This Week’s Product Pick

POSBANK USA (Gardena, CA) has debuted its POSMO-M 15-inch, five-wire resistive touchscreen monitor. With compact footprint of 15.75 in. (W) x 13 in. (H) x 8.7 in. (D), this display offers an Elo overlay, LG industrial-grade LCD panel, and USB as standard features, as well as optional MSR. As technical specifications, POSBANK USA lists 1024x768 resolution, 600:1 contrast ratio, 250 cd/m2 brightness, and 8 mm/second response time. A strong and stable base stand and flexible angle adjustment of the screen facilitate operations. "The POSMO-M touchscreen is engineered to be highly versatile, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and value priced--a winning combination for any POS VAR looking to generate additional sales," stated Grace Goo, PSS Division Manager at POSBANK USA.

POSMO-M by POSBANK USA

COMPANY BUSINESS

An OmniLink to New Markets

With fanfare, earlier this year, Epson America (Long Beach, CA) introduced OmniLink, thereby bringing PC functionality to its popular POS printers. Put simply, OmniLink equips printers with the gateway for delivery of cloud-based services (via Ethernet or Wi-Fi) as well as enough processing power and memory to drive third-party applications and peripherals (with two models, "i" for Intelligent and enhanced "DT" for Device Terminal). Success of this innovative product will depend upon Epson America's ecosystem of VARs and ISVs, of course, many of which have entered early stages of deployment. One such partner, SmartReceipt (Santa Barbara, CA) recently spoke with RRN.Com regarding the opportunities afforded by OmniLink.

SmartReceipt employs sales data at the receipt level to provide real-time, behavior-driven marketing, messaging, and branding. According to Tom Downs, SmartReceipt's Director of Channel Sales, OmniLink, in its "i" version, will help this ISV penetrate the sizeable hospitality segment dependent on Microsoft Windows CE. This includes some end-users of Micros, as well as other vendors such as Positouch. Previously, SmartReceipt has been unable to load its third-party application on such systems running Windows CE.

Another new market of opportunity will encompass institutional foodservice and smaller chains currently relying on electronic cash registers (ECRs), noted Downs, particularly with firmware. Via an external serial port and use of the OmniLink TM-T88V-i, almost as modem, SmartReceipt may be introduced for such end-users. "With access to the cloud, we're able to report transaction information for business analytics as well as load whatever set of rules and images the customer has chosen," Downs explained. "Downloading graphics also maintains the speed of the printer."

For some customers, Epson America has suggested that OmniLink DT serve as possible replacement for the POS PC, satisfying receipt printing, driving peripherals, and reducing space needs at the front counter. Epson plans to integrate OmniLink technology into many of its next-generation core products, which suggests even more smart solutions are on the horizon.

Epson OmniLink TM-T88V-i, With Multiple Ports

Another Course for PAR

Some fresh and familiar faces in the recast executive suite at PAR Technology Corporation (New Hartford, NY). Following the sudden resignation of Paul Domorski, Ronald Casciano has been elevated to CEO/President. Showing three decades of experience at PAR, Casciano most recently served as CFO. Simultaneously, Robert Jerabeck has joined PAR as its EVP and COO. Jerabeck comes from Honeywell Scanning & Mobility, where he was CTO.

"Ron has driven our efforts to streamline and focus our operations and is well-qualified to direct our further pursuit of sustained, profitable growth," noted Sangwoo Ahn, Chairman of the Board of Directors at PAR. "Ron's strengths will be complemented by those of Bob Jerabeck, who has deep operational expertise, with a long career of leadership in product management, manufacturing, and quality systems. The board welcomes Bob to PAR, and anticipates he will have significant impact on the company's efficiency and effectiveness."

Closer to home for readers of RRN.Com, Karen Sammon has rejoined PAR as President of ParTech, Inc., its wholly-owned subsidiary focused on restaurant POS. Following her start at PAR, Sammon moved to the CBORD Group, Inc., as SVP of Operations. During her previous tenure at PAR, she held titles of Chief Product and Strategy Officer, as well as President of PAR Software Solutions. Her father, John Sammon, founded PAR Technology Corporation and reigned as CEO/President from 1968 to 2011, at which point Domorski was brought in from EMS Technologies.

