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How blockchain bridges the digital divide for e-commerce in emerging markets

NIX NOLLEDO | September 24, 2018 | 166 views

Emerging markets are a hotbed for e-commerce as the industry is continuing to rapidly grow. In fact, these economies are poised to become the next mega-market and are going to be essential for future growth as retailers may soon reach consumer saturation. However, the sector currently faces one fundamental challenge - consistent, free internet access. For those in developed countries, the internet has become a daily, vital necessity. It has opened the door for opportunities in every sector of society and is often looked at as the number one, most effective medium for communication, entertainment, news and business. Unfortunately, it has had the opposite effect on those in emerging markets, as it has created a significant gap in terms of usage and access, otherwise known as the digital divide. Due to these access restrictions and data expenses, the average consumer is online less than 25 days out of every month; far less than in other parts of the world.

Spotlight

Arvind Lifestyle Brands Limited

Arvind Lifestyle Brands Limited is the leading lifestyle company in India offering the widest array of fashion brands in the country. Our proud heritage goes back to Arvind Ltd. which is India’s largest integrated textile player and one of the oldest & most respected groups in the Textile Business in the country. Since our inception, we have built an un-matched bouquet of brands both homegrown and global which straddle lifestyles, categories and price points.

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POS HARDWARE

Why Businesses Should Switch to Cloud-based POS System

Article | April 25, 2023

Embrace the future and need of business operations with cloud-based POS systems. Experience unrivaled features such as unparalleled flexibility, scalability, real-time analytics, and more. Introduction Key Reasons for Businesses to Switch to Cloud-based POS System • Accessibility and Mobility • Flexibility and Mobility • Scalability • Improved customer experience • Cost saving Introduction With constant evolution in payment technologies, businesses are constantly looking for innovative ways to streamline their operations and improve their bottom line. As a result, innovative payment solutions are increasingly playing a crucial role in enhancing their transforming and upscaling businesses. One such technology that has revolutionized the way businesses operate is cloud-based POS systems. A significant transition from traditional POS systems to cloud-based POS systems has been witnessed in recent years. Businesses worldwide are increasingly deploying cloud-based point of sale systems to adapt to emerging paymentFrom enhanced security to real-time data accessibility and improved customer experience, learn why businesses should make the switch to cloud-based POS systems. technologies, improve customer experience, enhance payment security, and others. According to a study by SalesForce, more than 20% of retail businesses currently use a cloud-based POS, and around 29% of businesses plan to deploy it in the coming future. Key Reasons for Businesses to Switch to Cloud-based POS System Payment processes are presently propelled by connectivity and technological advancements, which have resulted in a significant impact on the payments industry. Consequently, it has become imperative for businesses to adopt point-of-sale systems powered by agile, cloud-based software to harness the full benefits of modern cutting-edge technology. Deploying a cloud point of sale system can guarantee optimal customer experience to businesses while remaining aligned with the rapidly evolving technological landscape. Here are the primary reasons why businesses should contemplate the adoption of a cloud based POS system: Real-Time Accessibility In today's fast-paced business environment, the abilityto access real-time data is crucial.Cloud-based POS systems allow businesses to access data from any device with internet access, enabling real-time inventory management, sales tracking, and customer insights. This real-time data accessibility empowers enterprises to make informed decisions, optimize operations, and improve customer experience. Flexibility and Mobility Cloud POS solutions are highly flexible, making it easier for businesses to adapt to changing needs and ecosystems. Leveraging a POS system, businesses can quickly and easily add or remove products, update pricing, and make other changes to their inventory. Furthermore, with the accessibility from any location, these cloud based retail POS systems enable employees/ staff to work remotely. These capabilities are especially useful for businesses that sell seasonal products, experience fluctuations in demand, or have multiple locations. Scalability With legacy POS systems, businesses need to invest in new hardware to expand their operations, which can be costly and time-consuming. However, cloud-based POS systems offer businesses the flexibility to scale up or down their operations without worrying about upgrading their hardware. In addition, businesses can seamlessly add new locations, products, and users without any hardware upgrades. Improved Customer Experience Cloud-based POS systems for retail enable businesses to provide a seamless customer experience by allowing employees to access customer data from any device with an internet connection. This allows businesses to personalize their offerings, offer faster service, and resolve customer complaints quickly. The ability to access real-time data also enables businesses to anticipate customer needs and preferences, allowing them to provide tailored promotions and recommendations. Cost Savings Businesses need to invest in expensive hardware and software, access as well as pay for ongoing maintenance and support while using a legacy POS system. Switching to a cloud POS system can result in significant cost savings for businesses. As these POS solutions require minimal hardware and software investments and often come with a low monthly subscription fee, businesses can save on maintenance and support costs, as these are typically included in the subscription fee. Bottom Line A cloud-based POS system with seamless integration offers an extensive business overview and can perform operations much more than accept orders and payments. Not only does it streamline services, but it also provides insightful data and simplifies day-to-day business management, allowing business owners to focus on development. It is evident that combining day-to-day operations with cloud-based POS software is now a critical requirement for businesses. In addition, the technological evolution of these systems in recent years and the possibilities for continuous development have made point-of-sale data, inventory, staff, and payment management much easier for businesses. Since the world is becoming increasingly digital, it is imperative that businesses adapt and adopt cloud-based POS systems to remain competitive and relevant. Therefore, businesses should consider the benefits of cloud-based POS systems and make the switch to ensure long-term success and growth.

