Our Product Pick

A new terminal for POS, the Mercury X3 Series, has been unwrapped by Elanda (Shenzhen, China). In fan-free construction, Mercury X3 runs Intel i3 and i5 12th/13th Generation CPU or Intel Model N97 CPU. As O/S, Windows 11/10. A 15.6" projected-capacitive touchscreen display (resolution: 1920x1080, brightness: 250cd/m2) has true-flat surface and an IP-65 durability rating. A dual-hinge foldable design, with aluminum die-cast housing, has overall measurements of 14.7"/373 mm (W) x 7.6"/194 mm (D) x 12.2"/310 mm (H). A set of ports includes USB, USB Type-C, LAN, Audio, and Cash Drawer. It offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Card Reader, Scanner, and 11.6"/15.6" Customer-Facing Displays.

Elanda's Mercury X3

COMPANY BUSINESS

A Smile and Wave - Payments

A nascent effort in biometric payments has Verifone (New York, NY) calling upon PopID (Pasadena, CA). A new module of sensors and software developed by the two companies brings face and palm authentication to existing payment terminals of third-parties as well as those of Verifone. As an example, embedded biometric modules will be featured in the new portfolio of payment terminals, Verifone Victa.

"With millions of new and existing payment devices in the United States and globally, Verifone is key to driving acceptance of biometric transactions," declared John Miller, CEO of PopID. "Verifone's decision to enter and lead the biometrics identity and payments race represents an important milestone in the growth and continued usage of biometrics." Earlier, in August 2024, J.P. Morgan similarly rolled out biometric payments by PopID to pilot merchants across the U.S.

"We believe that widespread acceptance of biometric loyalty and payments provides profound benefits to consumers, merchants, and issuers," expressed Himanshu Patel, CEO of Verifone. "Consumers will enjoy faster, more secure checkout and seamless access to loyalty programs. Merchants benefit from increased speed, security, customer satisfaction, and retention." (Also, in recent news, Verifone has expanded its relationship with PayPal.)

Verifone Brings Biometrics to Payment Terminals

Volcora "Supply's" VARs

A new distribution agreement between DCCSupply (Northbrook, IL) and Volcora (Hicksville, NY) covers the U.S. Established in 2015, Volcora offers its line-card of POS (both Windows and Android). In addition to terminals, DCCSupply will distribute the family of peripherals, such as receipt printers, cash drawers, and barcode scanners, from Volcora. As markets, DCCSupply addresses retail, hospitality, and financial services.

"Our partnership with DCCSupply marks a significant step in expanding the reach of our innovative POS solutions," shared Lukas Zheng, Co-Founder and Director of New Business Development at Volcora. "DCCSupply's reputation for quality service and expertise in payment technology aligns perfectly with our mission to provide businesses with reliable, high-performance POS solutions that enhance operational efficiency." An extensive customer base for the products by Volcora has been identified by Adam Kaplan, President of DCCSupply.

"We are focusing on looking for resellers in North America to carry our POS," Zheng told RRN. "They will enjoy a dedicated account manager, partner buy rate, priority support, and more." As of now, Volcora has successfully sold its products via outlets such as Amazon and Walmart.

A Distribution Agreement for Volcora's POS and Peripherals With DCCSupply

Worth Your While

ETA Transact
Electronic Transactions Association
April 2-4
Las Vegas, NV

RC Show
Restaurants Canada
April 7-9
Toronto, ON, Canada

NRA Show
National Restaurant Association
May 17-20
Chicago, IL

SEAA
Southeast Acquirers Association
June 2-4
Orlando, FL

RSPA RetailNOW
Retail Solutions Providers Association
July 27-29
Las Vegas, NV

MWAA
Midwest Acquirers Association
July 30-31
Chicago, IL

FS/TEC
Informa -- Food Service Tech
September 14-16
Orlando, FL

VARTECH
BlueStar
September 15-16
Atlantis, Bahamas

ALL IN THE FAMILY

A Cluster of Cash Drawers at Star

A family of new cash drawers, entitled the CD5 Max Series, with five-year warranty, has been stocked at Star Micronics America (Somerset, NJ). In four models, CD5 Max features durable all-steel construction, dual-locking mechanisms and under-till compartments for security, and glossy black finishes, with or without stainless-steel fronts. Of particular interest to VARs and ISVs, select models support dual interfaces (Printer Driven/DK and USB).

