella phrase describing multiple payment methods. According to Investopedia,

“Contactless payment is a secure method for consumers to purchase products or services using a debit, credit, or smartcard—also known as a chip card—by using RFID technology or near-field communication (NFC).

To make a contactless payment, tap your card near a point-of-sale terminal that is equipped with the contactless payment technology. Since contactless payments do not require a signature or a personal identification number (PIN), transaction sizes on cards are limited. The allowable amount for a contactless transaction varies by country and by the bank.

Contactless payment is also referred to as tap-and-go by some banks and retailers. Examples of non-credit or debit card contactless payments include transit cards, Apple Pay, Android Pay, and Google Wallet.”

4 Important Contactless Payment Trends

1. Not Just an Option, a Preference

While the adoption of contactless payments in the United States was initially slow-moving, the pandemic has sparked rapid growth and this payment method is now a preference, not simply just an option.

According to Visa’s Back to Business Study, “If all other factors were equal (price, selection and location), nearly two-thirds (63%) of consumers would switch to a new business that installed contactless payment options.”

The study also discovered that safety influenced how 78% of global consumers pay and that 46% of consumers believe using contactless payment methods is among the most important retail safety measures.

Additionally, American Express recently reported that 70% U.S. merchants are experiencing customers requesting the option of contactless tap-and-go or mobile app payments (American Express 2020).

Needless to say, contactless payments are here, and they are here to stay. Instead of simply being a futuristic option, they are now a present-day necessity.

2. An Ageless Trend …

While you might assume that the desire for contactless payments is strongest with younger generations, the numbers might surprise you. According to Dynata’s recent report, “A Breakthrough for Contactless Payments,”

“Generationally, the largest growth in both contactless preference and adoption occurred among Baby Boomers – preference jumped from 45% pre-COVID-19 to 55% today, and adoption of a contactless card or app increased from 67% to 71%. This is followed by Gen Z, Gen X and Millennials.”

Star Micronics Payment Solutions

By providing sleek, easy-to-integrate POS hardware, Star Micronics merges the priorities of business owners, software providers, and payments companies, while offering an easy, reliable, and compliant solution.

Learn More

3. … and a Lasting Trend

A substantial amount of contactless payment adoption occurred during the pandemic – however this adoption is slated to remain relevant for years to come.

According to Mastercard, 74% of consumers state they will continue to use contactless payment methods post-pandemic. Additionally, roughly half of respondents had already swapped out their top-of-wallet card for one that offers contactless payments.

4. Listen to Your Customers … Literally

Most contactless payments today happen via contactless cards, mobile wallets, and smart watches. However, that will likely change, and soon. Enter, voice assistants.

Voice assistants, also known as home assistants and smart speakers, allow people to give voice commands and receive a vocal response in return. Users can give commands for many things like the weather forecast, traffic updates, booking a rideshare – and of course, buying items. Some examples of popular voice assistants are Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomePod.

These voice assistants are making a splash in the industry and are a worthwhile contactless medium to pay attention to. According to Statista, by 2024 the number of digital voice assistants in use worldwide is expected to hit 8.4 billion by 2024, and 35% of smart speaker users buy products like home care, groceries, and clothing from the speaker.

How to Take Advantage of Contactless Payments

Ready or not, contactless payments are the future of commerce. Here are three simple ways to take advantage.

The Star mC-Print3 with CloudPRNT technology is ideal for printing online orders.
- Update Your Point of Sale. First and foremost, businesses should deploy contactless payment terminals, so they are able to accept payments from contactless credit and debit cards, smartphones, and smart watches. For contactless online ordering orders, it’s crucial to have a connected receipt printer that can effortlessly accept orders no matter where they come from (whether it’s from a mobile app, a website, or a home speaker).
- Spread the Word. Accepting contactless payments can improve the customer experience and aid in creating repeat business. Let customers know that you accept contactless payments by communicating with them – in the right channels. Because a variety of generations are leveraging contactless payments, be sure your messaging reaches them where they’re at. In addition to sharing your news on your website, app, and through your emails, this might look like communicating to Gen Z on TikTok, Baby Boomers on Facebook, and Millennials on Instagram.
- Consider Voice Shopping. Digital voice assistants are the next big thing. If possible, consider starting voice retailing. For more information on how to sell products to customers through voice via Amazon Alexa, click here. And to learn more about Google for retailers, click here.
Star Micronics offers one design, one integration, and one provider … for all payment peripherals.

