The POS Software Blog

The POS Software Blog

News from Tower Systems about locally made POS software for specialty local retailers.

CategoryPOS Software

POS software enabling remote small retail business management from Tower Systems

P

In today’s post-pandemic landscape, yes even in 2024, remote access to point-of-sale (POS) software is essential for small retail business owners. Tower Systems offers a comprehensive solution that empowers retailers to effectively manage their operations from anywhere. We have offered this for years.

With our remote management capabilities, you can:

  • Monitor business performance: Track sales, inventory levels, and customer behavior in real-time.
  • Handle accounting functions: Process transactions, reconcile accounts, and generate financial reports.
  • Enhance security: Receive alerts for suspicious activity and take immediate action.
  • Access valuable analytics: Make data-driven decisions to improve your business.

Whether you’re taking a well-deserved holiday, dealing with unexpected absences, or simply seeking a change of pace, Tower Systems provides the flexibility to stay connected to your business. Our intuitive software, accessible via TeamViewer or Chrome Remote Desktop, allows you to perform a wide range of tasks remotely, including:

  • Reviewing sales data: Analyse daily, weekly, and monthly sales performance.
  • Managing inventory: Monitor stock levels, reorder products, and track expiration dates.
  • Handling customer inquiries: Respond to customer questions and resolve issues.

Retailers can easily stay informed and in control. Receive instant notifications for critical events, such as low inventory levels, suspicious transactions, or system errors. Our automated alerts ensure you’re always aware of your business’s status.

Retail business owners are able to maximise efficiency and productivity. Leverage remote access to perform tasks outside of peak business hours, such as updating product information, managing supplier relationships, and preparing for upcoming promotions.

Experience the benefits of remote management with Tower Systems. Our powerful POS software is designed to meet the unique needs of small retailers, providing the tools and flexibility you need to succeed in today’s competitive market.

Thanks to the latest business analytics tools in the software, remote access goes beyond the traditionally operations and into the business insights area. The Tower POS software pushes business insights and actionable points to retailers by email and to their tablet or computer – offering visual insights to the business so that actions to improve the retail business may be taken.

Helping small business retailers run their businesses from anywhere is a benefit for Tower Systems customers. We are grateful to be able to offer it and to help our customers leverage it.

Multi-store POS software helps local retail businesses thrive

M

In the dynamic world of retail, managing multiple store locations can be a complex task. In a small business setting this is particularly challenging. Retailers need a time and tech friendly solution.

Tower Systems offers a robust point-of-sale (POS) software solution is designed to streamline operations and enhance efficiency for small business owners. Whether you have two shops or fifteen, our multi-store functionality provides the tools you need to succeed.

Developed with years of practical experience in retail and also working with retail business owner customers, Tower Systems understands the unique challenges faced by multi-store businesses. Our software is designed to deliver flexibility, scalability, and seamless integration, empowering you to manage each location with confidence. And, we do this across a range of retail channel marketplaces: jewellers, garden centres, produce businesses, toy shops, pet shops, newsagencies, bookshops, bike shops and more.

One of the key benefits of Tower Systems’ multi-store POS is its ability to provide real-time visibility across all locations. If a customer inquires about a product that is out of stock at their current store, our system can instantly check for availability at other locations and inform your staff. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also helps optimize inventory management.

Remote Management and Flexibility

With Tower Systems, you can manage your multi-store operations from anywhere with an internet connection. Whether you’re at home, on the go, or in a café, you can access key information, adjust rosters, and compare sales data across different locations. This flexibility empowers you to make informed decisions and respond to changes in real-time.

Our multi-store package offers transparent pricing based on physical locations, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes. As your business grows, you can easily expand your system to accommodate additional stores without incurring significant costs.

There is no locked-in contract either. retailers can proceed knowing that it’s easy to switch if they find the software not suitable. This decision to not lock retailers in is an example of Tower asking itself.

Empowering Growth

Tower Systems is committed to helping you achieve your business goals. By providing a reliable, efficient, and scalable POS solution, we aim to empower you to grow your retail empire. With our multi-store functionality, you can focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences and driving sales.

POS software self checkout offers flexibility to local small business retailers

P

Self checkout in retail has got a bad rap, often for good reasons. Naturally, we approached developing our POS software self checkout solution cautiously, not wanting to create something retailers and customers did not like.

In the end, we have delivered a self checkout POS software solution that does solve some operational challenges in several retail settings, something that customers love and feel comfortable using – as in field use actually shows.

The self checkout POS software solution from Tower Systems helps local small business retailers offer a labour, time and space efficient solution to many different types of specialty retailers.

This software helps small business retailers provide a more efficient and convenient checkout experience for their customers.

The software is easy to use and can be installed on a variety of hardware platforms. Tower Systems is a company that has been providing POS solutions to small businesses for over 20 years. They are committed to providing their customers with the best possible products and services.

The self checkout POS software from Tower Systems is a complete solution that includes everything you need to set up and operate a self checkout station. The software is based on the company’s popular POS software solution.