An "ultra-compact" model, CD5-1316 (13"x16"), addresses very space-sensitive environments, including mPOS. A "full-size" model, CD5-1617 (16"x17"), with two media slots, addresses the SMB. A "heavy-duty" model, CD5-1817 (18"x17"), with single media slot, addresses grocery and dispensary markets. Finally, an "enterprise-level" model, CD5-1918 (19"x18"), with three media slots, addresses big-box environments.

"Star Micronics has always focused on providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers," emphasized Bill Shuff, Product Manager at Star Micronics America. "The CD5 Max Series reflects our commitment to quality, durability, and innovation in cash management." In addition to its popular thermal printers, and cash drawers (including Value and Choice Series), Star Micronics America supplies scales, barcode scanners, enclosures/stands, and consumables.

Star Micronics' New CD5 Max Series

All the Perks at Brother

A new maintenance initiative for its Titan Industrial Label Printers, dubbed the Printhead Perks Program, has been launched at Brother Mobile Solutions (Warminster, CO). Under this offering, customers may purchase replacement printheads at discounted rates, saving up to 60%, while maintaining the printer's warranty. It includes shipping directly to the customer for self-repair or replacement handled through Brother.

In addition to its Printhead Perks Program, Brother Mobile Solutions has offered an extra year of warranty coverage on its qualifying Titan Industrial Label Printers. A purchase of $500 in consumables, covering labels and/or ribbons, earns another year of free coverage. In all, that brings four years of protection from "At Your Side." A timeframe of March 1, 2025 to May 31, 2025 has been established for this campaign.

"We know that without reliable, high-volume printing, our customers face interrupted workflows and decreased production that can lead to serious losses for their business," indicated Ravi Panjwani, VP, Brother Mobile Solutions Division, Brother International Corporation. "We're always looking to add new, convenient options for our customers, and the Printhead Perks Program is another way we're making it easier and more cost-effective for businesses to keep their operations running smoothly." In 4"/102 mm print width, the Titan Series features maximum print speed of 14"/356 mm per second, highest resolution of 600 dpi, and ribbon length of 656 yards/600 meters.

A Printhead Replacement Program, Called Perks, for Brother's Titan Industrial Label Printers

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A Message From the Editor

As we enter another year--our 20th!--our mission remains constant: to fill the need for timely, focused, non-biased news in the channel for POS & Auto ID (and now Mobility). If anything, that need grows more pressing in the face of new technologies, go-to-market strategies, business models, and consumer expectations. We look forward to continuing our mission, and welcome your suggestions and thoughts on improvements.

Michael Kachmar, Editor

ALLIANCES

Improving Clearance? If You "SaySo"

A commerce platform for unsold inventory in retail has been introduced by start-up, SaySo (New York, NY). Led by David Olk, one of the Co-Founders of the ISV ShopKeep (now part of Lightspeed), SaySo has raised $4M in seed funding from UP Partners (Santa Monica, CA). A co-branded web storefront enables retailers to sell excess inventory directly from their warehouses and distribution centers. It employs "gamified pricing," in which item prices drop over time, allowing shoppers to "name their price," while seeking to drive engagement.

"Retailers all say the same thing: clearance inventory drains cash, takes up valuable space, and limits ability to bring in new products," expounded Olk. "Offloading clearance inventory may be the bane of any retailer's existence, but we try to make it as smooth as possible. Our solution helps them effortlessly offload excess inventory while still driving brand awareness and profits."

While operating in "stealth mode," SaySo won the business of furniture retailer, The Dufresne Group, the largest licensee of Ashley in Canada. An early co-branded storefront, designated as Ashley x Descend, doubled clearance sales, according to Kristi Ellis, EVP of Supply Chain at The Dufresne Group. It also reduced transportation costs by 20%.

