The POS Software Blog

The POS Software Blog

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

Latest stories

Why Australian made and supported POS software is more useful for Australian retailers than software from an overseas company

August 13, 2024
2 Min read
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Local small business retailers are spoilt for choice when it comes to POS software. There are many software packages out there from which to choose. Plenty of these software packages are from overseas companies, companies with massive customer bases, companies with staff located in low labour cost countries.

Tower Systems is an Australian POS software company. Of course we pitch shop local. Shop local is good for the local Australian economy, it is good for us and our families. It is good for the families of those who work in local Australian retail.

If there is Aussie made and supported POS software that suits your type of business, go with that ahead of any software from an offshore company. The Aussie economy will thank you.

There are other reasons to choose software from a local POS software company:

Local support. They understand your situation better than someone in a cubicle in a low labour cost country given a couple of Aussie keywords to put about.

Local software. Local Aussie retail businesses do have local needs. A local Aussie POS software company is more likely to serve these in their software than an offshore software company with many times more customers.

Local understanding. Local real business is local. If being local is an important point of difference you will want to use software that understands the value of local and can help you leverage local.

Local connections. Local retail does not live in a vacuum. You have banking, supplier, community group and other connections. Local POS software is more likely to help you with these important local connections that software from offshore.

Tax. We suspect a local Aussie POS software company will pay more from every dollar they make in tax in Australia than any offshore POS software company. Tax paid in Australia to Australian governments funds local Aussie schools, hospitals, roads and education. It matters to us.

Australian made and supported POS software is more useful for Australian retailers than software from an overseas company because it serves the Australian community better and that should matter to anyone in local retail. It is what being local is all a bout after all.

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The ABC recently ran a news story talking down the local Aussie newsagency, we think they failed to research

August 10, 2024
2 Min read
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ABC News recently ran a story suggesting the future of the local Australian newsagency was in trouble because it had not kept up with the times. We know of many local Aussie newsagencies that have kept up and are more relevant today than any time in their past.

This video showcases a few of these awesome local businesses, shops that look nothing like the old Aussie Newsagency.

These newsagencies offer products outside of what the old Aussie newsagency carried. Gifts feature along with clothing, handbags, gourmet cooking items and more. These are businesses serving a diverse mix of shoppers – far away from lottery, newspaper and magazine customers.

Smart newsagents started transforming their businesses 20 years ago. Moving into gifts, homewares, toys and more – attracting new shoppers and selling products at margins four and five times more than newspapers.

The easiest local newsagency to transform today is one in a small country town. This setting presents opportunity, and I am glad to say that many newsagents have embraced it.

This is the story ABC News should be covering, a story of a channel navigating extraordinary change with plenty of local retailers, local newsagents, evolving their businesses to be relevant, vibrate and valuable.

We made the video because we know a picture is worth more than a thousand words. This video is worth thousands of words showing off transformed local Aussie newsagencies that aren’t newsagencies in the historic sense of that label.

While news outlets and suppliers consider newsagents a channel, newsagents are not a channel and have not been for many years. You can’t go into a newsagency expecting they will have what you want if your expectation is rooted in decades ago.

We don’t think the shingle matters. What matters is what shoppers feel when they enter a retail businesses. If they step into a shop that nurtures a feeling of comfort and happiness and offers them a treasure hunt retail experience they will tell others, and they will come back. The shingle above the door is irrelevant.

Tower Systems is a small business focussed POS software company developing, and supporting POS software for niche specialty retailers, like newsagents.

We are grateful to serve close to 1,800 newsagencies with our industry-standard newsagency software.

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Free Insights Dashboard in Tower Systems small business POS software helps local retailers thrive

August 9, 2024
3 Min read
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The Insights Dashboard in our Tower Systems POS software for small business retailers instantly displays business performance insights and retailer will find valuable.

There is no report to run. No work to collate and interpret data. The insights are there, immediately, answering 6 key business questions:

1. What’s working?
2. What’s not working?
3. What am I missing out on?
4. Is theft an issue?
5. What sells with what?
6. When am I busiest?

