Which cash register do you need?
When faced with the choice of a cash register, there are several factors you need to consider before making your decision. It is important that you choose the right system for your business. If you have a smaller operation, perhaps a small shop or restaurant, you should opt for a simple cash register. However, if you run a chain or plan to expand, it is worth choosing a more comprehensive cash register system.
In this context, POS systems are often mentioned, which stands for Point of Sale and encompasses the entire payment solution. The system must be approved by HM Revenue and Customs and therefore have a certified cash register. This means that you must use some type of cash register and that there is a control unit that can be used to verify that, for example, all transactions are accurate. A cash register system includes both software and hardware, such as inventory management and the ability to use fixed card readers or barcode scanners. The latter is common in the restaurant industry.
At BusinessWith, we advise you not to pay for more than you need when choosing a cash register for a shop or restaurant. What features do you need? Do you require multiple card terminals? Should the cash register be stationary or mobile?
In cloud-based cash register systems (which are becoming increasingly popular), receipts are automatically saved, whereas in older versions like a button cash register, you are required to keep all paper copies. Small businesses gain significant advantages from having a cloud-based cash register system, as it is very flexible and also cost-effective. With a cloud-based system, you also have access to it anytime.
What cash registers are available on the UK market?
Finding the right POS solution can be time-consuming, but it is a purchasing journey that one should take the time for, as the payment solution or cash register that you implement will be a foundation for your business. There are many suppliers of cash registers in the UK, most of which are local providers who specialize in various sectors such as hotels, cafes, or grocery retail. Below is an overview of the suppliers we have listed here on businesswith.co.uk. You can easily filter to create your own shortlist and start your comparison of cash registers.
Regardless of industry or need, you should strive for a system that is easy to use so that it is quick to train new colleagues on how the system works. Technology in this type of system evolves rapidly, and there are a variety of solutions on the market today with different types of features. Compare for yourself here at BusinessWith.co.uk
Quick guide
List of 9 Cash Registers
Flatpay offers a modern and transparent payment solution with a cash register system and payment terminal, with no hidden fees or monthly subscriptions. Benefit from personalised onboarding from day one, along with 24/7 local customer support, so you can fully focus on growing and managing your business.
PayPal provides online payments, card and bank support, Buy Now Pay Later, merchant checkout, rewards, savings and crypto services through its app and web platform.
A complete EPOS solution combining POS software, hardware, payments and an app store of integrations to manage sales, inventory, staff and reporting from any device.
myPOS offers card machines and payment accounts to accept in-person, online, and mobile payments with instant payouts.
A merchant services provider offering card machines (portable, mobile, countertop), payment gateway, pay-by-link and integrated EPOS connectivity.
SumUp is a payment solution offering card payments, POS software, payment links, invoicing, banking features and hardware (card readers, registers and kiosks) with transparent flat-rate fees.
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Teya provides card payment machines, a business account, online payments, and funding solutions.
Provides face-to-face, online, and phone card payment solutions backed by NatWest bank-grade security.
Square provides point-of-sale, online payments, hardware, banking and business tools to accept payments, manage operations and grow revenue.
Cash Registers for Shops or Restaurants
Are you running a shop or restaurant and looking for the ultimate cash register for your needs? When you set out to compare and choose a cash register, keep in mind that you should not purchase a system that has more than you actually need. Also consider your future perspective and visions. Where will you be tomorrow? What are your goals? It may be worth looking for a system that promises scalability, so you can grow with the system and avoid having to search for a new one after a while. Be sure to check references from similar businesses to understand what you need.
Not all shops and restaurants have the same needs, but often you want to have a cash register and receipt printer, card terminal, and perhaps also a kitchen printer if you have a restaurant. There are also systems that allow customers to pay with an online solution or app. If you have a business where much of the sales occur outdoors, such as market trading, you should look for a solution that can withstand outdoor use. This is just to show you that there are many different needs and functions. Consider what exactly you are looking for.
Cash Register Prices
The price of a cash register varies depending on how comprehensive a system you are looking for. What is your budget? You can find a simple system for a few thousand pounds, or a larger system with various special features, which can cost around £100,000. Just make sure you know what you need. Write a list of the functionalities you desire. Feel free to compare and choose a cash register using our comparison feature here at BusinessWith.
Description of cash register features
Accounting export and bookkeeping
Central product catalogue
Collect customer information
Customer mailings and offers
Digital receipts and archiving
Fixed POS hardware
Gift card management
Integration with ERP
Klarna payments integration
mPOS (mobile POS terminal)
Offline mode
Online invoicing
Organisation chart
Real-time dashboard and KPIs
Real-time sales reports
Security & encryption
Self-service solutions (kiosk/online)
Split the bill via mobile
Stock management and goods receipt
Table ordering via mobile
Tax authority certification