There are many benefits to using the self checkout POS software from Tower Systems. Some of the benefits include:

  • Self checkout stations can help you reduce checkout lines and improve the overall customer experience.
  • Self checkout stations can help you reduce your labor costs by freeing up your employees to focus on other tasks.
  • Self checkout stations can help you increase your sales by making it easier for customers to shop and pay.
  • Self checkout stations can help you improve customer satisfaction by providing a more convenient and efficient checkout experience.

The self checkout POS software from Tower Systems is a great solution for small business retailers who want to provide a more efficient and convenient checkout experience for their customers. The software is easy to use and can be installed on a variety of hardware platforms.

Tower Systems is grateful to serve more than 3,750 local small business retailers in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and elsewhere. We are committed to providing local small business retailers with the best possible products and services.=

POS software AI integration helps small business retailers see their businesses more successfully

P

Tower Systems first released its POS software AI ChatGPT integration in late 2022. The integration has been enhanced several times since, as ChatGPT itself has been enhanced and as the tech links have permitted deeper integration.

Today, thanks to terrific development by the Tower Systems POS software development team, the AI integration via ChatGPT in the Tower Systems POS software small business retailers are benefiting in plenty of ways from visual insights to data generation to plenty more.

The POS software ChatGPT AI integration is leading edge, local retail business beneficial.

Imagine the value for a small business retailer being told things about their business that they had missed and cations they could take to address those things. Imagine being delivered this without having to look at a report seeking out data and making sense of that data. Imagine someone tapping you on your shoulder to say hey, have you realised this about your business?

The ChatGPT AI integration with our POS software helps retailers save time, reduce business mistakes and make commercially valuable decisions. It’s about making money for our customers and helping them enjoy their businesses more. There are so many examples of these benefits flowing already. We are so grateful for the feedback.

The latest AI enhancements flowing from the ChatGPT POS software integration will be in the hands of our customers in a few days in our next update. It’s a  suite of enhancements that are commercially valuable – we know because we have been testing them with live retail data already.

There is no replacement for smart retail management. We understand that. What our POS software AI integration delivers is a wonderful assist for the smart retailer, faster access to insights, the ability to see further with less time, the benefit of evidence based certainty in a split second. This is the difference of this new smart POS technology.

Thanks to the variety of retailers in our POS software user community we are able to test these advances widely, to ensure their usefulness ion many settings.

The Tower Systems ChatGPT POS software integration is coming up for two years old and this latest release takes us to a whole new world.

POS software for cafes

P

From kitchen printing to a host of other facilities, our POS software now serves the needs on many local cafes. Here is a new short video from us demonstrating some of these tools now in the latest release of our POS software.

Aussie made POS software and Aussie supported.

Software made for local trophy shops

S

Running a trophy shop can be demanding, juggling inventory, engraving requests, and diverse orders. Tower Systems’ Australian-developed POS software is here to help, streamlining your operations and allowing you to focus on what you do best – creating champions.

xr:d:DAGCbUm_KNw:7,j:4808017484077709780,t:24041421

Here are some off the benefits of Tower Systems POS for Trophy Shops:

  • Team pricing: Easily manage team-based discounts to encourage business and support local teams.
  • Pre-configured packages: Offer pre-set trophy packages by sport or event for faster ordering.
  • Bundle: making buying easier and more appealing.
  • Inventory management: Say goodbye to stock shortages! Track inventory levels and reorder supplies before you run low.
  • Component management: Our software can handle orders with multiple components, ensuring smooth order creation.
  • Engraving management: Efficiently manage engraving requests. Input details directly into the system, track progress, and guarantee accurate inscriptions.
  • Order tracking: Keep track of everything from initial quotes to final pickups. Eliminate misplaced orders and keep customers happy. Identify regular clients for targeted marketing.
  • Customer notification: Inform customers about order completion via SMS or email with our POS software.
  • Data-driven decisions: Gain valuable insights with detailed sales reports. Track sales by category to understand business performance and optimise stock levels for future purchases.
  • Sell online: Connect your POS to Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, or Magento for a seamless online sales solution.
  • Loyalty: with shopper traffic not your usual daily or weekly shop, the Tower loyalty solution can help infrequent shoppers spend more with you.

Why Tower Systems is could be a good fit:

  • Experience: We only serve local small business retailers in specialty retail channels. We understand uniqueness. We offer features like “manufactured goods” to manage multi-component products and repair management tools for customisation tasks.
  • Investment in your business: POS software is a long-term investment. Streamlined operations, improved customer service, and valuable data will propel your trophy business to success.

Local Support, Local Success: Tower Systems is dedicated to supporting local businesses in Australia, New Zealand and nearby. We offer human-based support, understanding your needs and providing one-on-one demonstrations to ensure our software meets your specific requirements. Our commitment to transparency means we’ll always tell you if our software doesn’t fit your needs.

Together, let’s see how our POS software can elevate your trophy shop. Call 1300 662 957 or email sales@towersystems.com.au.

