Our Product Pick

A new payment terminal, entitled Luxe 6700x, has been unwrapped at Equinox Payments (Scottsdale, AZ). Accommodating EMV Chip, MSR, and Contactless NFC (including Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay), it carries certification to PCI PTS 6.x and validation to PCI P2PE V3.1. A 3.5" high-definition touchscreen, flexible connectivity (i.e., USB, Ethernet, Power-over-Ethernet/PoE, and WLAN) and durable construction (e.g., strengthened glass for the display and in-mold, tactile, backlight keytops) address high-volume retail environments. It runs Equinox's Voyager Payment App. "With the Luxe 6700x, we are delivering exactly what our customers have been asking for: our proven technology, with an intuitive design, and backed by personalized service," reported Rajini McRae, CEO of Equinox Payments.

Equinox Payments' Luxe 6700x

COMPANY BUSINESS

Star Thinks Logic-ally

A pair of longtime channel vendors, Star Micronics (Somerset, NJ) and Logic Controls (Orlando, FL), have joined forces in the category of KDS (Kitchen Display System). A solution for order labeling combines thermal printers by Star Micronics with the KDS by Logic Controls. In producing labels for custom- or off-premise orders, it employs Star's Models TSP143IV SK (Linerless Sticky Label), mC-Label2, and mC-Label3.

"Logic Controls' Kitchen Go platform has long been trusted by restaurants, retailers, and self-service operators to organize and route orders across prep and expo stations," cited Craig Kaliebe, Enterprise Development Manager at Star Micronics. "By pairing real-time order visibility with Star's labeling technology, operators gain a physical verification layer that extends accuracy beyond the screen and into packaging, pick-up, and delivery." As additional partners in KDS--with more to come--Star Micronics has QSR Automations and RocketBox.

Also, Star Micronics has expanded printer compatibility for ESC/POS for thermal and impact models. In thermal printing, it includes the Models TSP143IV UE/X4 and Models TSP143IV SK UE/X4. In impact printing, it brings LAN-based ESC/POS emulation for the Model SP742. It broadens software support and simplifies integration for new and legacy systems, noted Star Micronics.

Star Micronics and Logic Controls in the Kitchen

Aldelo Raises Its Voice

A new functionality, AI Voice Agent, has been debuted for the restaurant solution, Aldelo Express POS. As the fifth element of so-called Aldelo Express AI Automation Service, AI Voice Agent digitally manages phone orders and automates the reservation process. It follows earlier releases of Aldelo's AI Facial Recognition Log-in, AI Menu Item Prediction, AI Tip Adjust Automation, and AI Menu Builder.

As part of cloud-based, full-featured Aldelo Express POS, AI Voice Agent seamlessly integrates with the Kitchen Display System (KDS) and Back-Office. It furnishes multi-language support, multiple-order strength, and upselling/item replacement capacity. Also, it includes built-in escalation management features, according to Aldelo, responding calmly and appropriately to upset callers, and redirecting phone calls to restaurant managers when needed, with brief summary of the nature of the call.

"Aldelo Express AI Voice Agent is a powerful tool that truly revolutionizes a restaurant's daily efficiency," declared Jeff Moore, VP of Operations with Aldelo L.P. (Pleasanton, CA). "AI Voice Agent not only boosts revenue with order upselling and suggestions, but it frees employees to focus on guest experiences and food order preparation. Restaurants that use this service will ensure timely and uninterrupted customer phone order engagement, efficient order processing, and consistent communication of available services."

Automation of Phone Orders and Reservations

Worth Your While

RC Show
Restaurants Canada
March 8-10
Mississauga, ON, Canada

ETA Transact
Electronic Transactions Association
March 18-20
Atlanta, GA

MODEX
Material Handling Institute - MHI
April 13-16
Atlanta, GA

NRA Show
National Restaurant Association
May 16-19
Chicago, IL

SEAA
Southeast Acquirers Association
June 8-10
Miami, FL

RSPA RetailNOW
Retail Solutions Providers Association
July 26-28
Las Vegas, NV

Partner First Conference
ScanSource
Aug. 31- Sept. 1
Arlington, TX

VARTECH
Bluestar
September 21-22
Mohegan Sun (CT)

FS/TEC
Informa
September 23-25
Grapevine, TX

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Bixolon's X-Factor

A next-generation desktop label printer, the XD5-40II Series, has been unboxed by Bixolon America (Torrance, CA). With 4" print width, it offers direct-thermal (XD5-40IId) or thermal-transfer (XD5-40IIt) technologies, with maximum print speed of 8"/203 mm per second at 203 dpi resolution--"ideal for medium-volume labeling tasks in distribution centers and retail backrooms." An expanded memory has 512 MB SDRAM/512 MB Flash for larger print jobs/complex formats.

