In recent years, the healthcare industry has been dealing with a storm of challenges. First and foremost has been managing the COVID-19 pandemic. As new variants emerge and surges occur, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have continually updated guidelines and recommended new protocols ranging from surge mitigation to optimizing limited personal protective equipment (PPE).
Pandemic pressures have contributed to another healthcare challenge: a growing labor shortage. According to the American Nurses Association (ANA), nurses are retiring or leaving the profession (many citing burnout) in large numbers: an estimated 1 million will retire by 2030. As a result, nursing programs cannot produce enough graduates to keep up with demand and are turning away thousands of qualified applicants because of a shortage of faculty and facilities. Now, nurses and other remaining medical staff are overworked and exhausted.
The stresses of the pandemic and the labor shortage add to a third major challenge: the need to reduce medical errors. On-the-job mistakes range from misdiagnoses and surgical errors to patient misidentification and medication errors (all of which account for between 7,000 and 9,000 US deaths annually). Integrating technology to assist hardworking medical professionals can significantly reduce these tragic errors.
Tech Solutions Help Hospitals, Clinics, and Pharmacies Overcome Challenges
Ever-shifting pandemic protocols, fewer available professionals, and an increased need for efficiency and accuracy are major healthcare pain points. However, technology is available to help clear these hurdles.
Download our free ebook below to find out more!
Healthcare Goes High-Tech: How Technology is Solving Healthcare’s Operational Challenges
The proper technology can help businesses in the healthcare industry streamline workflow and make up for employment shortages, helping to prevent costly errors.
Check out our Health & Safety Toolbox for the Retail & Hospitality Industries for more info about how Star solutions can help overcome current challenges:
In today’s connected world, dining and shopping experiences are no longer limited to physical restaurants and stores. Restaurateurs and retailers leverage cloud-based, omnichannel order management and fulfillment solutions to reach customers across various mobile and digital channels. In the post-pandemic era of retail and hospitality, technology is critical.
Throughout the pandemic, cloud-based, omnichannel ordering options kept restaurants, stores, and customers connected. In addition, convenience and ease of use helped scale online ordering, curbside pickup, and delivery services, all becoming a mainstay of the modern customer experience.
Even before the global pandemic, studies have shown that consumers and merchants were pivoting to digital and mobile technologies. As consumers lean into new technologies, retail and restaurant brands must increasingly adapt and compete on multiple fronts to win and retain their customers.
So, what does omnichannel mean, and why is it essential for your business?
Frost & Sullivan, a major consulting firm, has defined omnichannel as “seamless and effortless, high-quality customer experiences that occur within and between contact channels.”
In simpler terms, omnichannel is a more individualized form of retail. It’s a customer-focused business strategy that integrates all channels to provide the perfect experience for the consumer. Patrons connect with businesses online and in person. They order through both. Their experiences from one channel to the next are natural and more tailored to them.
Mass Implementation of Omnichannel Strategy
Beyond being a buzzword, omnichannel strategy is a tactical reality for business owners who can’t afford to get sidelined in the race to fast and secure commerce. Surviving and thriving in the digital-first economy means reaching customers anytime and anywhere, including after hours.
COVID-19 created a renaissance for multiple industries, including hospitality, retail, and the emerging cannabis sector. Stores invited customers to take virtual tours and try cosmetics and apparel in digitally-enabled dressing rooms. Restaurants introduced online ordering and curbside pick-up.
The power of cloud and omnichannel solutions enabled these companies to deliver an uninterrupted experience while driving orders, marketing, and customer service across all channels, platforms, and devices.
Omnichannel ordering options are an expectation, not an exception. Consumers have become accustomed to patronizing their favorite brands from multiple touchpoints. Our experts have compiled the following list of items needed for developing a consistent brand experience across all channels.
Cloud enablement: Invest in hardware and software that operates with the cloud to ensure your omnichannel strategy runs smoothly.
Single-access view: Create a secure portal where you can monitor all of your channels to streamline communications and manage operations from one place.
Automated task management: Implement order displays, cloud printing, and other purpose-built technology to save time and labor by automating basic procedures.
