Our Product Pick

MAXStick (Lancaster, PA) has rolled out its newest line of liner-free label products: MAXStick HR (for "Heat Resistant"). Aimed at the food industry, MAXStick HR features the company's "removable and restickable" adhesive formulation as well as protective thermal coating. As such, it can easily be applied to bags, boxes, wraps, cups, trays, and counter-tops. MAXStick HR meets all requirements of Title 21 of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority. It is also recyclable, Silicone- and Bisphenol-Free, and made in the U.S.

MAXStick Heat Resistant Labels

COMPANY BUSINESS

Infor a Pound

Infor, one of the major providers of business management software, has confirmed its rumored plans for retail. Scheduled for 2016, so-called "Infor CloudSuite Retail" will address the spectrum of functionality across inventory, promotion, sales, cost management, replenishment, and planning. In concert, Infor has established its Retail Business Unit, headed by Corey Tollefson, SVP. Prior to Infor, Tollefson served as Group VP at Oracle's Retail Global Business Unit. Not coincidentally, Infor's CEO, Charles Phillips, was Oracle's President from 2003 to 2010, and Infor's President, Duncan Angove, was Oracle's GM and SVP from 2006 to 2010.

"Retailers have known for years their software has not kept up with the times, so by leveraging our industry relationships we are working to fix that and ensure their Infor CloudSuite Retail is relevant for every user," proclaimed Tollefson. "Retailers need to orchestrate complex supply chains to satisfy customer demand across an increasingly diverse set of channels; they spend millions on marketing, but don't have the tools to go beyond a transactional experience to provide the personalization that will keep customers coming back. We have the passion to attempt something great and the scale to make it a reality."

"Infor CloudSuite Retail will transform the retail software market, and it has needed transforming for quite a while," proposed Angove. "The future belongs to the networked retailer that embraces the digital revolution, and Infor will provide the modern solution that helps enable retailers to achieve greatness in the digital age. This is retail the way it should be." Infor's move, of course, also brings it into more direct competition in retail, as well as ERP, with Oracle.

Corey Tollefson, SVP, Infor

Precidia is Possessed (by Merchant Link)

A channel-friendly processor, Merchant Link (Silver Spring, MD), has snapped up Precidia Technologies (Ottawa, Canada), maker of software and hardware for integrated payments, including the appliance, POSLynx. Earlier, in 2014, the two companies collaborated on TransactionLink, which addressed data security and PA-DSS. Also supplying TransactionVault (tokenization) and TransactionShield (point-to-point encryption), Merchant Link has more than 300,000 restaurant, hotel, and retail locations, and entertains VARs and ISVs in POS.

"We are pleased to leverage the relationship we have had with Precidia," remarked Dan Lane, CEO of Merchant Link. "They offer an impressive array of products that accelerate the integration of payments into cash register and integrated point-of-sale systems. These products have been designed to maximize the potential of existing equipment with simplified deployment, monitoring, security, and management tools."

"As a predominantly technology shop, it makes sense for us to take our Merchant Link partnership to the next level and join forces with their team," elaborated Deepak Wanner, President of Precidia. "Working with Merchant Link over the last few years has given us a good idea of their customer base, how they handle service, and how we could come together to bring even more flexible solutions to market." Precidia was founded in 1999; terms of the sale were not disclosed.

Dan Lane, CEO, Merchant Link

Worth Your While

Money 20/20
i2i Events
October 25-28
Las Vegas

IAAPA Expo 2015
International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions
November 16-20
Orlando

NRF's Big Show - Annual Conference
National Retail Federation
January 17-20, 2016
New York City

Inspire 2016
Retail Solutions Providers Association
 Jan. 31 - Feb. 3, 2016
San Diego

Transact 16
Electronic Transactions Association
April 19-21, 2016
Las Vegas

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Datalogic Uncages 2D Heron

Datalogic (Eugene, OR) has unveiled its Heron HD3430, which brings reading of linear, two-dimensional, postal, and stacked codes. A successor to the popular linear Heron HD3100, the HD3430 offers black "carbon fiber" or white "silver" look, emphasizing its curving, modernistic design. It measures 6 inches long, and weighs 5.3 oz., with auto-sensing stand for smooth transition from presentation to handheld modes.

