Use Google To Sell More In Your Retail Store

Use Google To Sell More In Your Retail Store

A retail management system is an essential tool for retail stores; from speeding up the checkout process to simplifying inventory management, store operations become more efficient when you’re using an omnichannel system with a built-in POS and ecommerce.

But a good retail store system can help you do much more than just manage your operations or track sales history – it can also help you sell more.

Selling More on Autopilot

More people are searching online prior to buying (or “pre-shopping”) than ever before. According to Google:

  • 3 out of 4 shoppers use a search engine to find a business
  • 7 out of 10 people made a purchase from a business they found using a search engine

Which means that getting your retail store to show up on Google is necessary in order to drive foot traffic and increase store sales. This is where integrating Google to your retail POS comes in.

3 Benefits of Integrating Your Retail Store System with Google My Business

1) Be Found on Google

Google My Business profile

Building a strong online presence on Google starts with your store’s Google My Business listing.

Google My Business (GMB) is a free online listing service. It ensures that your store shows up in online local searches and lets you manage how your retail store appears in both Google Search and Google Maps.

Here are a few reasons why GMB is so powerful:

  • GMB listings dominate the first page of Google search results
  • ​They appear based on a viewer’s actual location
  • They appear in local searches for business types on both Search and Maps (for ex: if a user searches for “pet stores”)

A direct GMB integration allows you to set up and manage your Google My Business listing right from your retail store software. Not only does this reduce the time and effort required to set up a listing, it also helps your store appear higher up in Google Search and Google Maps when local shoppers make relevant searches to your business.

2) Advanced Targeting with Google Local Inventory Ads (LIAs)

With automated store integration to Google, retailers now have the power to reach out to shoppers when they are near one of their locations.

By running Google Local Inventory Ads (LIAs), stores are able to drive in-store sales with online product ads that allow retailers to attract nearby shoppers at the right moment – when they are ready to buy!

Not only do LIAs only show when local shoppers are within a certain distance from a store, with automated store system integration, LIA ads run directly from your POS products and only show when inventory is in stock. This means that LIA ads automatically turn off when products sell out to help minimize your marketing costs. LIAs even encourage urgency by letting nearby shoppers know that stock is low and that they need to act.

According to Google, shoppers prefer and act on location-based ads:

While LIAs were only available to national retailers in the past, with the TAKU-Google LIA integration, even independent stores can now run high-performing and affordable ads for all of their products. TAKU Retail will handle the entire basic campaign – which means that merchants can start running products online with only a few clicks. Set your daily budget and the geographic area you wish to target and you’re set! There’s no need to manually input or upload product information to Google.

3) Free Online Product Showcase

Even if you’re not ready to buy digital ads yet, the TAKU-Google integration helps you showcase what your store sells online to shoppers. By using Google’s “See What’s In Store” feature, your in-stock products will be visible underneath your GMB listing. This feature is automatic and completely free to merchants using our all-in-one retail management system.


Give shoppers an additional way to discover what your store sells.

Sign up for a free demo to see how we can help you sell more in a few clicks.

#googleintegration #retailpos #cloudpos #marketingintegration #posintegration #sellmore #retailmarketing #foottraffic

What is a Retail Point of Sale System and why your Store Needs One

What is a Retail Point of Sale System and why your Store Needs One

A point of sale system is demonstrably the most important tool you can have when running a retail business. 

In fact, retail stores that invest in a strong POS system are quick to see a huge return on investment. 

A retail POS can help you save time and money by streamlining repetitive tasks, maintaining business records, and reducing human error. Even better, it can even help grow your retail business with useful data and marketing integrations.

Keep reading to find out more about how your retail business can benefit from a POS system.

What is a Retail POS?

grocery store checkout

Traditionally POS stands for “point of sale” – which refers to the place where a customer transaction occurs. Or in simpler terms, the point at which a customer hands over money in exchange for a product that they’ve purchased. 

For many retailers, this usually means the area surrounding the checkout line. For retailers who adopt cloud POS or mobile POS solutions, their whole store essentially becomes a point of sale. 