An Optimized Clearance Solution for Retailers

On the Clock: POS

An integration between the ISV TimeForge (Lubbock, TX) and Heartland Restaurant, part of Global Payments (Atlanta, GA), seeks to simplify labor management. It automatically syncs employee data, positions, timecards, and sales from Heartland into TimeForge. It also allows managers to send schedules directly from TimeForge to the POS.

"At TimeForge, we know how busy restaurant managers are, and we're thrilled to partner with Heartland Restaurant to make their jobs easier," related Audrey Hogan, COO at TimeForge. "This integration ensures that restaurants have everything they need to manage their staff, schedules, and labor costs without the hassle of juggling multiple systems." Added benefits include improved accuracy and deeper business intelligence.

"Integration between TimeForge and Heartland Restaurant is exactly the type of solution our restaurant clients need to streamline their daily operations," testified Blake Gillum, President of the VAR DCR POS (Nashville, TN). "By eliminating manual processes, managers can spend less time handling administrative tasks and more time focusing on what really matters--delivering exceptional guest experiences. We're proud to recommend this partnership to our customers as a smart, reliable way to boost efficiency and reduce costs." Also in March, TimeForge partnered with Tripleseat Event Management Software (Concord, MA).

TimeForge Ties to Heartland Restaurant POS

Code Corner

Layers of Loyalty

A trio of third-party partners has been embraced by payments player Dejavoo Systems (Mineola, NY). In the first, Extra360 (Istanbul, Turkey) and Dejavoo have launched integrated loyalty for the SMB: DejavooExtra. In the second, Enroll & Pay (Solana Beach, CA) will furnish its card-linked Loyalty-as-a-Service, or LaaS, for the Android P Series Payment Terminals by Dejavoo. Lastly, Dejavoo and Evolv (Newburgh, IN) have joined forces in bringing merchant services to the market in the campaign: Power in Partnership. In addition to its Android P Series, Dejavoo offers its Android QD, Linux Z, and Android Register, with its iPOSpays Gateway.

Dejavoo Android Payment Terminal

Hitting the Books

A Tap-to-Pay on iPhone for QuickBooks has been debuted by Intuit (Mountain View, CA). It allows customers of QuickBooks Online to accept in-person contactless payments from anywhere using an iPhone and the QuickBooks Mobile or GoPayment iOS Apps. Accepting all forms of contactless payments, including cards and mobile wallets, it automatically categorizes and reconciles transactions. Other benefits include expanded invoicing capabilities, reduced processing fees, and excellent security, according to Intuit. "With Tap-to-Pay on iPhone, we're giving customers a competitive advantage that accelerates cash flow, business growth, and customer loyalty," suggested David Hahn, SVP, QuickBooks Money Platform.

Tap-to-Pay on iPhone by Intuit

ENVIRONMENTS/PLATFORMS

Minding Your PDQ's

An enhancement for its PDQ POS has been unveiled by casino technology developer, Signature Systems Inc. (Warminster, PA). As the "Multi-Revenue Center," it allows guests to place, pay for, and receive food and drink orders for any restaurant on premises without the need to "take their eyes off the game" at slot machines, tables, sports books, etc. It works in conjunction with wireless tablets for the staff.

Also, with this update, so-called Virtual Table Functionality allows staff to create or transfer tabs for guests who are not at pre-programmed locations. Another new feature, SMS Waitlist, allows hosts or staff to add guests to the waitlist and be notified via SMS text message when their table is ready. It removes the need for specialized notification devices--such as radio coasters--or additional software subscriptions.

"The gaming industry is modernizing, using data and technology to enhance guest experiences, increasing retention," observed John White, EVP/CIO of Signature Systems Inc. "We're modernizing along with them and, with this software update, casinos can take another big step forward. Multi-Revenue Centers from any POS removes pre-existing limits to guest enjoyment and helps operators maximize hardware."

Signature Systems Enhances Casino PDQ POS

Paytronix: Party Time

A new capability, Paytronix Catering, has been added to the Paytronix Online Ordering Platform. It includes planning, execution, and payment for this market of increased volumes and unique kitchen coordination requirements. Among its 20 features: Visual Feed-o-Meter, Item Feed Count Estimation, Manager Order Approvals, and White Glove Service.

