The POS Software Blog

The POS Software Blog

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

Latest stories

We are grateful for Retail Fest 2025

May 31, 2025
3 Min read
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We enjoyed our time at Retail fest on the Gold Coast this week. We got to meet colleagues in the POS software space, be introduced to some new retailer prospects, talk with the payments specialists at Tyro and learn from the retail specialists at Retail Fest. It was an inspiring, engaging and relaxing few days, a perfect trade show we think.

A significant emphasis at Retail Fest on the Gold Coast this week was placed on leveraging AI to automate, optimise, and scale retail businesses. This includes using AI for demand forecasting, inventory planning, streamlining support, and enhancing customer experiences. The thing is, Tower Systems has already delivered embedded AI tools for its small business retail customers, tools that are already helping deliver cost savings, revenue growth and improved profit experiences.

AI is here for local small business retailers in the Tower Systems POS software.

Our advice to retailers looking for AI tools to help serve their business goals – make sure that the AI tools are real and not other tech wrapped to look like AI. make sure, too, that the AI tools are easily accessible within your existing tech desk. Going outside may have a cost and an operational speed-bump that may not serve your needs.

While some at Retail Fest spoke about scale, here at Tower Systems we serve local small business retailers for whom scale is usually not top of mind. We know of many instances where a successful local small retail; business delivers more profitability than a scaled business as the scaled business is often built to perpetually scale whereas the stable local small retail; business is built for profit.

Retail Fest prides itself on being a “community-driven event,” providing extensive networking opportunities to connect with peers, industry leaders, mentors, and potential partners. We experienced this first-hand, for which we are sincerely grateful.

This focus on community and practical application aligns with our Tower Systems philosophy. We believe that the true power of AI for small businesses lies not in abstract “scale” but in tangible, embedded tools that deliver real-world benefits. Our presence and experience at Retail Fest reinforced our commitment to providing accessible, effective AI solutions directly within our existing POS software.

For many local retailers, the goal isn’t just about getting bigger, but about getting better – more efficient, more profitable, and more connected to their customers. That’s why our AI development continues to prioritise the specific needs of independent retailers, ensuring they can harness the power of artificial intelligence to thrive in an increasingly competitive market, all while maintaining the community focus that makes their businesses unique.

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Giving back: half price POS software for op. shops, charity shops and community enterprises

May 29, 2025
3 Min read
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For many Australian op shops, charity shops, and community enterprises, efficient and user-friendly point-of-sale (POS) software is crucial for smooth operations and volunteer effectiveness. Tower Systems offers a specialised POS solution designed with the unique needs of these organisations in mind, focusing on simplicity, customisation, and robust support.

One of the standout features of the Tower Systems POS is its highly customisable interface. The main dashboard and sales screen can be easily tailored to suit individual preferences, allowing for different layouts, hotkeys, and adjustable font sizes. This level of flexibility ensures that volunteers, regardless of their tech proficiency, can navigate the system with ease, minimising training time and maximising productivity.

We support volunteers in op. shops and related businesses with a volunteer training curriculum that enables easy learning from anywhere at any time. Awe make using our op. shop software easy.

Processing sales transactions is quick and straightforward. The system enables users to input amounts, select relevant departments (such as ‘clothing’ or ‘bric-a-brac’), and efficiently finalise sales. For improved customer clarity, the software allows for temporary changes to item descriptions on receipts without altering core department details. It also integrates seamlessly with most EFTPOS pin pads, ensuring a smooth checkout experience. Optional features include staff tracking, which can record staff codes or initials for each sale, and the ability to customise printed receipts with store logos, details, and promotional messages – perhaps even highlighting donation information.

Recognising the unique nature of op shop inventory, the software is particularly adept at handling sales without requiring individual stock management. The department sales feature, combined with the ability to modify receipt descriptions on the fly, is ideal for environments where tracking each item individually is not practical.

The system also offers practical functionalities like suspending sales, allowing volunteers to put a transaction on hold if a customer needs more time or forgets an item. These suspended sales can be easily retrieved later, even from a different terminal. Additionally, while less common for op shops, the software supports the sale and management of gift vouchers.

At the end of a shift, the Tower Systems POS simplifies the reconciliation process. It provides visualisations of sales data by time, terminal, and department, and includes a takings reconciliation feature where volunteers can input cash counts to identify any discrepancies. This end-of-shift procedure is also highly customisable in terms of reports and terminal handling.

Tower Systems provides comprehensive support, including initial installation, data transfer if required, and thorough training. Users benefit from an extensive knowledge base with articles and videos, as well as direct access to their support team via phone or ticket, with remote assistance capabilities. They even offer a dedicated user guide tailored specifically for op shops.

Understanding the budgetary considerations of non-profit organisations, Tower Systems offers a 50% discount on its monthly software packages for eligible entities. This fee encompasses 24/7 support and ongoing software updates, ensuring that Australian op shops, charity shops, and community enterprises have access to a reliable, feature-rich, and supportive POS solution.

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Retail advice: Five Free Ways to Grow Traffic to Your Website

May 28, 2025
9 Min read
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Attracting visitors to your website is crucial for business growth. Fortunately, several effective strategies don’t require any financial investment. Here are five free methods from us here at Tower Systems to boost your website’s traffic:

  • Optimise Product Names: When listing products, always include your brand name, particularly if you sell branded items. This helps search engines to accurately index your product pages, making them easier for potential customers to find.

  • Enhance Product Descriptions: Go beyond basic details. Craft comprehensive product descriptions that feature your brand name and relevant keywords that customers are likely to search for. Detailed, informative descriptions can significantly improve your website’s ranking in search engine results.

  • Publish Regular Blog Posts: Consistent, original content is key. Aim to publish blog posts at least twice a week, ideally three times. While AI can assist with initial drafts, personalise the content to showcase your unique expertise and differentiate your business. Regular blogging enhances your website’s authority with search engines.