Enhanced connectivity: Select products that connect with the cloud to create a cohesive work environment and use peripheral connectivity to improve and accelerate business processes.
How to Create a Connected Environment
In 2021, retail e-commerce sales amounted to approximately 5.2 trillion U.S. dollars worldwide. This figure is forecast to grow by 56 percent over the following years, reaching about 8.1 trillion dollars by 2026. In addition, global online food delivery services are poised to reach nearly $344 billion this year, projected to reach more than $466 billion by 2027. With such high ROI at stake, getting products to customers via cohesive online or mobile channels is essential.
Our experts compiled these six products every business should invest in to get the most out of omnichannel ordering. To read about these crucial omnichannel technology solutions, download our free ebook:
Conquering Omnichannel Order Management with Cloud-Based Technology Solutions
Consumers have spoken! The future of retail and hospitality is omnichannel, cloud-based, and connected. Is your business prepared?
New versatile tablet display solutions for retail, hospitality, cannabis, and self-service industries.
Somerset, NJ – October 11, 2022 –Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point-of-sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is proud to announce the extension of their acclaimed mUnite tablet stand line. Star has added nine new all-steel, ultramodern stand solutions to its ever-expanding portfolio. With two kiosk models, four mounted, and three countertop solutions, Star continues to meet market demand head-on.
For an attractive, sleek addition to your POS countertop, the mUnite EZPOS helps lessen unnecessary bulkiness while providing a stable, secure surface for any Star printer or cash drawer. The mUnite EZ3 and EZ100 perfectly house the popular mC-Print3 and TSP100 series printers. Their cutting-edge design keeps cables off the checkout counter, giving customers a clean, fresh presentation.
The space-saving design of the mUnite Tri-Mount Stand secures three tablets in one area, significantly reducing clutter and adding much-needed protection and stability for valuables. Especially in busy back-of-house operations, this stand is ideal for delivery apps and takeout. The compact Wall Mount discreetly and conveniently affixes to most walls, which is excellent for conferences, hotel check-ins, gyms, or other self-service functions.
The mUnite Mount 7 and Mount 18 are streamlined alternatives to clunky stands and computer monitors, attaching to most countertops at 7- and 18-inches in height. These mounted display stands are perfect for self-service and contactless ordering.
Star’s kiosk solutions boast an attractive, minimalist, yet sturdy design, perfect for retail display or customer check-ins. The mUnite Floor Kiosk Stand stands on its own at 4 feet in height, while the EZ Desk Kiosk Stand sits neatly on any countertop. The weighted bottoms keep the stands in place but can easily be stored. All stands attach to any tablet enclosure with universal VESA mounting.
With a range of tilt and rotation abilities, these solutions work for an array of customer-facing or back-of-house applications, including but not limited to:
Applications
Industries
● Order confirmation
● Self-service and check-in
● Display or welcome message
● Contactless ordering
● Delivery app and takeout management
● Customer-facing terminal for signatures and approvals
● Conferences
● Hotels
● Gyms
● Retail, Boutiques
● Dining Halls
● Doctor/Dentist Offices
● Waiting Rooms
● Restaurants
● And more!
The wave of self-service and omnichannel ordering is growing. With these new mUnite stands, Star Micronics provides protective, stylish solutions to clean up countertops and secure valuable tablets in place. A tidy, professional operation enhances the customer experience and overall brand appeal.
Star’s dedication to its philosophy, “Always Leading – Always Innovating,” has continued to expand its offerings beyond printers, making them a single suite provider for all things POS.
Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, self-service, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers in tandem with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, Chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit www.starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.
Media Contact:
Christin Dorner Star Micronics America, Inc. cdorner@starmicronics.com 848-216-3318
Hosted by BlueStar, the annual VARTECH conference is the prime opportunity for value-added resellers to cultivate thriving and rewarding business relationships with hardware manufacturers and software solution providers. That is precisely what Star Micronics is doing this year in Orlando, FL.
Not only was our Sunday night Patio Soiree a successful opening night reception, but the first day of VARTECH was such an immense joy. To see people we haven’t seen since before the pandemic while making so many amazing new connections has been such a blast, and we don’t want it to end!