This new video is a discussion between our CEO, COO and a senior customer service specialist. It’s a training video we made for our customers and shared free.

Seeing where you are making money, losing money, missing opportunities, experiencing theft and more can be easy money in the bank for any retailer. Packaging these insights in this way help time-poor retailers have better control over their business.

We also talk about EFTPOS surcharges in retail and show how any retailer can apply an EFTPOS surcharge in their POS software for immediate effect. Importantly, we go into the why, explaining the decision making of some retailers.

In our POS software, retailers can apply an EFTPOS surcharge as a percentage, a fixed amount or auto-calculated based on the specific card presented by the customer. Best of all, the calculations are done quickly and seamlessly at the sales processing time.

Using our POS software, charging and EFTPOS surcharge is easy. We are proud to not charge our POS software customers based on transactions they do in their business.

By providing retailers with flexibility on EFTPOS surcharging we give retailers complete control. It’s their business after all.

These two topics – charging an EFTPOS surcharges and using the Insights dashboard are part of another in our series of customer service videos through which we seek to add value to our relationship with our small business retailer customers.

The two topics in this one video speak to our focus as a POS software company: helping small business retailers make better business decisions sooner and helping them run more valuable and reliable retail businesses.

Tower Systems is a small business focussed POS software company developing, and supporting POS software for niche specialty retailers. Jewellers, garden centres, bike shops, toy shops, produce businesses, farm supply businesses, fishing shops, pet shops, charity businesses, landscape gardening businesses, antique shops, sewing shops, haberdashery businesses, newsagents and more benefit from this software.

Find out more at www.towersystems.com.au

Our pricing is transparent: https://www.towersystems.com.au/pricing

Call 1300 662 957 or email sales@towersystems.com.au

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

August 8, 2024
3 Min read
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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.  

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Melbourne gift fair success

August 7, 2024
2 Min read
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We are grateful for the new customers won at the Melbourne Gift Fair over the last four days and the many existing customers we got to chat with.

Our stand was part of the Reed Gift Fair. There is also the lesser known AGHA Gift Fair.

As the only POS software company with a stand we made the most of the opportunity, talking with retailers keen to consider other software, retailers keen for more modern software.

Being at trade shows like the Reed Gift Fair demonstrates a commitment to the retailers who attend and to the suppliers exhibiting at the fair. Most are important groups to a POS software business like ours.

Each year we are surprised that other POS software companies don’t support the trade show by taking a stand and making themselves available to customers and sales prospects.

This year on our stand at Reed Gift Fair we demonstrated:

  • Cloud based POS solution.
  • Retail business insights dashboard.
  • POS software self checkout for small business retail.
  • Smart loyalty tools.
  • How to convert from other POS software.

We had a great time over the four busy days. The trade show ended yesterday.

As retailers ourselves we use this and other trade shows as opportunities to discover new products. We look at the trade show from multiple perspectives. We’re unique like that.

We have a deep understanding of the Australian retail landscape. We’ve been proudly serving local businesses for years, and our software is tailored specifically to their needs.

From managing complex inventory to streamlining sales, we’ve got you covered. Our POS system is more than just a cash register; it’s a powerful tool designed to help you make informed decisions, increase sales, and build customer loyalty. With features like advanced reporting, integrated loyalty programs, and seamless integration with other business systems, Tower Systems empowers you to take control of your business.   

The Reed Gift Fair in Melbourne was terrific. We are grateful for the opportunity to actively participate from our stand at the trade show as well as at the range of supplier engagement opportunities presented at the fair.

Now we get ready for our next trade show, which is in three weeks time.

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Choosing the right POS software for your local indie retail business

August 7, 2024
3 Min read
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Selecting Point of Sale (POS) software appropriate to the business is a critical decision for any independent, small retail business. A well-chosen system can significantly enhance your business’s value and prosperity, while a poor choice can be costly.

To make an informed decision, it’s essential to carefully consider your business’s unique characteristics.