What is a Retail POS System?

pos system

To better manage in-store checkout, retail POS systems were created. The original POS systems were a combination of hardware and software that retailers used to manage their sales operations. Because POS systems are the only source of all detailed store sales, they eventually expanded to include everything from tracking customer history and taxes reports to advanced marketing and inventory management. 

Retail POS Software

Today, there are 2 main types of retail POS systems in the market: on-premise software and cloud-based subscriptions.

On-premise POS software: This type of software is installed on specific devices and usually does not rely on the Internet because the data is stored on the same devices. Because the database is stored “locally” in a specific server computer in your store, you can only access the data when you are in the store.

Cloud-based POS software: Cloud software stores data in an off-site cloud server (often hosted by a major cloud hosting service such as Google Cloud or Microsoft Azure) and is accessed via the Internet. You can compare it to writing a report on Google Docs. As long as you have an Internet connection, you can access your report from anywhere. While there may be some limitations without Internet access with cloud systems, there are major gains in remote accessibility, cost-savings and real-time data accuracy. Click here for more information on the benefits of cloud-based retail POS software

There is also a 3rd type of “hybrid” retail POS system which combines a hardwired local connection with access to data in the cloud. While this type of solution reduces the reliance on Internet, it is often a more complex system to maintain and more commonly used by larger operations. At the same time, because it is designed to allow for longer offline use, there is greater potential for issues with data quality during “synchronization” of online and offline data.

Expert Tip! It’s also important to note that offline usage and “data integrity” actually work against each other. While it is key for operations to have usable salesscreen functions (or alternative ways of processing sales) when the internet or network is down, the quality of the pooled data is lower and less accurate the more often the stations in a POS are “offline.” So if getting accurate, accessible business data from anywhere is a major priority, it’s important to consider a system which prioritizes real-time data accuracy with fast and reliable data sharing and considers offline usage for emergency scenarios only. Systems that prioritize offline capabilities over the data sharing functionality will be designed for infrequent synchronization. While this may not be a concern for certain types of businesses, the reality is that omnichannel retailers that need real-time stock quantity and even restaurants that take online orders need accurate POS data to make better operational decisions. After all, customers now expect real-time information when they intend to shop or order something. It’s another reason why smart POS is now able to automatically help merchants update correct store information or product stock levels in real-time.

cloud POS

Retail POS Hardware

POS hardware includes all of the physical components of your POS system. It is usually comprised of the following items:

1. POS terminal: This is the hardware or device (computer, laptop, desktop etc.) that the POS software runs on.

Traditional, on-premise systems have limitations when it comes to hardware. This is because most on-premise solutions can only operate on certain devices and operating systems (such as Windows or Mac). 

To use on-premise POS software, a license must be installed on each device that a merchant wishes to operate on. At the same time, licenses are often tied to the hardware they are installed on and can be difficult or costly to transfer to other devices.  

For newer, cloud-based POS software, merchants can use any device with Internet connectivity to access their data – laptops, tablets, desktops and even mobile phones. Cloud POS software does not require merchants to pay per device, rather merchants often pay per active station (or users logged in at the same time). Transferable access offers multi-channel merchants a lot more flexibility when managing store operations.  

2. Cash Drawer: A cash drawer is an important yet simple part of a retail POS system. This piece of hardware provides both security and organization to retailers. It is where cash, coins, checks and credit card receipts are stored. 

The receipt printer will send signals to the cash drawer, prompting it to open when necessary.

cash drawer

3. Barcode Scanner: Barcode scanners are an important part of most retail stores. Compared to restaurants, retailers carry a lot more inventory and need to use barcode scanners to make checkout an easier and faster process for both store employees and shoppers. Scanners use lasers to read barcode numbers unique to each SKU and enter these numbers immediately in the POS software.

While most retail POS systems should be designed specifically for barcode scanners, it is important for there to be other search methods should barcode tags get damaged or lost. Without scanners, cashiers should be able to quickly search by product codes or keyword for each item in the store.