As user-friendly set-up and controls, it carries simple menu buttons and an optional 2" LCD. Advanced media handling, with detection for gap, black mark, continuous, and notch formats as well as the ability to skip empty labels, is paired with smart switch programming, for languages SLCS, BPL-Z, BPL-E, and BPL-D. With SDKs (Software Development Kits), it supports all major O/S. As standard connectivity, there's USB+USB Host, with added choice of Serial, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and WLAN.

As label design software, there's the company's Label Artist II, Label Artist Web, and Label Artist Mobile. "The XD5-40II Series reflects Bixolon's commitment to delivering reliable, easy-to-deploy labeling solutions that meet the real-world needs of businesses in North America," indicated Gary Kim, President of Bixolon America. "It combines speed, flexibility, and usability in a desktop model that's ideal for growing operations."

Bixolon's XD5-40II Desktop Label Printer

A "Key" for Newland: ISVs

A key certification has been reached by Newland NPT with TSYS (Columbus, GA). In testing for technical and security requirements, its payment application, PayExplorer, has met Level 3 (L3) certification for processing on TSYS Sierra. It applies across Newland's devices, with Android O/S, including the Models N950 SmartPOS, X800 Smart ECR, and N750 MiniPOS. An SDK (Software Development Kit) engages ISVs.

"A major step forward for Newland in North America," in the words of Heather Hatch, Head of Solutions at Newland NPT (Alpharetta, GA). "By taking responsibility for payment application certification and security through our platform, we're removing a significant barrier for ISVs--allowing them to stay out of PCI scope, move faster, and focus on delivering value to their customers. It's a clear signal of our commitment to supporting ISVs long term, with the scale, portfolio breadth, and technical depth they need to deploy with confidence."

Headquartered in Fuzhou, Fujian, China, Newland NPT has established its footprint in North America. In distribution, it recently partnered with NewBold Technologies (Greenville, SC). Under this agreement, NewBold will provide end-user services, including device procurement, encryption, configuration, deployment, and support, through its Key Injection Facility.

Model N950 SmartPOS by Newland NPT

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A Message From the Editor

As we enter another year--our 20th!--our mission remains constant: to fill the need for timely, focused, non-biased news in the channel for POS & Auto ID (and now Mobility). If anything, that need grows more pressing in the face of new technologies, go-to-market strategies, business models, and consumer expectations. We look forward to continuing our mission, and welcome your suggestions and thoughts on improvements.

Michael Kachmar, Editor

Verticality

-RapidWorks (Boston, MA): New "Rapid Payments" for heavy construction equipment service providers.

-Standards for Technology in Automotive Retail (STAR, McLean, VA): New APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) for fleet vehicle rentals and loyalty customers.

-Floorzap (Salt Lake City, UT): Three new products for the flooring industry: ZapAssist AI, Consumer Financing (by Wisetack), and Floorzap Accounting.

-Field Materials AI (Charlotte, NC): New module in its construction procurement software suite, adding "Pricing Intelligence."

ALLIANCES

Epson's Wash, Dry & Fold

An all-in-one solution for the laundry industry has been introduced by Epson America and LaunderPay. Applicable to wash-and-fold delivery as well as dry cleaning businesses, it utilizes thermal printers for POS in Epson's OmniLink mSeries (e.g., Model TM-m30III). Introduced by Brandan Mohamed in 2024, the LaunderPay app furnishes drop-off, order handling, payment, and business management. As benefits of the Epson mSeries, in particular, he cites compact form factor, connectivity, performance and reliability, and features such as paper-saving.