  • Specialisation: If your business caters to a specific niche, seek out POS software designed for similar businesses.
  • Local Focus: If supporting local businesses is a core value, consider locally developed and supported POS solutions.
  • Expertise: To establish yourself as a local specialist, your POS system should facilitate efficient and consistent service delivery.
  • Services: If you offer repair or maintenance services, your software should accommodate these functions.
  • Product Bundling: For businesses selling bundled items, the POS system must effectively manage these configurations.
  • Customer Retention: If you operate in a tourist area, loyalty programs can be crucial for maximising repeat business.
  • Product Weight: If you sell products by weight, your POS system should have this functionality.

By carefully considering these factors, you can identify the specific features and capabilities required in your ideal POS software.

It’s important to remember that while price is a factor, it shouldn’t be the sole determining factor. Just as you advise customers to avoid compromising on quality for price, the same principle applies to POS software. Investing in a higher-quality system upfront can yield significant long-term savings and benefits.

To facilitate comparison, consider the weekly cost of software rather than the upfront investment. This approach allows for a more accurate evaluation of value for money, considering factors such as support services and software functionality.

If you’re uncertain about a particular software package, it’s advisable to explore alternatives. It’s better to decline a system that doesn’t fully meet your needs than to endure ongoing frustrations. However, be prepared to adapt some business processes to align with your chosen software.

Once implemented, it’s crucial to follow the software provider’s recommendations and fully utilise the training provided.Embracing suggested business process changes can optimise the system’s effectiveness.

Data accuracy is essential for successful POS software utilisation. Implement strict data entry procedures to ensure reliable information for decision-making.

Building a strong relationship with your software provider can be mutually beneficial. Sharing feedback and suggestions can contribute to the software’s ongoing development and improvement.

By leveraging your POS system to automate tasks, you can free up valuable time for strategic planning and customer interaction.

Implementing new software can be challenging. Focus on the long-term benefits of increased efficiency and satisfaction once the system is mastered.

Ultimately, the POS software you choose should reflect your business’s identity. Invest time in careful consideration to select a system that aligns with your goals and drives your business forward.

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Insights you can bank on

August 4, 2024
1 Min read
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Aussie local retail businesses benefit from having their websites developed in Australia by Aussie web developers

August 2, 2024
3 Min read
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For website development,  Australian retail businesses have a choice: go local or look overseas. While offshore options may seem enticing due to cost, partnering with an Australian web developer company offers a multitude of benefits that can significantly contribute to your success.

Here at Tower Systems we develop POS software for local small business retailers, and we develop websites for these businesses too.

Understanding Your Market: Australian consumers have distinct preferences and shopping habits. An Australian web developer inherently possesses this local knowledge. Our local WebDev crew understand the terminology used, the design aesthetics that resonate, and the overall “Aussie style” that fosters trust and engagement. This ensures your website speaks directly to your target audience, promoting a seamless customer experience.

Streamlined Communication and Collaboration: Time zone differences and language barriers can create significant hurdles when working with offshore developers. With us, communication is effortless. You can easily have phone calls or even face-to-face meetings during your business hours, fostering a collaborative environment. This ongoing dialogue allows for clear exchanges of ideas and ensures your vision translates perfectly into the final product.

Design that Reflects Your Brand: A website’s design serves as the digital storefront for your business. We understand the subtle nuances that differentiate Australian retail from global brands. They can create a website that reflects the unique look and feel of your brand, fostering a sense of familiarity and trust with local customers.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Here at Tower Systems we offer a one-stop shop approach. You work directly with the team building your website, eliminating the need for intermediaries who might misinterpret your requirements. This flexibility allows for on-the-fly adjustments and ensures your website can adapt and grow alongside your business.

Ongoing Support and Refinement: Websites are rarely a “set it and forget it” project. We understand the importance of ongoing support and maintenance. We are  available to address any issues or implement changes as needed. Additionally, after launch, you might identify areas for improvement. We can make those tweaks quickly and efficiently, ensuring your website remains optimised for the local market.

Investing in the Local Economy: By choosing us, you’re supporting a local business and contributing to the broader Australian economy. This aligns perfectly with the ethos of many local retailers who advocate for “shopping local.” It demonstrates your commitment to the community you serve.

