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Croma, Infiniti Retail Limited

Since its inception a decade ago, Croma has become the one-stop-shop for all multi-brand digital gadgets and home electronics in India, having around 100 outlets across 19 major cities of India. Croma is India’s first retailer to provide a seamless ‘omni’ shopping experience through its stores, eCommerce website – www.croma.com

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POS Solutions

Streamlining Product Catalogs: Best PIM Software Unveiled

Article | February 15, 2024

Explore the best PIM software solutions for operational excellence. Understand how efficient product content management elevates ecommerce experiences and drives businesses forward. Contents 1 Mastering Product Data Complexity 2 Elite PIM Software Arsenal 2.1 inriver 2.2 Feedonomics 2.3 Salsify 2.4 Stibo STEP 2.5 Pimberly 2.6 Dynamicweb eCommerce Suite 2.7 Creative Force 2.8 censhare 2.9 Brandquad 2.10 Netcore Unbxd PIM 3 Envisioning the Future of PIM Strategy 1 Mastering Product Data Complexity In the digital age, where ecommerce and online presence are pivotal for business success, managing product information efficiently is more important than ever. The need for robust Product Information Management (PIM) software has become imperative as companies grapple with an ever-increasing volume of product data and a growing number of sales channels. PIM software offers a unified solution to manage product data, streamline catalog management, improve customer experience, and ultimately drive sales. At the heart of PIM lies its ability to centralize product information, providing a single source of truth that feeds into all retail and digital marketing channels. This centralized approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures consistency in product information, which is crucial for maintaining brand integrity across diverse platforms. By leveraging the best PIM software, businesses can rapidly adapt to market changes, update product listings in real-time, and deliver accurate product information to customers, thereby reducing return rates and increasing customer satisfaction. The implementation of the right PIM software is a game-changer for businesses aiming to refine their product management workflows. Optimal PIM systems are designed to address the multifaceted nature of product data management, offering features that consolidate disparate information into a unified repository. This consolidation maintains data accuracy, a core component that directly influences customer trust and business credibility. Moreover, PIM software automates the process of data collection and dissemination. Automation reduces the manual labor associated with data management, allowing businesses to focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth and competitiveness. By streamlining data processes, PIM tools not only facilitate operational efficiency but also empower businesses to respond swiftly to market changes and customer needs. Fundamentally, mastering product data complexity through PIM software is not just about managing information but about transforming how businesses interact with their data. It's about creating a robust framework that supports scalability, enhances customer experience, and promotes brand consistency across all digital touchpoints. 2 Elite PIM Software Arsenal For decision-makers, identifying the best PIM software is crucial for optimizing product catalog management. Here's an overview of an elite PIM software arsenal, offering insights into each tool's capabilities and benefits: 2.1 Inriver Inriver PIM is a formidable tool tailored to the demands of omnichannel commerce professionals. It enables frictionless buying experiences by providing complete and consistent product data, including sustainability information. It goes beyond the initial sale, enhancing personalized digital experiences, building buyer loyalty, and ensuring compliance and traceability. The key features of Inriver PIM can be encapsulated as follows: 2.1.1 Centralized Product Information Management Unified Data Hub: Acts as the definitive point of reference for all product information, guaranteeing uniformity throughout various sales outlets. Multilingual Support: Facilitates product information management in multiple languages, expanding global reach. 2.1.2 Enhanced Omnichannel Experience Frictionless Buyer Journeys: Delivers seamless and cohesive buying experiences across all channels, from online to in-store. Customer Engagement: Enhances personalized digital experiences, fostering loyalty and repeat business. 2.1.3 Data Quality and Compliance Comprehensive Data Integrity: Maintains high-quality, accurate product data, including sustainability details, to meet regulatory standards. Traceability and Compliance: Ensures products meet industry and market-specific compliance requirements. 2.1.4 Streamlined Operations and Analytics Efficiency in Syndication: Automates the distribution of product information to various channels, streamlining operations. Actionable Insights: Leverages analytics to improve business productivity and market responsiveness. 2.1.5 Flexibility and Accessibility User-Friendly Interface: Offers an intuitive platform that is accessible to users of varying technical skill levels. Customizable Workflows: Adapts to business processes with flexible, configurable workflows to meet unique needs. 2.2 Feedonomics Feedonomics combines cutting-edge technology with expert service to optimize and manage product feeds across multiple e-commerce channels and marketplaces. It addresses the complexities of online product listing and advertising, helping users enhance visibility, improve efficiency, and boost sales. 2.2.1 Comprehensive Feed Optimization Dynamic Data Transformation: Automates the customization of product data to meet the unique requirements of each marketplace and advertising platform. Advanced Rule Engine: Allows for the creation of sophisticated rules to dynamically optimize titles, descriptions, and other product attributes for better search visibility and conversion. 2.2.2 Full-Service Management Expert Feed Management: A dedicated team of feed specialists provides hands-on support for feed optimization, error handling, and strategic advice. 24/7 Monitoring and Support: Ensures continuous operation with proactive monitoring and immediate resolution of issues, backed by round-the-clock expert assistance. 2.2.3 Multichannel Integration Global Marketplace Reach: Seamlessly lists products on over 1000+ global marketplaces and advertising channels, including Google Shopping, Amazon, Facebook, and more. Seamless Platform Integration: Offers robust integrations with major ecommerce platforms and ERPs, facilitating smooth data synchronization and management. 2.2.4 Performance Analytics and Insights Actionable Analytics: Delivers insights into feed performance, highlighting opportunities for optimization and growth. ROI Tracking: Measures the impact of feed optimizations on sales and advertising ROI, enabling data-driven decision-making. 2.2.5 Customized Solutions Personalized Setup and Optimization: Tailors feed management strategies to meet specific business needs and goals, enhancing product visibility and sales potential. Data Governance and Compliance: Ensures product data meets channel-specific requirements and adheres to data quality standards. 2.3 Salsify Salsify's PXM Platform has revolutionized product presentation in the digital domain. By amalgamating product content management with an extensive commerce ecosystem, it assures that brands deliver top-tier shopping experiences everywhere online. Its PXM platform centralizes product content and automates critical processes. Thus, it ensures the best possible product experiences at every selling destination. 2.3.1 Comprehensive Product Content Management Unified Product Information: Centralizes data to create a single source of truth for all product information, ensuring consistency across platforms. Digital Asset Management: Integrates and organizes digital assets like images and videos with product listings, enhancing the visual appeal of product presentations. 2.3.2 Expansive Commerce Ecosystem Integration Seamless Channel Syndication: Connects with a vast network of retail, marketplace, and ecommerce platforms to facilitate effortless product listing and updates. Dynamic Data Syndication: Automatically adapts product information to meet the unique requirements of each sales channel, improving listing accuracy and compliance. 