"Karen's extensive hospitality technology experience, market vision, and pragmatic approach will be a tremendous asset to our leadership team," stated Casciano. "Karen will be instrumental in driving innovative solutions and operational improvements. We are pleased Karen has rejoined our team and look forward to leveraging her skills and experience to benefit our customers and our business."

Ronald Casciano, CEO/President, PAR Technology Corporation

Worth Your While

Field Service USA 2013
Worldwide Business Research
April 22-25
Indian Wells, CA

ETA Annual Meeting & Expo
Electronic Transactions Association
April 30 - May 1
New Orleans

THE Tech EVENT
(Formerly NACStech, National Association of Convenience Stores)
May 6-10
Dallas

NRA Show
National Restaurant Association
May 18-21
Chicago

HITEC 2013
Hospitality Financial & Technology Professionals
June 24-27
Minneapolis

RetailNow 2013
Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA)
August 4-7
Las Vegas

Pack Expo 2013
Packaging Manufacturers Machinery Institute
September 23-25
Las Vegas

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Spills and Thrills at CognitiveTPG

CognitiveTPG (Ithaca, NY) has armed its A798 and A799 receipt printers with an easy-to-install spill guard to protect against common conditions in the hospitality industry. Available from the company's distributors, and retailing for $20, this new accessory "was exposed to environments that not even the busiest kitchen would endure, and independent testing confirmed it meets IPX2 water ingress standards," said Roman Dziaba, Product Manager for CognitiveTPG. In addition, the spill guard's low profile means the printer maintains its same compact height, while the translucent cover allows for visual confirmation of the printer receipt and printer status.

"Accident or not, we don't want our customers' operations compromised or employees dismissed if such occurrences can be mitigated through better design," proposed Angela Mansfield-Swanson, Marketing Director for CognitiveTPG. "This spill guard is the most economical and effective solution for uninterrupted receipt printing. And we back that statement with our two-year warranty against spill damage on factory installed units on both the A798 and the A799."

Earlier, CognitiveTPG named Royce Digital Systems Inc. (Irvine, CA) as its 2012 Reseller of the Year. RDSI has partnered with CognitiveTPG for over 15 years and has installed over 10,000 CognitiveTPG printers, with particular focus in the areas of managed print services and healthcare, and encompassing both barcode labeling and POS. "Royce Digital brings exceptional value to their customers while carefully managing large-scale projects," noted Andrina Starika, Sales Manager for CognitiveTPG. "We value our exceptional partnership with them."

New Spill Guard for CognitiveTPG's A798 and A799

EAS Tagging Runs Hot and Cold

Checkpoint Systems (Thorofare, NJ) has unwrapped its new 4010 EP (Enhanced Performance) food label for Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS), targeted at the supermarket/grocery segment. Significantly, this new radio frequency tag has been certified as microwave safe; moreover, it maintains its technical characteristics throughout all stops in the supply chain, including freezer storage. It may be applied through high-speed source tagging at the point of manufacture, or through in-store tagging.

"The new 4010 EP label is designed specifically for food and offers optimized protection without risk," observed Farrokh Abadi, President and COO, Shrink Management Solutions, at Checkpoint. "By offering maximum protection and enhanced deactivation at the point of sale, food retailers can improve merchandise availability and enhance their consumers' shopping experience while increasing sales." In unveiling 4010 EP, Checkpoint cited research showing that theft of high-value food items, including meat and seafood, typically reaches 3.6% in North America.

Testing of the 4010 EP food label was conducted by TUV Rheinland, an international services group that provides manufacturers with assessment and certification services to ensure product safety. Such testing reveals EAS labels from some manufacturers sometimes suffer browning around the edges and in some cases even catch fire when placed in microwave ovens. Checkpoint's 4010 EP food label, now ready for shipment, reportedly passed all TUV tests without incident.