While cost might be a tempting factor when considering offshore options, the potential pitfalls can outweigh any initial savings. Choosing an Australian web developer fosters a collaborative, results-oriented partnership that delivers a website tailored to the Australian market, ultimately contributing to your long-term success.

Tower Systems – trusted web development for local small business retail

At Tower Systems, we’re proud to be a leading Australian provider of both Point-of-Sale (POS) software and web development services specifically designed for Australian speciality retailers. Our team of local developers understands the unique needs of your business and can create a website that reflects your brand and resonates with your customers.

We have a proven track record of success, serving over 3,500 local retail businesses across Australia. Let us help you build a strong online presence and achieve your business goals.

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Why a locally based POS software help desk matters to local small business retailers

July 29, 2024
2 Min read
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When it comes to your retail business, smooth operations are everything. Especially when it comes to your point-of-sale (POS) system, any question can bring things to a halt. That’s where a local reliable help desk comes in, a help desk where calls are conversations rather than strict script driven.

Tower Systems is Australian based. All of our help desk colleagues have retail experience. They don’t follow a script. You are not required to detail your query within strict parameters. It’s a conversation, something familiar in local small business retail.

An Aussie help desk will understand the nuances of your questions and be able to troubleshoot issues specific to Australian regulations and business practices.

When a POS system in any retail business crashes or does not perform and you expect, you need help fast. An Australian help desk operates in the same time zone as you, meaning you can get in touch with a real person during regular business hours. No waiting for an overseas team to wake up halfway across the world.

Here at Tower Systems customers set their own contact priority when they reach out to us. This determines the urgency. They are in control.

We cater to the specific needs of our retail communities: jewellers, garden centres, gift shops, bike shops, toy shops, newsagents and more. Folks on our help desk have a deep understanding of these local systems and the challenges you might face. They can provide tailored advice and solutions that are relevant to your business.

We see each of our POS software customers as a valued customer, not just another ticket number. Individual businesses matter. All of our customers are small business retailers. We don’t serve big business retailers. We take the time to understand your business and develop a relationship with your team. This can lead to faster resolutions and even proactive support to prevent future problems.

We also provide easy to access forums, like user meetings, where every voice is heard.

If being able to access useful and understandable customer service about your POS software matters in your business. Tower Systems is here for you. Locally made and supported POS software for local specialty retailers.

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A message for local independent retailers

July 26, 2024
2 Min read
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The news cycle is dominated by headlines about economic downturn. Daily there are stories about people doing it tough. While these stories can be unsettling, focusing solely on negativity can be counterproductive.

Here at Tower Systems, we understand the importance of fostering a positive and optimistic environment, especially during challenging times and even more especially in local small business retail.

Local retailers can nurture a more positive local tone.

Yes, the economic climate is challenging and complex. That does not mean there aren’t opportunities. Many local businesses have seen positive developments in 2024. There are green shoots. We encourage you to focus on what’s working for your business.

Here are some suggestions:

  • Highlight your successes: Showcase new products, host in-store events, and promote exciting developments on social media.
  • Maintain a sense of normalcy: Continue providing excellent customer service and keep your store environment upbeat with cheerful music and engaging displays.
  • Focus on what you can control: While external factors exist, you have the power to shape your business strategy and customer experience.

We’ve weathered economic downturns before, and each presents unique challenges. While the global situation adds complexity, many local businesses are finding success in this new landscape.

Let’s be proactive, optimistic, and focus on what we can do to build stronger and more resilient businesses. Remember, a positive outlook is contagious, and it can make a real difference in these times.

In out software for local small business retailers there are plenty of opportunities for sharing happiness and optimism with customers from easy to run cash discount offers, positive messages on receipts, bundles offers and event based offers that offer joyful celebration.

By not being part of the doom and gloom news cycle, your local retail business can set its own narrative of positivity that locals are likely to appreciate and respond to.