  • Develop a Comprehensive “About Us” Page: Your “About Us” page is a crucial element of building trust. Clearly state your business’s identity, values, and local presence. Include photos of yourself and your team, along with your real names and contact details, to foster confidence among potential customers.

  • Utilise Free Marketplaces: Explore free online marketplaces to expand your reach. Like www.findit.com.au. This is a platform where you can list your products, allowing your product data to be automatically displayed and linked back to your website. This provides an additional avenue for customers to discover your business.

Here are some more comprehensive advice on this points. This advice is from years of work we have done for our website connected POS software customers.

1. Optimise Product Names: Getting Found Through Specificity

Optimising your product names is about making your products discoverable. When a potential customer types a query into a search engine, you want your product to be among the top results.

How to delve deeper:

  • Be Specific and Descriptive: Instead of just “Dress,” consider “Floral Midi Dress with Puff Sleeves.” If it’s a branded item, always include the brand: “Acme Brand X200 Blender.”
  • Think Like Your Customer: What exact terms would someone type into Google if they were looking for your product? Incorporate those into your product name. If your product has a model number or a specific identifier, include it.
  • Consistency is Key: Ensure that the product name used on your website is consistent across all platforms where it might be listed (e.g., social media, free marketplaces).
  • Consider Keywords (Naturally): While you shouldn’t stuff keywords, naturally integrate terms that describe the product’s function, colour, size, or material if relevant and concise. For example, “Ergonomic Office Chair – Black Mesh.”
  • Front-Load Important Information: Place the most crucial information at the beginning of the product name, as search engines often give more weight to the initial words.

By meticulously crafting your product names, you’re not just labelling items; you’re creating direct pathways for customers to find exactly what they’re looking for. We understand this approach takes time. The thing is – time spent getting your data right will help you be found y more people.

2. Enhance Product Descriptions: The Power of Detailed Storytelling

Product descriptions are more than just a list of features; they are opportunities to tell a story, address customer needs, and showcase the value of what you offer. Detailed and well-written descriptions are crucial for both search engine optimisation (SEO) and converting visitors into customers.

How to delve deeper:

  • Write for Both Humans and Search Engines: Your primary goal is to inform and persuade a human reader, but remember to naturally include keywords that search engines can pick up on.
  • Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features: While features are important, explain how those features benefit the customer. For example, instead of “5-megapixel camera,” write “Capture crisp, vibrant memories with the advanced 5-megapixel camera.”
  • Include Brand Names and Specifics: Just as with product names, consistently include your brand name and any relevant product models or identifiers.
  • Use Rich, Descriptive Language: Paint a vivid picture. Describe the texture, feel, colour, and overall experience of using the product.
  • Structure for Readability: Use headings, bullet points, and short paragraphs to break up text and make it easy to read. This is especially important for longer descriptions.
  • Answer Potential Questions: Anticipate what questions a customer might have about the product and answer them within the description. This reduces the need for them to leave your page to find information. If you are not sure of questions people ask – search and the search engine will show you the questions.
  • Consider User-Generated Content: If appropriate, you could even subtly encourage reviews or questions within your description, which can further enrich the page content.
  • Optimise Length: While there’s no magic number, longer, more informative descriptions generally perform better. Aim for enough detail to thoroughly explain the product and its benefits.

A well-crafted product description can significantly improve your search rankings by providing rich, relevant content that both users and search engines appreciate.

3. Publish Regular Blog Posts: Be an Authority

A blog is one of the most powerful tools for establishing your business as an authority in your niche. Regular, high-quality blog content signals to search engines that your website is active, relevant, and a valuable resource for information. Your content is what matters here though – give of yourself.

How to delve deeper with blogging:

  • Consistency Over Quantity (But Aim for Both): While the suggestion is 2-3 posts per week, even one high-quality, well-researched post a week is better than sporadic, low-effort content. Establish a realistic publishing schedule and stick to it.
  • Offer Actionable Help: What questions do your customers ask? What problems do they face that your products or services can solve? Blog posts should aim to provide solutions and valuable insights.
  • Keyword Research (Free Tools): Use free tools like Google Keyword Planner (requires a Google account) or even Google’s “People also ask” section and “Searches related to…” at the bottom of search results to find popular topics and keywords relevant to your industry.
  • Vary Content Formats: Don’t just write articles. Consider how-to guides, listicles (“5 Ways to…”), ultimate guides, comparison posts, interviews, case studies, or even infographics (which can then be written about).
  • Optimise for SEO:
    • Catchy Titles with Keywords: Your title should be compelling and include your primary keyword.
    • Use Headings: Break up your content with clear headings that also incorporate keywords where natural.
    • Internal Linking: Link to other relevant pages on your website (product pages, other blog posts, your “About Us” page) to improve site navigation and SEO.
    • External Linking: Link to reputable external sources when citing statistics or information, demonstrating credibility.
    • Optimise Images: Use descriptive file names for images (e.g., “blue-cotton-dress.jpg”) and add alt text.
  • Promote Your Posts: Don’t just publish and forget. Share your new blog posts on your social media channels, in your email newsletters, and even consider re-sharing older, evergreen content.
  • Personalise and Add Value: While AI can help with initial drafts, always add your unique voice, insights, and real-world examples. This is what truly differentiates your content and builds trust with your audience.

A thriving blog positions you (through your website) as a resource to trust.

4. Develop a Comprehensive “About Us” Page: Building Trust and Credibility

Your “About Us” page is often one of the most visited pages on a website. It’s where potential customers go to learn about the people behind the business, your values, and why they should trust you. A well-crafted “About Us” page can significantly enhance your credibility and encourage conversions.