Expert Tip! Unless a retail store has a very low number of inventory items (e.g. coffee shop), the default salesscreen mode should be designed for barcode scanners. The picture gallery touchscreen mode commonly found in tablet-based POS was traditionally designed for restaurants where the number of inventory items is very low and is generally not efficient in retail stores with more than 500 unique SKUs. While some POS providers will serve both restaurants and retailers, if the default salesscreen is designed for touchscreen picture gallery, most likely the company that developed the original software started with a restaurant POS and later retrofit it for retail.

barcode scanner

4. Receipt Printer: Once a customer pays for the items that they have purchased, cashiers will usually hand them a receipt to confirm payment. While email receipts are increasingly popular, the majority of receipts are still printed based on the data received from the POS software. 

receipts

5. Credit Card Terminal: This is the hardware that store staff use to accept debit and credit card payments. Increasingly, shoppers prefer and make the majority of their purchases with credit and debit cards. 

There are three ways that credit card terminals can accept credit or debit payments: 

1) Using chip & PIN cards: Where shoppers insert chip & PIN cards to make a purchase. This type of payment is EMV-compliant and the most secure of the 3 types.

2) Swiping card magstripes: Where shoppers swipe their cards in order to make a payment. This type of payment is not EMV compliant and opens the merchant up to chargebacks on all payments processed.

3) Near-field-communication (NFC): Where shoppers use their devices (Apple or Google Pay) or simply tap their cards to pay. This type of payment is the fastest of the 3. While tap is not as risky as magstripes (it is generally only allowed for individual payments of up to $100), in a busy store, this can be costly as the merchant is still fully liable for any chargebacks.

credit card terminal

3 Reasons Why Your Retail Store Needs a POS System

1) Faster Checkout 

checkout line

Slower checkout speed often leads to abandonment. In fact, long lines and poor checkout experience are major contributors to low shopper dissatisfaction.

Adopting a POS software that is designed for checkout speed will help speed up store operations and improve shopper satisfaction. This is especially important for busy multi-lane stores as they often deal with long line-ups.

Faster checkout is also key to increasing revenue during high season or rush periods. The longer your customers wait in line, the slower your turnover and lower your sales.

Here are some checkout features to look out for when choosing a retail POS software designed for fast checkout:

Easy navigation: Look for a software that is designed for checkout speed and minimum clicks. You shouldn’t have to leave your salescreen in order to complete a transaction.

Fast scanning speed: Retail POS software should be designed for quick barcode scanning with easy recall of your last search. Make sure that the system you’re looking at is able to handle multiple barcodes per SKU as every retail product commonly has an internal code, a shortcode, a vendor code, a manufacturer code and possibly several carton codes.

Advanced inventory search: Besides barcode scanning speed, a retail POS software designed to handle high volume inventory or a large number of transactions quickly needs to be able to have smart search functions including keyword search by description, barcode or tag should labels not be scannable, etc.

If you want more information about adopting a line busting retail POS software that is designed for checkout speed, click here

2) Increased Mobility 

POS mobility

Retail POS systems – cloud POS software in particular, provide retailers with more flexibility and mobility. As data is stored in the cloud, store owners can access their business information around the clock from anywhere – even if they are not physically in the store. They can view inventory levels, tax reports and sales data right from the comfort of home or even on vacation. Well-designed cloud POS software can also function on any device – from tablets, laptops to smartphones. 

3) The Ability to Use the POS Data for Retail Marketing 

POS data

POS data is critical to the success of any business. This is because data provides retailers with the tools to effectively manage inventory, sales, and finances.

Besides standard sales and inventory reports, modern cloud-based retail POS systems help store owners sell more using their own POS data. Because cloud POS are particularly good at integrating with other cloud solutions, real-time store data can be shared other solutions such as e-commerce platforms, shipping services or listings such as Google My Business, which help improve SEO and drive more local foot traffic to stores.


We will be posting more POS tips in the upcoming weeks. 

Subscribe to our blog to stay updated on the latest retail marketing trends, POS tips, and industry updates.  

#pointofsale #posdefination #pointofsaledefination #benefitsofpos #retail #retailstore #builtforretail #cloudpos #retailpos

Holiday Marketing: Free Halloween Stock Photos

Holiday Marketing: Free Halloween Stock Photos

The holiday season is approaching! And we know how busy this time of the year can get for retailers.
 
So to help you save time, we’ve put together a collection of royalty-free Halloween stock photos.
 
Feel free to use these images in your Halloween marketing campaigns.
 