Our advice this Friday morning is to embrace positivity, look at what you can do to make your shop a haven of joy and happiness, a shop offering value, a place where you can your work colleagues enjoy serving each day. These are differences you can make that themselves will make a difference to you.

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Tower Systems: POS Software Solutions for New Zealand Retailers

July 25, 2024
3 Min read
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Tower Systems is grateful to serve local small business retailers in New Zealand with specialty retail POS software made for many different types  of retail businesses like jewellers, bike shops, dairies, gift shops, homewares shops, farm supply businesses, toy shops, coin dealers, craft shops and more. We have been proudly serving Kiwi businesses for over fifteen years, and currently support a network of satisfied customers up and down the country.

Our software is built with the needs of small businesses in mind, offering a range of features to save you time and improve your bottom line. We cater to a variety of retail sectors, including garden supplies, pet stores, jewellers, bike shops, gift shops, toy stores, dairies, bookstores, and many more.

Local Support for Your Business

We understand the importance of local support. Our dedicated customer service team is available toll-free during New Zealand business hours, ensuring you receive prompt and professional assistance whenever you need it. Additionally, we have a team member based near Christchurch and another in Auckland, providing a familiar and relatable point of contact. Plus, we regularly host face tp face sessions for our POS software customers in New Zealand.

Our POS software integrates seamlessly with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce,allowing you to manage your online and offline sales effortlessly. Additionally, we offer native integration with Xero accounting software for streamlined financial management.

Tower Systems is more than just a software company. Since 1996, we have owned and operated three successful giftware and homeware stores. This firsthand experience allows us to truly understand the challenges and opportunities faced by local retailers. We develop our software with your needs in mind, ensuring it provides the functionalities you require to succeed.

Benefits for Your Retail Business

Tower Systems’ POS software offers a comprehensive suite of features to enhance your retail operations:

  • Detailed Sales Tracking: Track sales by colour, size, style, or any other relevant attribute.
  • Club Pricing: Attract and retain loyal customers with targeted pricing for community groups.
  • Repair Management: Simplify repair tracking, communication, and invoicing.
  • Flexible Sales Options: Sell by weight, fractions, or create custom units.
  • Advanced Loyalty Programs: Go beyond traditional points systems with our innovative loyalty solutions.
  • Promotional Tools: Increase sales with buy-one-get-one-free (BOGO) offers and other promotions.
  • Warranty Tracking: Enhance customer service by easily managing product warranties.
  • Targeted Marketing: Re-engage customers with targeted campaigns for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions.
  • Mobile Sales: Sell anywhere with our Retailer Roam mobile app.
  • Special Order Management: Manage customer special orders efficiently.
  • Customisable Labels: Design product and receipt labels to match your brand identity.

Our low monthly rental fee provides you with a comprehensive POS solution, including unlimited computer licenses for your store location, ongoing software updates, access to integrations and support resources, and personalised one-on-one training to get you started.

If you are a local independent retailer in New Zealand seeking a reliable and feature-rich POS software solution, Tower Systems can be your trusted partner. We are committed to helping your business thrive. Contact us today to learn more about how our software can benefit your operations.

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Free theft check service from Tower Systems helps small business retailers discover theft sooner and save

July 24, 2024
3 Min read
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Every Australian small business owner understands the sting of retail theft. Whether it’s customer shoplifting or employee pilfering, missing inventory and unexplained shrinkage eat away at your profits. But what if there was a way to identify potential theft early, before it significantly impacts your bottom line?

Our Tower Systems POS software that’s make for small business retail offers a proven and powerful weapon in the fight against theft: we offer a free theft check service. This complimentary service leverages the robust data captured by their POS system to provide invaluable insights into your store’s operations.

Here’s how it works: Tower’s POS software acts as your silent guardian, meticulously recording every sale, transaction,and inventory movement. This data becomes a treasure trove of information for Tower’s team of security specialists. They have the expertise to analyse this data and uncover hidden patterns that might indicate suspicious activity.

For instance, a sudden spike in voids or returns for a particular staff member, unusual discounts applied to specific items,or discrepancies between cash register takings and recorded sales could all be red flags. By identifying these patterns early, you can take preventive measures before the theft escalates.