2.3.3 Automation and Efficiency Workflow Automation: Streamlines operations with automated workflows for product information management, reducing manual efforts and enhancing productivity. Optimization Tools: Features AI-driven recommendations for content improvements, helping brands maximize product visibility and conversion rates. 2.3.4 Collaboration and Compliance Cross-Functional Collaboration: Facilitates collaboration between teams, ensuring that all stakeholders contribute to and access up-to-date product information. Compliance and Quality Checks: Automates compliance checks and quality control, ensuring product listings meet channel-specific requirements and brand standards. 2.3.5 Global Reach with Local Precision Multi-Lingual Support: Offers capabilities to manage and publish product content in multiple languages, supporting global brands in localizing their digital presence. Cultural Adaptation: Customizes product experiences to reflect local tastes and preferences, enhancing consumer engagement in diverse markets. 2.4 Stibo Systems Stibo STEP is a comprehensive Master Data Management (MDM) platform by Stibo Systems designed to empower organizations with the ability to manage, centralize, and share their operational data effective It is engineered to support businesses in enhancing customer experiences, driving growth, and facilitating digital transformation through superior data management. 2.4.1 Centralized Data Management Consolidates Master Data: The consolidation is done across domains such as products, customers, suppliers, and assets into a single, authoritative system. It ensures consistency, accuracy, and accessibility of critical business information. Data Quality and Governance: Implements robust data governance policies to maintain data quality and compliance. Flexible Data Modeling: Offers flexible data modeling capabilities that adapt to business-specific requirements. Supports multidomain master data management, allowing businesses to manage multiple data domains (for example, product, customer, supplier) within a single platform. 2.4.2 Integration and Syndication Seamless Integration: It seamlessly integrates with existing business systems (ERP, CRM, ecommerce platforms) through robust APIs and connectors. Also, it facilitates the syndication of consistent and accurate data across internal and external channels, marketplaces, and digital touchpoints. Scalability and Performance: Engineered to scale with business growth, capable of handling large volumes of data across global operations. High-performance architecture ensures swift data processing and responsiveness. 2.4.3 Analytics and Reporting Insightful Tools: Includes analytics and reporting tools to derive actionable insights from master data. Helps organizations make informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date data. Proven Success: Features include data validation, cleansing, and deduplication to ensure the integrity of master data. 2.5 Pimberly Pimberly is a cloud-based product information management system that effortlessly bridges suppliers and distributors. It facilitates a seamless flow of accurate and engaging product information, propelling businesses towards digital excellence. Pimberly is a game-changer for online presence enrichment. 2.5.1 Centralized Data Management Unified Product Repository: Consolidates all product data into a single, accessible cloud platform, simplifying management and distribution. Automated Data Synchronization: Ensures real-time updates and consistency across all sales channels, eliminating data silos. 2.5.2 Speed to Market Rapid Product Launches: Accelerates the process of bringing new products to market with streamlined workflows and automated data handling. Global Market Readiness: Supports international expansion with multilingual and multicurrency data capabilities, making global commerce effortless. 2.5.3 Enhanced Online Experiences Rich Product Descriptions: Enables the creation of detailed and compelling product narratives that capture consumer interest. High-Quality Data Assurance: Focuses on maintaining the integrity and accuracy of product information, boosting consumer trust and conversion rates. 2.5.4 User-Friendly Interface Intuitive Design: Offers a straightforward, easy-to-navigate dashboard that reduces training time and increases productivity. Accessibility and Flexibility: Cloud-based nature allows for access from anywhere, providing flexibility to teams and facilitating remote collaboration. 2.5.5 Customer Engagement and Satisfaction Seamless Omnichannel Presence: Delivers consistent product experiences across all customer touchpoints, from online marketplaces to social media platforms. Data-Driven Insights: Empowers businesseswith actionable analytics to refine product strategies and enhance customer interactions. 2.6 Dynamicweb eCommerce Suite Dynamicweb's eCommerce Suite offers a holistic online business platform, blending PIM, CMS, and e-commerce functionalities. Its integration prowess with CRM and ERP systems, backed by a robust partner network, empowers brands to forge lasting customer relationships and drive growth. Here’s a breakdown of its core functionalities and benefits: 2.6.1 Unified Platform Cloud-Based Solution: Utilizes the latest in cloud technology to provide a scalable, secure, and accessible platform for businesses of all sizes. MACH Architecture: Built on modern principles, including Microservices, API-first, Cloud-native, and Headless, ensuring flexibility and speed. 2.6.2 Advanced Integration Capabilities Open Integration Framework: Simplifies the integration process with CRM and ERP systems, notably with MS Dynamics suite, enhancing operational efficiency and data consistency. Supports Digital Business Processes: Facilitates various digital business operations, allowing for a unified approach to e-commerce, marketing, and sales. 2.6.3 Versatile Digital Marketing Tools Robust E-commerce Solutions: Offers comprehensive ecommerce capabilities, from product management to checkout optimization, tailored for B2B and B2C markets. Integrates advanced digital marketing features to engage customers across multiple channels. Dynamic Content Management: Provides powerful CMS features for creating and managing digital content with ease, enhancing the user experience. 2.6.4 Enhanced Customer Experiences Operational Efficiency: Streamlines business operations through integration and automation, reducing manual effort and errors. Delivers personalized customer journeys across all digital touchpoints. Revenue Growth: Supports businesses in their growth objectives by enhancing online visibility, customer engagement, and sales conversions. 2.7 Creative Force Creative Force is tailored to the high-volume demands of eCommerce content production. With a suite of automation tools and integrations, it streamlines the creation of top-notch eCommerce and editorial content, making it a go-to for leading brands seeking operational excellence in content management. Creative Force is trusted by global brands as it provides visibility and control over creative operations. Some of its key benefits are mentioned below: 2.7.1 Advanced Sample Management Tracking Production: Offers sophisticated tools for managing physical product samples through every stage of content production. Automated task assignments and progress tracking minimize bottlenecks. Status Updates: Barcode and RFID tracking for easy sample location and status updates. Integrated check-in and checkout processes to monitor sample movement. 2.7.2 eCommerce Content Production Efficient Planning: Streamlines the entire content production process from planning to publishing, ensuring timely and efficient project completion. Real-Time Updates: Centralized scheduling and tracking of all content production activities. Real-time updates and notifications to keep all team members aligned. 2.7.3 Workflow Automation Customizable Workflow Templates: Templates can match specific project requirements. Employs intelligent automation to optimize workflow efficiency and reduce manual intervention. Collaborative Tools: Shared workspaces and communication tools to foster a collaborative environment. Role-based access control to ensure secure and relevant data sharing. 