Download Payments Brochure
June 3, 2021
Cannabis Delivery Technology: What You Need
We all know that the cannabis industry is growing at a rapid pace – but did you know that cannabis delivery in particular is one of the hottest revenue streams in the market? While COVID-19 certainly acted as a catalyst in the growth of cannabis delivery, it’s a trend that’s here to stay. Read on to explore what cannabis delivery technology you need to succeed.

Cannabis Delivery Technology #1: Online Ordering Platform

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

Some key features to look for in an online ordering platform for cannabis delivery are:
- The ability to facilitate order placement and documentation
- Deciphering which counties and cities allow or don’t allow cannabis delivery
- Dispatching and tracking cannabis deliveries
- Analyzing deliveries and optimizing them to increase delivery speed and lower delivery costs
- Customer ID verification
- The ability to dynamically calculate sales tax per region
- Detailed, real-time inventory tracking
- Integrated loyalty program and marketing tools
Cannabis Delivery Technology #2: Point of Sale

Related to your cannabis delivery online ordering platform is your point of sale (POS). Without a complete, integrated POS, your online ordering strategy will not live up to its full potential. So, what do you need?
- Online ordering printer: When a customer places an online order for cannabis delivery, they trust that your dispensary is immediately receiving and preparing their order. Meet those expectations by choosing an online ordering printer with cloud printing technology. An added bonus of some online ordering printers like Star’s mC-Print3 is that it communicates directly to the cloud server, meaning you do not need an extra tablet – customers simply place their order, and it prints immediately at your POS.
- NTEP-certified scale: When it comes to selling cannabis, accuracy is everything, and an NTEP-certified precision POS scale is non-negotiable. Further enhance your measuring by choosing a scale that features Bluetooth, USB, and serial connectivity.
- Linerless label printer: Linerless labels are repositionable thermal labels that stick to nearly any surface and can be removed and reapplied without leaving any residue behind. These labels can be very helpful in preparing online orders and cannabis packaging, and a linerless label printer can be a great addition to your POS.
- Integrations with aforementioned software: The POS and the online ordering software should ideally work hand-in-hand to create a seamless, headache-free sales cycle. Be sure to choose POS hardware that is integrated with the industry’s most popular software applications.
Successful Software Needs Successful Hardware

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

Download Brochure

Cannabis Delivery Technology #3: Delivery Service

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

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

In addition to documentation, other rules apply to cannabis delivery. For example, in California, the below rules are in place:
- Deliveries must be made in unmarked, enclosed vehicles with security boxes attached to the vehicle
- GPS units track each delivery route and drivers may not deviate from the route or make extra stops
- Drivers can only carry $5,000 of product and that amount is reduced to $3,000 if the driver is carrying products to fill tentative orders that have not yet been placed
- Only the driver is allowed to be in the vehicle
- Drivers must carry and update an inventory ledger that includes in following information about all of the products in their possession: brand, weight, value, track-and-trace identifier, and price.
Please refer to your local authorities to determine your cannabis-related laws.

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

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

Star’s Cannabis POS Hardware Lineup

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

Download our cannabis brochure to discover:
- NTEP-approved cannabis scales
- POS printers and cash drawers
- Mobile printers
- Star Micronics Cloud Services
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May 25, 2021
Star Micronics Introduces Loyalty Program to Existing Empower Partner Program

Benefits include marketing promotion, tradeshow sponsorship, priority access to new products, and more

Somerset, NJ – May 24, 2021 – Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point of sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is excited to announce the introduction of a new Loyalty Program, designed to improve its existing Empower Partner Program.

The Loyalty Program is an extension of the Empower Program that allows Services and Technology partners to engage in marketing and business development opportunities with Star. The Loyalty Program will help partners increase brand exposure, market to a wider channel, and increase sales through marketing support. The Loyalty Program has four levels – Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum – and benefits include access to Star’s network of Software Developers and Value Added Resellers, joint marketing activities, lead referrals, tradeshow sponsorship, MDF incentives, priority access to new products, and more.