Next, LaunderPay, available on Google Play, will leverage label printing via Epson's Model OmniLink TM-L100. It offers liner-free media support for materials such as canvas, cotton, polyester, or nylon--suitable for the range of laundry bags. A consolidated dashboard for operators keeps track of multiple touchpoints, both in physical and online functionality.

"Epson's POS solutions are engineered for ease of use and consistent performance across diverse business environments, delivering immediate functional improvements upon installation," observed Ian Livesay, Product Manager, Business Systems Division, Epson America (Los Alamitos, CA). "LaunderPay sought out a unified system capable of handling demanding workloads for its customers. We are honored they chose Epson as their printing partner and are proud to provide robust, dependable technology that empowers these laundry businesses to optimize their daily operations."

Epson's mSeries Printers Embraced by LaunderPay

A Ripe Apple - Inventory

A joint solution from Stratix Corporation (Peachtree Corners, GA) and ISV NomadGo (Redmond, WA) brings floor-level, on-device, inventory control for the restaurant industry. It leverages wireless managed mobility services (MMS) by Stratix, with NomadGo's Inventory AI, which includes Spatial Vision. As hardware, it utilizes Apple's iPad or iPhone.

With no need for fixed hardware, cloud dependency, or network connectivity, according to the two companies, it allows staff to readily recognize and count items "across shelves, coolers, make lines, and thaw racks" in real-time. An intuitive, video-game-like interface accommodates and engages staff. Accurate counts feed back-office systems, thereby helping to prevent stock-outs and reducing waste.

"At NomadGo, we are passionate about helping restaurants operate smarter, faster, and more efficiently," expressed David Greschler, CEO of NomadGo, "and partnering with Stratix allows us to accelerate the adoption of our on-device Inventory AI. By integrating NomadGo's software with the reliability and performance of Apple's hardware, we're providing restaurants with a tool that elevates service and enhances customer experiences." FYI: At Stratix Corporation, Gina Daniel-Lee serves as VP of Strategic Alliances and Partnerships.

AI Inventory for iOS From Stratix and NomadGo

Code Corner

A Token of Effect

A package of tokenization, dubbed TokenEx, has been fashioned by payments player, IXOPAY (Lehi, Utah). Anticipating agentic commerce, it comprises three elements: TokenEx Core, TokenEx Connect, and TokenEx Alternative and Expanded Payments. When deployed, it helps merchants secure payment data, reduce complexity, and maintain independence across processors, markets, and payment methods, according to IXOPAY. As the proposed foundation for payments, in addition, it may serve to lessen fragmentation in the payments industry.

"A ready-made kit with everything measured, assembled, and optimized from the start," as described by Peter Papaioannou, Chief Product Officer at IXOPAY. "Whether a merchant is establishing a secure foundation, scaling across processors, or expanding payment acceptance, we're helping them move quickly without locking themselves in."

IXOPAY TokenEx Packages

Writ With SMS

A ready way for sign-up for its convenience store loyalty programs has been added by Paytronix (Newton, MA), in the form of SMS. As the simply named SMS Enrollment for Convenience Stores, it removes friction and speeds recruitment at critical touchpoints, including the gas pump and POS. As guest-initiated and automated, it also eliminates the need for staff to participate in the process. In concert, Paytronix has released SMS Enrollment Verification--with one-time security code sent to customers--for both Convenience Stores and Restaurants.

"Unlike restaurant guest interactions which can vary in length, convenience stores have only a few moments to effectively capture and recruit a new loyalty customer," explained Charles Grey, VP of Product Management at Paytronix. "With SMS Enrollment, we're solving a major roadblock to growth [in their loyalty programs]."

Paytronix in the C-Store

ENVIRONMENTS/PLATFORMS

Honeywell Goes Shopping

A development effort by Honeywell (Charlotte, NC), Google Cloud (Mountain View, CA), and 66degrees (Chicago, IL) has produced the Smart Shopping Platform. As built on Honeywell's Mobility Edge software and hardware, it delivers digitally enhanced personalization and navigation to brick-and-mortar retail environments, courtesy of Google's AI. It seeks to mirror the convenience of online shopping.