2.7.4 Cloud-Based DAM Central repository: Provides a robust (DAM) system for organizing, storing, and retrieving digital assets. Central repository for all digital content assets, including images, videos, and documents. Advanced search capabilities and metadata tagging for quick asset retrieval. Software Integrations: Offers integration with industry-standard software and systems to enhance productivity and connectivity. Plug-and-play integration with eCommerce platforms, ERP systems, and creative software. API support for custom integrations to fit unique business needs. 2.8 censhare censhare unites DAM, PIM, and CMS into an omnichannel content management powerhouse. It enables precise audience targeting across diverse channels and geographies, bolstering business growth. Favored by industry heavyweights, censhare adapts to workflows, enhancing operational efficiency. This advanced solution empowers businesses to deliver precisely targeted messages to diverse audiences across a wide range of channels, languages, and regions. 2.8.1 Integrated Platform Cohesive System: Combines DAM, PIM, and CMS into a singular system for streamlined content and product information management. Digital Asset Management: Centralizes and manages digital assets, facilitating easy access, sharing, and distribution of multimedia content. 2.8.2 Market Responsiveness Agile Content Management: Facilitates quick adaptation to market changes and consumer trends through agile content management and distribution capabilities. Consistent Brand Messaging: Ensures uniform brand representation across all channels, enhancing brand recognition and customer loyalty. 2.8.3 Content Management System Pro-Engagement: Allows for the creation, management, and optimization of content, enhancing engagement and interaction with target audiences. Product Information Management: Offers robust tools for managing detailed product information, ensuring consistency and accuracy across all sales and marketing channels. 2.8.4 Omnichannel Delivery Consistent Experience: Enables organizations to craft and distribute personalized content across various channels, ensuring a consistent and engaging customer experience. Designed to fit seamlessly into existing business processes, censhare can be customized to meet the unique needs and workflows of any organization. Global Reach: Supports multiple languages and regional adaptations, making it suitable for global companies looking to connect with audiences worldwide. Grows with your business, accommodating expanding product lines, entering new markets, and evolving marketing strategies. 2.9 Brandquad Brandquad offers a PXM platform that simplifies product content lifecycle management. It equips brand manufacturers with tools for strategizing, creating, and optimizing product content, ensuring exceptional digital marketplace performances. It caters specifically to the needs of brand manufacturers aiming for digital excellence and stands out for its robust capabilities and user-friendly interface. 2.9.1 Centralized PIM Unified Data Hub: Centralizes all product information, offering a single source of truth for brand manufacturers. Smooth Integration: Easily integrates with ERP, CRM, and ecommerce platforms, ensuring data consistency across all systems. 2.9.2 Digital Asset Management Asset Linking: Connects product information with relevant digital assets for a cohesive content strategy. Rich Media Support: Manages a wide array of digital formats, from images and videos to PDFs and presentations. Features advanced search and tagging capabilities. 2.9.3 Product Data Syndication Broad Distribution: Enables the publication of enriched product data across multiple channels and formats. Ensures product information is consistently updated and accurate across all digital touchpoints. Marketplace Adaptability: Customizes content to meet the specific requirements of various online marketplaces and retail sites. 2.9.4 Ecommerce Intelligence Performance Analytics: Delivers in-depth insights into product content performance on the digital shelf. Enables brands to make informed decisions based on actionable data and analytics. Competitive Benchmarking: Analyzes market trends and competitor performance to optimize product positioning and strategy. Provides the tools and insights needed for brands to stand out in highly competitive marketplaces. 2.10 Netcore Unbxd PIM Netcore Unbxd PIM harnesses AI to deliver unparalleled product information accuracy. As a central repository for all product data, it streamlines ecommerce operations, enhancing shopper experiences and boosting conversions. This powerful tool is not just about managing data; it's about leveraging information to create exciting, accurate, and engaging product narratives that captivate customers and lead to successful conversions. 2.10.1 Centralized Data Repository Product Information Hub: Eliminates data silos by aggregating product data in one accessible location. AI-Powered Data Accuracy: Leverages advanced AI algorithms to maintain the highest levels of data integrity and accuracy. Automatically enriches product listings with detailed, accurate descriptions. 2.10.2 Efficient Data Management Optimized Data: Simplifies the complexities of product information management, from import to publication. Facilitates easy import and bulk editing of product information, saving time and resources. Enhances searchability and discoverability of products through optimized data. Superior CX: Allows for the quick rollout of product updates across multiple channels simultaneously. Ensures that customers have access to detailed, accurate, and consistent product information. 2.10.3 Robust Integration Unified Commerce Experience: Effectively connects with ecommerce platforms, marketplaces, and ERP systems. Enables a unified commerce experience by integrating with existing business systems. Streamlines workflows and reduces the need for manual data entry. Analytics and Insights: Offers detailed analytics and reporting features to monitor and optimize product performance. Tracks product performance across different channels to identify trends and opportunities. Provides actionable insights to improve product listings and marketing strategies. 3 Envisioning the Future of PIM Strategy The progression of PIM software is a testament to the dynamism of its technology and its adaptive applications. Its future trajectory is poised to significantly refine how businesses manage their product information with a slew of cutting-edge enhancements. One can anticipate more sophisticated integrative features in the best PIM software, where seamless synchronization with other critical business systems, such as ERP and CRM solutions, becomes a standard. This fosters more streamlined and effective exchanges of data across various sectors and sales conduits. The infusion of AI and machine learning into PIM is set to redefine the efficiency of data management operations. These technologies promise to introduce automation in routine data tasks, refine the accuracy of the data, and underpin predictive analytics, all contributing to improved consistency of product data. As decision-making increasingly becomes data-centric, PIM tools are expected to be at the forefront, ensuring the integrity and uniformity of product data, which is indispensable for sound governance. Advanced PIM systems are increasingly moving towards enhancing customer experiences with tailored personalization. By customizing product information to align with individual customer preferences, PIM solutions are envisioned to significantly boost customer satisfaction and foster loyalty. Additionally, with the global expansion of businesses, PIM tools will become more versatile, accommodating a multitude of languages and currencies, and accommodating local market regulations, thus enabling effective global market penetration. PIM systems will also likely expand their capabilities in analytics and reporting, providing businesses with more nuanced insights into product performance and consumer trends, which are vital for shaping strategic decisions. The commitment of PIM tools to support an omnichannel approach will also remain critical, ensuring coherent product information is accessible across all customer engagement points. In an era where consumers are increasingly demanding transparency in product sourcing and sustainability, PIM systems are expected to become a trusted platform for communicating such information, strengthening the bond with socially responsible consumers. PIM software are becoming more deeply ingrained in the fabric of business operations, adapting to ongoing digital shifts, managing the growing complexity of product information, and catering to the increasing consumer appetite for tailored, transparent, and fluid customer experiences.