Targeting specialty retail, the Heron HD3430 employs 650-nm white laser source, with read range of 1.3 to 7.8 inches for Code 39 (5 mils), 1.2 to 15.7 inches for EAN-13 (13 mils), and 0.8 to 9.8 inches for Data Matrix (15 mils). It withstands drops from 5 ft./1.5 m to concrete and meets IP-40 ratings for water and dust. Along with its white illumination, Heron HD3430 has four dots plus center cross laser aiming and the firm's "Green Spot" technology for visual good-read confirmation. A polyphonic speaker also allows various audio feedbacks.

"The Heron HD3430 offers an unmatched elegant profile," enthused Giulio Berzuini, GM of the Handheld Scanners Business Unit for Datalogic. "This quick-read, stylish imager reflects our commitment to recognizing the retailer's business needs while keeping focused on the enhancement of the customer's checkout experience." To further their branding, retailers may further customize the device with their logo and choice of color LEDs.

Heron HD3430 2D Scanner by Datalogic

Brother Fires Off PocketJet 7

Brother Mobile Solutions (Broomfield, CO) has debuted its PocketJet 7 full-page mobile printer. In dimensions of 10 in. (L) x 2.2 in. (W) x 1.2 in. (H), the direct thermal PocketJet 7 has an 8.5 inch print head and print speed of eight pages per minute (at 203 or 300 dpi). Significantly, it ensures across-the-board software compatibility for smartphones, tablets, and PCs, with iOS, Android, and Windows, via "Freedom Architecture." A Li-Ion battery handles 600 pages per charge.

Added benefits include support for Apple AirPrint wireless technology on the PJ-773 and Bluetooth on the PJ-763. With the new PocketJet Series, Brother Mobile also has introduced its dedicated carry and mount case. This rugged roll case provides IP-54 rated construction and 4 ft./1.2 m drop protection, with an anti-curl mechanism. A quartet of packages address the end-user's specific needs for printer, accessories, and media: Basic, Developer's, Workforce, and Vehicle.

"By combining smart design with in-depth knowledge of today's evolving mobile workforce, we have eliminated the last existing obstacles of mobile platform compatibility and connectivity," indicated Ravi Panjwani, VP of Marketing and Product Management for Brother Mobile Solutions."[It satisfies] just about any physical configuration that the customer's work environment requires--mounted in a vehicle, transportable to a job-site, carried in a case, or simply stowed in a backpack. Plus, there are no ink cartridges, ribbons, or toners to deal with. In short, with the PocketJet 7, users are now free to print, anytime and anywhere."

Brother Mobile's PocketJet 7 Full-Page Printer

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Week of October 5

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Week of September 14

INTEGRATION

"Bitcoin-and-Mortar" for Ingenico

It seems bitcoin will make its way from e-commerce into the brick-and-mortar storefront. Just last week, two players in payment processing--Ingenico and BitPay--demonstrated this system at Blockchain Week in Barcelona, Spain. In this case, BitPay's software was installed on Ingenico's ICT250 Terminal. More of Ingenico's family to follow.

Customers can pay using bitcoin in three simple steps. First, the merchant enters the amount of the order in the local currency. Next, the payment device displays its QR Code with the corresponding bitcoin amount. Lastly, the customer scans the QR Code to pay with his or her mobile phone. An industry first, according to the two parties.

"We are excited to partner with Ingenico Group, one of the leading payment processors in both physical and online commerce," commented Tony Gallippi, Executive Chairman at BitPay. "This integration will help us expand bitcoin payments to thousands of retail payment terminals worldwide." Founded in 2011, BitPay is located near Ingenico North America in Atlanta, GA. It has raised over $32 million from investors such as Index Ventures, Founders Fund, and Richard Branson.