POS software for pop-up shops helps local retailers thrive

P

Pop-up shops give retail businesses an opportunity chance to connect with customers in a temporary setting, often for a limited time. They are somewhere you can experiment, to explore new opportunities.

Tower Systems offers an easy-to-use POS software solution specifically built for pop-up shops. Our Retailer Roam solution is made for retail on the go: from a pop-up shop to selling at a local market to selling from the back of a truck. Its is an ideal pop-up shop POS solution.

Here’s what our Tower Systems team considered when designing our pop-up POS software:

Flexible and Scalable: Pop-up shops are all about being adaptable, and what you sell can change too. Tower Systems’ POS software is built to handle these changing needs. It’s easy to add or remove products, adjust prices, and manage stock levels on the go.

Spot-on Stock Management: Keeping track of your stock is crucial for pop-up shops to avoid running out or having too much. Tower Systems gives you strong inventory management tools, including barcode scanning, stocktakes, and live inventory updates. This means you always know exactly what you have in stock and can make smart decisions about ordering more.

Happy Customers, Loyal Customers: Building a base of loyal customers is important for any business, including pop-up shops. Tower Systems helps retailers capture important customer data for making good decisions.

All the Payment Options: Making it easy for customers to pay is key to a smooth experience. Tower Systems supports a wide range of payment methods, including cash, card, and digital wallets. This flexibility means you can take whatever your customers prefer and make checkout a breeze.

See Your Results Clearly: To make decisions based on data and get the most out of your pop-up, you need good reporting and analytics. Tower Systems offers tools and insights to help you do just that.

Cloud-Based Convenience: The pop-up shop POS software solution from Tower Systems is cloud-based, so you can access it from anywhere with an internet connection. This is perfect for pop-up shops that might be in different locations or have staff working remotely.

Aussie Support at Your Back: Tower Systems offers local support and expertise, so you know you’ll get help whenever you need it.

Picking the right POS software is key to pop-up retail success. Tower Systems would love to chat with you about your needs and see if they might be the perfect fit. Get started here: sales@towersystems.com.au or call 1300 662 957.

Tower Systems helps small business retailers leverage lower EFTPOS fees

T

When choosing an EFTPOS provider, retailers should make an informed decision based on their specific needs. They need to choose based on the financial and operational needs of their business.

Good POS software seamlessly integrates with a range of EFTPOS solutions, making it easy for retailers to select the best option. This flexibility allows retailers to choose an EFTPOS payments processor that aligns with their business requirements.

Tower Systems does not require retailers using its POS software to deal with any specific bank or EFTPOS payments processor. Tower Systems customers can freely choose the bank for EFTPOS that best suits their needs. There are no additional charges levied against customers for business transactions.

Processing EFTPOS payments through CBA, NAB, Westpac, ANZ, Suncorp, Tyro, and other providers is straightforward with the integrated EFTPOS solution available to retailers using Tower Systems POS software.

The integrated EFTPOS solution from Tower Systems offers a range of benefits:

  • Few keystrokes = fast, fewer mistakes.
  • Simplified accounting and transaction reconciliation.
  • Retailers choose what’s right for their business.

When selecting POS software for your business, it’s crucial to inquire about integrated EFTPOS capabilities and whether there are any associated fees. It’s important that your POS software company generates revenue from the software itself,rather than from transaction fees. This ensures that your business growth and success are yours to enjoy.

When choosing an EFTPOS payments processor, consider the following factors:

  • Specific needs and budget of your business.
  • Business size and transaction volume.
  • POS software compatibility.

Tower Systems offers excellent compatibility with its POS software when it comes to EFTPOS payments processing.

Tower Systems provides local small business retailers with many benefits including:

  • Easy surcharging. Easily and accurately pass on EFTPOS costs to your customers.
  • Fast checkout: Eliminates manual data entry, streamlining transactions and reducing queues.
  • Reduced errors: No manual keying, minimizing human error and ensuring accurate transactions.
  • Improved staff productivity: Staff can focus on customer service rather than manual payment entry.
  • Seamless payment experience: Customers can tap, swipe, or insert their card directly at the EFTPOS terminal,providing a smooth and intuitive experience.
  • Reduced contact: Minimizes physical contact between customers and staff, enhancing hygiene and potentially aiding social distancing efforts.
  • Enhanced security: Data transfers directly between POS and EFTPOS, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.

Tower Systems is committed to offering retailers choice and flexibility when it comes to EFTPOS payments processing,without any additional costs.

Kitchen docket printing now available in Tower Systems POS software for small business retailers

K

With more retailers moving into hospitality in one form or another, Tower Systems is making the change easy thanks to the release of support for kitchen docket printing from within its well-established POS software for local small business retailers.

Here’s a new video from our COO on how retailers can engage with this:

Cafes, garden centres, produce / farm supply businesses, bike shops and plenty of other retailers have a business case for this kitchen docket printing solution as it enables printing the dockets in a place other than or in addition to the usual sales counter.