“We’re so happy to see attendance up at VARTECH,” says Christin Dorner, Content and Media Manager at Star Micronics. “So many more people are here this year than last, and we’re not only able to connect with old friends, but we’re meeting so many new people, too. Sunday night’s party was fantastic, and we’re looking forward to all the other events Star has lined up!”
Star continues to work hard despite today’s global challenges, showcasing our newest solutions at BlueStar’s VARTECH 2022 in Orlando, FL.
Star Micronics works hard to meet market demand despite ongoing supply-chain issues. We aim to assist channel partners in every way we can and provide innovative benefits to many retail verticals.
We’ve launched many modern point-of-sale (POS) and self-service solutions since the last VARTECH conference, and it’s not stopping now!
At VARTECH 2022, we’re showcasing:
The return of the mPOP® with new direct iOS connectivity for all-day use.
The acclaimed TSP143IV in two models; the TSP143IVUE with Android Open Accessory (AOA) support and a USB/LAN dual interface, and the TSP143IVUW with USB-C and dual-band WiFi connectivity.
A kiosk printing solution that uses repositionable linerless label paper, the SK1-311 SK.
Three models within the mG-T series of POS scales, the mG-T12, mG-T30, & mG-T60; ideal for shops, grocery stores, and farmer’s markets.
The extensive new line of mUnite modern tablet display stands and mounts.
New WiFi-loving models of the popular mC-Print2 & mC-Print3 series; two thermal printing solutions from the state-of-the-art mCollection®.
A wide variety of popular accessories, consumables, and portable thermal printers.
Since the pandemic began, value-added resellers (VARs) and technology providers (ISVs, ISOs) in the point-of-sale space have been going through one of the most rewarding and challenging macro environments of their lives. Costs and demand are up, supply is down, and uncertainty seems to be the only constant. Sometimes, we can get too caught up in the details and forget the larger picture.
At Star Micronics, our executive team is always listening. We want to understand the challenges our channel partners face so we can do whatever is in our power to alleviate them. Star is working relentlessly behind the scenes throughout these hardships to help our dedicated channel partners achieve their goals. We believe when we work together, there is nothing we can’t overcome.
Recently, I sat with Mike Hanson, Executive Vice President of Star Micronics America, to get his take on how the industry horizon looks from here.
What areas is Star Micronics investing in to help channel partners succeed?
Star Micronics has been investing in several areas to help channel partners succeed. Following our “Always Leading, Always Innovating” decree, this includes diversifying and expanding our product offerings and bolstering our supply chain operations and sourcing.
To start, we recently launched the new TSP143IV printer. It features Android Open Accessory (AOA) to allow power and communication on a single wired connection for Android, which is highly used in the industry now. Having AOA now complements our wired SteadyLAN power and communication technology for iOS devices. We also re-engineered the design of our mPOP from wireless Bluetooth MFI to wired USB-C MFI, getting more out to market sooner.
As for our supply chain operations and sourcing, Star has experienced unprecedented demand for our products thanks to our partners’ success. Globally, Star has been strategic by transitioning and diversifying our production lines to incorporate additional regions aside from our traditional team, allowing us to expand manufacturing capacity aggressively. Star has vigorously sourced components from available global suppliers to overcome continued semiconductor supply limitations.
How is Star’s product line evolving to meet the needs of today’s channel partners?
Star is dedicated to providing our channel partners with a full solution suite to power their workspaces this year. Thanks to solid relationships with our partners, we have developed complementary products that leverage our advanced software integration tools to provide a complete hardware solution.
The Star solution suite is a cohesive, connected network of products that work together to provide reliable and easy-to-use solutions that support various industries. This gives resellers, retailers, and channel partners products that offer years of use and support from a single supplier. The Star suite enables resellers to purchase printers and related peripherals (like scales, barcode scanners, cash drawers, etc.) in one place. Fewer vendors to manage makes it easier for channel partners.
What new programs and services does Star offer that can benefit channel partners?
Star is blessed to have the industry’s best group of dedicated distribution partners who have truly shined during the recent supply chain challenges to meet resellers’ needs. To support these incredible channel partners, we established our Empower Partner Program. The Empower Program’s introduction has successfully reestablished value and price parity for our resellers.