An Integration Brings BitPay Software to Ingenico's ICT250 Payment Terminal

A Missing Link for Sage & Salesforce

A middleware provider, Cloud Conversion (Park City, UT) has achieved integration between payment provider Sage North America (Atlanta, GA) and customer relationship management behemoth Salesforce.com (San Francisco, CA). It allows companies to accept and process multiple forms of payment in support of web stores and online marketplaces, in particular. Since its introduction more than ten years ago, of course, Salesforce.com has made great inroads into every segment of business, including POS and Auto ID.

When processing payments through Sage, Cloud Conversion customers can consolidate all their payments into the central Sage Portal. This allows them to manage payments from anywhere, according to the participating parties, and transfer the data to other software programs for analysis, reporting, and tax audits. An integration also will be available directly from the Salesforce App Exchange.

"Cloud Conversion has developed the perfect integration to Sage Payment Solutions to make it fast and easy to securely process payments right from the cloud," testified Paul Bridgewater, CEO of Sage Payment Solutions. "Businesses can always benefit from more time and money, and this integration can help them save both." As one of its areas of interest, Sage includes POS ISVs.

Cloud Conversion Brings Sage's Payment Capability to Salesforce

Code Corner

ECi Software Solutions (Fort Worth, TX) has released Version 8.7 of its "e-automate" platform for businesses that sell and service technology, whether VARs or MSPs. It carries updates to many areas of business functionality, including inventory, accounts payable, contract management, vendor integration for purchase orders, and service dispatch. Many of these new features were included based on feedback from the company's user group. As highlights: reduced dependence on equipment records within contracts and service calls; tax calculation updates to support Avalara AveTax software; re-architecture of "e-agent" as a service; and integration with private supply network vendors, providing an ability to check stock prices and easily export batched purchase orders. "It is our goal to keep 'e-automate' on the cutting edge of this very important component of the service industry as we continue our focus on helping customers to grow their business and prosper," volunteered Laryssa Alexander, President of ECi's Service Technology Group.

NOTES FROM THE FIELD

A $100 Path to EMV at Electronic Payments

A flurry of activity from the payment processors now that we've reached October (and EMV). A recent case in point--Electronic Payments (Calverton, NY), which has offered an "EMV Upgrade Program." With this, Electronic Payments will replace the merchant's hardware with the NFC/EMV-enabled PAX S80 Terminal. Cost: $100. Started by payments veteran Andy Chau (formerly of Hypercom, TPI Software), PAX Technologies is located in Jacksonville, FL.

"With the liability shift, merchants need an affordable, simple plan for adoption of EMV," reflected Michael Nardy, CEO and Founder of Electronic Payments. "Too often, merchants are misinformed about the true impact of EMV on their businesses, and we're taking every measure to educate our agent and merchant partners. Our EMV Upgrade Program ensures an easy, seamless transition to accept all forms of payment without inflated costs or lengthy contracts."

In addition to traditional stand-by payment terminals, Electronic Payments also handles the Clover Mini POS (with Clover App Market) from First Data Corporation. A tablet-based system, addressing the SMB, Clover Mini has 7" touchscreen, Android O/S, built-in receipt printer, MSR, EMV/NFC, front-facing camera for barcode reading, and either Ethernet/Wi-Fi or Ethernet/Wi-Fi/3G LTE. A member of the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), Electronic Payments targets VARs and ISVs in POS.

Michael Nardy, CEO and Founder, Electronic Payments

[Editor's Note: Also, PAX Technology has received certification for its BroadPOS for EMV from First Data Corporation. Via First Data's "Rapid Connect," merchants may process all major payment types: EMV Chip-and-PIN and Chip-and-Signature, and NFC such as Apple Pay, Android Pay, and Samsung Pay.]

Virtually Speaking of Clearent

And still more from the processors. Here, Clearent (Clayton, MO) has launched its new virtual terminal. In the company of major web browsers, it allows merchants to process credit card payments on smartphones, tablets, or PCs. As specific market segments, the company has cited healthcare providers, non-profits, professional services, property management firms, and educational institutions. As reported in RRN.Com, Clearent welcomes VARs and ISVs in POS.