Checkpoint Systems Offers 4010 Enhanced Performance EAS Label for Grocery

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PARTNER PROGRAMS

Elo: Remember the Almo

Elo Touch Solutions (Milpitas, CA) has opened several new fronts on the digital signage battlefield. First, Elo has entered into distribution of its full line of digital signage products through the Almo Professional Audio/Visual Division (Philadelphia), one of the major players in its space. Next, Elo has kicked off its spring promotion, whereby VARs may receive up to $100 rebate on its 46-inch Interactive Digital Signage and up to $125 rebate on its 55-inch Interactive Digital Signage when purchased with an integrated computer module. This campaign runs through June 2013, RRN.Com was told. Lastly, Elo has stocked its 7001L 70-inch IDS, which drew much attention at NRF in New York in January.

"Our resellers are experiencing increasing demand for large-format, touch-enabled displays," reported Sam Taylor, EVP and COO for Almo Professional A/V. "We're partnering with Elo Touch Solutions because they provide a broad portfolio of screen sizes and touch technologies our resellers can incorporate into their projects with service and support." Added Craig Witsoe, CEO of Elo Touch Solutions, "Together we will help resellers and end-users realize the possibilities for digital signage in education, government, hospitality, healthcare, and retail organizations."

Elo's 7001L represents one of the largest (70 inches), thinnest (less than 4 inches), and brightest (700 lumens) examples of digital signage on the market, according to the vendor. Characteristics include durable steel chassis, tempered pure-glass display, and multi-touch and gesture support. Two optional, slide-in computing modules carry Intel Core i3 or i5 processors, and the 7001L also complies with the Intel Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) for integration purposes. Pricing starts at $11,195.

Elo's 7001L Digital Signage: "Large, Thin, and Bright"

Teklynx Fills Missing Link

Teklynx International (Milwaukee), one of the world's leading developers of barcode labeling software, has mounted an effort to strengthen and broaden its reseller network. To that end, the company will launch its new channel program in late spring, RRN.Com has learned, offering coordinated sales and marketing support for its software. Simultaneously, Jenna Wagner has been enlisted as Global Marketing Director, bringing 10 years of business development, channel and account management, and lead generation experience from the Frantz Group, which furnishes business-to-business services for leading technology companies.

"I am thrilled to be coming on board at such a pivotal time for Teklynx," Wagner shared. "Our channel initiative has the potential to create lasting impact for our dedicated strategic partners. I look forward to cultivating strong relationships with key resellers while we continue to focus on marketing efforts that generate strong end-user demand and positive experiences."

"Our resellers are experiencing success by leveraging barcode labeling software to grow hardware and consumable sales," contributed Laura Henderson, GM of Teklynx Americas. Henderson pointed to several significant accomplishments for 2012, including revenue growth of 28%, introduction of subscription-based licensing, and fashioning of the turnkey solution for Globally Harmonized System (GHS) chemical labeling in conjunction with Epson America. In addition, new versions of Label Matrix, LabelView, and Codesoft, leading products from Teklynx, provide compatibility with Windows 8.

Jenna Wagner, Global Marketing Director, Teklynx

Code Corner

ECRs and embedded POS systems that employ the Tran line of payment processing solutions from Datacap Systems (Chalfont, PA) now have the option to accept integrated MercuryLoyalty transactions. MercuryLoyalty, offered by Mercury (Durango, CA), includes "points" rewards, coupon verification, and upload of transaction detail. This update allows merchants to enjoy enhanced revenue created from increased traffic as well as the capacity to reach and maintain the most profitable customers, according to its developer. Third-party gift services from major providers have already been integrated into Datacap's Tran, but this new entry represents the first true loyalty solution, RRN.Com was told. Minor integration changes are required to take advantage, with specifications available upon request from Datacap. "Addition of MercuryLoyalty support to our NoLoad Tran product line supplies the reseller channel with an advanced loyalty offering and presents another opportunity to generate supplementary revenue," commented Justin Ziegler, Director of Marketing for Datacap Systems.