Existing Services and Technology Empower Program members may log in to the Partner Portal to register for the Loyalty Program. Partners who are interested in the Loyalty Program but are not yet a member of the Empower Program must first sign up for the Empower Program by visiting the Partner Portal.

“The Star team is thrilled to be launching the Loyalty Program to ignite our customers’ success,” said Brianna Moriarty, Partner Development Manager at Star Micronics. “By providing additional marketing support we hope to help our partners increase their sales and grow their channel relationships, which in turn will help them create even more revenue and unlock further benefits. If our partners win, we also win.”

May 24, 2021
The Definitive Guide to Accessorizing the Point of Sale
Helping your customers accessorize their point of sale and business management systems can be fraught with complications. Whether you are a reseller equipping customers with bundled, out-of-the-box solutions or an ISV striving to integrate your software with the right accessories in order to gear business owners with every tool they need to be successful, point of sale accessories aren’t a walk in the park.

Good news: it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right vendor partner, navigating point of sale accessories can be nearly effortless.

Read on to explore four things to look for in a POS vendor partner – or download the full eBook to discover all six.

One Point of Contact for Support and Maintenance

Organized communication is key to a successful vendor partnership; communication with a partner without a primary contact can lead to confusion and endless headaches as there may be different contacts for support and maintenance. With the right partner, you can have a single point of contact, meaning a single call for support and maintenance as well as integration support. This will streamline and expedite support and maintenance efforts, as well as keep your inbox clutter-free.

Having a single point of contact can also help strengthen the relationship between you and your vendor partner. When communication is tangled with multiple points of contact, it can cause frustration on both ends. One point of contact will simplify communication, making it a more pleasant experience that both you and your vendor partner will look forward to instead of dread.

Ready to learn more about the antimicrobial covers offered by Star?

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Seamless and Reliable Integration

Much like a single point of contact, ISVs should look for a vendor partner who provides one-time integration. Why? Because multiple integrations and limited peripherals will make integration an inefficient and tiresome process, leading to issues such as:
- Indefinite downtime
- Unproductive employees
- Dissatisfied customers
Seamless and reliable integration with the right vendor partner will ensure obstacle-free business operations. In fact, the best vendor partnership allows one-time integration with your software and grants you access to their entire line of hardware and peripherals. By doing this, ISVs can reduce the headache of managing multiple integration partners for hardware and accessories, making the process simple and easy.

Thorough Product Testing and Competitive Pricing

Needless to say, it’s not a good idea to choose a vendor partner who hasn’t thoroughly tested their products. Thorough product testing ensures that all products perform well under high-volume use. Without this assurance, you risk integrating technology that won’t perform for your customers, which would reflect negatively on your business. Thorough testing results in impactful features like cloud
printing, and insect- and water-proof designs that will be more worthwhile than untested products.

Having multiple pricing options from your vendor partner is also crucial so that you can offer the best value to all of your customers. Every customer has unique needs and a specific budget, so it’s important that you can provide the tech solutions they’re looking for at the right price. With various competitive pricing options from your partner, you will:
- Increase customer satisfaction
- Stay competitive in the market
- Attract more customers
Star Restaurant POS Solutions

From online ordering printers to kitchen buzzers, Star is proud to offer POS solutions for restaurants, QSRs, food stands, and more.

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The Flexibility to Purchase Accessories Bundled or Unbundled

Each customer you serve will be in a different stage of their business; some will need more accessories while others may only need a few.

For ISVs and resellers, offering your customers the option to purchase accessories now or later is crucial; customers not ready for certain accessories may become unhappy when they’re forced to purchase them in a bundle instead of separately as they need them.

Choosing a vendor partner that offers both bundled or unbundled options lends versatility to your own business that you can then offer your customers. Bundled accessories may result in a onetime purchase; with unbundled capability, you can work with customers longer. This will allow you to optimize revenue streams with new customers and sell deeper into existing customer accounts.

Want to discover the final two things to look for in a POS vendor partner?

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May 20, 2021