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POS Retail

How the coronavirus and retail closures are accelerating the rise of Amazon

Article | May 10, 2024

Under orders to stay home, millions of Americans have turned to online marketplaces like Amazon to order much-needed essentials like toilet paper, food, hand sanitizer and cold medicine. In lieu of neighborhood supermarkets, consumers are relying on online grocery delivery services like Amazon Fresh, resulting in a cascade of delays and out-of-stock notices amid the unexpected rise in demand. Amazon has hired more than 100,000 new warehouse and delivery workers since March to help manage the surge in orders, and it’s planning to bring on 75,000 more workers. The unprecedented demand has propelled shares of Amazon to fresh highs. The stock hit an all-time high on April 16 and is up more than 28% for the year, compared with an 11% decline for the S&P 500. Investors have flocked to Amazon and other stay-at-home stocks like Netflix and Zoom in recent months, as consumers have come to depend on their services amid the lockdown.

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POS Solutions

Next website overwhelmed after re-opening online trading

Article | March 18, 2024

Next returned to selling clothes online this morning after the fashion retailer put extra safety measures in place to ensure warehouse staff can work safely during the pandemic. However, by 9am the website had closed again, with the high street giant saying it had already received all the orders it could process for the day – but it would return tomorrow. Next had initially closed its online operations in late March amid the coronavirus crisis, in response to criticism from staff who felt unsafe at work.

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5 Shopify Alternatives in 2020-21 that Make Ecommerce Simple for Beginners