Last year, we enhanced the program with the addition of loyalty benefits. These benefits reward resellers that provide a variety of products from the Star solution suite. We recognize the long-term value of every reseller offering our complete suite, such as our printers, cash drawers, scanners, scales, stands, paper, warranties, and other Star products. As a result, full solution suite resellers are rewarded at the same level as a large volume reseller that may only sell Star printers.
As we head into the second half of 2022, is there any advice or insight Star can provide to channel partners?
As we move into the second half of 2022 and beyond, we are seeing some improvements in semiconductor and component availability. Gradually, this will help recover product shortages, which is good news for all.
Conversely, the macroeconomic situation is unstable as we feel the impact of inflation, high oil prices, and global unrest. It’s tough to see when logistics, components, and manufacturing costs will stabilize, making it difficult to imagine when pre-pandemic prices will return.
We want every channel partner to know that Star is working hard behind the scenes to reduce transportation costs while implementing new software solutions to improve the accuracy and visibility of product availability. We are also expanding our resources to support our partners in any way we can.
Please take some time to learn about the many new solutions Star has just introduced, and look forward to more “Always Leading, Always Innovating” products and services that will help our partners continue to flourish.
Star’s Latest Solutions
TSP143IV
This futureproof printing solution provides maximum connecting flexibility with added features like support for the Android Open Accessory (AOA) protocol and a USB/LAN Dual Interface (TSP143IVUE) or WLAN capability with a dual-band wireless connection (TSP143IVUW).
Our ultimate 2″ mC-Print21W and 3″ mC-Print31W thermal printers are now available with WiFi capability. Whether you need to use 2.4GHz or 5GHz bandwidth, these sleek, space-saving technologies keep your business connected.
Star’s IP-rated premium scanner line includes a desktop scanner, a handheld scanner, and a wireless handheld scanner, so however you need to get the job done, it’s sure to be quick and reliable. Find the perfect one for your business.
Star Micronics is proud to offer both function and style with its mUnite tablet display solution stands, kiosks, and mounts. Built to accompany a vast array of printers, cash drawers, scales, and peripherals, these modern, all-steel stands unify your point-of-sale while protecting your valuables.
Star’s new line of three NTEP and Measurement Canada certified scales are trade-ready and effortless to set up, connecting to your POS system via Bluetooth or Serial connectivity. Plus, they integrate easily with Star SDK, so you’ll be back doing what you do best.
By connecting Star printers to Cloud Services, Star has created a practical, developer-friendly platform for more efficient, connected, and intelligent systems. For business owners and technology providers alike, Star’s Cloud Services can be used for device management, receipt customization, and cloud-based data access.
This 3″ linerless label kiosk printer is compact and lightweight, ideal for the food and travel industries or any self-service application. Linerless labels are an alternative to silicone-lined labels or tape and are more eco-friendly with less waste.
At Star Micronics, we’re always attuned to market dynamics and trends. Following our successful launch of MFi technology, which facilitated seamless Lightning connections between our printers and Apple’s iOS devices, we recognized the surging adoption of Android devices in powering small business point-of-sale (POS) systems.
To remain at the forefront of industry innovation, we swiftly adapted to serve this expanding Android market segment, ensuring compatibility and operational excellence.
Embracing the Android Open Accessory (AOA) protocol has been transformative for both software developers and business owners. The TSP143IVUE is ultra-connected and boasts an array of features ensuring future-proof adaptability. With AOA integration, this thermal printer not only streamlines operations but also underscores the sophistication and innovation at the helm of today’s businesses.
“Android Open Accessory (AOA) support allows external USB hardware (Android USB accessories) to interact with Android-powered devices in accessory mode. When an Android-powered device is in accessory mode, the connected accessory acts as the USB host (powers the bus and enumerates devices) and the Android-powered device acts as the USB accessory.”
“Android USB accessories are designed to attach to Android-powered devices. Such accessories adhere to AOA, enabling them to detect Android-powered devices that support accessory mode, and must provide 500mA at 5V for charging power.
