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These days, operating a physical store can be challenging. It would be best to consider how to respond to consumer complaints regarding manufacturers' deceptive practices of shrinking products (think lighter cereal boxes or smaller chip bags) while maintaining the same price. It's like getting less bang for your buck, frustrating you and your customers.

The Cherry Ripe Caper: A Real-World Example

Is there currently a fuss over Cadbury's Cherry Ripe? This beloved chocolate bar is shrinking in free fall. About a year ago, the smaller versions were 52g. Then, about nine months ago, they shrunk to 48g. They are only 44g, a 15% fall, with the price staying put. People are not happy. Several report feeling ripped off on social media and calling the practice "dishonest."  I tend to agree with them, but it seems to me to be deceptive.  

I think rather than admit to a price rise, they are sneaky, reducing the product costs by reducing the size and hoping no one will notice.  

When questioned, Cadbury explained that it was to comply with government health targets and to make healthier sweets. As a parent of a teenage girl, I am all for healthier sweets, but I do not find this argument convincing. If the bar is smaller, it should be cheaper. To make healthier sweets smaller, they should tell people what they are doing and let the consumer make their own choices about portion sizes. Besides, the government health targets apply to bars under 50 gm, which it was below. 

In many countries, laws have been passed requiring manufacturers to reduce the size of their products and put a note on the packaging to say what they have done. Some manufacturers have complained that this change to the packaging adds to the inflation problem. They do not seem to have a problem when they make something better to add to the label.

But we can do little about the reality of what is happening. We all understand manufacturers are dealing with rising costs, but your customers expect transparency and value, and you can get caught in the crossfire of customer frustration. Here are some ideas to consider:

Regaining Trust Through Transparency

The good news is there are ways to navigate this tricky situation. Transparency is key. Here's how you can build trust with your customers:

• Highlight Unit Pricing: Showcase the price per kilogram or litre. This empowers customers to compare brands and sizes, helping them find the best value.
• Offer Alternatives: When a product shrinks without a price drop, consider offering alternative products with better value.
• Educate and Engage: Sometimes, it is best to admit that you cannot do anything about it and must live with it. I would not suggest that you try to defend the practice.

Collaboration is Key

Ultimately, we are all dealing with this stubborn inflation that is not going away. Few could pass on rising costs during COVID-19, and now we are all catching up. Acknowledge their frustrations and explain the challenges you face. This fosters a sense of transparency and builds trust. Solidifying your position as a trusted source of value and informed shopping would be best.

PS If you are a member of an industry group, contact them and ask them to look into this problem because the public is getting more annoyed with it. 

As we approach the end of the financial year, many people are now considering upgrading their point-of-sale (POS) systems. There are sound financial reasons for many to do it now. Besides, this is the time of year when people start to look at the following year. If so, you're likely debating the merits of a computer with an i7 processor or the more powerful i9.

Let's face it: no one likes slow transaction times, long customer waits, inventory management headaches, or lost sales due to outdated technology. So, let's explain why this decision matters for your POS setup and how to make the right choice!

POS Systems and the Power of SQL

Your POS software is more than just a fancy cash register. Behind the scenes, it relies on a database system that uses a system (SQL) to store and manage all your information – think of your product details, current inventory, supplier records, and sales history. The faster and more efficiently your computer can process your instructions, the smoother your POS experience will be.

Massive Databases: POS Systems have large databases

Complex Queries: A modern POS System does use very complex calculations 

Time: No one likes to use a slow computer. Neither the operator nor the customer who is waiting for you to do the transaction

All things being equal, the more powerful i9 is better than the i7. But things are never equal. 

Budget Conscious: i7s deliver excellent value for the price.

People's feelings: No one likes using old technology

My pros and cons

1. i7 vs. i9

   •  i7:
     • Pros:
       • Cost-effective: Core i7 CPUs are often more affordable.
       • Suitable for most general computing tasks, including SQL queries.
       • Good balance of performance for everyday use.
     • Cons:
       • It will be slower when handling extremely large or complex SQL databases
   • Core i9:
     • Pros:
       • Exceptional performance: Ideal for demanding workloads
       • More cores and threads: Better multitasking capabilities.
       • Larger cache for faster data access.
     • Cons:
       • Dearer

2. SQL-Specific Considerations

   • Query Execution Speed:
     • Core i9’s additional cores and higher clock speeds can significantly improve SQL query execution times.
   • Parallel Processing:
     • Core i9’s multithreading capabilities allow it to handle multiple SQL queries simultaneously.
   • Data Loading and Indexing:
     • Core i9’s more extensive cache benefits SQL database data loading and indexing tasks.