The beauty of Tower’s free theft check is its proactive nature. It doesn’t rely on catching someone red-handed; it focuses on identifying anomalies that warrant further investigation. This allows you to address potential theft before significant losses occur.

Here are some key benefits of utilising Tower Systems’ free theft check service:

  • Reduced Shrinkage: Early detection of theft means less lost inventory and increased profitability.
  • Improved Security: The knowledge that your system is actively monitoring for suspicious activity can act as a deterrent to would-be thieves.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing your business is protected allows you to focus on what matters most – running your store and delivering exceptional customer service.

Tower Systems understands the unique challenges faced by Australian small businesses. Our free theft check service is a testament to our commitment to helping retailers not only survive but thrive. By utilising this valuable tool, you gain a powerful ally in the fight against retail theft, allowing you to keep your profits where they belong – in your pocket.

Accessing the free theft check service starts with a call or email to a member of the Tower leadership team. We treat your communications with confidentiality. We ask for access to your data and we analyse this for you. If it gets to the point of law enforcement, we will provide evidence they require.

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The transact anywhere POS solution: retailer Roam from Tower System perfect for pop-up, market and other retail

July 23, 2024
3 Min read
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Retailer Roam is another tool in our Tower Systems POS software solution suite. It is cloud based POS software that lets retailers work where needed: on the road, at a market, in a pop-up shop, from a truck, from home, while at a supplier warehouse.

This is truly portable POS software. We have customers using it at local markets, in pop-up shops and from trucks on the road all day selling.

It is cloud based POS software. In the cloud, and working when net access is not available.

This is POS software for businesses on the move. Transact anywhere, any time.

Retailer Roam is available to all Tower Systems POS software customers. This is a proven solution bringing flexibility and remote access to retail businesses in ways that serve their portable and flexible POS software access needs.

The latest version, out now, is even more comprehensive and beneficial.

Behind the scenes, seamlessly, data is synchronised in 3 phases in serving of the needs of our retail business customers. Here is how this happens:

  1. Phase One is an initial transfer that contains the base stock. This is done on start-up. It sets Retailer Roam up to be able to sell.
  2. Phase Two is to receive product updates – on hand levels or pricing changes.
  3. Phase Three is to send sales and customer, inventory and sales data to Retailer. Sales data is identified by each Roam terminal, allowing you to view the terminal sales.

Sales (Phase 3) will be stored in a ‘Queue’ on the device, which will be cleared periodically to sync sales with the Roam server (and then sent to Retailer). There is an option to force a sale to be sent to Retailer again (incase it was missed for whatever reason).

Retailer Roam can work where there is no internet access, making the storage and sharing of data back to the base of the business flexible and accurate to the needs of the business.

Retailer Roam offers retailers on the go a range of facilities including…

  • Cash/EFTPOS Sales
  • Invoice Sales
  • Create a LayBy
  • Sell stock with Serial Numbers
  • Loyalty Point Redemption & Acrrual
  • Customised POS Screens
  • Variants
  • Refunds
  • Basic End of Shift
  • Stocktaking
  • Re-ordering
  • Integrated EFTPOS

Retailer Roam is a solution for retail businesses that need to be able to conduct business on the go, from a variety of situations, from multiple terminals of iPads at once. It is easy to use and secure in service of the needs of retail businesses.

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Hidden gems for independent retailers: Tower Systems’ Insights Dashboard Empowers Local Retailers

July 22, 2024
2 Min read
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Running a local retail business can feel isolating at times. It’s easy to get bogged down in daily tasks without a clear view of the bigger picture.

At Tower Systems, we understand this. That’s why we developed the Insights Dashboard, a powerful tool within our POS software designed specifically for independent retailers like you.

Actionable Insights, Delivered Simply

The Insights Dashboard caters to all levels of business experience. Regardless of your background in financial or management skills, the dashboard presents insights in a clear, visual format. We’ve done the hard work of extracting valuable data, so you can focus on making informed decisions.