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POS SOLUTIONS, CLOUD BASED POS

Retail ,Wholesale Trade,Ecommerce,Retail,E-commerce,point of sale.

Article | July 14, 2022

Last July, a small group representing the giants of the tech industry gathered in the seat of US government, Washington DC. They probably didn’t want to be there. Congress had summoned their employers Apple, Facebook, Google, and Amazon to answer questions about the command they hold over the markets they operate in. On Amazon’s behalf, associate general counsel Nate Sutton spoke in defense of his employer’s role in US retail. Throughout, he argued that Amazon isn’t so powerful as to be able to control prices and stifle competition. Amazon, he pointed out, makes up less than 1% of retail globally. In the US, it accounts for around 4% of retail. In fact, Walmart is much larger than Amazon, he said. In terms of sales, Sutton is right. Walmart reported $510 billion in total sales across its US and international segments in the 2019 fiscal year, versus Amazon’s $233 billion in roughly the same period.

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RESTAURANT POS

How SMEs can emulate the success of Amazon through ecommerce personalization

Article | November 11, 2022

Whatever your feelings are towards Amazon, there is no denying that they have revolutionised ecommerce and now set the bar for the personalised experience of users when it comes to online shopping. So much so that it was recently reported that they have more than a 30% share of the UK’s ecommerce market. With statistics like this, it may feel like it is impossible to compete, especially as Amazon has huge tech and marketing budgets at its disposal. However, all is not lost. It is possible for SMEs to learn from the forerunner and implement some of their most successful techniques, with regards to their use of ecommerce personalisation and AI, to increase sales cost effectively.

Read More

How Retailers Can Utilize In-Store Digital Signage

Article | February 10, 2020

Consumer attention is shifting. Brick-and-mortar stores must now compete with e-retailers as customers spend more time online, thanks to targeted ads and personalized deals. As noted by Digital eCommerce, online sales rose almost 18 percent last year to $3.46 trillion worldwide and are on track to top $892 billion across the U.S. in less than two years. This shift has alerted most brands to the need for a retail evolution to ensure ongoing success. With e-commerce sales still accounting for just under 10 percent of retail revenues, businesses have an opportunity to boost sales and raise their brand profile — if they can reliably capture consumer interest. One solution: effective and engaging digital signage. Retailers Can Capture Crucial In-Store Moments To capture attention and drive conversion, businesses must capitalize on what Google calls micro-moments, when customers leverage their mobile devices to discover more information, find a price or pinpoint a vendor online.

