A supplier to newsagencies approached us about a range of sustainable products they are releasing, eco-friendly greeting cards.. This brought up the Sustainability Dilemma: what "Customers Say vs. What They Buy." Do customers want these cards? 

This is a frequent problem in retail, where people express their wants but act differently. A famous example of this is studied extensively in marketing textbooks, in the 1950s when Ford introduced the Ford Edsel. This is widely regarded as one of the biggest marketing failures in history. One factor in this failure was Ford's decision to listen to the public's feedback and create a car based on this. However, when presented to the public, the car was a flop. What the public had said did not align with their actual desires.

Now, as a retailer, you understand that consumer demand is critical. Yet, often, you need some intelligence. The fact that customers frequently support strongly eco-friendly products does not mean they buy them.

Here is a study that shows what happened when consumers and senior retail executives were surveyed on sustainable products. Two-thirds of consumers said that they would pay more for sustainable products. However, most retailers stated consumers do not pay more for sustainable products. The retailers based their claim on what they said the public was doing. Read the report here.

So Are Customers Truly Ready to Pay More for Sustainable Products?

Let's explore what it means for your business.

The Conflicting Picture

• The Vocal Demand: Surveys consistently indicate that consumers care about sustainability. They say they are willing to pay more for products that align with their values.
• The Reality: Retailers see that old habits and price sensitivity often reign supreme in the market. Sustainable options get much interest but rarely make it to the sale.

Understanding the Disconnect

Here's what might contribute to this gap between what the public says and their actions:

• The Cost Barrier: Even well-intentioned consumers balk at significant premiums for eco-friendly alternatives.
• Trust: People have been burnt before eco-friendly and need convincing that your product is eco-friendly.
• Established brands: People like the products they buy now.
• Change: Sustainable products are often different, and people often do not want to change.

What This Dilemma Means for Retailers

• Missed Opportunities: If you rely solely on people's comments, you will probably overestimate the immediate market for sustainable goods.
• Long Game: Consumer behaviour rarely moves quickly. You must educate, show value, and build long-term relationships with eco-conscious shoppers. This is not always possible in a shop.

Tackling the Challenge

• Start with Data: Use your sales figures to understand which sustainable options resonate with customers. Don't guess! Please use your sales reports. Facts do not lie.
• Transparency Wins: Build trust by being transparent about specific sustainable aspects of your products. Be prepared to have info to back it up.

The takeaway: Customer opinions about sustainability matter, but they don't predict sales on their own

. Innovative retailers keep a pulse on the public conversation while making strategic, data-driven decisions on where and how to invest, e.g. small test displays of sustainable products first.

Shoplifting isn't just about the cost of stolen goods. It's a threat to your business. If word gets around that you are an easy mark, you're in big trouble. One of the best methods of dealing with it is having cameras right at the checkout. It's simple but surprisingly powerful and can make everyone think twice. I have spoken about this many times. Plus I can quote from personal experience doing this for years, that this will work.

Why It Works: You're Not Catching Thieves

You might be surprised, but those cameras aren't mainly about catching bad guys after the fact. The trick is psychology! When people know they're on camera, even the most honest of us feel more careful. 

Time Is Money: Proof for when you need it

Of course, sometimes you do need to play detective. Matching up your till records with that camera footage is way easier when you've got timestamps on your videos. This is solid evidence to take to the authorities if something serious goes down. Its actually one of the few pieces of evidence that the authorities do accept.

Let's Be Honest: Nobody Loves It

We all get it; staff and customers might feel a bit iffy about being on camera. But with shoplifting on the rise, protecting your business is the top priority. That's the message to communicate clearly to your team.

Tips for Success

• Clear Signage: Let everyone know cameras are rolling with visible signs. This is often a legal requirement.
• Show a video of the filming: The idea is to let people know you are recording them.
• The Right Tech: If you want, we can supply cameras that sync into your POS system.
• Staff: Unfortunately, staff theft can be a factor alongside customer shoplifting, so let them know. That's why cameras protect everyone's jobs.

To make the most of your till cameras, ensure they are focused on these key elements:

• The Staff Member: Clearly capture who is conducting each transaction.
• The Transaction: Record the exchange of money and goods between the customer and staff member.
• The Till: Video of the opening of the till drawer and the process of cash or card payments being processed. 
• Timestamps: This is crucial for quickly matching camera footage to specific transactions in your POS system, providing clear evidence if needed.

Real-Life Aussie Business Example

"Since adding till cameras, that sneaky feeling of items 'walking away' has gone down loads. My stress levels have gone down too! It was definitely the right move." - Sarah an Owner of a newsagency,  in Adelaide

Small Retailers, Big Protection

Such systems are relatively cheap today. They're an affordable smart move for businesses of all sizes. Think of it less like sneaky surveillance and more like adding an extra layer of honesty to your checkout.

Need help getting set up? We are available to help you find the right camera solution!

The "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) market has boomed in Australia, and we are now the world leader in adopting this payment method. With the proposed changes to BNPL rules, retailers might wonder what will happen to BNPL. As a decent user of Zip and talking to my clients, here are my thoughts. 

The Good Stuff

Well, the upcoming laws will focus on protecting consumers. That's great news for the consumer! It will offer the consumer clearer terms, an easier way to sort out disputes, and protection from excessive fees. The proposed consumer-friendly legislation would make BNPL even more attractive to the consumer.

