Tech Every Modern Clothing Store Needs
Thinking of opening up your own clothing store? On top of purchasing your inventory and general equipment such as clothing rails, there could be a few pieces of tech worth investing in. Some of this technology could be necessary for providing good quality service to customers, while other gadgets could be useful for helping you to organize stock and keep accurate accounting records. Meanwhile, other pieces of tech could be important for keeping your store secure. This post delves more into some of the specific tech you need to run a successful modern clothing store.
POS system
Traditional cash registers with physical buttons are now largely a thing of the past. Modern cash registers are typically attached to POS systems – these are touchscreen monitors that use software to help digitally record sales information. Such systems can also help you keep track of stock, as well as link up with accounting software in order to automatically calculate how much tax you owe.
It’s worth taking the time to compare POS systems. Some POS systems are designed specifically for fashion retail and could be a good choice when setting up a clothing store.
Card readers
It’s become the norm for retail outlets of all sizes to accept card payments. This will require you to invest in a card reader. It’s worth accepting both credit cards and debit cards. Most modern card readers can also accept contactless payments and mobile payments. Some are even portable, allowing them to be used around the store.
When choosing retail payment processing services, make sure that they are compatible with any POS technology you are using and that they are linked up with the right accounts (accepting credit cards will require a merchant account).
RFID readers
RFID readers are devices that are used to scan RFID tags. These tags allow you to digitally keep track of every item of clothing that goes in and out of your store. They are a more advanced version of barcode scanners – instead of having to directly scan the barcode, an RFID tag simply has to be within close proximity of the scanner. Most RFID readers are wireless allowing you to use them at the counter or around the store.
As with choosing the right card reader, it’s important to choose an RFID reader that is compatible with your POS system. Some store owners may prefer a barcode scanner as it can be cheaper, however, RFID readers tend to be more convenient.
Magnetic scanner alarms
A useful device to detect and deter shoplifting, magnetic scanner alarms are able to alert you if someone leaves your store with an item that has not been paid for. They work by picking up barcodes or RFID tags.
Of course, if you are using RFID tags within your store, make sure to use an alarm compatible with RFID tags. If you are using barcodes, look for an alarm that is compatible with this technology.
CCTV cameras
Another useful form of security technology to consider for your store is a security camera. These can be placed inside or outside of your store to record evidence of various types of customer crimes such as shoplifting, vandalism, or personal injury fraud. They can even be used to monitor employees and prevent activities like stealing from the cash register. These cameras typically link up with software that you can view at any time on a number of devices.
Security camera picture quality can vary – it’s important to find a camera that is fairly good quality. You can buy multiple cameras if you would prefer to monitor different parts of your store. There are security companies that can install these cameras for you.
Desktop/laptop
It’s useful to have a PC on site that you can use for admin tasks like accounting, ordering new stock, creating rotas, and marketing. Laptops have become the most popular option because they are portable, allowing you to use them around the store or take them home with you if you would prefer to carry out work there.
It’s worth investing in a good quality computer as it will last longer. For business purposes, you generally don’t need anything too powerful.
Phone system
Finally, it’s worth having a business phone that you and your staff can share. Phones with portable handsets are the most useful option as you can use them around the store. It’s possible to buy multiple handsets and even set up an internal phone system for calling other employees within the store (however this is generally only necessary for larger stores).
You can compare handsets online. If it is just you running the store, you may find that a cell phone is all that’s necessary.