Some previously-released Android-powered devices are capable of acting only as a USB device and cannot initiate connections with external USB devices. AOA support overcomes this limitation, enabling you to build accessories that can initiate connections and interact with an assortment of Android-powered devices.”
The TSP143IVUE Thermal Printer Supports AOA
Star’s new innovative printing solution accommodates the fast-growing Android-user market with the connectivity people want. The future-proof TSP143IVUE supports the Android Open Accessory (AOA) protocol, allowing the printer to communicate with and power most Android devices when plugged in.
With its modern design, enhanced connectivity, ease of integration, and 20% smaller footprint than its predecessor, the TSP143IVUE is the perfect solution for the demands of today’s market.
The TSP143IVUE Supports CloudPRNT & More
Along with AOA support, adding a USB/LAN Dual Interface and CloudPRNT to the newest TSP143IVUE thermal receipt printer has fully elevated our popular printing series for today’s needs. This advanced printing solution seamlessly integrates with Android, iOS, and Windows applications, offering unparalleled versatility and ease of use.
Plus, it’s backward compatible with its previous version, the TSP143III, making it effortless for people to upgrade.
It’s also Cloud Ready, connecting to cloud-based POS software and Star Micronics Cloud Services. Star’s Cloud Services enable offsite device monitoring in real-time, custom-designed promotions, and more.
Here are some key features of the TSP143IVUE:
A Dual Interface: LAN + USB (USB-C and USB-A)
A Compact and Ultra-Modern Design
AOA Protocol Support: Charging and Communicating with Android Devices
CloudPRNT technology to work with cloud-based software
If you are a dispensary owner, you will undoubtedly consider starting a cannabis delivery service for your customers. Demand for the plant, either for recreational consumption or medical needs, has taken the industry to new highs, and surely you want to be in on the action. Of course, that is assuming cannabis delivery is legal in your area! Let’s say it is.
Now, where do you start? What do you need?
In cannabis delivery, technical equipment is required to successfully meet your customers’ needs. Software that helps you create an online store, allows for online ordering, accounts for inventory management, and integrates with the proper point-of-sale (POS) hardware is a must-have to assist your delivery aims.
Let’s see what tech you’ll need to start your cannabis delivery service:
Online Store & Website
Using the omnichannel approach for setting up a cannabis delivery service is ideal for the best results. Online ordering has rapidly grown, and it will only continue. An omnichannel strategy means that the customer can access your product through multiple channels such as social media, websites, apps, etc. This way, the customer has many convenient options and can order the product quickly and wherever they are the most comfortable. An online store is one of those options.
You must first set up a website and online store to get started. An online store is usually an extension of a website. If you are a dispensary owner, you likely already have a website for your business. You can look into your web development platform for online store options. Many companies use application software that provides your delivery service needs, from creating an online store to payment and marketing. Setting up an online shop for your cannabis will take some work, but it is worth every effort.
It should be mentioned that a dispensary looking to deliver should incorporate some essential features into its online store. These features include the ability to calculate sales tax in each region. The website should be able to see which areas are legally allowed to deliver cannabis. Moreover, the website should also be able to scan customer IDs so their ages can be verified.
Again, there are companies that provide products with these capabilities, including POS software.
POS Software & Hardware
Both software and hardware for POS are essential to process and calculate the transactions received from online customer orders. They also help fulfill payments, print order tickets and receipts, and keep your entire POS space tidy while protecting your valuables.
Hardware
If you already own a dispensary, you’ll have most of what’s listed here. But, if you’re starting from scratch or want to update your point-of-sale, you’ll first need a tablet or a computer. Many people go for tablets these days as they are more cost-effective and can be just as powerful. There is a lot of software out there that works great on tablets.
Whether you choose a tablet or computer, having a protective display stand to hold it steady would be wise. At Star, we have a variety of tablet display stands, including an all-steel tablet display stand built for three different tablets so you can see them all at once. This is great for having multiple online orders coming in, especially orders for delivery. Each tablet is held firmly in place yet can easily be seen and accessed.