Happier, More Confident Customers

I am sure that customers will think they will get what they're signing up for and feel safe using BNPL, which will lead to more customers wanting to use it.

Inflation

Inflation is now pushing people BNPL. Do you see inflation going down significantly shortly? I do not.

A Booming Market

Analysts seem to think that BNPL has a strong future ahead of it. They predict a massive 14.8% growth in 2024 alone! That's a vast pool of potential customers, many of whom I am sure would be willing to spend time in your store. Here are some predictions.

• Exponential Growth: BNPL payments in Australia are expected to reach a whopping $25 billion in 2024.
• Sustainable Growth Trajectory: The BNPL industry in Australia boasts a strong medium—to long-term growth story, with an expected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.6% from 2024 to 2029.
• Rising Gross Merchandise Value: Australia's BNPL gross merchandise value is estimated to climb to $40 billion by 2029.

Importance for Retailers

Here's the kicker for retailers: most of this BNPL market is spent in the retail sector.

A Wider Audience

BNPL attracts a diverse range of shoppers. By offering BNPL, you tap into this wider audience and increase your chances of making a sale. Bonza!

Catering to Inflation-Driven Demand

Inflation is a reality now, and people are looking for ways to stretch their budgets. BNPL offers that flexibility, making your store even more attractive to cost-conscious shoppers.

Potential Challenges to Consider: Fees and Administrative Burdens

While this picture for BNPL looks promising, there are potential challenges to consider:

Stricter Lending Criteria

The new rules will force BNPL providers to be more selective, potentially excluding some of your customers from accessing BNPL options. This could lead to a reduction in your overall sales volume.

Higher Fees for BNPL Providers

The extra work involved in checking creditworthiness and complying with regulations might lead BNPL providers to raise their fees. While they might absorb some of these costs, I am sure most of these fees will be passed on to you, the retailer. Like everything, you will need to monitor this situation.

Embracing the BNPL Opportunity

Despite potential challenges, the BNPL market is here to stay. I think we can expect it to grow significantly.

-The merchant͏ does not have to ͏wait to get paid.

-BNPL often͏ restricts products th͏at can be sold.

-BNPL promotes merchants, giving them customers they would otherwise never get. Plus, a BNPL buyer tends to be a good customer. A study showed that a shop before and ͏after it accepted BNPL. To the retailer, it gave many customers that they would otherwise not have had as the BNPL did extensive marketing to their customer base. Their market base is over a million people. It did increase customers' basket size, as a typical sale for a ͏BNPL is about $150,͏ which is well above most of my clients' average basket sizes.

Here ͏is an analysis of customers shopping͏ before ͏the͏y went to BNPL and after ͏in the same shops.

Now, whether to embrace BNPL or not is the question.

The BNPL company takes about 5% of the merchant's sales. BNPL generally does not allow merchant administration fees to cover the cost. Items with meagre margins cannot be offered with BNPL. So it would help if you did your figures. Any item sold using BNPL requires a decent margin to cover the fees, or you need to introduce a merchant fee, which may not be possible under BNPL's terms of use.

I suggest partnering with a reputable provider, such as Afterpay or Zip. This will allow you to access their huge customer base. I think this is the mistake many retailers made by partnering with small BNPL providers and then wondering why so few people use it in their shops.

By understanding the BNPL market and adapting to its changing landscape, you can position your retail business to capitalise on this growing trend and cater to the evolving needs of modern consumers. It is not going away soon.

Every shop owner knows the feeling—you've got dead stock that needs to be moved. Maybe it's out-of-season, or perhaps it just hasn't been as popular as you hoped. Enter the mighty dump bin—make it your weapon to turn that dead inventory into quick cash!

What Are Dump Bins, and Why Do They Work?

They're not about rubbish but rather about smart retailing! Dump bins are those big baskets, countertop tubs, or end-of-aisle displays filled with sale and clearance items. Here's the magic:

The Treasure Hunt Factor:

Customers can't resist a good rummage, and dump bins tap into that bargain-hunting instinct. When I pass a shop with a dump bin and I have time, I admit I will look. Do you?

Deals = Excitement:

Something about those jumbled bargains feels exciting, encouraging impulse buys. Clearance Made Easy: Dump bins quickly get slow-sellers out the door, freeing space for fresh, full-priced items.

Pinpointing Your Problem Stock:

The facts do not lie.

Before filling those dump bins, you need to understand the scope of your slow-moving inventory. Your POS software is your ally here:

The Big Picture: Run a "Stock on Hand by Date Last Received" report. This will give you a snapshot of your holdings of old stock.

Department Deep-Dive: Break down the report by department. Often, certain areas have more slow-sellers than others and one set of criteria in a department does not necessarily apply to another department.

What's 'Dead' to You?: Your POS System has its own metrics, but you may not agree. That is why it's worth going over the list by how long the stock has sat in your shop. Consider how long the items have been on the shelf and also how much space and money they're taking up.

Top Tips for Dump Bin Domination

Prime Real Estate???:

It does not have to be in the Prime Real Estate of your shop. Many majors put it in a corner and put up a big sign and red light to show it exists. The point is that your dump bins need to be seen wherever you put them! The shop entrance, just outside, is also popular for the dump bin. It certainly draws in customers. Since the stock is not worth much, the shop theft 

Shout About Those Sales!

Big, bold "SALE" signage is a must. Few can resist a bargain sign!

Organised Chaos is Key:

A little disarray is fine (it shows interest), but don't let it get too messy. Aim for pops of colour and interesting textures.