Ekahau, Inc. (Reston, VA) has released Ekahau Site Survey Version 6.0 with support for next-generation 802.11ac devices. ESS 6.0 delivers both manual and automatic network planning with access point placement and channel optimization to take advantage of the increased data rates and capacity of the emerging Wi-Fi standard. ESS 6.0 models the key 802.11ac parameters, including number of supported spatial streams, channel bandwidth, and interference factors. By selecting the type of access point, for example, users automatically receive information on the device's 802.11ac capabilities. "The goal of doing network analysis is to understand network capacity--whether it can support and perform up to required standards with the increasing volume of wireless clients resulting from the bring-your-own-device, or BYOD, trend," asserted Mikko Lauronen, Product Manager for Ekahau Wi-Fi Tools.

ENVIRONMENTS/PLATFORMS

Echoes of Aloha

NCR Corporation (Duluth, GA) has launched Aloha Mobile for tableside ordering and payment. This new software furnishes many of the robust features of Aloha POS, according to NCR, and employs the same well-known user interface, thereby making it easier for restaurants to train servers on the new system. Now configured for the NCR Orderman handheld, with PA-DSS validated card processing, Aloha Mobile will add support for Apple iOS devices later this year.

"Aloha Mobile has delivered great results for my business and ultimately my customers," testified Rusty Winkstern, Owner of El Monumento (Georgetown, TX). "My servers are using Aloha Mobile on an NCR Orderman device to place orders and receive payment at the table as well as to cover larger sections without sacrificing customer service. It is integrated seamlessly into my existing Aloha system and we've seen marked improvements across the board in terms of number of table turns, employee tips, and customer satisfaction. It's the right mobile solution for us and I couldn't envision using anything else."

Elsewhere, NCR has encouraged the practice of social media with its NCR Silver POS for small business owners. Linking the Silver's e-mail marketing engine with Facebook, NCR now provides "one click" update of promotions and offers. For custom messages, such as "we miss you" campaigns or special discounts for the most loyal customers, this social sharing feature may be shut down for the mass audience. "For the small business owner who is doing everything, time saved by integrating Facebook posts with their e-mail campaigns is time they can spend helping customers, growing their businesses, or being with their families," emphasized Christian Nahas, VP and GM of the NCR Small Business Team.

NCR Aloha Mobile for Tableside Service

Tuneful Metrics by Micros

Micros Systems (Columbia, MD) has embraced iTunes to offer its new Micros in Motion business intelligence tool for restaurants. In concert with mymicros.net web-based reporting, Micros in Motion delivers real-time mobile access to performance statistics, critical labor details, and customer service tools, according to the company, with intuitive user design and automatic alerting mechanisms. It allows restaurant owners and management to understand both high-level trends and front-line operations via their smartphones.

Micros in Motion has been evaluated by select customers such as Sweetgreen, the DC-based fresh food restaurant chain. "We have been very impressed with the intuitive nature of Micros in Motion. It provides real-time information in the palm of our hand that we can act on immediately," reported Don Schaefer, Director of Operations for Sweetgreen. "We are especially pleased that we now have a way to view and manage immediate labor data for the entire enterprise, allowing us to better control overtime costs."

As always, Micros has new customers to trumpet. Canada's Extreme Brandz Group will deploy Micros Simphony and myinventory throughout its 350 quick-service restaurants in North America and overseas, under the brand names Extreme Pita, Mucho Burrito, Purblendz, and Via Cibo. In praising the cloud-based Simphony POS, Extreme Brandz noted its overall functionality, flexible configuration, and tools and integration necessary for web-based revenue growth. "Micros Simphony has allowed us to accelerate our restaurant development opening plans," remarked Mark Cunningham, VP of Global Business Development for Extreme Brandz.

