This guide shows you how to track monthly stock sales over the last two years using your POS system's 24-month trend report. You'll learn why two years beats one, how to run the report step-by-step, and how to use the insights to boost your retail profits. Let's dive in and make your data work harder for you.

Why Two Years of Data Beats 12 Months

Your POS system automatically records every sale. But a standard 12-month report often misses the full picture, especially for seasonal items.

Think Easter. Chocolate eggs and decorations sell well in March or April. A 12-month view skips last year's Easter rush entirely. That's why smart retailers and suppliers always check two full years. They compare "this time last year" figures to spot real trends.

Your POS System makes pulling this data simple. Here's exactly how.

Step-by-Step: Run Your POS Stock Sales Report

Well, it's easy to do and will take you a second to find out.

To get started, go to Register Reports > Sales Stock > Stock Sales Details 24 Month Trend.

Now enter the criteria you want, and you will see the report above.

You get a lot of detail: the stock-on-hand figure, two years of history, total sales, etc.

No need for the whole department; filter to a single supplier or product range. It takes seconds.

Turn Data into Real Retail Wins

This report isn't just numbers – it's your secret weapon. Here's how top Australian retailers use it every day:

• Plan stock smarter: Order exactly what sold last Easter, not a guess.
• Talk terms with suppliers: Show "last year we moved 100 units"
• Fix your store layout: Put hot items front and centre during peak months.
• Save cash: Spot slow movers before they tie up your money.

When you line up both years side by side, patterns jump out. You'll see your store's real rhythm.

Why "POS System Australia" Retailers Love This

Australian shops face unique seasons, think Christmas heatwaves or Anzac Day baking. A good POS system in Australia delivers these reports fast. No spreadsheets. No hassle.

Two years of data reveal what one year hides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't just glance and go. Dig deeper:

• Compare year-on-year growth.
• Check stock-on-hand against trends.
• Filter ruthlessly – too much data overwhelms.

Pro tip: Run this monthly. It's your early warning system for stock-outs or overstock.

Ready to Unlock Your Sales Insights?

Log in to your POS System now. Pull that 24-month report. See what last Easter really taught you.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

This report can help you to get helpful insights into the stock that you sell.