Developed with retailers already using our POS softwares the kitchen docket printing tools are another enhancement delivered by our awesome POS software development team.

New features in major POS software release from Tower Systems

N

We are grateful to our customers for their support through the beta release of a major software update that is out now. here are some of the many features in this awesome update:

Tagged/Kitchen Dockets

We’ve introduced new dockets that can be printed to designated printers for specific items, perfect for specialized areas like Kitchens, Baristas or bulk landscape supplies. Additionally, you now have the option to require an order number for each sale, which will then be printed on all receipts. To Setup the Tagged docket printing please follow the advice.

POS Picking Slips

This new feature allows you to generate Picking Slips directly from the POS screen for sales. This enhancement simplifies the order fulfillment process, streamlining your operations.  Once a sale is completed, using the previous sales screen simply click the Pick Slip Button.  To enable this feature you will need to update your mapping.

POS Notes per line item

You can now add specific notes to individual line items in the POS screen. Whether it’s a reason for a discount or details of an alteration, these notes will appear in the POS grid and on customer receipts, providing better clarity and documentation. This new functionality works brilliantly with the new tagged dockets/kitchen printing allowing you to record an alteration to a item, like removing beetroot from a burger.  To add notes to items please follow instruction in our knowledge base.

Quote & Invoice Management – Proforma Payments

Proforma Invoices: We’ve enhanced the Proforma Invoices to provide detailed itemisation of customer payments. The report now includes the current outstanding balance at the time of printing, giving you a clearer view of payment status.

Rich Text Web Descriptions

Introducing an easy-to-use visual editor for your web descriptions! Now, you can effortlessly add bold text, underlines, numbering, bullet points, colours, and even insert tables. All your formatting choices will seamlessly translate to your web platform, giving you greater control over how your content is presented online.

Visual Deck

We’re thrilled to introduce a new near real-time sales reporting platform! With Visual Deck, you can monitor your store’s sales data from anywhere, without needing to remote into your store. Customize your dashboard tiles to focus on the key metrics that matter most to your business. Additionally, you can now generate weekly and monthly review reports, ensuring you’re always up-to-date on your business performance.

POS software for retailers in Papua New Guinea

P

We’re proud to serve retailers in Papua New Guinea with our cutting-edge Point of Sale (POS) software. As an Australian company, we here at Tower Systems understand the unique needs of businesses in Papua New Guinea and have tailored our software to meet their specific requirements.

Our POS solution is designed to cater to a wide range of industries, including jewellers, garden centres, bike shops,bookshops, pet shops, toy shops, fabric shops, and more. With our user-friendly interface and comprehensive features,businesses can streamline their operations, enhance customer service, and drive sales growth.

One of the key advantages of choosing our POS software is our dedicated support team. With time zones that align closely with Papua New Guinea, we are able to provide timely assistance and resolve any issues promptly. Our team has extensive experience working with local businesses, ensuring that we understand the nuances of the Papua New Guinea market and can offer tailored advice.

Call us and a human answers.

To ensure that our clients get the most out of our software, we provide comprehensive training. Our one-on-one live training sessions are customized to meet the specific needs of each business, ensuring that retailers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to use the POS software effectively. In addition to live training, we offer a vast library of video tutorials and text-based articles in our knowledge base, providing 24/7 access to support resources.

Our POS software users in Papua New Guinea have access to a wide range of features, including [list of key features].This comprehensive suite of tools enables businesses to manage their operations efficiently, from inventory control and sales tracking to customer relationship management and reporting.

We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that our clients’ needs are met. To facilitate the sales process, we offer personalized demonstrations of our POS software. These demonstrations are recorded and can be shared within the retail business, allowing all stakeholders to evaluate the software’s suitability before making a decision.

By choosing our Tower Systems POS software, Papua New Guinea retailers can benefit from a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly solution that is designed to help them succeed in today’s competitive market.

Analysing Retail Trends: Insights for local small business retailers the Remainder of 2024 and Beyond

A

Analysing data from numerous retailers across various settings, we’ve identified several trends that may be beneficial to others as we navigate the final four months of 2024 and beyond. Tower Systems is pleased to share these local small business retail insights.

Product Trends

  • Relaxing Products: The jigsaw surge from during the pandemic has resurfaced. Sales are up and smart retailers are doing well. Likewise, there is growth in other brain related products and activities such as: adult colouring, art and craft, journaling, cross-stitch, knitting, games, and art. Smart retailers are not only selling these items but also providing opportunities for customers to connect with others engaged in these activities.
  • Nesting: This category has experienced a valuable uptick this year. Nesting products include candles, diffusers, essential oils, rugs, cushions, homewares, pets, cooking items, and related products.
  • Tactile Products: We’ve observed a surge in cuddly products, such as plush toys, pets, rugs, blankets, pillows, and similar items. Fitting under the sensory category this year, these products placed for impulse engagement are proving to be a value hit for retailers, extending the value of the basket.
  • Easy Shopping: Retailers are gaining sales by simplifying the shopping experience through packaging frequently purchased items together and placing them prominently at the front of the store and at the counter.
  • Postable Gifts: People appreciate the convenience of easily sending gifts to loved ones they can’t see in person.