Keep Things Fresh:

Change the items regularly! If stuff does not work in the dump bin, consider moving it out or trying a lower price; there is no point in reinforcing a retreat. Customers love seeing something new each time.

Cross-Merchandise Like a Pro:

Think of complementary products. Use your companion reports to find out what items sell with the stuff you put in the dump bin.

Real-World Win

We had a gift shop stuck with slow-selling novelty mugs out of season. They created a bright dump bin by the checkout with 50% off. The mugs flew out, and the owner told me she felt it was money she found on the street. It also helped to make room for profitable new inventory!

Embrace the Dump Bin, Embrace the Sales!

Dump bins are more than just stock clearance; they create a dynamic shopping experience. Your customers will love the surprise deals, and you'll love the boost to your bottom line. So, get those bins ready, and let the sales begin!

Picture this: A pensioner goes shopping; in her wallet are a few notes ready to use for shopping. Soon, most vendors will wave her towards card readers instead. "Just tap and go." They say, "It's faster!" Could this be our future?

Don't Panic, Cash Isn't Disappearing Overnight

According to some estimates, by 2030, Australia will be a cashless society. While this shift won't happen overnight, it will significantly affect businesses like yours.

Why the Cashless Craze for retailers?

• Faster: Tap-and-go payments are quick and easy. Our POS System can do such transactions faster than cash, I know, as we have measured it.
• Cost: Retailers save on handling, counting, and securing physical cash.
• Security: For retailers, handling electronic money is much more secure and more challenging to steal—lower risks of counterfeiting and internal theft for retailers when using electronic payments.
• Fewer banks and ATMs: Cash can be a problem as we have fewer banks and ATMs.

Hold On, Not So Fast – Retailers Are Concerned

Recent studies paint a complex picture.

• Few cashless support: A whopping 71% of Australians are worried about going cashless, and many retailers are among that 71%.
• More payment types: Few retailers want to lose customers, so if a customer wants to pay in cash, most retailers will accept it.
• Hidden Fees: Every fee counts, and a cashless society costs retailers.

The Real Risks of Going Cashless

It's not just nostalgia. Here's why all business owners should care:

• Leaving Folks Behind: The elderly, those with disabilities, undocumented workers, and even domestic abuse victims may rely heavily on cash. Going cashless can exclude them.
• Your Data, Their Data: Card companies and banks see every transaction, raising privacy concerns. Large companies now buy this information from banks, providing incredible information on what people buy from their cashless purchases.  
• Outages Happen, and Australia's electronic network is not ready: When the power or network goes down, currently, only cash keeps things moving.

So, What's a Business to do?

First, check what percentage of your sales are cashless versus cash via your POS reporting. The "End of Day" report will show a "Sales Payment Breakup" - run this for the past year to understand your current cash/cashless mix.

With this data in hand, you can plan appropriately:

Go to the main menu and select "End of day."

Click where it has a green arrow.

The part of the report you are looking for is the Sales Payment Breakup below.

Pick an appropriate period, generally the last year. Run it a few times with slightly different dates, as you may get a better value with various dates. 

This will supply you with the information you need.

Conclusion

1. Keep SOME Cash Handy: It's an emergency lifeline and a way to serve everyone.
2. Speak Up! Let your local council and politicians know a fully cashless Australia has drawbacks.

Australia's transition away from cash is complex. With proper planning and an inclusive "fair go" approach, small businesses can thrive by straddling both cashless and cash payments during this shift.

Barcode scanners today are incredible in speed and accuracy. On average, we calculate that manually entered data has a 1% error rate. Barcode scanning cuts that down to 1 error in 10 million scans! This translates to massive time and money savings for retailers.

But did you know your old barcode scanner could be costing you customers?  

In this guide, I will discuss the pros and cons of the existing CCD and laser scanners vs. the newer camera scanners, which will soon be available in bulk, so you can make the best choice for your store's needs.

Before I start, I should say that the camera scanners are really CCD scanners on steroids. They are like giving an old CCD scanner a superhero upgrade! They can read virtually any barcode, no matter how blurry or beaten up, and even scan stuff right off a phone.

The Barcode Scanner Basics

Let's start with the two main existing categories:

• Tried-and-True: Laser and CCD Scanners These have been around for ages, and with good reason. They're specialised tools that excel in certain areas:

  • Laser Scanners

    • Lightning-fast, super accurate, and can handle even crummy barcodes.
    • Many models scan from a distance, which is great for heavy items.

  • CCD Scanners

    • They're more budget-friendly
    • Generally better than laser scanners for close-up scanning of good-quality barcodes.
    • They often have trouble reading damaged labels or wet items like a Coca-Cola bottle directly from the fridge.

Since they're both small, they are great for stores with limited counter space.

Most have trouble reading barcodes on phone screens,

They are designed to work with the basic 1D barcodes. Soon, we are expecting that some products will switch from 1D barcodes to more complex barcodes. When this happens in bulk will be when the problems come. 

• Camera-Based Scanners 

  • These can read virtually any barcode (1D, 2D, QR codes, etc.) easily 
  • Scanning from phone screens is good.
  • Can be used with self-checkout, mobile coupons, and inventory checks with a simple photo snap.
  • Higher upfront cost
  • Often slower
  • Often have issues in low-light situations
  • Need more training to get used to them.
  • It's still pretty experimental; most shops that use them only use them for some types of scanning.

Scanner Showdown: Which Model is Right for You?

