Next-Gen POS in EU: Driving Innovation and contactless payment

In recent years, the retail landscape in Europe has seen a significant transformation, largely due to the widespread adoption of next-generation point-of-sale (next-gen POS) systems. These innovative solutions have not only redefined the way business is conducted but have also played a pivotal role in propelling contactless payments to new heights. 

This article delves into the revolution of next gen POS in EU, explores why it is so powerful in the European market, discusses its advantages, and presents 3 top next-gen POS systems that have revolutionized payment experience.

What is a next-gen POS and its development in the EU?

Definition of next-gen POS

A next-gen POS is more than just a cash register. It is a comprehensive system that leverages the latest technology to streamline the retail experience. These systems go beyond simple transaction processing; they encompass a wide range of features and functionalities, often integrating hardware, software, and data analytics to offer an all-encompassing solution.

Development of next gen POS in EU

Europe is one of the country the forefront of adopting innovative payment technologies and pushing for their widespread use. As a result, next-gen POS systems have seen significant development within the EU. 

Here are some key factors contributing to this development:

• Regulatory initiatives: The EU has taken significant steps to promote a digital and cashless economy. Regulatory frameworks such as the Revised Payment Services Directive (PSD2) have encouraged the development of secure and innovative payment solutions, driving the evolution of next-gen POS systems.
• Consumer demand: European consumers have shown a strong inclination towards digital payments and contactless technology. This demand has driven businesses to adopt next-gen POS systems to cater to customer preferences and offer a frictionless payment experience.
• Fintech innovation: The EU has become a hub for fintech innovation, with numerous startups and established players developing cutting-edge payment solutions. These companies have contributed to the rapid advancement of next-gen POS systems within the region.
• Partnerships and collaborations: Companies in the EU are increasingly forming partnerships to deliver next-gen solutions in contactless payments, as exemplified by Paynt and SoftPay. Collaborations like these leverage the expertise of multiple players to create more comprehensive and effective POS solutions.
• Digital transformation: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the digital transformation of businesses across the EU. Retailers recognized the importance of adopting next-gen POS systems to adapt to changing consumer behavior, including increased online shopping and the demand for touchless transactions.

Advantages of the next-gen POS in EU

The adoption of next-gen POS in EU has provided businesses with a plethora of advantages, driving their popularity across various industries. These advantages can be summed up as follows:

• Seamless contactless payments: One of the primary advantages of next-gen POS systems is their ability to facilitate contactless payments. This feature aligns with the evolving payment preferences of consumers, making transactions faster and more secure.
• Enhanced customer experience: Next-gen POS systems offer a wide range of features to enhance the customer experience. These include options for loyalty programs, personalized promotions, and faster checkouts, which all contribute to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Efficient inventory management: With real-time inventory tracking and automated alerts for low stock levels, businesses can reduce operational costs and improve inventory turnover.
• Comprehensive analytics: These systems provide valuable data insights, enabling businesses to make informed decisions, optimize product offerings, and tailor marketing strategies to their customer base.
• Integration capabilities: Next-gen POS systems can seamlessly integrate with other business applications, such as accounting software, e-commerce platforms, and customer relationship management tools. This integration streamlines business operations and reduces manual data entry.
• Adaptability and scalability: These systems are designed to grow with the business, accommodating additional features and hardware as needed. This adaptability is particularly valuable for small businesses looking to expand.
• Security: Security is paramount in the digital age, and next-gen POS systems offer advanced security features, including end-to-end encryption and compliance with industry standards such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).

The benefits of next-gen POS systems in the EU in the EU have made them an integral part of the business landscape, allowing companies to stay competitive and meet the ever-changing demands of their customers.

Top 3 next-gen POS with contactless payment in Europe

To gain a deeper understanding of the next-gen POS landscape in the EU, it’s crucial to explore some of the leading solutions with contactless payment capabilities. Here are the top 3 next-gen POS systems making waves in Europe:

ConnectPOS

ConnectPOS is the best next-gen POS with contactless payment in the EU. It’s a point-of-sale (POS) software and system that is designed to streamline and enhance the retail and e-commerce shopping experience. 

ConnectPOS is a comprehensive solution that can be integrated with various e-commerce platforms, making it suitable for businesses of different sizes and industries.