Operational

  • Working from Home: This is still a thing, especially in regional settings.  Leaning into the opportunity is smart for retailers, across almost any retail business.
  • Online: This is critical for every retailers as more sales are transacted online. Having an easy to access, beautiful, m. enjoyable and well, stocked website is a key part of the plan.
  • Contactless Retail: Having the EFTPOS machine facing the customer and positioned for easy tapping, along with implementing arrangements for the lowest possible EFTPOS fees, is essential.

Seasonal

  • Early Christmas Shopping: Christmas sales for 2024 started as early as June this year. We have seen some businesses already do very well in this space.

Local small business retail has changed. Smart retailers leaning into change are the ones doing best. Our POS software can help retailers spot trends for their commercial benefit.

it has also created opportunities. The Victorian situation serves as a reminder that disruption is not temporary. History suggests that the winners will be those businesses that adapted early and were able to refine their offerings and processes as the market evolved.

Tower Systems POS vs. Square POS: A Cost Comparison

T

Tower Systems is committed to offering our customers the best value and functionality in our POS software made for specialty retail channels, independent small business retailers. In this blog post, we’ll compare our Tower Systems POS software to Square POS, focusing on the key cost factors and unique features that set us apart.

Let’s start with the Hidden Costs of “Free” POS

While Square POS often advertises as “free,” there are costs for the retailer associated with using their platform. The primary revenue stream for Square is transaction fees charged through their integrated EFTPOS system. These fees can add up quickly, especially for businesses with high transaction volumes. In our experience, the EFTPOS fees are higher that a retailer could access from elsewhere. These fees are a cost to the business regardless of whether they pay them or their customers pay them in our opinion.

Cost Savings with Tower Systems

Based on our analysis, we believe that most retailers using Tower Systems POS and a competitive EFTPOS rate that we have seen as low as half the cost of the Sharpe POS rate  will save between $3,000 and $5,000 annually compared to Square POS. This is due to a combination of lower transaction fees and additional features included in our software.

  • Loyalty Program: Tower Systems POS includes a built-in loyalty program at no extra cost, while Square POS charges a per month fee for this feature.
  • Support: We offer 24/7 support, ensuring you always have assistance when you need it. From what we can see Square’s support hours may be more limited and accessing a human for a conversation more challenging.
  • Integration: Tower Systems seamlessly integrates with popular accounting software like Xero and e-commerce platforms like Shopify, saving you time and effort.
  • Enhancements: Our software is regularly enhanced thanks to suggestions from and voted on by our customers.

Personal service

At Tower Systems, we provide personal service to our customers. Our team is available to discuss your specific requirements and offer a tailored demonstration of our software. We’re committed to helping you find the right POS solution for your business, if that is us we are committed to helping as much as we are able. We actively support local small business retailers.

When comparing Tower Systems POS to Square POS, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership, including transaction fees, additional features, and support. We believe that Tower Systems offers superior value and functionality,making it a more cost-effective choice for Australian businesses.

Pop-up shop POS software solution easy with Tower Systems

P

Pop-up shops are an established and thriving segment of retail in Australia, and globally. They offer businesses a unique opportunity to engage with customers in a temporary, often limited-time, setting. Aussie POS software company Tower Systems offers a comprehensive and user-friendly pos-up shop POS software solution tailored to the needs of pop-up shops.

In developing its pop-up POS software solution, the team at Tower Systems considered:

  • Flexibility and Scalability: Pop-up shops are often characterised by their temporary nature and varying product offerings. Tower Systems’ POS software is designed to accommodate these dynamic requirements. Its flexible features allow you to easily add or remove products, adjust pricing, and manage inventory levels as needed.
  • Inventory Management: Accurate inventory tracking is crucial for pop-up shops to avoid stockouts or overstocking. Tower Systems provides robust inventory management tools, including barcode scanning,stocktaking, and real-time inventory updates. This ensures that you always have a clear picture of your product availability and can make informed decisions about replenishment.
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Building a loyal customer base is essential for the success of any business, including pop-up shops. Tower Systems helps retailers capture vital data for valuable decision making.
  • Payment Processing: Efficient payment processing is vital for a smooth customer experience. Tower Systems supports a wide range of payment methods, including cash, card, and digital wallets. This flexibility ensures that you can accommodate the preferences of your customers and streamline the checkout process.
  • Reporting and Analytics: To make data-driven decisions and optimise pop-up performance, having access to comprehensive reporting and analytics is essential. Tower Systems offers insights and tools.
  • Cloud-Based: Our pop-up shop POS software solution is cloud-based, you can access it from anywhere with an internet connection. This provides flexibility and convenience for pop-up shops that may operate in multiple locations or have remote staff.
  • Australian-Based Support: Tower Systems offers local support and expertise, ensuring that you have access to assistance when you need it.