A simple, responsive design allows screen layout to automatically change and optimize for end-users. In addition, with integration, merchants receive one log-in and statement for both their virtual terminal and merchant account, simplifying business operations and eliminating the need for third-party gateways. Also, it allows multiple accounts and user permissions, preferred batch-out, capture of digital signatures, and e-mailing of receipts. A search feature helps merchants research transactions and answer questions from customers.

"We're thrilled about the response we've received to our new virtual terminal," contributed Dan Geraty, CEO of Clearent. "It's a great solution that gives merchants the flexibility they need. Plus, it helps merchants tap into the other unique benefits that Clearent is known for, such as our next day funding service, best-in-class online reporting tools, transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and one of the clearest, most detailed statements in our industry."

A New Virtual Terminal for Payment Processing on Smartphone, Tablet, or PC

Key Advertiser Links

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

POS & Peripherals
AnywhereCommerce
Bematech
Elo Touch Solutions
Harbortouch
Hewlett-Packard
Partner Tech
Pioneer POS
POSBANK USA
Posiflex
PowaPOS
TEAMSable

Barcode & Transaction Printers
Brother Mobile
CognitiveTPG
Honeywell Scanning

Cash Drawers
MMF POS

Data Collection
CipherLab
Code Corporation
Datalogic
Honeywell Scanning

Integrated Payment Solutions
Cayan
Datacap Systems
Discover
iPayment Inc.
Mercury/Vantiv
Moneris
Shift4

Keyboards & Mobile POS
Cherry, ZF Electronics Corp
PrehKeyTec

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
CognitiveTPG
Epson America
Star Micronics

Thermal Printers
Seiko Instruments USA

Touchscreens & Monitors
Elo Touch Solutions

INSTALLATIONS

Taking the Pulse of NCR

NCR Corporation (Duluth, GA) has deployed its software and hardware for POS for Mach 1. With 17 convenience stores in Illinois and Indiana, Mach 1 has deployed the NCR P1530 POS Terminal, Radiant POS Software, and NCR Pulse. Debuted in 2012, the NCR P1530 features 15" resistive or capacitive touchscreen, Intel Atom Dual Core D2700 CPU, 2-GB RAM, USB/RS-232, and Microsoft O/S. A 12" version is also offered, the NCR P1230.

Drawing upon data from the POS, NCR Pulse, through dashboards and alerts, offers information on key operational measures (including fuel operations). This includes net sales by hour, day part, category, and order mode; labor dollars and percentage by job code; comps and voids; employee performance; and social media and customer satisfaction. Accessible by smartphone, of course, and listed on Apple App Store and Google Play.

"Our innovation around NCR Pulse is bringing convenience store management into a highly flexible and convenient channel," suggested Jason Groff, Director of NCR Petroleum and Convenience - Retail. "Pulse embraces the idea of delivering actionable information in real-time to the user's smartphone, allowing owners and operators to manage their business operations effectively without spending hours in the office." (According to "The New York Times," NCR has resumed its attempts to sell itself, perhaps to the Blackstone Group.)

NCR Pulse Tracks Mach 1 C-Stores

Agilysys Hits South Beach

1 Hotel & Homes South Beach, new uber-trendy destination in Miami, FL, has chosen POS from Agilysys (Alpharetta, GA). Both flagship InfoGenesis POS and tablet-based InfoGenesis Flex have been deployed at the recently opened beachfront property. A branding of Barry Sternlicht's SH Group, 1 Hotel & Homes South Beach encompasses private beach, hotel, residences, fitness center, retail shops, and bars and restaurants. It is the first of such properties planned.

"When shopping for point-of-sale software, we knew we wanted technology that would deliver comprehensive functionality, yet be flexible enough to accommodate mobile scenarios," relayed Robert Muehlich, Food and Beverage Director at 1 Hotel & Homes South Beach. "We also wanted solutions that would help us work smarter and more efficiently. With the InfoGenesis solutions in place, we are well positioned not only to streamline our food and beverage operations but also to deliver world-class guest service."