Click here to download the images for free.
 
Happy Halloween and happy selling!

#halloween #royaltyfree #stockimages #retail #marketing #halloweenphotos 

Holiday Marketing: Free Halloween Stock Photos

Holiday Marketing: Free Halloween Stock Photos

The holiday season is approaching!

And we know how busy this time of the year can get for retailers. 

So to help you save time, we’ve put together a collection of royalty-free Halloween stock photos. 

Feel free to use these images in your Halloween marketing campaigns. 

Click here to download the images for free. 

Happy Halloween and happy selling!


#halloween #royaltyfree #stockimages #retail #marketing #halloweenphotos 

Retail Marketing: Free Thanksgiving Stock Images

Retail Marketing: Free Thanksgiving Stock Images

Fall is fast approaching. Which means that our retailers are beginning to gear up for their Holiday marketing campaigns. 

And the first stop is Thanksgiving!

 So to help you stand out, we’ve put together a collection of beautiful, high quality images. 

All photos are free for commercial use, no attribution required.

 Click here to download the images for free. 

Happy Thanksgiving!


#thanksgiving #canada #retail #freephotos #stockphotos #fallphotos #thanksgivingphotos #retailmarketing #retailpos #cloudpos

Retail Marketing: Attract Local Shoppers with Google My Business Posts

Retail Marketing: Attract Local Shoppers with Google My Business Posts

For those of you who don’t know, Google My Business is a powerful tool that allows retail businesses to connect with local shoppers. 

And posts on Google My Business is a promotion tool that helps optimize a store’s business listing and increase foot traffic. 

Put simply, it is an easy and free way to promote your business locally. 

I’ll explain more below.

What are Google My Business Posts? 

Google My Business posts is a feature that allows you to share content about your store on Google Search and Maps. It is similar to any other social media platform like Twitter or Facebook. 

As a store owner, you are able to share news, promotions, events, and new products with shoppers. It posts directly to your Google My Business listing – so existing and potential customers can see your content directly in search results. 

google my business posts

What are the Benefits of Google My Business Posts?

local shopper

Posts on Google give retailers the ability to communicate with shoppers so they are better informed when making purchasing decisions. Which means that local businesses are able to: 

  • Engage shoppers with attractive content (photos, videos, GIFS etc.) 
  • Promote any new sales, products, or events
  • Improve shopper experience with relevant and timely information 
  • Communicate directly with local shoppers 

How Does it Work?

google search

For each post, business owners can include text, call-to-action buttons, and/or photos or videos to promote their store. There are four different GMB post types including: 

What’s New: Share general information about your retail business. For example, you can give shoppers an inside look at your Halloween displays and merchandise.

Events: Promote any upcoming events that you are holding. Each event requires a start time, end time, and a title. It is also good practice to include a photo/video,an event description, and a call to action button leading to a landing page for your event.

Products: Store owners also have the option of promoting any products or new merchandise. For example, a pet store could promote their new range of dog food. Keep in mind that product posts require a title and photo/video.

Offers: According to Google, 50% of shoppers are looking for promotions and discounts when searching for a business online. So provide shoppers with information on the latest sales and promotional offers. Offers will appear at the top of your business listing on both Google Search and Maps. 

These posts require a title, and start/end dates. It’s also good practice to include photos/videos, descriptions, coupon codes, and terms and conditions of the offer. The call-to-action button “View” will automatically appear on all Offer posts.

Some Important Things to Note 

  • GMB posts disappear after 7 days unless you set another shorter time frame. This is why it is important to post consistent and relevant content. 
  • It is a good idea to include GMB in your marketing strategy. Place the same importance on GMB posts as you would on other social platforms like Instagram or Twitter. 
  • Google provides insights on your posts – including how many views each post got. It also tells you how many users clicked on a link in a post

We hope you found this article helpful!

Would you like to learn how to attract local shoppers on Google?

Good news – we are hosting a breakfast seminar exclusively for GTA store owners! We will be discussing how you can attract more local shoppers with POS technology among other important topics. To learn more about the event and to register, click here.

#retailmarketing #googlemybusines #digitalmarketing #localseo #foottraffic #googleposts #posts #benefitsofGoogleposts