How to delve deeper:

  • Tell Your Story: Don’t just list facts. Share the journey of your business. What inspired you? What challenges did you overcome? A compelling story creates an emotional connection.
  • Showcase Your “Why”: Clearly articulate your mission, vision, and values. What drives your business? What impact do you hope to make?
  • Humanise Your Business with Photos: Include high-quality, professional photos of yourself, your team members, and even your workspace if appropriate. Seeing real faces behind the brand builds immense trust.
  • Introduce Your Team: Briefly introduce key team members, perhaps with their roles and a small, relatable anecdote. This adds a personal touch.
  • Highlight Your Local Presence: If you serve a specific geographic area (which is often the case for Australian businesses), clearly state your location. Include your physical address if you have one, or at least mention the cities/regions you serve.
  • Provide Clear Contact Information: Make it easy for people to get in touch. Include your phone number, email address, and a link to your contact form.
  • Showcase Your Expertise/Qualifications (if applicable): If you have certifications, awards, or specific expertise that sets you apart, subtly mention them.
  • Include Testimonials or Trust Signals: While not strictly part of the “About Us” narrative, a small section with a testimonial or a mention of your commitment to customer satisfaction can reinforce trust.
  • Keep it Authentic: The most effective “About Us” pages are genuine and reflect the true spirit of the business.

A well-developed “About Us” page builds a bridge of trust between your business and potential customers.

5. Utilise Free Marketplaces: Expanding Your Digital Footprint

Leveraging free marketplaces can significantly extend your reach beyond your own website, acting as powerful referral sources for new traffic. These platforms are often already established and have a large existing user base.

  • Research Relevant Marketplaces: Beyond general ones, are there niche-specific free marketplaces in Australia that cater to your products or services? For instance, if you sell handmade goods, look for craft-focused platforms. If you’re a service provider, investigate local business directories.
  • Optimise Your Listings: Just like on your own website, ensure your product or service listings on these marketplaces are fully optimised.
    • High-Quality Images: Use clear, professional photos that showcase your products effectively.
    • Detailed Descriptions: Copy and paste (and perhaps slightly adapt) your comprehensive product descriptions from your website.
    • Accurate Categorisation: Ensure your products are listed in the correct categories for maximum visibility.
  • Provide Direct Links Back to Your Website: The primary goal of using free marketplaces for traffic generation is to funnel users back to your main website. Always include a clear and prominent link to your product page or homepage.
  • Maintain Consistency: Ensure your brand messaging, product names, and pricing are consistent across all platforms.
  • Monitor and Engage: If the marketplace allows, monitor any enquiries or comments on your listings and respond promptly. This shows you’re active and engaged.
  • Explore Industry-Specific Directories: Many industries have free online directories where businesses can list their services. Being present on these can drive highly targeted traffic.

By strategically utilising free marketplaces, like our won www.findit.com.au, you’re placing your products and services in front of new audiences who are actively searching for what you offer, thereby driving valuable referral traffic back to your own digital storefront.

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Tower Systems POS: Revolutionising Small Business Retail with AI-Powered Tools

May 27, 2025
3 Min read
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Our customers are loving the suite of AI-powered tools that streamline operations and boost sales. Small business retailers from a range of specialty retail; channels tell us they are losing the benefits of AI in their businesses, tools accessible within our software.

Key AI Features embedded in the Tower Systems POS software:

  • AI for Writing Descriptions: Generate compelling product descriptions for receipts, invoices, and online stores. This feature leverages AI to create engaging content that can improve product visibility and drive online sales. Users can customise the AI’s prompts to tailor the generated text to their specific needs.
  • AI Import of Invoices: Say goodbye to manual data entry. This feature allows users to import supplier invoices in PDF format. The AI automatically extracts key information, such as supplier details, invoice number, item descriptions, and quantities. Retailers can then review and import these items, assign departments, generate barcodes, and update pricing.
  • Stock Item Blog Posts: Create engaging blog content for products with ease. This feature uses AI to generate informative blog posts that can be scheduled and uploaded to online store platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce, improving SEO and driving traffic to online stores.
  • Barcode Lookup Integration: Instantly access product information by scanning barcodes. This feature integrates with a vast online database, allowing retailers to quickly retrieve descriptions, images, and other details for over a billion items. This significantly speeds up the process of adding new products to the system and updating existing information. While not your traditional AI, this is a loved integration.
  • AI Pricing: Optimise product pricing with AI-driven suggestions. This tool analyses local market data to recommend standard, low, and premium price ranges, helping retailers find the sweet spot for maximising profits.

These AI tools in our Tower Systems POS software offer significant benefits, including:

  • Time Savings: Automating tasks like description writing and invoice processing frees up valuable time for retailers to focus on other aspects of their business.
  • Increased Accuracy: AI-powered tools reduce the risk of human error, ensuring more accurate product information and financial data.
  • Improved Online Presence: Generating high-quality product descriptions and blog posts can boost SEO and drive online sales.
  • Enhanced Profitability: Optimising pricing and streamlining operations can contribute to increased revenue and reduced costs.

This AI functionality is available to retailers on the “Advanced” or “Ultimate” software plan who also have an API key with a provider like OpenAI or Google Gemini. The cost of using these AI features, particularly for invoice analysis, is low – as our customers are finding.

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A loyalty solution retailers and shoppers love

May 26, 2025
2 Min read
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The success of any loyalty program hinges on a few core principles:

  • Clarity: The value proposition must be easy for customers to understand. Rewards should be clear and accessible.
  • Discretion: Loyalty programs should enhance the customer experience, not detract from it with an overwhelming amount of marketing communications. Avoiding excessive “spam” is vital for maintaining a positive perception.
  • Instant Gratification: In today’s fast-paced world, immediate rewards often resonate more strongly with customers than delayed ones. Providing instant value, like that offered by Tower Systems’ vouchers, can significantly boost engagement and satisfaction.