Here is my breakdown to help you decide:

• Volume is King: If you have a busy store, laser is the fastest.
• Going Digital: Want customers to use mobile coupons, streamline returns, or consider self-checkout? Camera-based is the only way to unlock these customer-pleasing features.
• Budget Matters: Tight on budget? CCD is the cheapest way to go. 
• The future: Camera-based tech, as it keeps evolving, will replace CCD and laser, but not anytime soon. 
• Omnichannel or Not: Camera scanners can now do everything, while CCD and laser scanners generally cannot. 

The Bottom Line: It's All About Your Needs

Only get camera scanners if you have a need that CCD and lasers cannot do.

Chat with us, your point-of-sale (POS) provider, and we can tailor a solution just for you!

Ready to take your small business to the next level? Ask us for the best scanner options for your shop – your customers (and your bottom line!) will thank you.

Aussie Small Businesses, the Latest Google Update Impacts Us

As someone who's worked alongside you, I know that Google's recent SEO updates bring new challenges to many of you that have website. Your website will still be a powerful tool to bring in new customers, boost sales, and build your brand, but we must accept that things are changing. Recent Google changes mean your website needs to change. 

Why You Can't Afford to Ignore These Updates

Websites aren't just a nice-to-have and forget as the rules of the game are constantly changing:

• Your Customers Are Online: In its 2023 report, Australia Post stated that "Throughout the year, 9.4 million households in Australia made an online purchase, representing 82% of all households. On average, 5.6 million households shopped online every month." No website means missing out on a massive potential market.
• Build Trust, Build Business: A polished website makes you look professional. People are far more likely to buy from a business they trust, and that trust starts online. Plus, Google's updates aim to level the playing field, rewarding quality over sheer size. While it might take time, a smaller business with fantastic content can outrank a larger competitor.
• Don't Let Competitors Pass You By Even if you don't sell directly online, a website gives you that competitive edge, showing you're modern and customer-focused.

Success Stories

• Nextra Dianella Newsagency: It is probably the most successful website in newsagencies in Australia today. The website photos are good, the descriptions are good, and you can almost taste the confectionary! Easy online ordering. When it started, the owner, Reg, told me "At first, I was worried the big stores would always outrank me,". But by focusing on details, he attracted customers from all over Australia! Online David can compete with Goliath. 

Your Guide to a Website That Works

• Step 1: Start With Your Goals: What do you want your site to do? Attract visitors to the store? Experiment with a few key products. This helps you stay focused.
• Step 2: Make It a Joy to Use: Easy navigation, beautiful visuals, and a design that works perfectly on phones are non-negotiable.
• Step 3: Words That Work: Your "About Us" story and the way you describe your products all matter! Let your personality shine while being clear and helpful.
• Step 4: Show 'Em What You've Got: High-quality photos or videos let your customers almost "touch" what you offer.
• Step 5: Tell people they can have it now: Since you are local, can people order a product now and pick it up in-store now? 

Busting Common Website Myths

A lot of misconceptions hold small businesses back from embracing websites. Let's tackle a few head-on:

• Myth: My customers aren't online. Even if they prefer buying in-store, people research beforehand. No website means they'll likely choose a competitor they can find online.
• Myth: I need a huge budget. Plenty of affordable website builders exist; even a basic website is better than none. You can upgrade as your business grows.
• Myth: Websites need massive changes to run. While staying updated is good, you don't need to overhaul your site with every update. Focus on consistently great content, and you'll naturally adapt.

Understanding Google Updates: How Do They Affect My Business?

Google search is by far the most common in Australia. If your website does not do well in Google search, it will probably not be seen by people searching for products you handle. The problem with the newest update, based on the information provided in the March 2024 Google Core Update, is that if a large retailer and small retailer websites have the same content on their websites, the large retailer would have an advantage in rankings. The problem is that most product information comes from the supplier of the item, so the larger and smaller retailers now have the same content. 

The factors that would give the larger retailer an edge in this scenario:

1. Domain authority and backlink profile - Larger, more established retailers tend to have higher domain authority and more backlinks from reputable sites, which are major ranking factors.
2. User signals—Larger sites may have stronger user engagement metrics, such as lower bounce rates and more pages per session, which Google uses as ranking signals.
3. Technical optimization - Big retailers usually have more resources to optimise technical sites for performance, mobile-friendliness, etc.
4. Brand authority - Google may perceive larger, popular shops as more authoritative and trustworthy for certain searches.

However, the Core Update's emphasis on rewarding truly high-quality, original content means that a smaller retailer providing better, more valuable content than a larger competitor could potentially outrank them despite the larger site's inherent advantages.

This is why you need to provide this better information. In a scenario of identical content, the scale would likely tip towards the larger retailer getting higher rankings. You have to make sure your content is not similar.

It's not fair, but it's the reality we need to work with.

But Don't Despair!

The good news is that better content can win! By focusing on the following, smaller shops can level the playing field:

• Be the Expert: Dive deeper into your specific niche than big retailers can. It does not take much to improve the description. 
• Tell Your Unique Story: No one can duplicate your business's personality or how you connect with customers. Make this shine through on your website.
• Customer Focus: Can you offer more personalized advice or address common pain points in a way that the big guys don't?
• Be local: Stress that you are local, e.g. you can have it now.

Key Takeaway: Google wants to reward helpfulness, but the system is not perfect. While larger businesses may have initial advantages, small shops that consistently provide unique value through their websites can thrive.

