Starting a brick-and-mortar shop is an exciting venture, but it’s not without risks. Choosing technologies that don’t fit your business or even overlooking essential systems prior to opening could lead to costly mistakes that jeopardize your store’s efficiency, security, and professionalism.

How do you even know what technology you need and that it’s set up right? That’s where Everything EPOS comes in! Let’s take a look at a handful of technologies we consider essential for operating a brick and mortar business, so that you can make the best choice when opening (or upgrading) yours.

Networking

Whether you’re planning on running a small gift shop or a large, multi-story department store, networking is an essential part of setting up your brick and mortar for success. Today’s technologies are almost all connected to each other and to the internet, and your network will serve as the backbone of your entire business.

Ideally, you should have your networking designed and implemented early on in the process and tied into your store’s design. Cables will need to be run before any walls or ceilings are installed, otherwise you might have to run cables throughout the space, which can be unsightly at best.

VOiP and Mobile Phones

VOiP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is an invaluable tool for modern retailers, providing flexible, professional communication. With features like call forwarding to mobile phones, automated menus, and customizable phone numbers, using VOiP can give your shop a more polished presentation to customers.

But unlike traditional landlines, VOiP allows you to make calls over the internet, giving your business a local presence when you’re out of the office, out of town—or even out of the country. It’s particularly useful for small businesses, as it provides cost-effective solutions for maintaining seamless communication with customers, suppliers, and team members without needing a physical phone.

Mobile phones are equally important for running a successful retail operation, especially in an age where staying connected can make the difference between success and failure. With a mobile phone, you can always be reached, even when the store is closed, by linking your business’s landline to your mobile device. You’ll never miss an important call, whether it’s from a supplier with last-minute updates or a loyal customer with a question about stock.

Mobile phones also offer the flexibility to manage your business on the go, allowing you to respond to emails, track orders, or access store data from virtually anywhere. Together, VOIP and mobile phones create a dynamic communication system that keeps your business running smoothly and professionally, no matter the circumstances.

CCTV & Security

CCTV and security systems are indispensable for protecting your shop. Choosing the right CCTV setup starts with understanding your shop’s unique needs. For instance, you’ll need to decide if you want static cameras, which are cost-effective and provide consistent surveillance for specific areas, or more advanced PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras that track movement or focus on particular individuals or items in real time.

Modern surveillance systems even integrate with your point-of-sale, overlaying till transactions onto video footage, which is helpful for tracking discrepancies or high-value stock like cigarettes. Additionally, features like searchable video archives and remote monitoring through mobile devices add another layer of convenience, allowing you to keep a close watch on your store from anywhere.

Electronic Shelves

If you want to get real high-tech, shelves with digital features can be a good option. Electronic shelf labels with integrated price displays and stock tracking are revolutionizing the way retailers manage their inventory and pricing. These advanced systems use digital displays to show real-time product pricing, eliminating the need for manual updates and ensuring accuracy across the store.

Beyond pricing, some shelving systems can automatically monitor inventory levels and alert staff when items are running low. This streamlined approach improves efficiency, reduces labor costs, and minimizes errors, allowing retailers to focus on enhancing the customer experience.

Broadband and Electricity Contracts

While not a physical technology themselves, negotiating the best broadband and electricity contracts is fundamental to running a successful retail business. Broadband is the backbone of modern connectivity, supporting everything from VOIP systems to point-of-sale terminals and even customer Wi-Fi. Securing a contract that offers reliable speeds and sufficient bandwidth will help you avoid downtime or disruptions that could impact your business’s efficiency.

Similarly, electricity contracts can have a significant impact on your bottom line. Retailers often sign into fixed tariffs, which provide price stability and protection against market fluctuations. However, it’s essential to ensure the rates are competitive, as energy costs can substantially affect profitability. Taking the time to negotiate terms can result in long-term savings, allowing you to reinvest in other areas of your business as it grows.

Need help choosing the best technologies for your retail shop? Everything EPOS can help! In addition to providing cutting edge EPOS systems, we can help you determine and implement all the technologies you’ll need to operate profitably, including negotiating your broadband and electricity contracts!

Talk to one of our tech experts today to get started.