Don't Forget the Rest!

No matter which you choose, make sure your system also has the following:

• Speedy Storage: An SSD (or, even better, an NVMe SSD) will make a massive difference in overall system speed.
• RAM:  Get fast RAM and a decent amount. Don't skimp here.
• Fast network: One can often speed up your systems by putting in modern network cards

The Verdict

Investing in a faster computer can save time and less frustration if you run a busy retail store with extensive inventory or complex reporting needs.

If you want to compare different computers, click here.

Let us know, and we will provide tailored advice!

Mother's Day is an excellent opportunity for retailers. It is now the third-largest retail season of the year!

Australians are expected to spend $995 million on Mother's Day this year, up 7.5% from the previous year, which also set a record. We can anticipate fewer customers overall due to the current cost-of-living pressure, but those who do plan to buy will be spending more, as the projected gift purchase is set to jump from $92 to $102 per person.

People will buy candles, books, clothes, personalized items, etc.

Here's How to Use Your POS System for Mother's Day Success:

Prioritize Convenience & Inspiration

25% of Mother's Day shoppers cite convenience as their top priority when selecting gifts. Many are short on time and looking for ready-to-go options and ideas. Cater to these needs with:

• Dedicated Mother's Day Display: Create an eye-catching, centralized display showcasing your giftable Mother's Day merchandise. Clear signage guides hurried shoppers straight to this "grab-and-go" section.

• Pre-Bundled Gift Sets: Offer assembled gift sets (e.g. a plush robe with slippers and a candle) to reduce decision fatigue for stressed shoppers. This also increases the average order value.

• Diverse Gift Options: While many buy for their mothers, around 19% gift maternal figures like partners, friends, in-laws, grandmothers, sisters, or daughters. Ensure a wide assortment to serve all customers.

Data-Driven Product Assortment

Let your POS data guide your product selections and purchase quantities by analyzing what historically sold well for Mother's Day:

1. Access Historical Sales Reports: Look for "Top N Stock Sales for a Given Period" or a similar report in your POS backend.

Go to Register reports.

Now pick "Top N Stock Sales for a Given Period."

In the form, put the date a late year for now to Sunday, 14 May 2023. These are the items that worked for you then. Hopefully, you have them now.

Check Pre-Pandemic Sales: Generate this report for the week leading up to Mother's Day 2019 to understand pre-COVID buying patterns.

Find the Sales Sweet Spot: This year's sales will likely blend 2019 and 2023 patterns. 

Stock accordingly while leaving buffer room for demand fluctuations. Make data-driven purchases to ensure you have the right gift assortment and volumes.

Maximize Your Promotions & Operations

Even with its short sales cycle, Mother's Day can significantly impact your bottom line if well-executed. Prepare with these strategies:

• Promote Early & Often: A simple sign on the window can do wonders in practice.

• Highlight This Year's Gift Trends: People tell me that recipe books are expected to be good sellers.

• Offer Gift Services: Consider simple add-ons like gift wrapping, which saves customers time and increases your transaction value.

• Staff Appropriately: Schedule enough sales staff. Use your traffic reports, as this will tell you how busy you were last year. 

Please go to Traffic analysis, which you will find in register reports > Sales.
 

Now, here, select "Traffic Analysis by Trading Hour."
 

Put in here the week before that includes Mother's Day

Now out pops a chart, which shows by customers how busy the shop was per day. This will tell you how busy the till operators were with colour coding.

By combining strategic planning, operational readiness, and leveraging your POS data, you can deliver outstanding service while capturing maximum Mother's Day profits.

The Payoff of Prioritizing Mother's Day

Mother's Day is not only a chance to delight your customers and honour maternal figures. It's also an enormous money-making opportunity for retailers willing to put in the work.

With some upfront analysis of your POS data, an assortment of giftable products tailored to trends, convenient shopping experiences, and well-promoted offerings, you can transform this spring occasion into a massive revenue windfall.

So start preparing your business for Mother's Day! 