Bring it Home: Your Partner for Success.

Building a great website might seem overwhelming, but you're not alone! Think of your website as a team member, and remember, tools like our Point of Sale software can make managing your online and in-store presence much easier.

This is an investment in your business that can pay off amazingly. Let's make your competitors jealous—your online success story could start today!

Are you tired of your POS devices dying halfway through a busy shift? As a point-of-sale (POS) software company, we know that having reliable batteries is important. In this guide, we'll share real-world examples to help you make your battery last longer.

Common Battery Myths

These misconceptions can drain your battery power faster than you think – let's set the record straight!

• Myth 1: Ignore those manufacturers battery limits

  • Reality: Battery makers set those charge and discharge limits for a reason – to make your battery last longer! Pushing those boundaries may shorten its lifespan. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for best results.

• Myth 2: Charge It While You Use It for a Faster Top-Up

  • Reality: This might shave off a few minutes, but it's not worth the risk. So do not do it. Devices produce heat, and so does charging the battery and together, they make more heat. Think of charging like a relaxing break – your device will thank you!

• Myth 3: Off-Brand Chargers? Sure, Why Not?

  • Reality: Official chargers are made and tested for your device – so they're designed for your device. Off-brands might work, but they could damage your devices. If you must use an off-brand, run it on a slow charge. 

• Myth 4: Slow and Steady Harms the Battery

  • Reality: Nope! Slow charging is kinder to your battery, putting less stress on it. A slow charge setting is the way to go if you charge overnight.

• Myth 5: Leave It Plugged In, It's Fine!

  • Reality: Big no-no! This isn't just about wasting energy. Power surges occur anytime, and the longer it is plugged into your device, the more likely a surge can hit your device. Charge up when needed, then unplug for a longer-lasting battery. 

• Myth 6: All batteries degrade and are soon useless

  • Reality: Yes, all batteries do degrade, but generally, it's only a few percent a year. At a 2 to 3% loss a year, a battery in 10 years still, in theory, holds about 78% of its charge. That is often more than you need in one session. We have sold units that are 20 years old and still going fine.

• Myth 7: Drain It, Then Charge It to the Max

  * **Reality:** That worked for old-school batteries, but today's prefer a little snack-like top-ups. With modern batteries full draining and recharging can stress them out and shorten their life.

The Environment Matters: Heat, Cold, and Shelf Life

• Feeling the Heat (and Cold): Extreme temperatures are your battery's foes! Heat speeds up degradation, while cold zaps capacity. Store your devices in cool spaces, and don't let them bake in hot cars.

• Batteries Have a Good Shelf Life: Good news! Modern batteries hold their charge well. Charge them up and have them ready to go. You do not need to scramble at the last minute. After extended use, I put them aside overnight to let them cool down, Charge them the next day, and then store them until needed.

Conclusion

Look after your batteries and they will keep your devices going a long time.

In brick-and-mortar retail, your shop's layout is the most potent weapon. Here is a tip on how you can display your goods that can seriously boost sales and make shopping way more fun for customers if we are focusing on impulse buys. 

The Irresistible Power of Impulse Buys

We've all fallen for a tasty treat or fun gadget while waiting in line to pay. Those little treasures by the register are retail gold! Here's how to make the most of them:

Shape Matters!

In the vertical direction, have you ever noticed how supermarkets pile fruit and veggies in pyramids? They do this because it catches the eye and makes you want to grab something. The same trick works for your impulse buys! Instead of lining things up in a boring row, arrange them in eye-catching shapes.

It works in the horizontal direction, too; move the shelves to make a triangle shape like this, if possible.

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See how much more you can showcase. It'll look way more interesting, so ensure a person can see the products at one glance. 

In the shop, squares work just as well:

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For example, pens, pencils, and rubbers can all be seen in one glance.

Make it POP! Eye-catching displays are everything for impulse items. Forget boring rows; use baskets, little stands, or fun props to make things stand out and beg to be picked up. Location, Location, Location! Your checkout counter is prime real estate. Put the irresistible stuff right in front of customers at eye level, so they have plenty of time to browse while they wait. Mix it Up! Keep those impulse buys fresh! Swap out items often and offer a surprising mix – candy, magazines, maybe a nifty little tool, something locally made...a little surprise goes a long way.

Shelf Savvy - Your Main Display Powerhouse

Your shelves are where most of the magic happens. Here's how to make them work for you:

Shops have a huge advantage—you can make the shopping experience personal and exciting! Mastering how you place your goods'll tempt impulse buys, create a fun store to explore, and keep customers coming back for more. Get creative, experiment, and watch those sales climb!

Are you tired of transaction fees nibbling away at your bottom line? No-cost EFTPOS promises a solution, but is it the right one? Before signing on the dotted line, let's explore what this model really means for your business.

Now, many of our customers are switching to No-Cost EFTPOS, partly because we have negotiated some really good deals for our clients and partly because many are tired of watching transaction fees eat away at their hard-earned profits. But often washing your hands of the problem is not the best move.

No-cost EFTPOS might seem like the answer to your prayers. But before you sign up, let's look at this payment model so you can make the best decision for your bottom line.

What is No-Cost EFTPOS, Really?

Think of it as a cost shuffle. In theory, it's marketed as that instead of you shouldering the fees that come with accepting card payments; your customers pay the small surcharge on each transaction. I would say the customer quickly knows the fees and does not care who charges them; they put the amount on you, and despite the hype, the customers do not care as it's so small; they do care.