As hardware for customers, the solution designates Honeywell's Model CS32 Handheld Personal Shopper. It links to their loyalty account for buying history, stated preferences, complementary products, and discounts and promotions--as well as product location in the store. As hardware for staff, it identifies Honeywell's Model CT70 Mobile Computer. It enables staff to provide "quick, customized guidance."

"The Smart Shopping Platform uses Google Cloud's AI to turn Honeywell devices into intelligent companions for both shoppers and staff," emphasized Jose Gomes, VP, Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods, Google Cloud. "This collaboration integrates AI with specialized hardware to streamline operations inside the retail store and guide consumers through an efficient and delightful shopping journey." Adds David Barker, President, Honeywell Productivity Solutions and Services: "Retailers also benefit from an 'out-of-the-box' AI solution they can implement without having to maintain a team of AI experts."

Honeywell Showcases Smart Shopping Platform

[Editor's Note: Also, Honeywell has rolled out its Performance+ for Guided Work]

Kitchen Perspicacity: CBS & QSR

A strategic partnership to further "kitchen intelligence" has been formed by CBS NorthStar (Irvine, CA) and QSR Automations by Crunchtime (Louisville, KY). With KitchenAI by CBS NorthStar added to the kitchen workflow tools of QSR Automations, the combined solution furnishes predictive forecasting, real-time kitchen-pacing analytics, and data-driven operational insights, according to the two players. As part of this collaboration, QSR Automations offers customers Kitchen AI by CBS NorthStar.

"QSR Automations has long been a trusted leader in kitchen operations technology, and partnering with them brings KitchenAI to operators who are ready for predictive intelligence, not just dashboards," remarked Jeremy Julian, CRO of CBS NorthStar. "We're aligned in our belief that kitchens should be proactive, not reactive, and this partnership accelerates that shift for the entire industry." An early leader in KDS (Kitchen Display System), QSR Automations.

Also, in December, CBS NorthStar completed integration of its restaurant management system, which includes POS, with customer engagement platform, Appfront (Boston, MA). "[It] gives restaurant operators greater control and flexibility in how they manage loyalty and online ordering and digital experience across their locations," according to the announcement. As markets: multi-unit and enterprise brands.

A Partnership Boosts Kitchen Intelligence

Key Advertiser Links

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

POS & Peripherals
Advantech-Aures
Bixolon America
Epson America
FEC POS
HiStone
HP
MagTek
POSBANK USA
Posiflex
Sam4s/Shin Heung Precision
Star Micronics
Touch Dynamic
Washburn Computer Group

Barcode Printers
Bixolon America
Brother Mobile
Epson America
Woosim Systems

Cash Drawers/Cash Handling
apg/APG Cash Drawer

Data Collection
Star Micronics

Integrated Payment Solutions
Aurora Payments
Datacap Systems
MagTek

Receipt Printers
Bixolon America
Brother Mobile
Epson America
Star Micronics
Woosim Systems

Stands, Mounts, Cradles
apg/APG Cash Drawer
Star Micronics

INSTALLATIONS

A LOC on Grocery

A path to unified commerce for grocery--i.e., in-store and online, including third-party marketplaces--has been cleared by the ISVs LOC Software (Laval, QC, Canada) and Local Express (Glendale, CA). A first of its kind in the grocery industry, according to the partners, it integrates the two systems seamlessly to ensure consistent product information and consistent promotion or loyalty offers. A longtime player in grocery, LOC Software offers its full-featured platform, called ThriVersA.

"Preparing product information for marketplaces and online ordering platforms has long been a pain point for grocers, and manual processes often lead to inconsistent information and poor customer experiences," relayed Bagrat Safarian, CEO and Co-Founder of Local Express. "Our partnership with LOC gives grocers a smooth on-ramp to e-commerce with a strong point-of-sale and back-office solution and contemporary user interfaces for digital sales. These tools are no longer fragmented."

"Our partnership with Local Express gives grocers a solution that creates unified experiences no matter how customers chose to shop, which helps increase customer satisfaction and loyalty," expressed Gilles Lapierre, CEO of LOC. "Together, we're making this functionality accessible to independents, giving our customers a true competitive advantage and leveling the playing field with larger competitors." A survey by LOC, "2026 Exploring Grocery Technology," found inventory management automation could help resolve current labor shortages.

