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Shopify POS (Point of Sale) – everything you need to know about the Shopify till system
For owners of a retail shop, it makes sense to sell products online as well. Similarly, it can be beneficial for retailers with a Shopify shop to expand into physical shops. In both cases, a reliable interface between the virtual and physical worlds is required. This is where the Shopify POS system comes in.
What is a point-of-sale system?
A point-of-sale (POS) system is a software and hardware solution used in retail and catering businesses to process transactions and manage the business efficiently. The POS system plays a crucial role in recording sales, managing stock, tracking income and expenditure, managing customer records and generating reports.
POS systems help businesses streamline the sales process, maintain accurate accounts, improve customer service and gain insights into business performance. As technology continues to advance, POS systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated and offer enhanced features such as cloud-based data management and integration with e-commerce platforms.
What makes Shopify POS stand out?
Shopify POS stands out for the seamless integration between the online shop and physical shops. Everything can be managed via the Shopify admin panel, making it easier to keep track of all sales channels and ensuring there are no discrepancies between online and offline sales.
Shopify POS is not limited to high-street shops; it can also be used for temporary events such as trade fairs, festivals or even pop-up shops.
How much does Shopify POS cost?
The cost of Shopify POS varies depending on the version. There are two plans available for the till system: Shopify POS Lite and Shopify POS Pro.
The Lite version is included free of charge in all Shopify plans; however, as the name suggests, the Lite version is stripped down to the bare essentials. With the Shopify POS app, you can manage products and orders and create customer profiles.
On the other hand, Shopify POS Pro offers significantly more features. An unlimited number of staff members can be granted access to the POS. At the same time, the access rights of each staff member can be customised.
The Pro version also offers benefits for customers. They can buy products in-store but have them delivered to their home. It is also possible to order online but collect or return the goods in-store. In addition, daily sales reports are generated, which simplify bookkeeping. On the other hand, there is the cost. In addition to the standard Shopify costs, there is a charge of $89 per month per location.
What Shopify POS hardware is required?
Since the launch of Shopify POS, Shopify has also been offering its own hardware, which enables the seamless and legally compliant use of the till system. We’ve summarised below which hardware you absolutely need and what optional extras you can add.
iPad or iPhone
To operate Shopify POS in full compliance with the law, we recommend using an iOS device. The app, which can be downloaded from the Apple Store, not only works better than the Android version but also includes a number of additional features that are essential for the German market.
An iPad is particularly recommended as the centrepiece of the till system, as its larger screen promises better usability and a better user experience.
Card reader
To enable card payments in your physical shop, you can use the WisePad 3 from Shopify. The pad features the latest technology and supports not only standard card payments but also contactless payments via NFC. However, you’re not limited to Shopify here; there are other card readers that support Shopify POS. Popular alternatives include SumUp and Zettle.
Bond printer
Since early 2020, it has been compulsory to issue receipts in Germany. Consequently, every shop is required to have a receipt printer and the appropriate thermal paper. Here, too, shop owners can choose between Shopify Hardware or third-party suppliers.
Cash drawer
No shopkeeper can do without a till. You’ll need to ensure it complies with TSE regulations; Shopify offers a suitable solution for this too.
iPad stand (optional)
To provide your customers with an even better user experience, a swivelling iPad stand is a great option. This ensures your Shopify POS terminal is securely positioned on the till counter and allows you to show customers all the details of their purchase if necessary.
Conclusion: Shopify POS offers an ideal interface
If you run a shop, a POS system is essential. If you also want to run an online shop, Shopify is an even better choice thanks to its in-house POS system. This ensures everything is seamlessly integrated and constantly synchronised in real time. As a result, it has never been easier to take the plunge into e-commerce, whilst at the same time it is becoming increasingly essential to sell online as well. The trend is clearly moving towards online shops. Here, Shopify, with Shopify POS, offers the ideal springboard for any retailer.
I hope this overview has been helpful if you’re interested in the Shopify POS system. If you have any further questions, please feel free to get in touch. As Shopify experts, we’d be happy to advise you – simply book a free consultation.
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Frequently asked questions about Shopify POS
What is Shopify POS?
Shopify POS is a point-of-sale system that enables retailers to sell both in-store and online. It integrates seamlessly with Shopify Payments and offers a comprehensive solution for retailers to accept payments and streamline the sales process.
What are the benefits of Shopify POS?
The benefits of Shopify POS include an intuitive user interface that allows you to process payments quickly, as well as the ability to link in-store and online sales. You’ll also receive reports and analytics to help you monitor your sales performance and make better decisions.
Can I accept credit cards with Shopify POS?
Yes, with Shopify POS you can accept credit card payments, both in-store and online. Shopify Payments uses secure technologies to ensure payments are processed safely.
What hardware do I need for Shopify POS?
To use Shopify POS, you’ll need compatible POS retail hardware, such as a receipt printer, a barcode scanner and a tablet or computer. Shopify also offers free hardware options that you can use to get your business up and running.
How does staff management work with Shopify POS?
The staff management feature in Shopify POS allows you to assign different access rights to different staff members. You can monitor their activities and ensure that only authorised people have access to specific functions.
Can I manage my stock using Shopify POS?
Yes, Shopify POS allows you to manage your stock and streamline tasks such as tracking stock levels and updating products. You can carry out stock-related tasks efficiently and ensure you’re always up to date with your best-selling items.
How does Shopify POS support omnichannel sales?
Shopify POS supports omnichannel sales by enabling seamless synchronisation between your online sales and your high-street shop. This allows you to sell anywhere and offer your customers a consistent shopping experience, no matter where they shop.