Article | October 16, 2020

In 2004, Tobias Lutke, Daniel Weinand, and Scott Luke established an online website to sell snowboards. They tried a bunch of online store builders but were not satisfied with the status quo. So, they decided to build a tool that could operate their website. Soon, they realized that the tool was more powerful than the website's business. And hence, Shopify was born. Eventually, Shopify became one of the largest eCommerce store builders in the world. By 2009, the company had $100 million in sales and decided to launch its own API as well as an app store. More than a decade later, Shopify is now supporting over 800,000 stores globally and is a $125 billion company. While the company has shown remarkable growth in its business, it would be ignorant to say the market's needs have been fulfilled by the Shopify platform. Shopify's eCommerce platform works for a lot of businesses, but that does not mean it will work for every business. Here is why Shopify is Not the Right Fit for Every Business: Shopify's growth over the years shows that the company has taken several steps to address the market's inherent needs. However, the presence of several other companies and the issues still faced by merchants show some significant gaps in Shopify's offerings: 1. Cost of Setting Up: Each price-point offers a fixed set of features and functionalities. If you want anything over and above that, you will have to buy the subsequent package. For instance – something as conventional as a Gift Card is not available in the $29 per month package; to get it activated, pay as much as $299 per month. 2. Cost of Operations: The additional functionalities and features cost extra in your package. Even basic features like transaction or credit card processing attract an additional fee. To add to that, you have to purchase the app to activate the feature from the Shopify app store. Even though some apps are free, the apps that offer maximum value tend to cost north of $39.99 per month. 3. Limited and Expensive Themes: The entire Shopify store has a total of 73 themes, with the prices going as high as $180 a theme. This means that as a merchant, even after paying the high price, you may end up with an eCommerce platform that hardly stands out from the crowd. In short, while Shopify was started with great intentions, the cost of using it has started outweighing the probable value it has to offer. This issue gets further highlighted when one starts looking at the Shopify alternatives. Best Alternatives of Shopify While Shopify suits the needs of a certain set of merchants, here are the alternatives that can suit the merchants looking for more tailored, affordable, or customizable solutions: 1. Quick eSelling Quick eSelling is one of the most affordable and easy to deploy ecommerce store builder among the Shopify alternatives. It can be deployed in under 10 minutes for the basic variant. Its free variant has some prolific features like a native Android app, responsive website, and a catalog that can support up to 1000 products. The free package requires a 5% transaction fee, which gets eliminated the moment you upgrade to a paid plan. All the paid plans have a fixed monthly fee and no setup costs. The list of standard features includes a wide set of functionalities like customizable web-store themes, SMS & Email marketing, comprehensive payment gateway integrations, detailed analytics reports, inventory management systems, social media plugins, discount coupon codes, and even live chat. The premium package which costs around 50% the price of the $299 Shopify package, comes with a dedicated account manager and enterprise-level integrations. Ideal for: Merchants who are seeking an affordable, easily usable, and quickly deployable solution. 2. WooCommerce WooCommerce is popularly considered one of the most preferred alternatives for Shopify. It is quite convenient for website owners as it is a plugin for WordPress. Unlike other tools in the list, WooCommerce is designed to make WordPress sites work as functional eCommerce platforms. And in that particular aspect, it does a great job. However, if you are not already using an established WordPress site with high traffic, running WooCommerce can become quite expensive. On average, a website owner has to spend as much as $1000 in setting up a WooCommerce store with a moderate degree of customization. Even if you are not customizing a lot, running a WooCommerce store can cost you as much as $150 in a month. This would cover your hosting, themes, shipping plugins, security, and SEO. You will pay additional 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction. Ideal for: Someone who has a successful WordPress website and now wants to convert it into an eCommerce store. 3. Yo!Kart: Yo!Kart is a popular self-hosted multi-vendor platform for building online marketplaces. Unlike Shopify, it is a standalone platform that comes with a lifetime license and rich ecommerce features. The platform is fully customizable and scalable. Yo!Kart packages start from $999 and every package comes with a 1-year free technical support, free installation, and full source code. There are no monthly or yearly recurring fees. Considering it is a comprehensive platform, you may need some technical training to understand the system. Ideal for: Business owners who want to start ecommerce websites like Amazon or ebay where multiple sellers are selling under the same roof. 4. PrestaShop PrestaShop runs on the basic premise that creating an online eCommerce store should be an affordable exercise for any merchant. That is the reason why it is available for free and comes without any additional monthly fees. Its features include eCommerce functionalities like CRM & Email Marketing, Inventory Management, Multi-Store Management, and SEO Management. You can get a basic eCommerce store running by paying the registration fee for the domain and the hosting fee dues. While this may seem like a great alternative, given the fact that it is practically free, there is one major caveat – you cannot deploy or personalize your PrestaShop eCommerce store unless you know how to code. The entire platform has been designed, keeping in mind people who can code at professional levels of proficiency. The cost of hiring a developer who can add features to your store or modify the theme can be very costly. In addition to this, some basic features like promotions & reviews management, data security, and mobile access are not available on the platform. Ideal for: The merchants who have access to programming talent and don't mind a basic eCommerce store. 5. Wix Wix became popular as an online website builder. It also offers interesting eCommerce functionalities. For as low as $35 a year, you can have the Business Basic package that comes with a free year of using the domain, analytics reports, and 20 GB of storage. If you want greater control of your eCommerce platform but are not a professional programmer and are not interested in hiring one, Wix can be a great alternative. Its most expensive package costs about $80 a year. It comes with features like email marketing, SEO management, inventory management, data security, and promotions management. The challenge is – most of the charges marketed by Wix are very affordable for the first year in operations. After a year, many of these features, like the domain, will become payable elements. This way as soon as the first year of your operations is over, your cost of running the eCommerce platform will dramatically go up. Ideal for: Merchants who want to have greater control of their website's design without the need for coding skills and those who want the first year of operations to be largely affordable. Conclusion: Shopify can work for you if you are seeking a limited set of features. However, for lesser price-points, the alternatives for Shopify offer great functionalities. Quick eSelling is good for cost-effective and rapidly deployable eCommerce websites that come loaded with native features. WooCommerce is a viable option if you have a WordPress site and want to convert it into an eCommerce store. Yo!Kart specializes in building multi-vendor marketplaces. PrestaShop can be handy and very budget-friendly if you have access to coding talent. And Wix is good if you want greater control over what your store looks like, without getting into the programming aspects.