The Upside: Real Benefits

• Say Goodbye to Hefty Fees:  No more upfront payments for your EFTPOS machine or those pesky monthly charges. This can be a massive relief for cash-strapped businesses.
• Flexible and Easy: Setup and calculations are a breeze.
• Pass on the burden and responsibility: The responsibility and some of the legal dangers for these fees are passed onto the EFTPOS provider!

Hold On, Not So Fast! Considerations to Keep in Mind

• Customer Experience: Be prepared to explain the surcharge clearly, especially on smaller purchases. Nobody likes surprises at the checkout.
• Limited Control: You might lose the ability to use fancy features like dynamic surcharging, where the fee changes based on card type. The odds are your EFTPOS fees will be higher.
• The Fine Print: Many fees you can claim are not included, e.g., setup charges and chargebacks.
• Lack of control: Currently, you control the fees; under No-Cost, you do not.

Is No-Cost EFTPOS Right for YOU?

Ask yourself these key questions:

• Transaction Volume: Do you take TONS of card payments each month? Lower volumes make No-Cost EFTPOS more attractive. 
• Price Control Cravings: Do you want to fine-tune how you charge customers? Traditional plans give you more options. A very successful marketing strategy is to offer all sales over $50 with no fees. Customers will often increase their basket size to get over this amount.
• Tech Tolerance: Are you ready to handle extra customer questions about the surcharge?

The Final Word: It's All About the Fit

No-cost EFTPOS is great for some businesses, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Do your homework, talk to us, and compare your total costs with both models. That's the savvy way to find the system that lets you focus on what you do best—running your awesome small business!

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If you use cloud backup for your point of sale (POS) system, you may ask yourself: Why does your backup run smoothly sometimes but take an eternity at other times? Let's explore why this happens and what can be done about this.

This came up after my previous post on cloud backup when I was asked this.

What's Cloud Backup?

Firstly cloud backup means storing a copy of your Point of Sale Data to computers far away from your shop. This protects your data if something happens to your shop, like a fire, computer problem, or, what is becoming much more prevalent, theft. A window is smashed, the computer is grabbed, and it's gone in a minute.

Slow cloud backup

Here are some of the most common reasons your cloud backup might be taking a long time:

• Your backup contains a lot of information: Your point of sale system has a lot of data to track! Since it's cheap to store nowadays, most people want as much data as they can keep, as you never know when it's needed. Rarely do people complain they have too much.
• Slow Internet: Australia's internet speeds are no longer being taken seriously and are a low priority. We are now 57th in the world, and countries like Bulgaria and Sebia are higher.

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• Your Internet Plan: A basic internet plan might not be fast enough for big backups. Many people pick their internet purely by price, not by quality. I know price in business is important, but when you have a good price, look around that price for a good service.
• Network congestion: Think of the road traffic during rush hour, In the evening, as people finish dinner and hop online to watch TV, browse, and play video games, the demand for the internet increases. If you are doing speed tests, you should check the times as speed can vary wildly in Australia by time. 
• Encryption and Compression: Encryption scrambles your data for security, and compression shrinks it to save space. These processes take time, especially if your settings are focused on maximum compression instead of speed. Contact your cloud provider to see what can be done here. I set them for lower compression and high speed than most people do.
• Your computer might be busy: Check whether your computer is going flat out when the backup is being done. 
• Your position: The closer you are to where your connection joins the network, the better your speed. Often, there is little one can do about this problem. I argued once with NBN over this on behalf of a client and was told that after the first visit, it would be fixed soon. The second guy claimed to fix it, and the third guy from NBN came in and said there was nothing they could do.

What Makes it Frustrating

The real frustration isn't just the backup time–your shop's computer and internet get super slow while it's happening! Customers can't load websites, and using EFTPOS can be painfully slow, making running your business a struggle. Many cloud backups really suck up the juice of your computers. 

Tips to Make Things Better

Here's what you can do:

• Schedule Backups for Off-Hours: Run your backup at night when the shop's closed (for example, between 1 am and 5 am). This won't impact your day-to-day operations if you do not work then.
• Tweak Compression and encryption (if possible): Many cloud software programs let you adjust the settings to improve the service.
• Upgrade Your Internet (if needed): Talk to your Internet provider about faster plans if they're available and affordable.
• Have a Local Backup Too: It's always smart to have a fast backup on hand (like on a spare computer or external hard drive) in case you need your data super quickly. Cloud backups are great for long-term protection and emergencies!

Let me know if you have any other questions about your cloud backup. ​

I am always searching for fresh ideas to help my clients and allow them to liven up their stores and attract customers. This is an idea that I think may work if you sell books and colour coding. I was reading about it here. I have heard of similar ideas with gifts, which my clients reported mixed results. 

If you have a book section, why not shake things up with a colourful new shelving system? Colour-coding your books is an eye-catching, unconventional approach that could seriously boost engagement (and sales!). Let's dive into the vibrant world of the rainbow-bright bookshelf.

What is Colour Coding?

Traditional books are sorted by fiction by author and non-fiction by genre. Colour coding is different as it means arranging your books by the colours of their spines into a rainbow effect. The idea is that presto—you've got a gorgeous effect to draw customers in! It is simple but impactful.

The Brilliant Benefits

1. Boosted Book Sales

Small retailers here who have tried colour coding rave about the impact in this article. Miranda Seaegg from Vinnies op shops says their colour-coded sections "create a lot of interest" and excitement for customers. They're more likely to browse (and buy!) if it looks fun.

