In determining whether to accept your application for a merchant account, the provider will look at the length of time you’ve been in business to ensure that you understand the market in which you operate, know the potential business risks you face, and more. Your credit rating will be examined to assess how well you have repaid past loans, and if you’ve had any liens, judgments or bankruptcies filed against you.

Experts have long pegged the average return from a computerized POS system at five times the annual investment, reflected in higher profits—for example, a $20,000 hike in profits would be garnered by a store with sales of $200,000 per year and a $4,000 annual in investment in computerization.  But where do these increased profits come […]

It may only be mid-March, but retailers and restaurant operators that are reaping the benefits of offering gift cards must look five months ahead to August 22. That’s the “effective date” of new gift card rules introduced by the Federal Reserve Board in conjunction with the credit card reform law enacted in 2009. The new […]

There’s no denying that loyalty programs have caught on with consumers–the average household has a dozen loyalty memberships, according to Consumer Reports. However, half of all consumers carry just one or two loyalty club membership cards with them at any one time, meaning retailers and restaurant operators must become increasingly creative with the structure of their loyalty programs.

(Part Two of a Series) Like customer loyalty programs themselves, customer loyalty program applications aren’t created equal. The most effective customer loyalty programs are based on the most comprehensive solutions. When evaluating different options, look for the following features: Multiple vehicles for rapid access to individual customers’ information–for instance, by swiping a membership card through […]

Your purchase of point of sale software ranks among the most important investments you’ll ever make for your business. But how can you be certain that you’re choosing the right product? Sure, a recommendation from a value-added reseller (VAR) or another retailer–as well as your own gut instinct–counts for something. However, it’s also important to try before you buy by viewing a demo of the POS software prior to signing on the dotted line.

pcAmerica, leading developer of point of sale software for the restaurant and retail markets, has announced the ability of their software applications to integrate with social networking website Facebook. This move further expands their footprint in the social marketing arena and shows their commitment to integrating social marketing into point of sale. Currently, both Cash […]

“Should I computerize my restaurant or retail point of sale (POS) system?” It’s a question every food service operator and merchant has pondered at one time or another–and it’s one you should answer with a resounding “yes.” Consider the cost savings, which easily add up to 5%.  By computerizing, a store or restaurant with annual […]

Before deciding on a point of sale system provider, business owners should make sure they are familiar with the service policies offered. There are several key questions to ask; 1. Will they be there when you need them? – Many providers can be difficult to get a hold of if business hours don’t match up […]

When selecting sources for point of sale equipment and software, it is important to consider the compatibility of each component selected. There is a danger in trying to put together a do-it-yourself POS system, that the pieces may never fit together quite right. In addition, seeking out support can turn into endless finger pointing sessions. […]