"Most customers these days don't consider you for catering until they see it for themselves," submitted Reed Daniels, CEO of Red's Savoy Pizza, with 18 locations in the Midwest U.S. "For us, we put a lot of energy into making sure our customers knew that we had the capabilities, and to see if it translated into new opportunities. And wow--it has been so profitable for us financially and operationally."

"Catering orders are placed ahead of time and are larger than typical online orders," noted Ray Gibson, Online Ordering Product Manager at Paytronix (Newton, MA). "Due to this, they add a layer of complexity into the preparation process for restaurants. With Paytronix Catering, we provide for the unique administrative and operational processes and complexities, including the need to hold an order above the POS until it is time to prep, and the need to take deposits." Servicing 50,000 sites, Paytronix provides loyalty, gift cards, and branded mobile applications.

Paytronix Offers Catering Solution

Key Advertiser Links

Be sure to visit these vendors for the latest in channel products and offers for resellers.

POS & Peripherals
Advantech-Aures
Bixolon America
Electronic Payments
Epson America
FEC POS
HiStone
HP
Ingenico
POSBANK USA
Posiflex
Sam4s/Shin Heung Precision
Star Micronics
Touch Dynamic
Tri-Tech
Washburn Computer Group

Barcode Printers
Bixolon America
Brother Mobile
Epson America
Woosim Systems

Cash Drawers/Cash Handling
apg/APG Cash Drawer

Data Collection
Star Micronics

Integrated Payment Solutions
Aurora Payments
Charge Anywhere
Datacap Systems
Electronic Payments
Ingenico

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Brother Mobile
Epson America
Star Micronics
Woosim Systems

Stands, Mounts, Cradles
apg/APG Cash Drawer
Star Micronics

INSTALLATIONS

A Menu Bubbles Up at Partner Tech

A deployment of X-Sign from Partner Tech (Anaheim, CA) brings digital menu management to the 38 U.S. sites of bubble tea chain, Meet Fresh. Implemented by the VAR SBM Technology Group (Los Angeles, CA), and delivered as a monthly service, X-Sign furnishes remote management of menu updates, seamless integration with the POS, and enhanced customer engagement with dynamic content such as videos and order tracking. It also provides multi-screen support and diagnostics.

"A game changer for restaurants and retailers," as David Lin, President of SBM Technology Group, describes Partner Tech's X-Sign. "It's intuitive, scalable, and ensures businesses can focus on serving customers rather than managing menu updates." Added Sandra Hsia, President at Partner Tech USA, "The X-Sign solution allows businesses to update content in real time and keep promotions fresh and relevant without disrupting store operations."

Also, Partner Tech has increased its self-service offerings with "Paula," its new self-checkout and kiosk solution. Optimized for retail and quick-service restaurants (QSR), according to Partner Tech, in tabletop format, Paula has touchscreen, built-in speaker for audio prompts, barcode scanner, and receipt printer. Additional peripheral options, such as Keypad with ADA, Universal Payment Bracket, and AI-Powered Camera with an LED Tri-Light, address accessibility, security, and ease of use.

Partner Tech's X-Sign for Digital Menu Management

Some Fans of Square

As one of its new partners, Square has enlisted the "next-generation" customer engagement platform--"Powered by Realtime AI"--from Lava AI (both companies in San Francisco, CA). An implementation took place over the most recent season of the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Not to be confused with Lava Computer or Lavu POS, Lava AI serves many sports teams in the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLS. It covers critical functions of ticketing, foodservice and retail, and parking.

"We're delighted with the value this partnership brings," remarked Marty Turman, VP of Fan Marketing and Insights with the Los Angeles Rams. "We delivered thousands of integrated membership transactions per game last year, and with Lava, together with Square, we are looking forward to delivering more frictionless fan benefits, elevated experiences, and in-the-moment activations that are personalized at scale, based on fan behaviors, preferences, and context." It extends beyond the physical to e-commerce, mobile wallets, and game feeds.

"A significant milestone in our mission to enhance customer experiences through innovative loyalty and commerce solutions," in the words of Jonathan Ghio, Sports and Entertainment Partnerships Lead at Square. "It underscores Square's expansion across sports, entertainment, and leisure, reinforcing our commitment to delivering seamless, integrated solutions." As hardware partner, Lava AI cites Oracle/Micros. As Chief Business Officer at Lava AI: Dave Landa.