2. Totally Facebook and Instagram-worthy

We all know the power of the 'gram these days. Vibrant, rainbow-themed shelves make an absolutely gorgeous photo op that customers will be eager to share online. Hello, free promo!

3. The Thrill of Discovery

The problem with books sorted by title or author is that your customers tend to beeline for what they know they want. This means that they are missing a lot. But a colour-coded layout encourages aimless wandering and unexpected finds—a "treasure hunt" vibe, as Seaegg puts it. It might make you a problem if a customer wants a particular book to find it.

4. Conversation Starter

An unconventional setup is the perfect icebreaker between customers and staff. As librarian Amy Heap notes, "Bookshelves are decorative...a great way of having your personality on display and sharing it."

Tips for Colourful Shelves

1. First, do an inventory sort to understand how many books you have in each colour group.
2. I suggest doing it for a small collection. This idea works best when books are as much objets d'art as reading material.
3. It is a much easier way of sorting, as anyone can sort by colour.
4. People will buy more if your shelves look nice.
5. I suggest trying it in the specials section if you have a large book section. People looking at specials are not looking at specific types of books, so I suspect it might work well there.
6. The idea would need testing, as doubts would be raised about whether the novelty visuals alone would substantially boost sales for most bookstores.

Final Thoughts

Embracing the rainbow could be just the fresh, friendly vibe your book nook needs. It's a simple, low-cost way to showcase your personality, spark customer curiosity, and hopefully boost sales, too! So grab those coloured spine books and get sorting—a brilliant rainbow awaits.

If you try it, you must let me know how it went for you.

Remember Personal Letters? Yeah, Me Neither.

Think about the last time you received a personal letter in the mail. Can't remember? You're not alone! These days, nearly all our written communication happens through email. It's fast, free, and goes anywhere in the world. We all use email today.

Why Email Matters for Small Businesses

• It's always on: Customers can check their emails whenever it suits them, unlike phone calls or face-to-face meetings.
• Leaves a trail: You have a handy written record of all conversations. No more, "he said, and she said," arguments!

The Trouble with Getting to Customer with Email

Here's the thing: getting those customer email addresses correct is surprisingly tricky. Did you know...

• Oops, typos! Studies reckon around 20% of emails given out are wrong.
• Old news: About 22% of email addresses stop working yearly due to people changing email addresses, changing jobs, leaving studies or switching email providers.
• Shield against spam: A surprising number of folks use temporary or "spam" email addresses. I'll admit, I did this myself recently when getting solar panel quotes! I just wanted a price, not the start of communications.
• People are not reading their emails and spam filters: Some people rarely read their emails, sometimes they have spam filters that knock out their emails, sometimes they accidentally delete it thinking it's spam, etc. Just because you have a valid email does not mean it is coming through.

So, What Does That Mean for Your Business?

Studies show that around half the email addresses in most business databases are not good. Bummer, right?

Getting It Right - Steps to a Cleaner Email List

Don't worry, there are things you can do:

• Double-check at the counter: Our POS software helps catch obvious errors and has a very good email-checking routine. What makes it so good is that it will pick up the errors when the customer is right in front of you.
• Email checkers: There are some websites like this one [https://verifalia.com/validate-email] which are great for catching potentially dodgy addresses. What I like about this one is that it gives you a danger warning on the email address too. If you know of a better service, please let me know!

• The gentle nudge: If an email goes unanswered, follow up with a friendly email   "Just checking you got my email about [topic]. If so, could you give me a quick reply?"

Why Valid Emails are Business Gold

Here's why spending a bit of time on this is worth it:

• Talk directly to customers: Send news, offers, and the lot!
• Save money: Sending emails is cheaper than postage
• Supercharge customer service: Answer questions and sort out order issues quickly.

In Conclusion

Having a clean list of active customer emails is like having a direct line to the people who keep your business ticking. If you're a small retailer, investing a little time and effort in this will pay off big time!

Improve your Email Deliverability

Hey there, store owners! Easter is coming up fast this year. Are you ready for the chocolate rush? With a little planning, Easter 2024 can be a big win. Let's get those gears turning! With less time to prepare, your smart point-of-sale (POS) system can be your best Easter helper. Let's see how!

Challenge: Early Eggs and Smaller Baskets?

Easter Sunday lands on March 31st this year. That's earlier than usual, which could mean:

• Tighter deadlines: Less time to order all those Easter goodies.
• Smaller budgets: Customers might be watching their wallets this year.
• Kids: What is clear now is that people are not reducing their spending on kids now.

Solution: A Smoother, Smarter POS

A great POS system is like hiring extra hands during the holiday rush. Here's how it saves the season:

• Fast, Easy Inventory:
• Know exactly what's in stock and what you need to order now.
• See what you sold out last year!

Ready to Level Up?

A modern POS system isn't just about the tech; it's about making this Easter smoother and more profitable, no matter what challenges come your way. Want to explore options that fit your store? 

People Want to Celebrate

Yes, money might be tighter for some folks this year. But remember, holidays like Easter are special. By being prepared, your store can make the season awesome for everyone – and make some extra sales too!

There have been many management studies on the advantages of training with software.

Free Coffee + Free Training = Your POS Success Story

Think of our point of sale (POS) software as a powerful toolbox. It's got all the latest gadgets and gizmos – constantly updated to make your business life easier. But even the best tools need someone who knows how to use them, right? That's where our excellent training sessions come in – with a free cuppa on the side!