If you don’t have tablets that display orders, have a printer that prints the online order you have received, indicating that you have an order pending. There are also printers out there that print repositionable sticky labels so that the order can move along with the product as it’s being prepared. Customers will want receipts once their products arrive, so a well-connected printer is necessary.
Other than tablets or computers, Star Micronics has all the hardware you need for your dispensary point-of-sale if you’d like to check it out here.
Software
Well-performing POS software is a must for any business in general. Luckily for the cannabis industry, there is software made especially for it. Many cannabis-related POS apps can help with online store setup, inventory management, delivery operations, omnichannel marketing, taking care of payments, and much more. There are even companies that take care of the delivery logistics for your storefront entirely. It’s so easy to get started!
Another critical piece of the puzzle is the proper integration of your POS hardware with your software. Your online ordering system and point-of-sale machinery should work together seamlessly. Some people choose their hardware first and find software that works with it, while others select their software first.
Delivery Logistics
Delivering cannabis is a tremendous job, and some safety precautions must be taken when the order is dispatched to deliver. If you are looking to manage your deliveries, you must have a GPS tracker in your vehicle so you know where your driver is at all times and whether the parcel has been delivered to the correct address or not.
Another thing to remember is that the driver or deliverer must have a tablet with access to your online store delivery software so they can update it after every delivery. This is crucial for inventory control and management of your cannabis products.
Most dispensaries take payments online, but if you don’t, you’ll need a mobile payment terminal so your delivery person can accept payments on the spot.
Conclusion
Technology is a massive part of our lives, and the trend may never slow down. If you decide to introduce a cannabis delivery service to your customers, make sure you have the equipment mentioned above in place. There will be upfront costs, but the upside is incredibly lucrative long-term. Anywhere they’re legal, cannabis delivery services have taken off in this country. Why not be part of the action?
The TSP143IVUW supports dual-band WiFi, becoming a hub that gives maximum flexibility when connecting to any network.
Somerset, NJ – April 19, 2022 –Star Micronics, a leading manufacturer of mobile, point-of-sale (POS), and customer engagement technologies, is excited to announce the release of the TSP143IVUW, the latest model in the new TSP100IV series that now boasts dual-band wireless technology.
This innovative printing solution supports dual-band connectivity (2.4GHz / 5GHz), giving ultimate control over the local printing environment. Wireless networks that need long-distance coverage can use 2.4GHz, while the more powerful 5GHz is best for reducing lag and interference, especially in busy kitchens with microwaves and hardware that compete for bandwidth on a 2.4Ghz network. By offering a choice to use one of the two frequencies, 2.4GHz or 5GHz, Star’s TSP143IVUW provides maximum flexibility when connecting to any network.
The TSP143IVUW is Cloud Ready, able to connect to any cloud application that supports Star’s CloudPRNT technology. With the addition of Star Micronics Cloud Services, including digital journal, cloud promotion print management, and device monitoring, the TSP143IVUW offers retailers and restaurateurs the next generation of POS printing, enabling marketing and receipt tools for the omnichannel world.
Featuring a wide range of OS support, including Windows, iOS, Android, web- and cloud-based applications, the TSP143IVUW is high-speed and can print up to 250 millimeters per second. Its sleek, compact design boasts a 20% smaller footprint, with a protected internal power supply and fast “drop-in and print” paper loading. Offered with WLAN and USB-C connectivity, this printer has exceptionally easy installation, making it simple to incorporate into your existing POS system.
Star Micronics, a world leader in point-of-sale (POS), has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, self-service, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment. Embracing the mPOS wave, Star’s SDKs allow developers to utilize Star printers in tandem with Android™, iOS, iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts, labels, Chit, and tickets. Star Micronics is always leading and always innovating, creating cloud-based printing solutions, including CloudPRNT and Star Cloud Services, with AOA support and MFi connectivity. Star also has a wealth of peripherals, including 2D barcode scanners, scales, tablet display stands, and more. Visit www.starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.
Star Micronics releases the new TSP143IVUE, an ultra-connected and innovative thermal receipt printer.
Somerset, NJ – March 8, 2022 – Continuing its “Always Leading – Always Innovating” philosophy, Star Micronics presents the TSP143IVUE, a modern and ultra-connected point-of-sale (POS) printing solution.