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Spotlight

Croma, Infiniti Retail Limited

Since its inception a decade ago, Croma has become the one-stop-shop for all multi-brand digital gadgets and home electronics in India, having around 100 outlets across 19 major cities of India. Croma is India’s first retailer to provide a seamless ‘omni’ shopping experience through its stores, eCommerce website – www.croma.com

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POS Retail

Leading Wireless Retail Platform Provider Real Time Technologies Continues Growth and Expansion With Acquisition of Your Ware Software

Real Time Technologies (RT²) | January 24, 2024

Real Time Technologies, Inc (RT²), the largest enterprise front-end software platform serving Fortune 500 companies in the U.S. wireless industry, announced today its acquisition of Your Ware Software, a provider of customized business intelligence, sales, and compensation reporting for the wireless retail postpaid channel. Trusted by tier-one telecom carriers to provide retail activation, point-of-sale (POS), payments, business intelligence, and inventory management solutions, RT²'s acquisition of Your Ware Software adds key capabilities to its burgeoning retail wireless store solutions, enabling further expansion into postpaid channels for customers. The purchase is expected to add access to another 4,000 postpaid locations for RT²'s industry-leading wireless retail platform, setting the company up for another banner year in 2024. "The acquisition of Your Ware significantly expands RT²'s presence in the postpaid retail environment and adds to our long-standing success as the leading enterprise POS and Payments provider in prepaid wireless channels," said Omar Azrag, CEO of RT². "The Your Ware team has similar DNA to RT² and brings a world-class level of service specializing in building and deploying customized solutions for the postpaid channel. We are thrilled to have them part of the RT2 family," says Ali Koumaiha, Founder & CPO of RT². "For 22 years, Your Ware Software has designed POS, inventory management, and commission-tracking software for authorized retailers representing tier-one U.S. telecom carriers. Our team of world-class developers and engineers are excited to join the RT² family and continue to serve our customers with the industry-leading products and services they've come to expect. This deal is a triumph for our employees and our customers," says Chris Jones, CEO of Your Ware Software. Neither party disclosed the terms of the deal at this time, and it will remain confidential. In August of 2022, RT² acquired IAS, formerly Qpay from InComm Payments, specializing in customizable payment and technology solutions and the payment processor of choice for retailers, master agents and wireless carriers. RT² has since transformed and simplified the payment offering with an industry-first service model, much to the delight of their long-term customers. About Real Time Technologies (RT²) RT² offers the most flexible cutting-edge Retail Management Solutions that encompass POS, inventory management, payment services, frontline employee management & engagement, business intelligence, and digital automation tools for the wireless industry. RT² support Fortune 500 companies unify their customer experience and remove pain points across multiple retail touch points. Now serving over 14,000 retail locations across the US, Territories, and Canada. RT² prides itself on fostering a family culture and a dynamic work environment where team members are set up to make meaningful contributions across the organization. Learn more at www.rt2.com.

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POS Solutions

XY Retail Introduces Cutting-Edge Order Management System for Luxury Retailers

XY Retail | January 08, 2024

XY Retail, a leader in innovative retail solutions, today announces the launch of its latest product, an advanced Order Management System (OMS) that comes fully pre-integrated with the XY Point of Sale (POS) and Clienteling solutions. In response to evolving retailer needs, XY Retail has engineered a comprehensive OMS that not only streamlines order processing but also works seamlessly with the existing XY POS and Clienteling systems. This integrated approach marks a significant leap forward in providing retailers with a unified platform to enhance operational efficiency, customer engagement, and overall business performance. The XY Retail OMS offers: End-to-End Integration: The XY OMS is intricately woven into the fabric of the XY POS and Clienteling systems, fostering a holistic retail ecosystem. This end-to-end integration ensures a fluid and synchronized customer experience across all touchpoints. Effortless Order Processing: With a user-friendly interface, the OMS simplifies and accelerates order management, from initiation to fulfillment. Retailers can now seamlessly track and fulfill customer orders with precision. Real-Time Inventory Visibility: Leveraging the synergy with the XY POS, the OMS provides real-time visibility into inventory levels. This empowers retailers to optimize stock, minimize overstock or stockouts, and enhance overall inventory management. Clienteling Enhancement: The integrated OMS elevates the clienteling experience by consolidating customer information from POS transactions and order history. Sales associates can access a comprehensive view of customer interactions, preferences, and purchase history, enabling personalized and targeted engagement. Data-Driven Decision Making: Harnessing the power of interconnected systems, the XY Retail OMS enables data-driven decision-making. Retailers can gain valuable insights into customer behavior, inventory trends, and sales performance, facilitating strategic planning and business growth. "We're excited to introduce our integrated Order Management System, marking a significant step in advancing retail operations,” said Susan Jeffers, CEO of XY Retail. “By seamlessly merging order management with our POS and Clienteling systems, we provide retailers with a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of modern commerce efficiently and strategically. This integration underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions, enhancing operational efficiency, and empowering our clients to stay ahead in a dynamic industry." About XY Retail XY Retail is a trailblazer in the world of unified commerce solutions, revolutionizing the retail landscape with cutting-edge technology and innovation. Our microservices based, API-first, cloud-native platform seamlessly and vertically integrates mobile point of sale, order management, clienteling, and omnichannel capabilities, empowering global brands to deliver unparalleled customer experiences. With a commitment to excellence and a vision for the future of retail, XY Retail is at the forefront of shaping the next generation of innovative and dynamic commerce.