Why Our Training Rocks

We don't just want to sell you a system; we want it to work its magic for you. Our training is your key to unlocking that potential:

• No more confusion: We break down everything, from sales and stock to hidden time-saving tricks.
• Staff = Superstars: Your team will become POS whiz kids, boosting productivity and customer happiness.
• Did we mention free coffee? Because staying alert while you learn is essential!

Here is what one client said 

"I was so stressed about your great software, but the training was a lifesaver! Now I can now track my stock like a pro, and my sales have gone up."

Training That's Tailored to You

Whether you're a one-person show or have a bigger team, we've got training that fits. It's friendly, hands-on, and focused on your specific business needs. If you need more training, book in more. What I find in my experience that even if you do not keep it all in in, just knowing what something  can do and that it is there is a big step forward.

The Bottom Line

Businesses that use our POS and get the training see way better results. That means:

• Smooth sailing: Less confusion, fewer mistakes.
• Happy customers: Faster checkout, more competent service.
• More $$ in your pocket: A system that pays for itself and then some!

Ready to Level Up?

Let's discuss getting you and your staff trained. We promise we'll make it easy. Just let us know, and we'll schedule your session (and get the kettle brewing!).

I've been in business since I was five, working in my grandfather's store. Since then over the years, I noticed one key factor set thriving businesses apart: a compelling unique value proposition (UVP) or an EDGE.

For example, I had a client selling fishing tackle and bait. Anglers knew his store was the place for their gear - that niche gave him an edge that other shops in the same shopping centre missed.

So, what makes a value proposition? Here's how I break it down but first let me say that it clearly communicates the specific value in your customer's image that your business has; it’s your special sauce.

For Small Retailers, A Strong UVP is a Secret Weapon

Without a stand-out value proposition, independent shops blend into the background—just another store.

An effective UVP grabs attention, builds loyalty, and gives customers a reason to choose you. It takes you from forgettable to unforgettable.

For example, a local pet supply store touted its extensive dog food range. Since people who buy dog food are used to going to a pet shop to get it, they have less hesitation about going into this local pet shop.

This actually is one of the reasons, I think the advise of a newsagency calling themselves a gift shop is wrong. A newsagency still in many shoppers has an appeal. It does project trust.

Put Yourself in Your Customers’ Shoes

When crafting a UVP, think like your ideal customers. Consider the types of stores ingrained in their routine.

Most people are accustomed to regular visits to newsagencies for papers and convenience items. The familiarity makes them more likely to pop into a new newsagency than other shops.

Understand your audience’s habits, and you can better position your niche.

How to Craft Your Retail UVP: 5 Key Steps

Creating a value proposition that works takes effort. In my experience, you'll need to:

1. Analyze competitors: Study their offerings closely.

2. Assess your strengths: Take stock of your genuine advantages; selection, service, location, expertise, etc. That highlights your “wow” factor.

3. Understand your customers: Dig into their values, needs and pain points. 

4. Distill your message: Boil your learnings into a crisp, unique statement.

5. Test and refine: Try out messaging with objective parties. Adjust based on feedback.

Crafting an effective UVP requires work but pays off tenfold. For retail survival, define your edge and shout it loudly. It can skyrocket you from average to exceptional in customers’ eyes.

I did like this video on this subject.

How to Avoid Losing Customers

It is frustrating when a customer comes in looking in your shop only to find you're out of stock. We all now how we feel when this happens. What is your customer now thinking, maybe of going to your competitor? 

The good news is this common issue can be largely avoided with our POS system. 

So here is how you can use the inventory features in our POS to avoid out-of-stock and keep customers coming back.

What is "Out of Stock"?

Out of stock means a product is unavailable for purchase because you don't have any left in your store. It is said here to account for about 8.3% of all shopping trips. It's a lot.

What we have now is a missed sale and a disappointed customer.

This is extremely common when

- An obscure holiday is occurring that some of your customers follow and you have forgotten to buy stock for them

-If have run out of stock and not realised it.

Use the "Sold Out or Selling Out Stock Lines" Report

Our POS system has an extremely handy report called "Sold Out or Selling Out Stock Lines".

It will take you seconds to run and save you thousands.

Here's how to use it:

1. Go to Reports > Stock
2. Select "Sold Out or Selling Out Stock Lines"

What you want is to pick a period last year of the same date as now to compare.

These products need to be checked ASAP. This can help you make sure you have adequate stock.

Moreover

It also alerts you whether items are not properly entered into your system as the stock-on-hand figure is negative, as shown in the example below.

I recommend running this report weekly to stay on top of stock levels.

The Risks of Out-of-Stock

Why go to such trouble to avoid out-of-stock issues? Well, the fact is that your customers will tolerate this situation only a few times before taking their business elsewhere.

Well, most of your regular customers tend to follow a "three strikes, and you're out" pattern:

• Strike 1: The first time a product is out of stock, the customer substitutes 70% of the time, and 30% go elsewhere.
• Strike 2: The second time, they may substitute, not buy anything, or go to another store.
• Strike 3: The third time, they switch stores 70% of the time—losing you their business.

Today, customers have little patience for out-of-stock. They will quickly take their business to retailers that reliably stock what they want.

So stay on top of your inventory with our POS system! Run stock reports weekly, keep high-demand products well-stocked, and avoid frustrating your customers.