Already a leading player in the mobile POS (mPOS) market, the new Star Micronics TSP143IVUE offers multiple ways to connect. It has a USB/LAN Dual Interface and cloud printing capabilities for traditional POS and mPOS solutions.
Built with all the capabilities you have come to expect, the TSP143IVUE has a more compact and sleek design, with added features like AOA (Android Open Accessory) support and CloudPRNT. AOA technology gives the printer full communication with your Android device while keeping it powered and charged.
The TSP143IVUE is high-speed and can print up to 250 millimeters per second. Its innovative design boasts a 20% smaller footprint, with a protected internal power supply and fast “drop-in and print” paper loading. This printer has exceptionally easy installation, making it simple to incorporate into your existing POS system.
The Star TSP143IVUE is also Cloud Ready, able to connect to any cloud application that supports Star’s CloudPRNT technology. It’s part of a new generation of devices that can connect to the Star Micronics Cloud Services platform, where users can customize and enhance their receipts by adding graphics or logos and triggering coupons, enhancing customer experience.
Star Micronics, one of the world’s largest POS providers, has designated a portfolio of printing, secure cash management, and customer engagement solutions for any retail or hospitality establishment in POS and mPOS environments. Embracing the mobility wave, Star’s complementary SDKs allow users to utilize Star printers in tandem with Android™, iOS iPad®, and iPhone® devices to generate receipts for all of its printers. In addition, Star Micronics is always leading and innovating, enabling web-based printing solutions, including remote cloud printing, wireless cash drawer solutions, proximity-based printing, and secure cash management. For more information, visit www.starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or LinkedIn.
The cannabis market is rapidly growing day by day. In order to meet the high consumer demand, dispensaries seem to be emerging left and right. If you’re in the business, you have to run your cannabis dispensary’s day-to-day operations successfully to stay competitive. An efficient point-of-sale (POS) system, specifically designed to meet the particular requirements of the recreational cannabis industry, is what you need.
A cannabis dispensary’s key POS requirements differ from that of a regular retail establishment. One of the most critical elements in making your dispensary more competitive and better managed is the selection of the right POS system. This not only includes software but the proper hardware as well. This POS should have all the latest technology to help you transform your cannabis dispensary into a competitive, profitable business.
Essential POS Hardware For Dispensaries:
Computer
Receipt Printer
Barcode Scanner
Label Printer
Cash Drawer
POS Scale
Computer: A computer system with the minimum requirements to run the POS software of your choice is first needed. You must make sure the POS software runs on whichever computer operating system (OS) you want to use. Make sure you have a high-grade processor and enough RAM, plus a good internet connection. Many retailers are using tablets these days to run their POS software.
Receipt Printer: Although digital receipts are an option, most consumers want stores to be able to print them a receipt of purchase if requested, especially for credit card transactions. Unlike digital receipts, printed receipts don’t require any contact details from the customer, such as email address or phone number.
Finding a receipt printer of high quality and versatility to be able to take you into the next era of point-of-sale is absolutely vital. Not every printer is created equally. You want a receipt printer that can connect to different computer operating systems, in case you ever update. Being able to print from the cloud is also another must-have feature. You also want quick and easy installation so you can get to more important things.
Barcode Scanner:Barcode scanners are designed to recognize, record, and read any information contained in a product barcode or QR code. Dispensary employees can use scanning technology for POS, inventory, and marketing purposes. You’ll want an easy-to-connect and use scanner that reads accurately and quickly.
Label Printer: Labels are essential in the cannabis industry. Many states in the U.S. require QR codes on retail cannabis products that easily show the customer important information about the origins and properties of what they’re purchasing. Having your own label printer, like the TSP743II, can save a lot of money, instead of buying custom-made labels from a third party. With your own label printer, you can easily print your own, updating them exactly when you need to, and controlling the size and shape yourself.
Cash Register/Cash Drawer: Cannabis has not yet been authorized on a federal level. As a result, federally authorized banks generally refuse to hold cannabis dispensary owners’ earnings over the risk of losing their license to operate legally. Therefore, most dispensary transactions are made in the form of cash. A durable cash drawer with adequate storage that effortlessly connects to your POS receipt printer is a must.