Choosing the right POS software is essential for the success with pop-up retail. Tower Systems welcomes talking with sales prospects, to discover needs and explore if we may be the right solution. It starts here: sales@towersystems.com.au or 1300 662 957.

Is cash out day the best way to make cash appealing to Australians? Maybe not we think and here’s why

I

Is Cash Out Day a misdirected focus? Maybe, we think.

Cash Out Day, a campaign designed to highlight the use of cash in retail and other transactions, often falls short of its intended goal. By focusing solely on a single day and targeting banks, it presents a simplistic view of the decline in cash usage.

While the campaign aims to engage people with cash, it’s essentially a one-day media stunt. The emphasis on withdrawing cash from ATMs suggests that banks are somehow responsible for the shift towards electronic payments. This oversimplification overlooks the broader societal and technological factors driving this change.

Perhaps more effective campaigns could focus on highlighting the unique benefits of cash. For example, many retailers are currently offering the NAIDOC 50 cent piece as change. This sought-after coin appeals to collectors and underscores the tangible nature of physical currency.

The process of collecting and holding coins is a tactile experience that sets cash apart from digital transactions. By circulating the NAIDOC coin through cash registers, retailers are participating in a more subtle yet meaningful campaign.

While this approach might not garner the same media attention as Cash Out Day, it offers a more nuanced and sustainable way to promote cash usage. It emphasizes the value and collectability of physical currency, without placing blame on banks or resorting to short-term media stunts.

By focusing on a single day and placing blame on banks, it fails to address the underlying reasons for the decline in cash usage.

More effective campaigns could highlight the unique benefits of cash, such as its tangible nature and collectability. The NAIDOC 50 cent piece, for example, offers a tangible incentive for people to use cash and appreciate its value.

By promoting cash in a more nuanced and sustainable way, we can encourage its continued use without resorting to short-term media stunts or placing blame on specific institutions.

Tower Systems is grateful to be working with many retailers offering the NAIDOC 50c coin as change through their cash registers, helping Australians across the country access this sought after coin and thereby to engage with the joy of holding physical currency in their hands. Our POS software reaches many, in varied ways.

Pitching our POS software at Auckland Gift Fair

P

While we had some freight challenges – our display booth collateral got lost in transit – the Auckland Gift Fair was a terrific event where we met plenty of prospective POS software customers and reacquainted ourselves with others. Being the only software company there was terrific.

The trade show ended Tuesday last week and already we are progressing well with new contacts made.

What training is available for POS software in a small retail business?

W

The training provided in the use of POS software varies by POS software company. Be sure to ask what training is provided prior to choosing your POS software.

Consider training for when you first start to use the POS software and training you may want to access for new employees or as you start to use extended facilities as you become more familiar with what the software could offer your business.

The difference between POS software companies in terms of user training available is considerable.

Tower Systems offers its POS software users access to one-on-one training tailored to each business, serving their specific needs.

Tower Systems also offers its POS software users unlimited access to a regularly updated library of training videos, structured in an easy to follow curriculum. Across hundreds of videos customers can learn at their own pace, review and have others trained in the business. Each video is short, single topic, and can be accessed from anywhere.

Tower Systems offers its POS software users access to text based training through 800+ articles in a regularly reviewed and updated knowledge base. For those who learn by reading, this is an excellent resource.

Tower Systems offers its POS software users access to free and regularly run user meetings. Hosted online, these live sessions provide customers with easy access to training as well as feedback opportunities on using the POS software.

Tower Systems makes access to training easy, knowing that the better a user understands how to use the software the more useful it will be and the more benefit coal for the local retail business in which it is used.

Before you decide on POS software for your retail business ask about training opportunities. Engage with some of the training to gauge its usefulness for your type of business. Assess it for yourself.

Training could be the key to you enjoying the POS software. It should not be an after thought in your consideration.

Serving thousands of local small business retailers, here at Tower Systems we understand the importance of good, easy to access and relevant training. This is why we invest in maintaining our training assets and people to be the best possible for the different retail channels we serve.

Are there any hidden fees or recurring costs associated with POS software?

A

Tower Systems does not have any hidden fees associated with use of its POS software.

With Tower Systems:

  • There is no fee per transactions.
  • There is no requirement to use a specific payments gateway.
  • There is no additional fee to use loyalty, access smart reports or to handle customer accounts.
  • There is no additional fee associated with the value of sales, the number of stock items or the number of customers.
  • There is no extra fee to access the Xero link, Shopify link or other third party links.
  • There is no extra fee to access the customer service help desk.

Anyone considering POS software needs to thoroughly research costs associated with any POS software they are considering.

In our experience, too many POS software companies do have hidden fees and additional costs associated with their POS software.

Transaction Fees

  • Payment Processing: Some POS systems charge a percentage of each transaction, often combined with a fixed fee.  One company charges the retailer an additional fee if they use a payments gateway other than their own.
  • Card Types: Some systems may charge higher fees for certain card types.