By focusing on these principles, Tower Systems’ voucher-based loyalty system provides a powerful and effective way for retailers to not only attract but also retain customers, building lasting relationships that go beyond a simple transaction.

With the Tower Systems POS software, local small business retailers can:

  • Create and print vouchers instantly: Vouchers can be generated and printed directly on customer receipts in just moments, making the reward immediate and visible.
  • Offer flexible discounts: Retailers have the power to customize their incentives, choosing between percentage-based discounts or fixed dollar amounts, tailoring offers to suit their business needs and customer base.
  • Drive repeat business: These vouchers prove to be remarkably effective in encouraging customers to return, fostering valuable repeat business and strengthening customer relationships.
  • Incentivize immediate purchases: Even first-time customers can be motivated by these vouchers to make additional purchases, turning a single transaction into a longer-term customer relationship.
  • Enhance negotiation: For larger purchases, vouchers can serve as a valuable tool during negotiations, helping to close sales and ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Tailor offers to customer preferences: Tower Systems allows retailers to create different customer profiles, enabling them to offer larger discounts to those who provide their contact information while still providing attractive vouchers to customers who prefer not to share their details.

Tower Systems POS software offers a refreshing and highly effective alternative: loyalty vouchers. This system simplifies the process for both retailers and customers, focusing on immediate, tangible value.

We’s a POS software company focussed solely on local small business retailers in a range of specialty retail channels. Size matters to us. If yours in a big business with 15 locations, we are likely not for you.

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Two new POS software customer forums this week

May 25, 2025
1 Min read
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This week we are hosting two forums for our customers. We shared the details in our regular customer service emails:

Customer forum: Tuesday May 27 @ 11am.
Please join us online this Tuesday at 11am Melbourne time as we talk through the AI tools in the software, preview some software enhancements coming your way and answer all your questions on all topics. Everyone is welcome.

Web development forum: Tuesday May 27 @ 2pm.
If you are considering having a website developed for your business, join us this Tuesday at 2pm Melbourne time. We’ll talk through the process, what’s involved, the costs and we will answer all of your questions.

As usual, we will record the sessions and make these recordings available to all customers.

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Small business retailers local easy access to POS software help on a Saturday

May 23, 2025
3 Min read
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Tower Systems is proud to provide live POS software help desk support on Saturdays as a standard part of our comprehensive support coverage. This service has been an integral part of our offering for many, many years, and there are no extra charges associated with accessing our support, including on Saturdays.

Our Saturday support is delivered by our dedicated help desk team, offering full service assistance, not a limited on-call arrangement.

Here’s what some of our small business retail customers have shared about the value of our Saturday POS software help desk support:

“Saturdays are when I get time to work on the business. Your availability means I can get the help I need then, rather than waiting until Monday.”

“One of the reasons we chose Tower Systems was because we were tired of waiting days to get in touch with support for our previous software.”

“I appreciate that I can call on a Saturday and speak to a real person who listens to my non-technical explanation and provides assistance, right then and there.”

“Our weekend staff aren’t as familiar with the software, so their ability to call your help desk allows us to have a smoother weekend operation.”

“Software issues don’t adhere to Monday to Friday office hours. Having access to your help desk outside of these times is incredibly beneficial for our business.”

“It’s what small businesses value – local support that’s easily reachable when we need it.”

“I’m always delighted when I email a non-urgent question on a Saturday, expecting a Monday response, and instead receive a reply or even a call on Saturday. It’s fantastic.”

We take pride in offering a level of after-hours POS software help desk access that is truly distinctive. While the majority of our customers may not require it frequently, its availability and ease of access provide crucial support when needed, setting us apart and demonstrating our commitment to our customers.

A less effective approach to Saturday POS software help desk support is through offshore call centres. We believe this does not offer the same level of understanding and service.

All members of our Tower Systems POS software help desk team possess in-depth knowledge of our software, understand the nuances of local retail, and can converse in a way that resonates with local business practices. They are skilled in engaging in meaningful conversations rather than adhering strictly to scripts.

Ultimately, we recognise that Saturday POS software help desk support is a genuinely valuable resource for local small business retailers.

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Tower Systems releases now POS software update

May 22, 2025
2 Min read
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Ten days ago we released another PSO software update delivering terrific facilities for our, local small business retail customers. This latest update to the Tower Systems POS software contains more enhancements suggested by users of the software through our exclusive, transparent and customer-driven Software Ideas platform.

Launched a world first in the POS software space by Tower Systems in 2009, Software Ideas provides a transparent and structured approach to suggestions by the Tower Systems user community.

The Software Ideas service we launched in March 2009 inspired by the What Would Google Do? book by Jeff Jarvis continues to deliver benefits to our customers and to us.  This year alone, we have released a raft of software enhancements which have been put to us through Software Ideas. We have more in the pipeline too.

User submitted ideas plus those we create for ourselves as well as changes requested by supplier partners make up the broad and valuable mix of enhancements we deliver in our Point of Sale software in every update and every update makes our software more valuable.

Software Ideas remains unique in our marketplaces. It’s a best practice approach as it puts our customers first.

Our continued release of software enhancements that have been first suggested through Software Ideas shows the value of the process not only to customers of tower Systems but to us as well – through the extension and enhancement of our Point of sale software product. it demonstrated genuine and tran sparent cooperation.

Every idea is costed and evaluated. Every idea is open for customers to vote on and comment on.

The list of ideas live at Software Ideas is considered for each software update package we create.

This is is true collaboration between a software company and its customers. We’re proud, years on, to be able to point to the valuable two-way success of Software Ideas.

Tower Systems is a vertical market software company serving local and independent small business retailers in specialty retail channels: music repair businesses, stockfeed businesses, teddy bear shops, repairs shops, gunsmiths, jewellers, garden centres, bike shops, gift shops, toy shops, newsagents, bookshops and more. We make what we sell.