New Micros in Motion Business Intelligence App

Key Advertiser Links

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

POS & Auto ID Distribution
Metropolitan Sales
Synnex
Wasp Barcode Technologies

POS & Peripherals
Harbortouch
Partner Tech
Pioneer POS
Posiflex
POS-X

POS Systems - Hospitality
PAR

POS Systems - Apple Based
LightSpeed Retail
ShopKeep POS

Barcode & Transaction Printers
Zebra Technologies

Cash Drawers
MMF POS

Data Collection Terminals
CipherLab
Datalogic ADC
Trimble

Data Collection Software
Wavelink

Integrated Payment Solutions
Datacap Systems
Merchant Warehouse
Mercury

Keyboards
PrehKeyTec USA

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Citizen Systems America
Epson America
Star Micronics

Scanners
Code Corporation
Honeywell

Thermal Printers
Seiko Instruments USA

Touchscreens & Monitors
Elo TouchSystems

INSTALLATIONS

Citizen Hits Gusher

Citizen Systems America (Torrance, CA) has drilled down deeper into oil and gas through an expanded relationship with Qv21 Technologies (Newport, RI). Qv21, which previously approved the Citizen CMP-20 two-inch thermal portable printer, will now add the bigger, faster Citizen CMP-30 three-inch portable printer, both for use with its Logistics Framework product suite. This platform provides "digital dispatching," or e-tickets, for truck drivers in oil fields, waste management, and construction involving hazardous materials, with support for Windows 7 computers and Android smartphones.

"There are situations in which we need to leave a paper ticket," stated John Lacey, President of Qv21. "As an example, state regulations require a hard copy paper confirmation ticket in the oil field in some cases. And reliability is key: the equipment must be able to stand up to rugged environments and extreme temperature ranges. After extensive testing in the field, the CMP-30 has met or exceeded all of our expectations."

Featuring high-impact ABS plastic housing and drop-in paper loading, the Citizen CMP-20 and CMP-30 accommodate long duty cycles with high-capacity Lithium-Ion batteries and media rolls of approximately two-inch diameter. CMP-20 has print speed of three inches/80 mm per second at 203 dpi and weighs 1 lb. CMP-30 has print speed of four inches/100 mm per second at 203 dpi and weighs 1.4 lbs. Both support iOS, Android, and Windows, with Serial and USB, as well as Bluetooth, 802.11b or 802.11g WLAN, ESC/POS emulation, and optional magnetic-stripe reading (MSR).

CMP-30 Portable Printer by Citizen Systems

Big Chow Down at Vantiv

Vantiv (Cincinnati) will be working on Bob Evans Farms for more years. Extending its strategic processing relationship, the merchant service provider will continue to support credit and gift card transactions for the restaurant chain, which owns and operates 565 full-service eateries in 19 states, primarily in the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeastern U.S. Promoted as the third largest merchant acquirer and the largest PIN debit acquirer based on number of transactions in the U.S., Vantiv has been actively recruiting in the POS channel of late.

"Vantiv continues to demonstrate itself as a strong, consultative partner for our payment needs," confirmed Dick Green, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Bob Evans Farms. "Each year we process millions of electronic payment transactions. Vantiv's scale and efficient technology platform make it a seamless experience. Our continued, long-term relationship with Vantiv is a result of their consistent commitment to superior customer service and innovation."

Further back in the food chain, Unified Grocers also has signed with Vantiv for continued credit, debit, gift, and EBT card processing. Unified Grocers is the largest retailer-owned wholesale grocery cooperative in the Western U.S., with 3,000 independent members and approximately $3.8 billion in sales for 2012. "Vantiv has considerable expertise serving the grocery industry, and our renewed business with Unified Grocers is a testament to our focus on helping clients navigate the complex payments landscape," proclaimed Donald Boeding, President of Merchant Services at Vantiv.