Monthly Subscription Fees

  • Software Access: Many POS systems require a monthly subscription fee to access the software and its features.   
  • Additional Modules: If you need specialised features like inventory management, employee scheduling, or customer loyalty programs, you may face additional subscription costs. Do your homework.

Integration Costs

  • Third-Party Apps: If you want to integrate your POS system with other software, such as accounting or e-commerce platforms, you may incur integration fees.

Support and Training

  • Technical Support: Many providers offer technical support, but it may come at an additional cost, especially for premium services.
  • Training: Training your staff on how to use the POS system effectively can also be expensive.

Data Migration and Setup Fees

  • Moving Data: If you’re switching from another POS system, you may need to pay for data migration services.
  • Setup Costs: Setting up the POS system, including hardware installation and configuration, can involve one-time fees. Be sure to get the details up front.

To avoid surprises, it’s crucial to:

  • Read the Fine Print: Carefully review the terms and conditions of the POS software agreement.
  • Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to inquire about any potential hidden fees or recurring costs.

Tower Systems does not have any hidden fees associated with use of its POS software.

Do POS systems in Australia support omnichannel retailing, including online sales and in-store pickup?

D

Aussie software company Tower Systems offers local retailers POS software serving the omnichannel need of retail businesses. Ours is a true omnichannel solution thanks to tight integrations with Shopify, Big Commerce, Magento and WooCommerce. Purchases can be dispatched, or set for easy click and collect.

Our POS software serves in-store sales, sales from a truck, van or similar on the road, sales from a pop up shop, and sales online. This is what omnichannel retail looks like today. And, inventory is managed across all shopper touchpoint back to a single view of inventory availability.

This is smart retail management for retailers in 2024. easy omnichannel retail for local small business retailers.

Whether you’re operating a brick-and-mortar store, a mobile sales team, or an online shop, Tower Systems offers a versatile POS solution that caters to all your retail needs. Easily manage in-store sales, mobile sales, pop-up shops, and online orders from a single platform. Our advanced inventory management system ensures accurate stock levels across all sales channels, providing a clear and up-to-date view of product availability.

We have one business with a fleet of trucks from which they sell, another customer who operates at lo9cal markets and hundreds with website integrated solutions connected to their physical shops.

Tower Systems offers:

  • Seamless Omnichannel Integration: Connect your online and offline sales channels for a unified customer experience.
  • Versatile POS Solution: Manage sales from various locations, including stores, mobile sales teams, and online platforms.
  • Advanced Inventory Management: Maintain accurate stock levels across all channels to avoid stockouts and overstocking.
  • Easy-to-Use Interface: Our intuitive software makes it simple for retailers of all sizes to manage their operations.

As a leading Australian software company, Tower Systems provides retailers with comprehensive Point of Sale (POS) software designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s omnichannel businesses. Evolving is the key word here. Retail is changing. Tech is changing. We lean into change every day. We are grateful for these opportunities.

So, to answer the question: Do POS systems in Australia support omnichannel retailing, including online sales and in-store pickup? POS software from Tower Systems is the POS solution to consider.

Tower Systems POS Software Integrated with Tyro EFTPOS: A Powerful Solution for Small Business Retailers

T

Tower Systems is a leading provider of POS software for small business retailers in Australia. We’re proud of that and grateful to our 3,750+ local retail;l business customers.

We are proud to offer a seamless integration with Tyro EFTPOS, providing our customers with an easy-to-use, safe, secure, and business-beneficial solution for taking card payments in-store.

Tower Systems was an early adopter of POS software integration with Tyro. We are grateful to count many hundreds of small business retailer customers using this specific solution today.

The Tower POS software Tyro integration means less keystrokes at the sales counter. This saves time and reduces mistakes. Best of all, it reduces the opportunity for employee theft. This is a single touch POS / EFTPOS solution for retailers, and it has been around for many years, helping retail businesses of all sizes, including garden centres, jewellers, bike shops, newsagents, pet shops, toy shops, music shops, produce businesses, outdoors businesses, bookshops, and more.

Benefits of the seamless and smart Tower Systems Tyro Integration

  • Easy to use: The Tower POS software Tyro integration is simple to set up and use. There is no need for additional training or support.
  • Safe and secure: Tyro is a PCI DSS Level 1 compliant payment processor. This means that your customer’s card data is always safe and secure.
  • Business beneficial: The Tower POS software Tyro integration can help you save time and money. It can also help you reduce the risk of employee theft.
  • Reliable: Tyro has a proven track record of reliability. You can count on Tyro to provide you with a high-quality EFTPOS service.

Get Started Here:

If you are a small business retailer in Australia, we encourage you to learn more about the Tower Systems Tyro integration. You can visit our website or contact us directly on 1300 662 957 or sales@towersystems.com.au to request a demo.

