Gift Cards Keep On Giving (Part One of Series) If you haven’t thought about introducing a gift card program, there’s no better time than the present. Consider the popularity of gift cards among consumers. Aite Group, a consulting firm, says the volume of private-label (store) gift card transactions processed in the U.S. rose from 810 […]

Regularly monitor and test networks. All access to network resources and cardholder data must be tracked and monitored, and regular testing of security systems and processes is required.

In the first part of this series, we defined the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and explained why retailers and restaurant operators can’t ignore it. Now it’s time for a closer look at the actual mandates of the standard, which is built on several principles that incorporate a total of 12 requirements. To be in compliance with PCI DSS, you must…

By now, almost everyone in the retail and hospitality industry has heard rumblings about PCI (Payment Card Industry) compliance and the PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). But what exactly is it, and why should you sit up and pay attention? For one thing, if you don’t, your business may be at stake.

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 […]

A well-honed customer loyalty program not only bolsters your potential to attract the attention of consumers who have never before visited your establishment; it also turns new customers into repeat customers who’ll be only too happy to spread the word about it to others.

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 […]