Scale: A legal-for-trade scale is the final requirement for a cannabis dispensary POS. Not all scales will serve as a proper dispensary scale, however. The scale must be an NTEP-certified scale (or Measurement Canada certified in Canada). A scale that directly connects to the POS system is basically expected these days, as it streamlines the POS, saving time and money. A direct connection between the weight and price of your cannabis for sale lessens the chance of human mistakes and enhances the customer experience.
Before we continue, now would be a good time to mention the importance of your POS software. Your dispensary’s point-of-sale software can have a significant effect on staff productivity and client satisfaction. Pick software and services that work for you to earn the most out of every sale.
Obviously, the POS software should be user-friendly and assist you in handling the dispensary’s cash flow, keeping a record of your sales. Your budtenders should have easy access to your POS system. Cannabis laws differ from one state to the next. Because of this, certain POS software designed for the cannabis industry will make sure that each sale complies with your state’s standards. This makes life easier for your budtenders and prevents potential legal problems.
How POS Hardware Can Keep Your Dispensary Competitive
A modern POS system will assist a retail cannabis dispensary’s ultimate goals of keeping customers satisfied and maximizing profit. Here are six ways your POS system can help your dispensary stay competitive:
Simpler Dispensary Arrangement
Most point-of-sale systems are much simpler these days, and many can even be used on the go. This enables a dispensary to get rid of a traditional checkout counter. It is convenient to have budtenders equipped with tablets or other devices to meet consumers across the dispensary to finish payments. Any handheld device can be turned into a mobile checkout alongside a portable printer. This means the dispensary can be redesigned to have more room and a better flow that isn’t centered on a single cash register.
Compliance With Regulations
The cannabis sector is shackled by many rules, regulations, and tax concerns. On top of this, these regulations are constantly changing. Failure to live up to these regulatory requirements could result in severe penalties. As mentioned before, POS software is out there that can help with regulatory compliance. This software is made specifically for the cannabis industry. Thanks to a central database and built-in analytics, you can get real-time data reports for ensuring compliance.
Having the proper information on product labels and customer receipts is also handled with the right receipt and label printers. You can’t afford to miss any required data, and having printers that can be updated with little hassle can make your job easier.
A great POS system can help your employees better serve your customers. From wait times to simple inventory data, a POS system can enhance the experience of your customers and keep them coming back. With the right setup, details regarding the types of cannabis available allow budtenders to better respond to consumer inquiries. It simplifies the job of dispensary employees in many ways.
Improving Customer Experience
Having the right receipt printer, like Star’s TSP143III, allows you to design and print promotional material right onto your receipts. This can help boost any promos you may want to schedule.
You can also use QR codes for loyalty programs, scanning them from your customers’ phones with the proper scanner, and seeing all of their previous purchases. As a result, you can provide a more personalized experience to them. When budtenders have access to a customer’s previous purchases, they can make informed recommendations for future purchases. This could potentially lead to more long-term relationships.
Star has a robust collection of NTEP-certified POS scales
Inventory Management
The majority of cannabis retailers recognize the importance of effective inventory management. Nevertheless, this procedure can take considerable time. Alongside good POS software, POS scanners and scales can help provide key inventory management. Scales are absolutely necessary for any dispensary, but one that connects to your POS system makes transactions easier, faster, and much more accurate. These tools allow a dispensary to quickly determine the top and worst-selling products.
Ensuring that popular items are always available will keep customers coming back, and you can be assured that space in your dispensary is never wasted.
Filling customer demand, staying compliant, having the right inventory stocked, having a sleek and clean store–these are all things that keep your dispensary full of repeat customers, increasing sales. Increasing your sales keeps revenue rolling in, putting your dispensary two steps ahead of your competitors.
Cannabis is a fast-paced and profitable market, and many players are moving in on the space. Having a modern POS system is essential, especially with hardware that not only helps you grow but can grow with you. Customers have a lot of expectations these days and having a POS system that helps you meet those demands can be the thin line that separates you from the rest.