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Visual Desk: real time insights for local small business retailers

May 21, 2025
3 Min read
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The Visual Deck is an advanced reporting platform designed exclusively for Retailer users.

First released by Tower Systems ten years ago, this business intelligence platform for local small business retailers helps these businesses thrive thanks to immediate access to business performance data and smart insights.

It provides near real-time sales and business insights that you can access anytime, anywhere – no need for remote access to your store. Customise your dashboard to focus on the key metrics that matter most to your business and generate weekly and monthly performance reports to keep your operations on track.

The Visual Deck with our POS software sends an email weekly and monthly outlining business performance across a range of key performance indicators for the business. The visual representation of performance makes understand the health of the business easy and the decision opportunities even easier.

We have dramatically cut the time needed by retailers to access data, understand it and make decisions based on it. The emails weekly and monthly is another way our Tower Systems POS software is helping small business retailers run more enjoyable and valuable local retail businesses.

This cloud-based platform is accessible from anywhere. It provides live access to retail business performance KPIs, helping small business retailers better understand what is happening in their businesses.

This is smart retail management, time saving retail management, profit-focussed retail management. This is the Tower Systems POS software solution.

We first released our visual insights solutions years ago. We have regularly enhanced these ever since. Today, what we offer in this space of reports-free retail; business insights is best-practice, smart and, again, profit-focussed.

Gone are the days of spending hours wading through reports. Who has the time?

Instant Insights, Anywhere You Go

  • Real-Time Updates – Sales data is refreshed within minutes, keeping you up to date with the latest trends.
  • Cloud-Based Access – Monitor your store’s performance from any device, no matter where you are.
  • Customisable Dashboard – Track what’s important to you with personalised tiles displaying key business insights.

Data-Driven Decision Making

With the Visual Deck, you get clear, visualised data to help drive smarter business decisions, including but not limited to:

  • Month-on-Month Performance – Compare sales trends from recent months to the same period last year.
  • ABC Inventory Analysis – Identify your most and least valuable stock with intuitive grading.
  • Trending & Declining Products – Spot hot sellers and underperforming items at a glance.
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The value proposition of Tower Systems POS software if you’re considering going with Square POS

May 20, 2025
3 Min read
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Here at Tower Systems we dedicated to providing independent small business retailers in specialty channels with POS software that delivers exceptional value and comprehensive functionality.

Value is the key here. To us, value means software back by service that helps local small business retailers run profitable businesses they enjoy. So, value to us is a financial measure as well as an emotional measure. The two go hand-in-hand.

Since our software is sometimes compares to Square POS, we thought it might be helpful to offer a comparison between Tower Systems POS and Square POS, focusing on essential cost considerations and the distinct features that differentiate our solution and since costs play into value.

Understanding the total cost of “Free” POS Systems

While Square POS is often presented as a “free” solution, retailers need to consider all  associated operational costs. From what we can see, Square’s primary revenue generation is through transaction fees applied via their integrated EFTPOS processing. For businesses with significant transaction volumes, these fees can accumulate substantially. Our observations indicate that these integrated EFTPOS rates can be notably higher than rates a retailer might secure independently. We consider these processing fees a direct business expense, irrespective of whether the merchant or the customer ultimately bears them.

Demonstrable cost advantages with Tower Systems

Our analysis suggests that the majority of retailers utilising Tower Systems POS, coupled with a competitively sourced EFTPOS rate—which we’ve seen as low as half the cost of Square’s integrated rate—can realize annual savings ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 compared to using Square POS. This financial benefit arises from a combination of potentially lower transaction processing fees and the inclusion of valuable features within our standard software package.

  • Integrated loyalty program: Tower Systems POS includes a fully integrated loyalty program at no additional charge, a feature that Square POS offers only through a monthly subscription. The Tower loyalty solution has been proven to drive incremental sales.
  • Dedicated local support: We provide round-the-clock support, ensuring our customers have access to assistance whenever required. Based on available information, Square’s support hours may be more restricted, and direct human interaction can be less readily accessible.
  • Seamless integrations: Tower Systems offers smooth integration with widely used accounting software such as Xero and popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, streamlining business operations and saving valuable time.
  • Customer-driven enhancements: Our software evolves continuously based on feedback and feature requests prioritized by our user community.
  • Personalised engagement: At Tower Systems, we are committed to offering personalised service. Our experienced team is available to discuss your unique business needs and provide a tailored software demonstration. We aim to assist you in identifying the optimal POS solution for your business, and if that is us, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support. We are proud to actively support the local small business retail sector.

For us, it all comes down to value. At Tower Systems you matter. We only serve local small retail businesses. Every customer is treated the same. We answer the phone. We personally respond to emails. We’re a small company, you know the service is personal.

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Helping small business retailers demonstrate relevance in a cost of living crisis

May 19, 2025
3 Min read
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Tower Systems is grateful to help many local small business retailers demonstrate relevance in what so many news outlets call a cost of living crisis.

Families finding cash tight appreciate unexpected cash they can spend. Cash means more than loyalty points. We all understand the value of a dollar. Plenty of us can’t explain the value of a loyalty point since businesses set their own value for these – that’s why businesses love points over cash.

Hundreds of local small business retailers choose the loyalty option in their Tower Systems POS software that offers cash for spending in the next visit to the shop. It’s a smart move, easily understand, absolutely appreciated by shoppers.

This facility for include a discount customers can apply to their next purchase is part of the awesome discount voucher facilities in our POS software. It’s been out now in our software for 12 years.

Originally developed for garden centres where shopper visits vary and can be seasonal, we have retailers across many retail channels engaged and benefiting from using the discount vouchers.