In the ever-evolving retail landscape, businesses need every edge to stand out, connect with customers, and boost their bottom line. Digital signage is a key to unlocking a new level of in-store engagement, adaptability, and brand impact that static signs can't compete.

Dazzle Customers and Drive Engagement

People today are trained to look at screens. If we see a screen, we look. This is partly why digital signage makes your business shine. Also, the vibrant colours, captivating animations, and immersive videos help. This draws customers in and leaves a lasting impression.

Setting Up Your Digital Signage: What You'll Need

While digital signage offers benefits, let's break down the key steps:

• Look at what others are doing:  The best way to get ideas is to go to other shops, look at the signs, and see what digital signs you like there. If you like it, I am sure others will too.
• Measure out the area in your shop: Try to get an idea of the size that suits your space.
• Screens: This is the centrepiece of your setup! If you have an old TV at home or a spare computer screen, consider using that. Otherwise, you can get a relatively cheap screen or digital photo framer. A digital photo framer starts at about $85.
• Computer or USB: Some screens need a computer to run, while others, such as a digital photo framer, can use a USB stick. 
• Slideshow Maker: This is the heart of your signage system. Look for some user-friendly software that lets you create media content. I am not recommending one now, as the only one I know is Proshow, and it's off the market. If you use a professional photographer, you do not need this.
• Mounting and Installation: Consider professional installation for a polished look and safe, secure screen placement.
• Picture of your shop and goods: A good smartphone today can do this. You can take many photos and permanently delete the bad ones. You are not going to complain if you have too many images. For a five-minute presentation, you need about 40 images.  For information how to do this click here.
• Some time: On the first few, it does take some time to learn, but after that, it is really quick.

Advantages of doing it yourself

You can change to fit your retail trends, sales, weather, etc. Everything can influence what messages your customers need. You can update your displays based on your latest products, promotions, and seasonal content or even react to the news. This gives you both adaptability and keeps your store's message dynamic and relevant.

Your Brand, your control

You control the message. The screen sells your products.

It works Day and Night selling your products and services

You can put a screen in the window and it can market your goods and services 24x7.

Gaining a Competitive Edge

In a crowded marketplace, digital signage advertises your shop. Its dynamic nature and ability to wow customers give you a serious advantage over traditional, static displays. People looking at your window will take a few seconds to look at a static sign and much longer looking at a dgital one.

The Time is Now

Keep your company from falling behind! Digital signage is the way of the future, not a fad. You may modernise your business, provide customers with a shopping experience, and make more sales by utilising this technology.

I received a study from my insurance company and found it interesting and useful, so I thought it would be useful to my clients, too. 

We all know running a retail business in Australia takes dedication and a keen eye for managing risks. Understanding the most common reasons for insurance claims can help us protect our business. Here, I will discuss the top five insurance claims that we face, plus some actionable tips to help you reduce your risks.

One point I will say before I even start getting a few quotes: I was quoted $20,000 by one insurance company and another $5,000 for what looked to be similar policies, Did you figure out why the big difference, I could not?

1. Theft and Burglary: Protecting Your Assets

Retail businesses are tempting targets for criminals, so you need a security plan. Here's how to deter thieves and protect what you've built:

• Cameras: Install a good system, I had one client put one in the backroom and discovered that thieves were coming through a small window and taking things.
• Good alarm: They do work; one caveat is that a modern thief often knows how long he has before the police come from when the alarm goes off. I had one client who had frequent breaks in his shop. The thief would break the window, run in, take some items, run out, go in the car, and be gone by the time the police arrived.
• Secure every entry point: Use robust locks on all doors and windows, and don't overlook potential vulnerabilities like ceiling spaces or vents.
• Let there be light: Good lighting deters criminals and makes suspicious activity harder to hide.
• Background checks and a vigilant team: Screen employees carefully, have a clear anti-theft policy, and encourage staff to report anything unusual.
• Track your valuables: In your POS Software, you have an asset register; why not use it?  
• Consider extra protection: Consider a locked display stand for businesses with high-value goods or in high-crime areas. 

2. Storm Damage: When Mother Nature Strikes

The increasing intensity of storms makes it crucial to protect your business. Water damage, power surges, and building collapse from strong winds can quickly disrupt your operations.