Okay, we’re going to toot our own horn: we think that our Tower Systems Tyro integration is the best POS / EFTPOS solution for small business specialty retailers in Australia. We are confident that you will be happy with our product and service. If we think we are not right for you, we will say so.

Let’s recap:

  • Tower Systems is a proud partner of Tyro.
  • The Tower POS software Tyro integration is available to all small business retailers in Australia.
  • Tyro is a PCI DSS Level 1 compliant payment processor.
  • The Tower POS software Tyro integration can help you save time and money.
  • The Tower POS software Tyro integration can help you reduce the risk of employee theft.

We are a local Aussie POS software company serving local Aussie retail businesses. Our focus is on small businesses. Each one of our customers has a voice. Our direction as a software company is not controlled by a big loud and demanding customer. Small businesses rock!!!

Thank you for reading!

Appointment retail is going the way of appointment TV, radio and print

A

The retail industry is undergoing a major shift, similar to what happened with traditional media. With the rise of streaming services and on-demand content, consumers are no longer tied to appointment TV, radio, and print schedules. Instead,they can access the content they want, when they want, and on any device. This same trend is now happening in retail.

In the past, retailers dictated when and how customers could shop. Stores had specific opening hours, and customers had to physically visit the store to make a purchase. However, with the growth of e-commerce, consumers can now shop online 24/7. This gives them greater flexibility and convenience, and it’s forcing retailers to adapt.

Tower Systems argues that retailers who fail to embrace this shift will miss out on a huge opportunity. By offering online shopping, retailers can reach a wider audience and sell to customers who may not be able to visit their physical store.Additionally, online shopping can provide valuable data about customer behavior, which can be used to improve the overall customer experience.

If you’re a retailer, it’s important to consider how you can adapt to this changing landscape. One option is to create a website or online store where customers can browse and purchase your products. You can also use social media to connect with customers and promote your business.

Ultimately, the key to success in the retail industry is to put the customer first. By offering convenience, flexibility, and a great shopping experience, you can attract and retain customers in today’s competitive market.

This transformation is not just about the shift from physical to digital stores. It’s also about creating a seamless omnichannel experience. Consumers expect to be able to shop anytime, anywhere, and on any device. They want to research products online, then try them on in-store, and potentially purchase them through their mobile phone. Retailers must integrate their online and offline channels to meet these evolving expectations. This includes offering services like click-and-collect, buy online, pick-up in-store, and returns to physical stores. Tower Systems can help with this.

Smart POS software and other tech is enabling new retail models. Subscription boxes, personalised recommendations, and augmented reality shopping experiences are becoming increasingly common. These innovations are changing the way consumers discover and purchase products. Retailers must stay ahead of the curve by adopting new technologies and experimenting with different retail formats. Ultimately, the future of retail belongs to those who can create engaging and evolving customer experiences across all touch points.

The importance of Australian made POS software for local Aussie retail businesses

T

Naturally, as an Australian POS software company, we advocate for the success of Australian businesses over international competitors. This is particularly relevant when considering the tax implications for everyday Australians. However, this article focuses on the broader benefits of Australian-made POS software for local retail businesses and the wider community.

Software is essentially a narrative tool for retail businesses. It helps them craft and communicate their brand story.Australian businesses often have a unique story to tell, and Australian-made software is specifically designed to effectively convey this. Overseas software, while potentially functional, may lack the nuanced understanding of the Australian retail landscape.

Our POS software helps local Aussie businesses pitch local.

Australia’s retail sector, particularly small businesses, has distinct characteristics. A large, multinational software company may not prioritise the specific needs of a $300,000 to $500,000 turnover business. In contrast, a locally focused company like Tower Systems specialises in supporting this segment and understands the importance of personal service.

Transparency and accessibility are crucial. Tower Systems offers direct access to our leadership team, a rarity in the POS software industry, especially among larger international companies.

The retail industry is constantly evolving, and these changes vary between countries. Australian retailers require software solutions tailored to their unique challenges and opportunities.

By choosing a local software provider, retailers contribute to the development of local skills and expertise. Australian software companies offer valuable real-world experience for programmers. Moreover, supporting local businesses helps to maintain essential government services funded by Australian taxes.

Ultimately, the decision to use Australian-made software is a reflection of a business’s commitment to supporting the local community. While Tower Systems specialises in specific retail niches, we respect the diverse needs of the industry. We offer our expertise where it aligns with a business’s goals and always provide honest recommendations.

By investing in Australian-made software, retailers contribute to the growth of the local economy, support job creation,and ultimately enhance their ability to compete and thrive in the Australian market.

We are proud to be an Australian POS software company supporting Australian retailers.

With a deep-rooted understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Australian businesses, we offer tailored solutions that empower our clients to thrive. Our focus on specialty retail, combined with our dedication to exceptional customer service and ongoing software development, sets us apart. By choosing Tower Systems, retailers not only invest in their business’s success but also contribute to the strength of the Australian economy.  

The POS Software Blog

Categories

Categories

Categories

Recent Comments

Monthly Archives