Most POS systems provide essential functionalities, but not all of the leading options cater to the specific needs of bars. Identifying the key features that are essential for your bar will allow you to discover the right POS solution tailored to your requirements.
These key POS system features should factor into your decision:
Hardware
POS hardware can vary greatly depending on your bar setup. Before you invest in a POS provider, ensure that it offers all of the hardware you’d like to include in your configuration. At a bare minimum, you will need a card reader and mobile device, but you will likely also have to invest in other hardware, like a cash register, receipt printer, signature capture device and display screen.
Inventory Management
Bars need to track a variety of products, such as beer, liquor, wine, nonalcoholic beverages and sometimes food. Choosing a POS system with strong inventory management means you can get real-time updates on product stock levels and track your bestsellers. This way, you can avoid overstocking something that is going to sit on the shelf or understocking your regulars’ favorite beverages.
Reporting
The POS system you choose should offer extensive reporting features and analytics to help you understand employee performance, sales trends, inventory and other useful data. These POS reports can help you make data-driven business decisions that improve your bar’s long-term performance.
Data analytics are a must for modern business owners. The right POS system can give you a better understanding of your bar’s financial health by offering a window into your sales patterns.
Integrations
Your bar likely uses tools such as an accounting system, marketing software and CRM software. The top POS providers integrate with the tools you’re already using and share data with one another so you can streamline business operations and get a more holistic picture of your company’s health.
Mobile Apps
POS mobile apps allow you and your employees to conduct transactions from anywhere, whether you’re moving from table to table at your establishment or pouring drinks at a community event. A mobile app for your POS system can speed up the checkout process and reduce lines, thereby enhancing the overall customer experience.