A Unified Commerce Solution for Grocery by LOC Software and Local Express

Qu Gathers Oakberries

As its commerce platform, superfood and smoothie chain Oakberry (Miami, FL) has chosen Qu (Arlington, VA). A platform includes POS, Kiosks, and KDS (Kitchen Display System). Also, an edge computing platform, the Qu Business Edge, or "Qube," will be provided by Qu.

"Oakberry has more than 900 locations globally, and they are expanding rapidly in the U.S.," related Sean Brennan, Director of Sales for Qu. "They needed a platform to sustain that growth. Qu brings all ordering channels and integrations into a single, connected workflow, creating the efficiency and revenue lift that high-growth brands depend on."

A deployment of Qu comes as part of broad market expansion on the part of Oakberry. In 2024, it raised $64M in Series C Funding. It currently operates more than 50 locations, with development pipeline of more than 250 locations, in the U.S. It's based in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Superfood Chain Taps Qu POS for Growth

[Editor's Note: Also, Qu has strengthened its inventory management, invoicing, and forecasting with MarginEdge (Arlington, VA).]

Channel Factoid

In the Aisle

Grocery Technology Trends

-73% of grocers have invested in loyalty rewards programs, but only 49% believe they are effective.

-74% of grocers have invested in online ordering or mobile apps, and 58% have integrated with home delivery platforms.

-75% of grocers agree AI will impact their operations, and 28% plan to implement AI to make personalized offers and product suggestions in the coming months.

-More than one-fourth of grocers are exploring electronic shelf labels (ESL) to automate price updates.

-78% of grocers with 1-9 stores are extremely or moderately concerned about cyber-security; 60% of businesses with 100+ stores share the same concern.

Source: "2026 Exploring Grocery Technology Trends" by Shelby Report and PDG Insights for LOC Software.

A Large Majority of Grocers in Survey Say They Feel Unprepared for Advanced Technology Solutions

Tracking

-Lauren Hines to VP of Retail Business Development and Sales Operations at NewBold Technologies (formerly of Spencer Technologies).

-Alison Templin to VP of Sales at Palona AI (formerly of DoorDash).

-Greg Brown to CEO of Transact + CBORD (formerly of learning platform, Udemy). Also, company has been renamed as Illumia.

HELLO GOODBYE

A New Chapter for Ann

A long and successful career has been celebrated with the retirement of Ann Klein, Director of Major Accounts at Bixolon America (Torrance, CA). Ann joined the thermal printer vendor in 2019 as Senior North American Channel Business Manager. (Previously, she served as Distribution Channel Manager at APG Cash Drawer, now apg.)

In his remarks, David Roberts, EVP of Bixolon America, paid tribute to her influence in our industry: "Ann was more than a colleague; she was a heartbeat of the channel. Her retirement is well-earned, yet her presence at industry events will be deeply missed. She didn't just meet expectations; she consistently redefined them."

In her parting words, Ann looked back fondly on her career: "My years with Bixolon have been some of the most rewarding of my career. I am so proud of the team we have built. While I am excited for this next chapter, I will always carry the memories and friendships I made in the industry with me."

Ann Klein of Bixolon America Retires

TransAct Bets on New CMO

A new CMO has been enlisted at TransAct Technologies Incorporated (Hamden, CT). Prior to joining the thermal printer and software vendor, which is heavy in gaming and casino markets, offering its BOHA! Platform, Dana Loof served as CMO at Evolv Technologies Holdings. Earlier in her career, employers included such companies as Palo Alto Networks, EVault, Symantec, Veritas, and Oracle.

"Dana brings a rare combination of category-creation leadership and revenue-driven marketing execution," commented John Dillon, CEO of TransAct."As we continue to scale our software and platform strategy, Dana's experience building strong market narratives, aligning marketing with sales, and leading high-performance teams will be instrumental in strengthening our position and driving sustained growth."

"I'm thrilled to join TransAct at a pivotal moment in its transformation," shared Loof. "The company has a strong foundation, differentiated technology, and a clear opportunity to lead in existing markets and expand into new markets. My focus will be on sharpening our positioning, building a modern, scalable marketing engine, and deepening customer engagement to drive measurable, sustainable growth."

Dana Loof, CMO, TransAct Technologies Incorporated