• Maintain your roof and ceilings: Regular inspections and repairs can prevent devastating leaks and structural problems. 
• Don't let water linger: Clear gutters, drains, and downpipes to prevent flooding risks.
• Trim those trees: Overhanging branches pose a significant risk during storms. I had a client who had a tree branch storm fall on his roof and smash into his shop.
• Safeguard your electronics: Turn off equipment you do not use at night; saving you money on electrical bills and saving a few trees will stop electrical surges. A good UPS  can also help protect your computer from surges often during storms.

3. Liability Claims: Safety is your responsibility

Protect your business from these costly scenarios:

• Safety first: Keep floors clean and dry, mark any hazards, and ensure good lighting, especially in customer-facing areas.
• Restrict access to hazardous areas: Identify areas with machinery, dangerous substances, or work in progress and limit public access.
• Train your team: Educate them on handling customers' property, safety procedures, and how to prevent accidents.
• Quality control is critical: Make sure your products meet all safety standards and have robust checks throughout production.
• Cameras: If people fall, it's great to have camera footage to record what happened; it may help in court.

4. Property Damage:

Property damage is a big one.

• Maintenance matters: Regular repairs and servicing might seem expensive, but they're far cheaper than dealing with significant damage later. A client had a roof that leaked and ruined a lot of stock with water damage. He thought it was a one-off, so he left it. A few days later, another big rain happened, and it leaked again.
• Please keep it clean: Promptly remove waste and clutter to discourage pests, reduce fire risks, and prevent trip hazards.

5. Machinery/Equipment Breakdown: When Your Tools Let You Down

Relying on machinery and equipment means being prepared for potential breakdowns. Minimize costly downtime with these steps:

• Store it right: Proper storage conditions protect equipment from dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. 
• Know how to use it: Ensure you know how to use and care for the machinery.
• Don't ignore warning signs: If a machine starts acting up, investigate and fix the issue promptly to avoid a major breakdown. A computer making funny noises is actually saying something.
• Have a backup plan: Consider how you'll keep operating or minimize impact if a critical piece of equipment fails.

Conclusion

By understanding these top risks, SMEs can proactively safeguard their business. Investing in security, prioritizing maintenance, and fostering a culture of safety awareness is key. Remember, insurance although a valuable safety net, is only a last resort.

Today, in retail, speed is so important. A slow point-of-sale (POS) system costs you time, money, and customers. The most successful solution now for speed is upgrading your network. We can turbocharge your POS System performance to get more speed.

Your Network: The Backbone of Your POS System

Picture your network as the highway system connecting all the parts of your POS Software system. Like a highway, a strong network lets information zip back and forth without slowdowns. If your network is old, outdated, or suffering under too much load, your speed will go down, and you and your customers will feel it.

A Consumer Report study found:

That customers were willing to wait for 13 minutes, but disturbingly found Almost two-thirds said they would wait two minutes or less and 13% said that "no wait time is acceptable."

Upgrade Your Network Cards: The Game-Changer

Modernizing your network cards is one of the most powerful ways to speed up your POS. Think of these cards as the traffic cops directing data on your network. Older cards can get overwhelmed, creating digital bottlenecks. Newer models offer:

• Wider Roads (Higher Bandwidth): More data can flow simultaneously, making transactions lightning-fast.
• Security Checkpoints: The latest protection protects your data from cyber threats that could crash your system.
• Smooth Sailing: Updated cards work better with the latest POS software and hardware, meaning fewer compatibility headaches.

Don't Forget Windows Updates!

Just like you keep your store looking its best, keeping Windows updated is super important for your POS. Updates aren't just about security– they also fix bugs, boost performance, and ensure your system plays nicely with all your devices. Think of it as a regular tune-up for your POS!

Upgrade Teamwork: Network + Windows

Upgraded network cards and up-to-date Windows are the absolute dream team. That's when you get the smoothest, fastest system possible. Imagine a super-efficient highway with the best traffic control working together – now your POS data can fly!

Watch Out for Outdated Cables

Your cables play a surprisingly important role in your network's overall health. Outdated network cables frequently become damaged, worn, or lack modern technology, slowing down your POS System. If your store still uses older cables, they could be causing bottlenecks that slow down your POS. Upgrading to newer, more robust cables can make a noticeable difference in speed and stability.

Real Businesses, Real Results

Here's what other retailers are saying about network upgrades:

• "Our system was constantly lagging, especially when it got busy. After upgrading, we're processing sales way faster. Customers are happier, we're happier!" 
• "Keeping customers moving fast was a big worry. The new network features and Windows updates have made our system run even better."