Moreover, it also offers robust features that cater to the specific needs of EU businesses, including: 

• Cloud-based solution: ConnectPOS is delivered as a cloud-based solution. This means that businesses can access their POS system from anywhere, making it easier for owners and managers to monitor and manage their operations remotely. Additionally, a cloud-based solution reduces the need for on-site infrastructure, ultimately saving costs.
• Multi-channel integration: ConnectPOS offers a robust multi-channel integration, making it ideal for businesses with both online and brick-and-mortar stores. It easily syncs with popular e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, Magento, BigCommerce, and WooCommerce. This ensures that inventory, pricing, and product data are consistently updated across all sales channels, reducing manual workload and minimizing errors.
• Contactless payment options: ConnectPOS supports a wide array of contactless payment methods. Customers can use contactless credit cards, mobile wallets (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay), and NFC-enabled devices to complete transactions swiftly and securely. This is especially crucial in the post-pandemic world, where customers seek touchless payment options for their safety and convenience.
• Omnichannel capabilities: ConnectPOS enables businesses to seamlessly integrate online and offline sales channels. This is vital in the EU, where consumers often switch between in-store and online purchases.
• Inventory management: Real-time inventory management is another strength of ConnectPOS. Businesses can track stock levels and item availability in real time, allowing them to avoid overstock or stockout situations. 
• Customizable POS interface: ConnectPOS recognizes that businesses have unique requirements. Therefore, it offers a customizable POS interface. This allows users to create tailored discounts, promotions, and loyalty programs that align with their brand and customer base.
• Customer management: In the competitive retail landscape, customer relationship management is crucial. ConnectPOS assists businesses in building and maintaining strong customer relationships by offering data collection and analysis capabilities. This data can be harnessed to provide personalized services and target marketing efforts effectively.
• Security and compliance: ConnectPOS prioritizes security and compliance, adhering to stringent standards to safeguard sensitive customer and business data. Businesses can operate with confidence, knowing that their transactions and data are secure.

TouchBistro

TouchBistro is another next-gen POS solution for the hospitality industry. With a focus on restaurants, cafes, and bars, it offers a range of specialized features that cater to the unique needs of these businesses in the EU.

It offers some key features including:

• Tableside ordering: Waitstaff can take orders directly at the table, enhancing the dining experience and reducing errors.
• Kitchen display system: Orders are sent directly to the kitchen, reducing communication errors and speeding up food preparation.
• Customizable floor plans: Restaurants can customize their floor plans to match their unique layouts, improving efficiency.
• Contactless payments: TouchBistro also supports contactless payment methods, including NFC and mobile wallets, streamlining the checkout process.
• Inventory management: For restaurants with complex inventories, TouchBistro offers detailed inventory management features.

Toast

Toast is a noteworthy next-gen POS system that is making contactless payments in the restaurant and hospitality sector in the EU. With a robust suite of features, Toast is designed to improve efficiency, enhance customer experience, and increase revenue.

Toast includes some key features, including:

• Online ordering and delivery integration: Toast seamlessly integrates with online ordering and delivery platforms, crucial for businesses that have adapted to changing consumer behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Digital loyalty programs: Toast enables businesses to set up and manage loyalty programs, encouraging repeat customers.
• Contactless ordering and payments: With the EU’s emphasis on contactless payments, Toast offers a range of options to facilitate secure and fast transactions.
• Reporting and analytics: Like  ConnectPOS and TouchBistro, Toast also provides in-depth reporting and analytics tools, allowing businesses to gain insights into their operations and make data-driven decisions.
• Tableside ordering: Similar to TouchBistro, Toast also supports tableside ordering for restaurants.

Conclusion

Next-gen POS in EU has revolutionized the retail landscape by offering seamless contactless payment solutions and a range of other features that cater to the unique needs of businesses in the region. Whether you’re looking to streamline retail operations, enhance the dining experience, or offer a seamless and secure payment process, these POS systems provide the tools and solutions necessary to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of customers in the European market.

Additionally, if you are looking for the next-gen POS software, don’t look too far away, contact us – ConnectPOS for 24/7 support and advice to find out the best suitable solution for your business.