Credit and Gift Card Processing for Bob Evans

Channel Factoid

The 500 largest U.S. restaurant chains registered 4.9% annual sales increase in 2012, versus 3.5% over the previous time period. According to recent data from Technomic, the foodservice consultancy, these leaders grew to an estimated $254 billion in 2012, with only 168 suffering declining sales. Among limited service restaurants, the greatest gain came from the Asian, Bakery Cafe, and Mexican categories. Segment leaders were Panda Express (+19.8%), Panera Bread (+12.3%), and Taco Bell (+8.3%). As a whole, limited service restaurants experienced increased sales of 5.6%. Chicken chains, which grew 8.8%, represented another sub-segment with above-average growth. Within this group, Chick-fil-A grew 14.1%. In comparison, full-service restaurants saw only 2.9% increase in 2012, virtually the same as the previous year. Here, steak and seafood led the way, with Texas Roadhouse (+12.4%), LongHorn Steakhouse (+12.1%), and Red Lobster (+4.5%). As fastest-growing restaurant chains, the survey lists (in descending order): Dickey's Barbecue Pit, Firehouse Subs, Jersey Mike's Subs, Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers, Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwich Shop, Cheddar's Casual Cafe, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Yard House, and Panda Express. "It is certainly encouraging to see overall industry growth rates return to levels not seen since 2007," reflected Ron Paul, President of Technomic.

HELLO GOODBYE

Microsoft Hires Althoff, Sires Embedded 8

Microsoft Corp. (Redmond, WA) has appointed Judson Althoff to the role of President of North America Sales & Marketing and Corporate Vice President. An ascending star, Althoff most recently served as SVP of Worldwide Alliances and Channels and Embedded Sales at Oracle Corporation, progressing through corresponding senior management roles during his 14 years. Before Oracle, he held several sales leadership posts at EMC Corporation.

"Judson has a track record of successfully developing, growing, and leading global sales organizations with a culture of execution excellence," relayed Kevin Turner, COO at Microsoft. "Judson's proven leadership will enable us to continue to excel in delivering the best devices and services experience to our customers, including businesses and consumers." In his new position, Althoff will report directly to Turner.

This week, Microsoft also officially released Windows Embedded 8 Industry Pro for Retail, intended as the replacement to Windows Embedded POS Ready 7. "Windows Embedded 8 Industry provides a fixed-image O/S that is especially suited to power industry devices, control panels, kiosks, and yes, POS terminals," declared Microsoft in an official blog post. "It provides a single image with lockdown features and embedded enhancements that will make the next generation of industry devices smarter, better connected, more secure, and more user friendly." Another SKU, Windows Embedded 8 Industry Enterprise, will address volume licensing in July, according to Microsoft.

Judson Althoff, President, North America Sales & Marketing, Microsoft

Bad Medicine at "POS Doctor"

Here's an easy argument against fly-by-night POS. The U.S. Department of Justice has charged two "resellers" with stealing $40,000 through unauthorized Subway gift cards. As described in an indictment filed in the District Court of Massachusetts in Boston, Shahin Abdollahi (aka "Sean Holdt") and Jeffrey Wilkinson formed "POS Doctor" and placed new and refurbished POS systems in 13 Subways in California, Wyoming, and Massachusetts. The pair would wait until the restaurant closed, allegedly, then load money onto gift cards in their possession.

Abdollahi and Wilkinson ran "one or more" Subway franchises in Southern California between 2005 and 2008, according to the indictment, and thus became familiar with the workings of POS and the dynamics of the Subway franchise, which routinely utilizes third-party providers. For their scheme, as POS Doctor, they exploited remote access software, in this case, LogMeIn, which was pre-installed or deployed after the sale. As value-add, this attractive feature was provided at no charge to their customers, allowing access to the system.

Some of the stolen funds were used to eat at Subway, not surprisingly, with the rest of the gift cards brokered on eBay and Craigslist. Here's where the scheme really breaks down: our pair of tricksters, apparently, registered their fraudulent cards with Subway under their current e-mail addresses. Intended to protect gift cards against theft or misuse, in honest hands, but in this case greatly helping the Department of Justice pursue its charges of conspiracy to commit computer crimes and wire fraud. They're now facing jail time, not recurring revenue.

Subway Gift Cards Hacked by POS VAR