The Bottom Line: Your POS Can Be Amazing

Don't let a slow network hold you back! By investing a bit of time and attention into modernizing your network cards and keeping Windows updated, you'll unlock the full incredible power of your POS software. Say hello to blazing-fast transactions, super-satisfied customers, and a business ready to take off.

Ready to Upgrade Your POS Performance?

• Check Your Network Cards: Need advice on what upgrades make sense? We're here to help!
• Get Those Windows Updates: It's easy and makes a big difference.

Let us know how we can help you achieve lightning-fast POS performance!

The retail industry is facing a crisis. Since COVID struck, we have seen shoplifting incidents rising across Australia. This threatens the livelihoods of retail and undermines the safety of our communities. This surge should alert retailers, law enforcement, and industry bodies alike to clarify that urgent action is needed.

The Sobering Reality: Staggering Statistics

Here are some statistics from Victoria’s Crime Statistics Agency in their latest report.

Shoplifting offences had increased in the 12 months to September by 7308, or 27.9 per cent, to 26,229 – the highest on record.

I found some figures for some other states here. 

This is a summary of the stark picture:

• Victoria: Shoplifting offences increased 27.9% in just 12 months, reaching 26,229 incidents—an all-time high.
• Western Australia: Shoplifting is up over 40% compared to last year, significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
• New South Wales: A 36.1% surge in offences totalling 27,015, surpassing figures from previous years.
• Queensland: Shoplifting incidents were consistently higher in 2023 than in any month of the past two decades.
• South Australia: A shocking 31% increase in offences, with 17,572 cases recorded.

I just got some figures from the United Kingdom. 

Their figures mirror this trend, with a 37% jump in offences, the highest since records began in 2003.

The Root of the Problem: More Than Just Cost of Living

In my experience, while the rising living costs may contribute, but the erosion of law enforcement also plays a significant role in fueling this shoplifting epidemic.

Your Bottom Line: Understanding Shrinkage

The critical first step for any retailer is understanding your "shrinkage." This is the gap between the inventory you should have and what you have. Shrinkage is caused by:

• Shoplifting
• Employee theft
• Errors & paperwork mistakes
• Spoilage & damage

Calculating Shrinkage:

1. Full Formula: (Starting Inventory) + (Purchases) - (Sales) * (1-Profit Margin) - (Ending Inventory) = Shrinkage
2. Quick Estimate: (Purchases) - (Sales) * (1-Profit Margin) = Approx. Shrinkage
3. Shoplifting Rule of Thumb: Roughly 1/3 of shrinkage is often due to shoplifting.

Why Calculate?

• Awareness: Forces you to face the actual impact on your business.
• Targets Prevention: Is it specific items? A problem aisle? Numbers guide solutions.
• Measure Improvement: Did your new security measures reduce shrinkage?

Make a planogram for shoplifting.

This tells you the extent of the problem by quantifying current shrinkage levels and identifying problem areas. Drawing problem planograms in the shop of the problem places helps a lot.

A picture is worth a thousand words.

This image could be a planogram of your shop with your problem areas marked.

The information is available from your stocktake figures.

Blue = Good

Yellow = Moderate to bad

Red = Very bad

blank = Zero

See how it visually shows the problem areas.

Detail on how to do it are available here.

YOUR Business Defense Checklist

The fight against shoplifting demands a comprehensive approach:

• Staff are Key: Train employees to spot shoplifters, intervene safely, and understand protocol.
• Technology as Ally: Invest in modern security systems, such as cameras, anti-theft tags, and data analytics to spot patterns.
• Eyes on the Floor: Redesign aisles for visibility and remove blind spots where thieves hide. Do a simple experiment: walk around your shop and imagine you are a shoplifter. Now, where do you strike?
• Draw a map of your shop: Mark the places with the highest shoplifting. Details above.
• Never Stop Learning: Shoplifting tactics evolve; look up YouTube as many shoplifters explain how they do it. 

Calculate Your Shrinkage Now

The fight against shoplifting is an ongoing battle for the soul of our retail sector. By understanding your losses and acting decisively, you protect not only your own business but the well-being of your entire community. Let's stand together to make our stores safer and our businesses stronger and reclaim a sense of security for everyone.