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POS Retail

GK Announces GK Engage, a Highly Personalized Loyalty Solution for Any Retail Touch Point Including Mobile Devices and Point-of-Sale

Business Wire | September 28, 2023

GK today announced its latest solution, GK Engage, a modern, comprehensive and AI-powered loyalty program for every omnichannel retail touch point. This solution empowers retailers to create highly contextualized and personalized outreach including messaging, discounts and rewards that improve customer lifetime value and enrich a retailer’s competitive differentiation. GK Engage was announced at GK’s first-ever Retail Innovation Summit for the Americas, which is taking place Sept. 25-26 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Attendees can view GK Engage, alongside other GK solutions, at the newly unveiled GK Customer Experience Center. GK is a world leader in point-of-sale (POS) technology and, as a result, its product team has talked with retailers who wanted more out of their loyalty systems. To fill this gap, GK developed GK Engage, a modern take on loyalty. The solution draws inspiration from two successful GK solutions, MCA, GK’s mobile loyalty program, and T+ Loyalty. These predecessor technologies have serviced more than one billion transactions per year for over six million registered users. Now, GK Engage customers will reap these benefits at scale using one comprehensive platform that works across a diverse range of online and in-store retail touch points. GK Engage provides retailers with real-time, AI-driven, personalized loyalty offers that surprise and delight customers. The complete solution creates loyalty tiers that automatically track all customer interactions and generate relevant campaigns to safeguard long-term retailer relationships and customer lifetime value. GK Engage can be integrated with merchandise master data and customer data to ensure all recommendations, promotions, coupons and more are beneficial to the individual customer, as well as the retailer’s current inventory availability and financial goals. What’s more, GK Engage is already integrated into GK’s OmniPOS solution across all touch points including traditional POS, self-checkout kiosks, mobile, and frictionless store technology like GK GO. “GK Engage was created for any retailer, regardless of where they are in their loyalty journey,” said Michael Jaszczyk, chief digital transformation officer, GK and CEO, GK Americas. “The solution is extremely flexible. For some retailers, GK Engage will serve as a complete solution, while others may integrate the solution into a CRM or an existing customer offer system. I look forward to presenting GK Engage alongside our other innovative solutions at the now unveiled GK Customer Experience Center.” Today and tomorrow, GK customers and partners from across the U.S., Latin America and Canada are gathering at GK’s US headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina to take part in the 2023 GK Retail Innovation Summit. In addition to hearing from renowned retail experts like Greg Buzek, founder and president, IHL Group, attendees can visit GK’s new Customer Experience Center. The center showcases GK technology and allows viewers to envision a modern, efficient and exceptional shopper experience across various key touch points including the point-of-sale, the fuel pump and the e-commerce site. At the Customer Experience Center, prospective retail customers can hear from solution experts who will help them to design the best solution deployment for their end-customers. The technology featured in the center includes GK Engage, GK OmniPOS, self check-out, GK Drive, GK GO, GK AIR (artificial intelligence for retail) and fraud prevention solutions from Fujitsu, which invested in GK as a strategic investor earlier this year. About GK GK breaks down the barriers to unified commerce with its open CLOUD4RETAIL platform and a broad portfolio based on it, like OmniPOS for point of sale, mobile POS, mobile customer engagement and a full range of store/back-office solutions. The company is a recognized leader in omnichannel retail, offering a single, global software platform for all retail formats and touch points. Ten of the Top 50 retailers worldwide rely on GK, and GK is the fastest growing global POS provider in new installations over the last three years. For more information, visit www.gk-software.com.

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POS Retail

Leading Wireless Retail Platform Provider Real Time Technologies Continues Growth and Expansion With Acquisition of Your Ware Software

Real Time Technologies (RT²) | January 24, 2024

Real Time Technologies, Inc (RT²), the largest enterprise front-end software platform serving Fortune 500 companies in the U.S. wireless industry, announced today its acquisition of Your Ware Software, a provider of customized business intelligence, sales, and compensation reporting for the wireless retail postpaid channel. Trusted by tier-one telecom carriers to provide retail activation, point-of-sale (POS), payments, business intelligence, and inventory management solutions, RT²'s acquisition of Your Ware Software adds key capabilities to its burgeoning retail wireless store solutions, enabling further expansion into postpaid channels for customers. The purchase is expected to add access to another 4,000 postpaid locations for RT²'s industry-leading wireless retail platform, setting the company up for another banner year in 2024. "The acquisition of Your Ware significantly expands RT²'s presence in the postpaid retail environment and adds to our long-standing success as the leading enterprise POS and Payments provider in prepaid wireless channels," said Omar Azrag, CEO of RT². "The Your Ware team has similar DNA to RT² and brings a world-class level of service specializing in building and deploying customized solutions for the postpaid channel. We are thrilled to have them part of the RT2 family," says Ali Koumaiha, Founder & CPO of RT². "For 22 years, Your Ware Software has designed POS, inventory management, and commission-tracking software for authorized retailers representing tier-one U.S. telecom carriers. Our team of world-class developers and engineers are excited to join the RT² family and continue to serve our customers with the industry-leading products and services they've come to expect. This deal is a triumph for our employees and our customers," says Chris Jones, CEO of Your Ware Software. Neither party disclosed the terms of the deal at this time, and it will remain confidential. In August of 2022, RT² acquired IAS, formerly Qpay from InComm Payments, specializing in customizable payment and technology solutions and the payment processor of choice for retailers, master agents and wireless carriers. RT² has since transformed and simplified the payment offering with an industry-first service model, much to the delight of their long-term customers. About Real Time Technologies (RT²) RT² offers the most flexible cutting-edge Retail Management Solutions that encompass POS, inventory management, payment services, frontline employee management & engagement, business intelligence, and digital automation tools for the wireless industry. RT² support Fortune 500 companies unify their customer experience and remove pain points across multiple retail touch points. Now serving over 14,000 retail locations across the US, Territories, and Canada. RT² prides itself on fostering a family culture and a dynamic work environment where team members are set up to make meaningful contributions across the organization. Learn more at www.rt2.com.

