We were asked about Epos Now recently of a retailer wondering about the Epos Now software.
Selecting a Point of Sale (POS) system is a significant decision for any independent retailer. It is sensible to periodically review the market to ensure your business remains competitive.
On the surface, platforms like Epos Now can look price attractive. In their marketing they tend to lead with low monthly fees and sharp transaction rates. However, there are several critical factors to investigate before making a commitment.
We’ve not used Epos Now ourselves. What we share here is opinion based on what we can research online.
Total Cost vs Headline Price A low base fee is an effective marketing tool. That’s why we see it in plenty of business situations. The reality often changes when you require essential business tools. Costs for advanced reporting, third-party integrations, premium support, and multi-store capabilities can stack up quickly. What initially seemed like a bargain can become more expensive than a comprehensive, all-inclusive solution in the long run.
Industry Fit and Workflow Many low-cost platforms are designed for general retail. They are built to suit everyone, which often means they lack the depth for specific workflows. Whether it is managing complex product types, specific compliance requirements, or detailed industry reporting, the “general” approach often falls short of the needs of a specialised business.
Stock Control Depth Centralised stock management is a standard claim. The real test is the robustness of the system. Most retailers need more than a simple inventory list. YMake sure the stock management needs of your business are fully met.
Support and Local Understanding Support becomes the most important feature the moment something goes wrong. Local knowledge and accessible time zones are critical. Working with a provider based in the UK may lead to frustrating delays. A partner who understands the Australian retail landscape provides far more value than a low-cost subscription.
Data Ownership and Continuity Data is a vital business asset. You must confirm how your data syncs after being offline and how much historical data is retained. Some providers only keep six months of history. This makes year-on-year comparisons and long-term trend analysis impossible.
The Reality of Payments A sharp transaction rate like 0.8% is enticing. Always check for hidden conditions if they exist. Look for hardware lock-ins, minimum monthly spends, or short-term introductory offers. Often, your existing payment provider can match or beat these rates if you present them with a competitive offer.
The Value of What Works If you are being asked to look at other options but feel no internal motivation to move, listen to that instinct. It usually indicates that your current system is working well.
Considering software, like Epos Now and others, check Google reviews and community Facebook pages where customers voice their opinions. These platforms are harder for a provider to curate than sites like TrustPilot.
Investment in the right technology is about more than the monthly bill. It is about the long-term success and stability of your retail business.
If you’re considering Epos Now, take care, do your research.
Here at Tower Systems we’d be happy to provide a head to head comparison with Epos Now.
Recent Comments