What is a Point-of-Sale (POS) machine?
The first POS machhine appeared in 1879 in the USA, and was a large, unwieldy device that was difficult to move around. Since then, POS machines have gone through various stages of improvement and development - with the most common version now being the swipe and sign type found in almost every store.
At the POS device, the consumer can pay with a card (credit, debit, prepaid), regardless of whether or not the card is physically present. Such devices can be wired or wireless POS terminals in or around the company premises, while there are also mobile POS for off-site transactions.
Over the past decade, advances in technology have enabled business owners to have their POS always “with them”, through cloud technology and advanced merchant applications.
Which type of POS machine best suits your business?
1. Wired POS
This is the most economical solution and is connected via a telephone line, so it's well suited for businesses with fixed cash desk areas.
2. Wireless POS via Wi-Fi
These are devices that work at high speeds through the company's Wi-Fi. For sure, they are extremely useful, especially for businesses that need POS on the move all the time, such as restaurants.
3. Wireless GPRS
This POS can be used for transactions even in a very remote location.
GPRS technology makes this option ideal for courier or delivery services.
A host of advantages
Purchasing a POS is an important decision for your business as it's directly related to customer service. The key features you should focus on are transaction speed and acceptance of all credit, debit and prepaid cards.
A technologically advanced POS can prove to be a valuable tool not only for managing the day-to-day receipts of your business, but also for:
- Increasing sales, for example by offering interest-free instalments
- Providing additional liquidity for businesses through the financing of POS sales (POS Financing & discounting interest-free instalments)
- Running customer loyalty programs
This provides a host of benefits, such as slimming down on procedures or saving valuable time.
How many POS devices can a business have?
The answer is simple. As many as the business needs in order to cover its needs!
You can find out about all the available options offered by NBG Pay, by visiting nbg.gr or talking to your Business Advisor, who will guide you through the options that best suit your business.