Uncover What Matters Most

The dashboard provides a snapshot of key performance indicators (KPIs) critical to your business success, including:

  • Where You Stand Today: Get a quick overview of your current sales and liabilities.
  • Identifying Underperformers: Easily see which products aren’t selling well (dead stock). This empowers you to make strategic decisions, such as discounts or stock reductions, to free up tied-up capital.
  • Missed Opportunities: Pinpoint instances where popular items have sold out, potentially leading to lost sales.Restocking strategies based on these insights can ensure you capture future revenue.
  • Unlocking Upsell Potential: Gain valuable insights into customer basket analysis. See which products frequently sell together, allowing you to develop targeted upsell strategies, co-location opportunities, and promotions.
  • Addressing Theft Concerns: The dashboard provides a visual overview of staff audit logs, helping you identify potential theft or training issues that require attention.
  • Optimise Your Staffing: Understand your busiest and quietest times with visual data displayed by hour and week.This allows for optimised staff scheduling to ensure you’re adequately prepared for customer influxes.

Knowledge is Power: Unlocking Your Business Potential

The Tower Systems Insights Dashboard is proving to be a game-changer for local retailers. We consistently receive positive feedback, with users surprised by the depth of insights revealed. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge you may not have known existed, ultimately propelling your business forward.

Ready to take control and unlock the hidden gems within your business? Contact Tower Systems today to learn more about our innovative POS software solutions.

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Small business retail advice: what’s your exit strategy?

July 19, 2024
3 Min read
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It’s the big question small business retailers have, often too late in their ownership life of their loan retail business.

What’s your exit strategy?

As a POS software company developing and supporting POS software for local independent retail small businesses, we get to have terrific conversations with retailers. This question of planning for the exit comes up, and it is often years after they bought or started the business, usually is close to when they want to exit.

Our advice is to start planning for your exit from day one. Let this inform your business decisions, to maximise the value you achieve when you do exit – through a better sale price or through having more money in the bank from successful day to day trading in your retail business.

This is what exit planning is all about, making decisions every day that make your your exit is in the terms you want, when you want.

As a POS software company we can help you with business efficiencies, and insights that benefit you in. the day to day. As retailers ourselves we can provide contextual advice to help as well.

here are some practical tips we have seen work well:

  • Define Your Goals: What does your ideal exit look like? Do you want a lucrative sale, a family succession plan, or a gradual wind-down? Having a clear vision will guide your decision-making. Do this early, so you know.

  • Set SMART Goals: Once you know your desired outcome, translate it into Specific, Measurable, Achievable,Relevant, and Time-bound goals. For example, a goal might be to “increase net profit margin by 5% within the next year.” Connect your actions back to evidence curated baby the POS software.

  • Financials Matter: Maintain clean and organised financial records from POS software through to accounting and more. Touch data with human hands less. Track key metrics like sales trends, inventory levels, and profit margins. Develop realistic financial projections to understand your business’s growth potential.

  • Invest in Your Team: A strong team is an invaluable asset, this includes you. Empower your employees through training, development opportunities, and a positive work environment. A loyal and skilled team is not only crucial for daily operations but also makes your business more attractive to potential acquirers.

Tower Systems is not your average POS software company. We help local independent retailers thrive through our POS software, customer service and conversations we welcome with any local indie retailer.

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Catching sneaky staff: How the Tower Systems POS system can stop employee theft

July 18, 2024
3 Min read
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Running a small business is tough hard work every day. Someone stealing from the business can be heartbreaking. Employee theft is a problem for Australian small business retailers, costing them around 75% more than shoplifting!

That’s where the Tower Systems POS (point-of-sale) system comes in. It’s not just about ringing up sales – it can be a powerful tool to catch sneaky staff. While much of what our POS system does is hidden and not discussed publicly, here’s how our system helped Harry and June, who run a local shop:

Something fishy was going on

Harry and June’s accountant noticed their business wasn’t making the money it should. They called us thinking there was a problem with the software, but a deeper look revealed something shocking. Our system has hidden, encrypted records that helped us track unusual sales patterns. The data pointed straight to their niece, a trusted employee!