Lava AI and Square Enhance the Fan Experience

Channel Factoid

Payment Power

-A total of 65% of small business annual sales revenue was processed by merchant services providers in 2025, up from 62% in 2024.

-Accepted Payments in SMB:

96% - Credit/Debit Cards
90% - Digital Wallets
81% - Cash
60% - Check
52% - BNPL
15% - Cryptocurrency

-Utilized Brands in SMB:

87% - Visa
82% - Mastercard
73% - PayPal
69% - American Express
65% - Apple Pay
61% - Discover

Source: U.S. Merchant Services Satisfaction Study - 2025" by J.D. Power

A Third of Merchants Add Surcharges for Credit Card Purchases

Sealed the Deal

-Toast (Boston, MA) for its Go Mobile Handhelds, Kitchen Display Systems, and Restaurant Management Suite Enterprise for Ascent Hospitality, with 500 sites of Perkins and Huddle House in the U.S. and Canada.

-Bikky (New York, NY) for customer data platform for City BBQ, growing fast-casual brand with 70 locations in the South and Central U.S.

-NCR Voyix (Atlanta, GA) for POS for self-service frozen dessert chain Yogurtland with 205 sites in the U.S.

HELLO GOODBYE

Agilysys Rings Bell

A newly created position at Agilysys (Alpharetta, GA) sees hospitality veteran Dan Bell hired as VP of North American Sales East for Hotels, Resorts, and Cruises. Most recently, Bell served as Group VP, Hotels and Resorts, for Toast. Prior to that, he was SVP, Americas, for the Shiji Group. A majority of his career, 17 years, took place at Micros Systems, and following its acquisition, Oracle, in roles such as GM, Mid-Atlantic Region; VP, Leisure and Entertainment; and SVP, North American Hotels.

"I built my career being 'all in' for hospitality, so leading a sales team for a company such as Agilysys that also is 'all in' for hospitality matches my commitment to this industry," reflected Bell. An accompanying regional role of VP of North American Sales West for Hotels, Resorts, and Cruises has been filled by Tim Hansen at Agilysys. Each of these executives--East and West--reports to Chief Commercial Officer at Agilysys, Joe Youssef.

"Dan's deep understanding of the technology landscape, coupled with his expertise in POS and PMS, makes him a valuable addition to the Agilysys team," commented Youssef. "His proven abilities to drive sales growth, build strong customer relationships, and develop winning strategies align perfectly with our focus on empowering hospitality providers to leverage our technology to elevate guest experiences while also improving operational efficiencies." Agilysys forecasts $273M in revenue, while maintaining at least 38% year-over-year subscription revenue growth, in Fiscal 2025.

Dan Bell, VP, North American Sales East, Agilysys

A Turn at Truno

A change at the top for Truno Retail Technology Solutions (Lubbock, TX) with Chris St. Clair named as new CEO. He succeeds Brad Ralston, who has been CEO since 2011. With extensive experience in grocery, St. Clair has served as Group VP of Technology at Albertsons, EVP - Information Technology and Supply Chain at United Supermarkets, and CIO/CTO at Madera Residential. Most recently, he consulted with Albertsons regarding its merger with Kroger, reportedly overseeing 14 technology work streams to transition stores to independent operations.

"Chris has lived through the challenges our customers face every day," relayed Ralston. "He knows firsthand how to successfully run a grocery operation by balancing technology, supply chain logistics, labor, and customer experience. His ability to bridge the gap between operations and technology is exactly what Truno needs as we continue to grow and serve our customers at the highest level."

"One of the reasons I'm excited to join Truno is because it's a company that can scale," contributed St. Clair. "Truno is built to handle both the 'dirty work'--with boots on the ground, servicing hardware, and supporting operations in the trenches--while also solving complex programming and technology challenges that drive retailers forward. It's a partnership I personally relied on, and it's one that thousands of retailers across the country continue to depend on every day."

Chris St. Clair, CEO, Truno