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POS Solutions

XY Retail Introduces Cutting-Edge Order Management System for Luxury Retailers

XY Retail | January 08, 2024

XY Retail, a leader in innovative retail solutions, today announces the launch of its latest product, an advanced Order Management System (OMS) that comes fully pre-integrated with the XY Point of Sale (POS) and Clienteling solutions. In response to evolving retailer needs, XY Retail has engineered a comprehensive OMS that not only streamlines order processing but also works seamlessly with the existing XY POS and Clienteling systems. This integrated approach marks a significant leap forward in providing retailers with a unified platform to enhance operational efficiency, customer engagement, and overall business performance. The XY Retail OMS offers: End-to-End Integration: The XY OMS is intricately woven into the fabric of the XY POS and Clienteling systems, fostering a holistic retail ecosystem. This end-to-end integration ensures a fluid and synchronized customer experience across all touchpoints. Effortless Order Processing: With a user-friendly interface, the OMS simplifies and accelerates order management, from initiation to fulfillment. Retailers can now seamlessly track and fulfill customer orders with precision. Real-Time Inventory Visibility: Leveraging the synergy with the XY POS, the OMS provides real-time visibility into inventory levels. This empowers retailers to optimize stock, minimize overstock or stockouts, and enhance overall inventory management. Clienteling Enhancement: The integrated OMS elevates the clienteling experience by consolidating customer information from POS transactions and order history. Sales associates can access a comprehensive view of customer interactions, preferences, and purchase history, enabling personalized and targeted engagement. Data-Driven Decision Making: Harnessing the power of interconnected systems, the XY Retail OMS enables data-driven decision-making. Retailers can gain valuable insights into customer behavior, inventory trends, and sales performance, facilitating strategic planning and business growth. "We're excited to introduce our integrated Order Management System, marking a significant step in advancing retail operations,” said Susan Jeffers, CEO of XY Retail. “By seamlessly merging order management with our POS and Clienteling systems, we provide retailers with a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of modern commerce efficiently and strategically. This integration underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions, enhancing operational efficiency, and empowering our clients to stay ahead in a dynamic industry." About XY Retail XY Retail is a trailblazer in the world of unified commerce solutions, revolutionizing the retail landscape with cutting-edge technology and innovation. Our microservices based, API-first, cloud-native platform seamlessly and vertically integrates mobile point of sale, order management, clienteling, and omnichannel capabilities, empowering global brands to deliver unparalleled customer experiences. With a commitment to excellence and a vision for the future of retail, XY Retail is at the forefront of shaping the next generation of innovative and dynamic commerce.

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POS Retail

GK Announces GK Engage, a Highly Personalized Loyalty Solution for Any Retail Touch Point Including Mobile Devices and Point-of-Sale

Business Wire | September 28, 2023

GK today announced its latest solution, GK Engage, a modern, comprehensive and AI-powered loyalty program for every omnichannel retail touch point. This solution empowers retailers to create highly contextualized and personalized outreach including messaging, discounts and rewards that improve customer lifetime value and enrich a retailer’s competitive differentiation. GK Engage was announced at GK’s first-ever Retail Innovation Summit for the Americas, which is taking place Sept. 25-26 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Attendees can view GK Engage, alongside other GK solutions, at the newly unveiled GK Customer Experience Center. GK is a world leader in point-of-sale (POS) technology and, as a result, its product team has talked with retailers who wanted more out of their loyalty systems. To fill this gap, GK developed GK Engage, a modern take on loyalty. The solution draws inspiration from two successful GK solutions, MCA, GK’s mobile loyalty program, and T+ Loyalty. These predecessor technologies have serviced more than one billion transactions per year for over six million registered users. Now, GK Engage customers will reap these benefits at scale using one comprehensive platform that works across a diverse range of online and in-store retail touch points. GK Engage provides retailers with real-time, AI-driven, personalized loyalty offers that surprise and delight customers. The complete solution creates loyalty tiers that automatically track all customer interactions and generate relevant campaigns to safeguard long-term retailer relationships and customer lifetime value. GK Engage can be integrated with merchandise master data and customer data to ensure all recommendations, promotions, coupons and more are beneficial to the individual customer, as well as the retailer’s current inventory availability and financial goals. What’s more, GK Engage is already integrated into GK’s OmniPOS solution across all touch points including traditional POS, self-checkout kiosks, mobile, and frictionless store technology like GK GO. “GK Engage was created for any retailer, regardless of where they are in their loyalty journey,” said Michael Jaszczyk, chief digital transformation officer, GK and CEO, GK Americas. “The solution is extremely flexible. For some retailers, GK Engage will serve as a complete solution, while others may integrate the solution into a CRM or an existing customer offer system. I look forward to presenting GK Engage alongside our other innovative solutions at the now unveiled GK Customer Experience Center.” Today and tomorrow, GK customers and partners from across the U.S., Latin America and Canada are gathering at GK’s US headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina to take part in the 2023 GK Retail Innovation Summit. In addition to hearing from renowned retail experts like Greg Buzek, founder and president, IHL Group, attendees can visit GK’s new Customer Experience Center. The center showcases GK technology and allows viewers to envision a modern, efficient and exceptional shopper experience across various key touch points including the point-of-sale, the fuel pump and the e-commerce site. At the Customer Experience Center, prospective retail customers can hear from solution experts who will help them to design the best solution deployment for their end-customers. The technology featured in the center includes GK Engage, GK OmniPOS, self check-out, GK Drive, GK GO, GK AIR (artificial intelligence for retail) and fraud prevention solutions from Fujitsu, which invested in GK as a strategic investor earlier this year. About GK GK breaks down the barriers to unified commerce with its open CLOUD4RETAIL platform and a broad portfolio based on it, like OmniPOS for point of sale, mobile POS, mobile customer engagement and a full range of store/back-office solutions. The company is a recognized leader in omnichannel retail, offering a single, global software platform for all retail formats and touch points. Ten of the Top 50 retailers worldwide rely on GK, and GK is the fastest growing global POS provider in new installations over the last three years. For more information, visit www.gk-software.com.

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