Our easy to setup and flexible to run discount voucher loyalty program is a game-changer for businesses using our POS software.

You can be up and running in a couple of minutes.

Typically, around 20% of vouchers are redeemed. Guys are more likely to redeem in that visit while girls tend to return within seven days to spend. You can set your own rules around accrual, and redemption. You can use levers you can pull to guide shopper behaviour.

Customise Your Rewards

  • Name it Your Way: Call them discount vouchers, Thank You Gifts, Bonus Bucks, or whatever suits your brand.
  • Flexible Rules: Set your own rules for voucher value, redemption, and expiration.
  • Tailored to Your Needs: Our support team is ready to help you set up and customise your program in minutes.

Proven Sales Success

  • Increased Sales: Our customers have seen impressive sales growth up to 12% – by actively using discount vouchers.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Shoppers love the simplicity and transparency of a direct reward, often preferring it to points-based systems.
  • Competitive Edge: Gain a significant advantage over competitors by offering a unique and rewarding shopping experience. Big businesses have nothing like this.

Drive Customer Loyalty and Sales

  • Encourage Repeat Business: Reward loyal customers and bring them back sooner.
  • Attract New Customers: Attract new shoppers with enticing offers and promotions.
  • Boost Impulse Purchases: Incentivise additional purchases at the checkout counter.

We love hearing stories of success with retailers in this space.

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Software for coin dealers helps them in-store and online

May 15, 2025
3 Min read
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Tower Systems makes point-of-sale (POS) software for a range of specialty retail channels, including coin dealers. This software is terrific for shops as well as online businesses and businesses that do both.

Our Aussie made and supported POS software has features that perfectly suit the needs of coin dealers:

  • Serial number tracking: Keep meticulous records of every coin that comes with a serial number.
  • Enhanced security levels: Protect your valuable inventory and customer data.
  • Age verification: Ensure compliance with age restrictions for certain coin purchases.
  • Online store integration: Seamlessly connect your physical and online sales channels.
  • Detailed product descriptions: Capture rich information about each coin, including historical and numismatic details.
  • Free access to international barcode lookup: Easily find and manage barcodes for your inventory.

The Tower Systems coin dealer POS software also allows you to:

  • Use extended product descriptions: Record comprehensive details about each coin, including its history, condition, and any unique features.
  • Track sales by mint: Analyse the performance of different mints and identify sales trends.
  • Track sales by licence: with plenty of mints producing products under licence this horizontal tracking can be useful.

A significant benefit of Tower Systems POS software for coin dealers is the streamlined handling of secondhand goods:

  • Track secondhand goods: Monitor the journey of each secondhand coin from the moment it enters your store.
  • Manage consignment items: Easily track coins held on consignment for other collectors.

Selling at local coin markets and other coin related events markets is a breeze with our Retailer Roam option:

  • Sell from anywhere: Process sales effortlessly at markets and other off-site locations.

Check out www.mintconshop.com.au to see a Shopify site we created that is connected to our Tower POS software.  We help make managing online sales easy. The POIS software manages all inventory, feeding data like product descriptions and product i8mages to the website.

See how our coin dealer POS software may benefit your business. Tell us what matters to you. If we think we can serve your needs we will say so. If we can’t do anything you explain to us, k we will say so. There’s no obligation and no pressure – we understand that every coin dealership is unique.

Here are some of the ways our POS software can help you leverage the unique aspects of your coin dealership:

  • Rare visit loyalty: Nurture relationships with collectors who may visit infrequently by offering targeted loyalty programs.
  • Pre-orders: Easily manage pre-orders for coins that are not yet in stock, securing sales and fulfilling customer requests.
  • Professional valuations: Generate professional-looking valuation certificates for your customers.
  • Second-hand goods management: Track and manage secondhand goods with ease, ensuring accurate records and efficient inventory control.
  • Connecting buyers and sellers: Leverage your database to connect collectors with specific interests.
  • Group marketing and support: Easily target specific groups and clubs with tailored offers and pricing.
  • Product care information: Share valuable product care knowledge with your customers to enhance their collecting experience.
  • Serial number tracking: Maintain accurate records of coins with serial numbers.
  • Anniversary marketing: Celebrate collector anniversaries with personalised offers and promotions to foster long-term relationships.

Our Australian-made and supported coin dealer shop POS software offers much more.

Schedule a free, no-obligation demonstration today and discover how it can help you streamline your operations and grow your business. Call 1300 662 957 or email sales@towersystems.com.au.

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Low-cost fast-track Shopify web development opportunity for local small business retailers

May 14, 2025
3 Min read
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If you want a website for your business, and fast, this is for you:

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Low-cost fast-track Shopify web development offer.

Fixed price $3,990.00 (inc. GST)

If you know what you want to sell online; have a logo; have straight forward requirements; offer reasonably easy to ship products; want to go live within a month. This proposal is for you.

In the pre-start assessment, we will assess whether you meet the above requirements. If you do not, we reserve the right to not proceed.

The goal of this project is to deliver you a website you can use to start selling online, to gain experience and that you can maintain with minimal technical knowledge. This is a fast-track option, to help you get online quickly.

The terms and conditions at www.towersystems.com.au apply.

Here’s what’s included in the $3,990.00 fixed price:

  1. Qualification meeting (up to 30 mins): Bring to this over the phone meeting: your logo, about us text, contact text, home page text/images, details (including images) of the products you want to launch with.
  2. 1hr consultation & planning including theme selection.
  3. 1hr support training & Tower Systems Retailer POS software setup to train you on setup of products with product descriptions and images in Retailer for linking to the website.
  4. 10 hours of Shopify store setup by our specialist web developer: Setup pages using the content you supply: Home – you provide images and text. About Us – you provide the text. Contact – you provide the details. One standard product page layout. Blog – you to write about the products you sell, to drive traffic.
  5. Setup structure using your available product feed: Up to 25 menu links.
  6. On completion – up to 2hr Shopify handover training

Costs not included in the quote.

