Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM APRIL 2024 44 W hy have connected point-of-sale systems (POS) become so crucial to retail success? Dave Meekings, chief operating officer of AVB BrandSource, recently counted the benefits for the buying group's member dealers. By way of background, Meekings explained that a connected POS system is an automated platform that can streamline a business by managing inventory, purchasing, and invoicing. Moving from manual to automated processes improves speed, accuracy, visibility, and efficiency, boosting every aspect of the business and freeing- up one of the most precious dealer commodities – time. Moreover, said Meekings, a connected POS system is critical for meeting customer demand for up-to-date pricing, promotional and in-stock information, and the ability to complete a purchase where and when they want, whether online or in-store To help members plug into this essential tool, BrandSource has partnered with a core group of Gold Providers, including ePass, Profit Systems, STORIS, Whirlwind, and Windward, whose POS platforms can fully integrate with AVB's proprietary websites and sales arsenal to keep dealers competitive in today's marketplace. Moreover, Meekings noted, the group's own simplified in-house solution, called SYNC, is readily available to all interested members. Launched in 2022, the cloud-based platform was custom-built to meet the specific needs of independent appliance and furniture dealers and ensure a simple setup, seamless integration, and an easy-to-use interface. According to Rich Lindblom, AVB's product manager for SYNC, the system will not only pay for itself, it can often make money for members. "A modern, connected POS system can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars of additional profit to your bottom line every month," he noted. How's that possible? "First, by making sure you're charging the correct prices for your services," Lindblom explained. "Second, by helping you sell more extended warranties each month. "In addition," he added, "SYNC can save you time and paperwork," which translates into savings. What's more, SYNC can now submit sell-through claims that might otherwise have slipped between the cracks. "We started last year with Electrolux, and the average dealer has since received over $2,000 in sell-through allowances automatically without lifting a finger," Lindblom said. "We're still in the test phase with Whirlpool, with more brands to follow this year." Finally, SYNC can also make you money by helping you get paid faster and reducing your processing fees. Even though it's not an accounting system, "We have ways to help you identify outstanding invoices and expedite the payment process for your customers," Lindblom said. "Not only that, but by integrating with one of our Gold Partner credit card processing companies we've seen our members save as much as 30% each month on their credit card processing fees." Meekings concluded, "Plugging into a connected POS is really one of the most important decisions a BrandSource member can make to grow their business" – and make their retail lives easier. RO CONNECTED POS SYSTEMS ARE CRITICAL TO SUCCESS Save time, money … and gray hair Alan Wolf is Senior Communications Specialist for AVB BrandSource, the nation's leading member-owned merchandising and marketing co-op for independent appliance, furniture, bedding, and consumer tech dealers. AVB COO Dave Meekings describes the efficiencies, accuracy, and customer satisfaction that connected POS systems provide. Alan Wolf Point of Sales News

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