"InfoGenesis POS and Flex support mission-critical, guest-facing processes, and should give 1 Hotel & Homes South Beach an edge in a highly competitive market," declared Jim Walker, VP of Sales and Marketing for Agilysys. "Most importantly, the technology will help the property establish lasting connections with guests that engender loyalty and encourage repeat visits." At this year's Retail Solution Providers Association (RSPA) Show, Agilysys announced its intent to recruit POS VARs.

New Luxury Resort Adopts InfoGenesis

Channel Factoid

The National Retail Federation predicts sales in November and December (excluding autos, gas, and restaurants) will increase a solid 3.7% to $630.5 billion, significantly higher than the 10-year average of 2.5%. Holiday sales in 2015 are expected to represent approximately 19% of the retail industry's annual sales of $3.2 trillion. Additionally, NRF is forecasting online sales to increase between 6% and 8% to as much as $105 billion. "With several months of solid retail sales behind us, we're heading into the all-important holiday season fully expecting to see healthy growth," observed NRF CEO/President Matthew Shay. "However, while economic indicators have improved in several areas, Americans remain somewhat torn between their desire and their ability to spend. The fact remains consumers still have the weight of the economy on their minds, further explaining the complex retail spending environment we are seeing right now. We expect families to spend prudently and deliberately, though still less constrained than what we saw even two years ago."

HELLO GOODBYE

An Ongoing Quest for Growth

A need for new executive letterhead at Quest Solution (Henderson, NV), following its merger with Canadian VAR, Viascanqdata. With this move, Gilles Gaudreault, former CEO of Viascanqdata, will now serve as CEO and Director of Quest Solution. In addition, Tom Miller will continue in his role as President and Chairman of the Board for Quest Solution. Estimates put 2014 revenue for the combined Auto ID VAR at approximately $80 million.

"By focusing 100% on the role of President, I will provide my full attention to the operational aspects of our combined company, while Gilles applies his talent for strategic positioning and financial structuring to the continued growth of Quest Solution," reported Miller. "This executive structure combines our complementary skill-sets and is an excellent fit for the overall management of our company. Combining our strengths will be of great benefit to our customers, suppliers, employees and our shareholders as we take actions to grow the company both organically and through future acquisitions."

"By this combination of companies we are expanding a U.S. and Canadian cross-border presence and significantly increasing opportunities for cross-selling," explained Gaudreault. "Customers are seeking an integrator that can provide barcode labels and barcode printer ribbons with service and data collection solutions with no border between Canada and the U.S., and suppliers like Zebra and Honeywell are looking for an integrator that can service their large accounts in North America. The combination of Quest and Viascanqdata is uniquely positioned to meet this opportunity."

Gilles Gaudreault, CEO, Quest Solution

Time for Luce at RF Code

RF Code (Austin, TX) has elevated Jonathan Luce to VP of Worldwide Sales. For the past eight years, Luce served as Director of Sales and Strategic Accounts for RF Code. Previously, he was Manager of Software Sales for power management conglomerate, APC/Schneider Electric.

"I'm excited to have an executive of Jonathan's caliber to lead our global sales organization," shared Ed Healy, CEO of RF Code. "His track record of building relationships and driving strong revenue growth will serve RF Code and its customers well as we continue to deliver innovative solutions for the data center market." Earlier, RF Code enlisted Ron Leon as Director of Global Channels.

"Luce's appointment comes at a pivotal time when RF Code is expanding its global footprint, growing its world-class customer base and reshaping its business model to provide real-time lifecycle management from sensor edge to applications portal for Global 500 companies in America, Europe, and Asia," continued Healy. "He will help lead RF Code through this growth phase." From its base in asset-tracking, RF Code has hopes in the Internet of Things (IoT).

Jonathan Luce, VP, Worldwide Sales, RF Code