  1. Domain & Email – you’ll need to set these up. It’s straightforward. Register with Crazy Domains or similar.
  2. Theme purchase – if you prefer to not use a free theme.
  3. Shopify plan & transaction fees.
  4. Website plugins you require.

Limits to the proposal.

Our goal is to have your website live in 2 weeks. This depends on how ready you are. We will hold the project for no more than 2 months total. If either additional time is required, or if unresponsive, the site is handed over, as is.

Important note.

A website is a hungry beast. It requires work almost daily to drive traffic and win sales. It will only be as successful as the attention you provide it. This proposal offers you a website that is a good starting point.

Interested?

Please email: sales@towersystems.com.au. They will want to see that you have a logo; have straight forward requirements; offer reasonably easy to ship products; want to go live within a month.

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ACCC to crack down on surcharges in retail

May 13, 2025
2 Min read
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Local small business retailers need to ensure that they are surcharging correctly as the ACCC has said it will act.

After years of inaction on card surcharging, the ACCC a week ago warned small business it is cracking down with potentially considerable fines.

The move comes ahead of the Reserve Bank of Australia’s   preliminary findings on the Review of Merchant Card Payment Costs and Surcharging expected by mid-year, and after both the RBA Governor Michele Bullock and ACCC Chair suggested there may be no legal grounds to stop the high blended rates charged to small businesses.

Here’s an issue some small business retailers may find. Some have their software platform funded through their payments costs and they pass all of these on to their customers. This means their customers are being surcharged for payment costs and POS software access costs. This is likely viewed y the ACCC as outside was is acceptable.

The other aspect that may concern some is the disparity in payments costs and, therefore, surcharges. Consider two retailers in the same type of business, in the same town. One chooses a payments platform that costs them .7% and the other chooses a payments platform that costs them 1.5%. The second business has a surcharge double of the first. This business could get the lower costs payments but is too lazy to negotiate access to it. That results in their customers paying a higher surcharge than they otherwise might.

The ACCC said it is monitoring business compliance, and may take appropriate compliance or enforcement action. Our point in writing abut this today is to draw it to the attention of local small business retailers.

The maximum pecuniary penalty for breaches of the prohibition against excessive payment surcharges is: $2,135,430 (6,471 penalty units) for corporations; $427,350 (1,295 penalty units) for individuals

Where the ACCC has reasonable grounds to believe that a business has charged a payment surcharge which is excessive, it can issue an infringement notice: $19,800 (60 penalty units) for corporations; $198,000 (600 penalty units) for listed corporations; $3,960 (12 penalty units) for individuals.

While Tower Systems is payments gateway agnostic, we do offer our customers access to a low cost gateway. This saves them a ton of money.

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AI tools in small business retail software a game-changer

May 12, 2025
2 Min read
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Forget the POS software of yesteryear focussed on cash register replacement and reporting. That is so old, useful, but old. The world has changed.

While some still rely on those unique to local small business retail functions, plenty of retailers are leveraging artificial Intelligence tools embedded in our Tower Systems POS software to make faster decisions, better decisions, more profitable decisions.

Tower Systems released the first AI integration in its POS software in 2022 and has updated it every few months since. The latest AI enhancements, released two months ago, are the biggest yet. Retailers tell us they are a game changer.

AI innovations are engineered to drive operational efficiency and enhance sales revenue for local small business retailers, to improve their competitive position. Here are some of the AI tools retailers are loving today:

  1. Optimised product listings: AI-generated, SEO-friendly product descriptions, enhancing online visibility and driving consumer demand.
  2. Strategic content marketing: Streamlined creation of engaging blog content, amplifying product awareness and customer engagement.
  3. Data-informed pricing decisions: AI-powered price comparison tools, enabling retailers to maintain competitive pricing strategies.
  4. Efficient inventory management: AI-driven stock forecasting, minimising stockouts and maximising sales potential.
  5. Operational streamlining: Reduction of administrative overhead, allowing retailers to focus on sales and customer service.

Retail is changing rapidly and big retailers plus online retailers are leveraging AI daily to compete in a mare targeted way. The exclusive AI tools released by Tower Systems help retailers meet that competition.

Strategic advantages include:

  1. Increased product discoverability: Enhanced online product visibility through SEO-optimised content.
  2. Improved retailer operational efficiency: Streamlined inventory management and reduced admin costs,.
  3. Data-driven sales strategies: AI-enabled price comparison and sales analysis, facilitating informed decision-making and sales growth.
  4. Reduced stock depletion: Accurate inventory forecasting, ensuring consistent product availability and maximising sales opportunities.
  5. Strengthened retailer partnerships: Provision of advanced technological solutions, fostering long-term collaborative relationships.

By equipping local small business retailers with these sophisticated tools, Tower Systems is committed to nurturing local retail success.

We have been to the National Retail Federation conference in New York, the UK Spring Fair in Birmingham and Shoptalk in Las Vegas  this year and have seen first-hand what many other POS companies are offering and are confident in what Tower offers Aussie small business retailers.

Retail is changing rapidly because of AI and Tower Systems is equipping retailers to benefit from this.

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We are grateful for all the mums in local small business retail

May 11, 2025
1 Min read
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As you’re out shopping for Mother’s Day, it’s likely you’ll encounter a mum working in or running a shop, juggling work, the business, family, home and more. Plenty of mums we see in local retail are mentors to others in their business. Plenty are champions in their local community. See them. Celebrate them. Appreciate them. #Local #SmallBusiness #retail #grateful

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Streamlining repairs management for jewellers, bike shops and others doing repairs

May 9, 2025
3 Min read
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Managing repairs can be challenging for businesses offering specialised services.  Jewellers, bicycle shops, farm supply businesses, pool service providers, and irrigation specialists are some we have worked with in offering repairs management tools.