A difficult truth

We met Harry and June for coffee, but they were convinced it was a mistake. It took a whole year before they finally installed hidden cameras and confirmed the theft. Sadly, they never got their money back and the family rift was too big to pursue charges.

Don’t let this happen to you!

Here our advice on how to stop employee theft before it starts:

  • Track everything: Make sure all your stock is logged in the system and every sale is scanned. Don’t use department keys – they make stealing easier.
  • Employee ID: Give each employee a unique code to track their sales. Change these codes regularly.
  • Cash control: Regularly check your cash register and reconcile it with your POS data. Spot checks can catch small-time thieves.
  • Schedule shuffle: Change up your roster to make it harder for people to work together and steal.
  • Theft policy: Have a clear policy against theft and make sure all staff read and understand it.
  • Keep it clean: A tidy workspace makes it harder for people to steal and easier to spot suspicious activity.
  • No staff bags: This eliminates a hiding place for stolen cash.
  • Beware of notepads: Some staff use these to track “unrung-up” cash.
  • Police checks: Consider requiring police checks for new hires. It shows you take security seriously.
  • Lead by example: Don’t take cash out of the register in front of staff – it might seem tempting to them.

We can help!

At the start of each year, review your POS data to see if anything looks suspicious. Our team of retail experts can help you put these tips into action and keep your business safe. Don’t let employee theft eat away at your profits!

Tower Systems is committed to helping local small business retailers reduce the impact of employee theft on their business.

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Ditch the Points, Boost Sales: How Discount Vouchers Are Winning Aussie Shoppers to Local Retail

July 17, 2024
3 Min read
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Tired of the same old points programs that leave your customers confused? No wonder. The major supermarkets and other retailers have all od us confused as to the real cash value of a point.

At Tower Systems, we know Aussie retailers need a loyalty strategy that packs a punch, that is loved by local shoppers. That’s why our discount voucher program is a favourite among our thousands of small business retail POS software users.

Forget fancy names, you call them what you want! We’ve got customers calling them “Thank You Gifts,” “Bonus Bucks,” or even “Customer Rewards.” The beauty is, it’s your program, your name!

Discount vouchers are sales superstars! We saw a whopping 12% sales growth during Christmas and New Year for businesses using our vouchers actively.

Blokes vs. Girls? It’s all about instant gratification for guys – they tend to use their vouchers straight away, while girls tend to save them for a later treat (but before they expire, of course!). Oh, and retailers control when these vouchers expire.

Setting up your voucher program is a breeze! Our retail-experienced support team can have you up and running in minutes, and making changes is just as easy. Plus, you get fantastic control over your program and clear reports to see how your customers are engaging.

Here’s why discount vouchers are a game-changer:

  • You’re the boss! Name your vouchers anything you like, and change it whenever you fancy.
  • Set the rules! Decide how much the voucher’s worth, what it can be used on, and when it expires.
  • Transparency is key! Unlike confusing points systems, customers see the voucher as cash-in-hand. They love the simplicity and feel valued with a direct reward.

We’ve seen it work firsthand! In our own shops. Customers tell us they love the vouchers. We have seen them used. We see the impact in the business, the happiness experienced by customers.

With Tower Systems’ discount vouchers, you can:

  • Boost spending per visit – Customers love a good deal, and vouchers encourage them to splurge a little more.
  • Bring back those loyal customers – Vouchers are a great way to entice customers to return sooner and keep them coming back for more.
  • Attract new faces – Stand out from the crowd and grab the attention of new shoppers with enticing voucher offers.
  • Spark impulse buys – Vouchers at the counter can turn a browse into a purchase in a flash.

Ready to win the hearts (and wallets) of Aussie shoppers? Let Tower Systems’ discount vouchers be your secret weapon!

Our discount voucher solution is exclusive to us, the settings opportunities, the control levers you have, the benefits you can leverage in your business.

Discount vouchers are one of the most recommended facilities in our small business retail POS software.

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