Our specialised retail POS software incorporates comprehensive repairs management tools meticulously designed to streamline these intricate processes, irrespective of whether repairs are conducted within the business or outsourced to external providers.

Initially developed to address the specific requirements of jewellers and bicycle shop operators, these features have since been embraced by a diverse spectrum of our retail customers.

Our repairs management software boasts a range of key functionalities tailored to the unique needs of various specialised industries:

  • Jewellery: Facilitates the efficient management of both jewellery and watch workshop repairs, alongside the precise tracking of time-sensitive manufacturing projects.
  • Bicycle shops: Offers comprehensive management of bicycle and tricycle repairs, coupled with a streamlined process for handling warranty returns.
  • Garden centres: Enables the effective organisation and management of landscaping service workflows, ensuring smooth project execution.
  • Firearms stores: For managing gunsmithing and equipment repairs, as well as an efficient system for processing warranty returns.
  • Pet Shops: Facilitates management of specialised installations, such as intricate aquarium setups, ensuring accurate scheduling and completion.
  • Irrigation businesses: tracking product repair and care.

Beyond these industry-specific applications, the repairs management tools within our POS software extend beyond basic tracking to offer comprehensive operational management capabilities, providing versatile tools for job management, workshop control, and enhanced overall operational efficiency.

From the initial receipt of a repair job, the system provides meticulous tracking of its progress and facilitates consistent and timely communication with the customer throughout the process. This ensures transparency and builds trust. Furthermore, the software enables precise tracking of both labour and resource utilisation, leading to accurate billing and efficient inventory control.

For businesses that utilise external providers, our system offers efficient management of repairs outsourced to contractors or suppliers, including the seamless handling of warranty claims. To optimise internal operations, the software also provides real-time tracking of repair staff actions, contributing to efficient service delivery and resource allocation.

Integrated customer communication is a cornerstone of our repairs management system. Automated customer notifications via SMS or their preferred communication method are triggered upon repair completion, ensuring prompt updates and enhancing the customer experience. The system also facilitates seamless payment processing through a variety of methods, including cash, EFTPOS, and various digital payment platforms, offering convenience for both the business and the customer.

By streamlining the entire repairs process, Tower Systems’ software significantly improves communication, enhances operational certainty, and ultimately empowers businesses to deliver a professional, efficient, and personalised service that fosters customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Our commitment to continuous improvement is reflected in the collaboration with our customer community, including firearms stores, bicycle shops, and other specialised retailers. Customer feedback is key to our development process, ensuring that our software remains a relevant and powerful tool for the specialised retail marketplaces we serve.

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POS software embedded dispatch management tools tailored for Australian small business specialty retailers

May 8, 2025
3 Min read
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Successful dispatch management is important for local specialty retailers. Getting the right products delivered on time at the best price and with all paperwork in order is challenging. Garden centres, produce businesses, feedstock businesses, landscaping businesses – all of these and similar businesses with dispatch needs understand the challenges.

We are grateful to the many local small business retailers with dispatch needs who have helped us evolve the dispatch management tools in our POS software.

The dispatch management tools in our POS software empower retailers to manage the dispatch of sold products within their business efficiently and effectively, all in one place.

Retailers can easily manage the scheduling of their in-house vehicle assets, ensuring optimal utilisation and resource allocation. The system allows for the straightforward allocation of specific dispatch jobs to designated vehicles, providing clear accountability and organisation. Furthermore, the software enables real-time tracking of dispatch completion, offering valuable insights into delivery progress and potential delays.

Beyond vehicle management, our tools facilitate comprehensive management of dispatch orders at both the individual customer level and other relevant organisational levels. Retailers can gain a clear and consolidated view of dispatch activities by vehicle, allowing for efficient route planning and workload balancing. Additionally, the system provides the ability to view all outstanding orders for a specific customer assigned to a particular vehicle, enhancing customer service and delivery coordination.

To ensure a smoother and more accurate dispatch experience for customers, and to maximise operational efficiencies, our software incorporates robust address validation capabilities. This feature helps to minimise delivery errors and associated costs. Recognising the dynamic nature of local deliveries, the system also offers dispatch route options for use by drivers. Importantly, it empowers drivers with the flexibility to manage their dispatch sequence based on their invaluable local knowledge and other pertinent factors, optimising delivery routes in real-time.

The dispatch management facilities embedded within our Tower Systems POS software are robust, field-tested solutions that have been embraced and lauded by our valued customers. We deeply appreciate the collaborative journey we have undertaken with these retailers, whose invaluable feedback and insightful suggestions have directly shaped the evolution of this software, ensuring it truly meets their on-the-ground needs.

It is not commonplace for POS software to delve so deeply into such a specific area of operational need. However, for businesses such as garden centres, farm supply stores, produce retailers, landscape businesses, and others with in-house delivery operations, these integrated dispatch management facilities offer a workflow management solution and time-saving efficiencies that are genuinely appreciated and impactful.

Developed entirely from the ground up by our dedicated in-house POS software development team, these dispatch facilities represent true innovation for specialty retailers with mid-sized dispatch operations. We are, understandably, very proud of what we have achieved in this domain for our local small business retail partners. This is comprehensive software tailored to address the very specific and niche requirements within selected specialty retail channels. This focused approach embodies the very essence of Tower Systems’ mission – to serve the unique needs of these specialised marketplaces.

At Tower Systems, we take pride in creating and supporting the software we offer. We are committed to providing our retailers with an ever-evolving POS solution that meets their current needs and anticipates future demands in the specialty retail marketplaces we serve. Our integrated dispatch management tools are a testament to this commitment, providing a powerful and tailored solution for Australian specialty retailers.

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