Read More
POS HARDWARE

Why Businesses Should Switch to Cloud-based POS System

Article | April 25, 2023

Embrace the future and need of business operations with cloud-based POS systems. Experience unrivaled features such as unparalleled flexibility, scalability, real-time analytics, and more. Introduction Key Reasons for Businesses to Switch to Cloud-based POS System • Accessibility and Mobility • Flexibility and Mobility • Scalability • Improved customer experience • Cost saving Introduction With constant evolution in payment technologies, businesses are constantly looking for innovative ways to streamline their operations and improve their bottom line. As a result, innovative payment solutions are increasingly playing a crucial role in enhancing their transforming and upscaling businesses. One such technology that has revolutionized the way businesses operate is cloud-based POS systems. A significant transition from traditional POS systems to cloud-based POS systems has been witnessed in recent years. Businesses worldwide are increasingly deploying cloud-based point of sale systems to adapt to emerging paymentFrom enhanced security to real-time data accessibility and improved customer experience, learn why businesses should make the switch to cloud-based POS systems. technologies, improve customer experience, enhance payment security, and others. According to a study by SalesForce, more than 20% of retail businesses currently use a cloud-based POS, and around 29% of businesses plan to deploy it in the coming future. Key Reasons for Businesses to Switch to Cloud-based POS System Payment processes are presently propelled by connectivity and technological advancements, which have resulted in a significant impact on the payments industry. Consequently, it has become imperative for businesses to adopt point-of-sale systems powered by agile, cloud-based software to harness the full benefits of modern cutting-edge technology. Deploying a cloud point of sale system can guarantee optimal customer experience to businesses while remaining aligned with the rapidly evolving technological landscape. Here are the primary reasons why businesses should contemplate the adoption of a cloud based POS system: Real-Time Accessibility In today's fast-paced business environment, the abilityto access real-time data is crucial.Cloud-based POS systems allow businesses to access data from any device with internet access, enabling real-time inventory management, sales tracking, and customer insights. This real-time data accessibility empowers enterprises to make informed decisions, optimize operations, and improve customer experience. Flexibility and Mobility Cloud POS solutions are highly flexible, making it easier for businesses to adapt to changing needs and ecosystems. Leveraging a POS system, businesses can quickly and easily add or remove products, update pricing, and make other changes to their inventory. Furthermore, with the accessibility from any location, these cloud based retail POS systems enable employees/ staff to work remotely. These capabilities are especially useful for businesses that sell seasonal products, experience fluctuations in demand, or have multiple locations. Scalability With legacy POS systems, businesses need to invest in new hardware to expand their operations, which can be costly and time-consuming. However, cloud-based POS systems offer businesses the flexibility to scale up or down their operations without worrying about upgrading their hardware. In addition, businesses can seamlessly add new locations, products, and users without any hardware upgrades. Improved Customer Experience Cloud-based POS systems for retail enable businesses to provide a seamless customer experience by allowing employees to access customer data from any device with an internet connection. This allows businesses to personalize their offerings, offer faster service, and resolve customer complaints quickly. The ability to access real-time data also enables businesses to anticipate customer needs and preferences, allowing them to provide tailored promotions and recommendations. Cost Savings Businesses need to invest in expensive hardware and software, access as well as pay for ongoing maintenance and support while using a legacy POS system. Switching to a cloud POS system can result in significant cost savings for businesses. As these POS solutions require minimal hardware and software investments and often come with a low monthly subscription fee, businesses can save on maintenance and support costs, as these are typically included in the subscription fee. Bottom Line A cloud-based POS system with seamless integration offers an extensive business overview and can perform operations much more than accept orders and payments. Not only does it streamline services, but it also provides insightful data and simplifies day-to-day business management, allowing business owners to focus on development. It is evident that combining day-to-day operations with cloud-based POS software is now a critical requirement for businesses. In addition, the technological evolution of these systems in recent years and the possibilities for continuous development have made point-of-sale data, inventory, staff, and payment management much easier for businesses. Since the world is becoming increasingly digital, it is imperative that businesses adapt and adopt cloud-based POS systems to remain competitive and relevant. Therefore, businesses should consider the benefits of cloud-based POS systems and make the switch to ensure long-term success and growth.

Read More
POS SOLUTIONS, CLOUD BASED POS

Cloud POS Solutions Reshaping Operations in the Retail Sector

Article | July 14, 2022

Last July, a small group representing the giants of the tech industry gathered in the seat of US government, Washington DC. They probably didn’t want to be there. Congress had summoned their employers Apple, Facebook, Google, and Amazon to answer questions about the command they hold over the markets they operate in. On Amazon’s behalf, associate general counsel Nate Sutton spoke in defense of his employer’s role in US retail. Throughout, he argued that Amazon isn’t so powerful as to be able to control prices and stifle competition. Amazon, he pointed out, makes up less than 1% of retail globally. In the US, it accounts for around 4% of retail. In fact, Walmart is much larger than Amazon, he said. In terms of sales, Sutton is right. Walmart reported $510 billion in total sales across its US and international segments in the 2019 fiscal year, versus Amazon’s $233 billion in roughly the same period.

Read More
RESTAURANT POS

Top 5 Reasons Why Modern Restaurant Needs Integrated POS Solutions

Article | November 11, 2022

Whatever your feelings are towards Amazon, there is no denying that they have revolutionised ecommerce and now set the bar for the personalised experience of users when it comes to online shopping. So much so that it was recently reported that they have more than a 30% share of the UK’s ecommerce market. With statistics like this, it may feel like it is impossible to compete, especially as Amazon has huge tech and marketing budgets at its disposal. However, all is not lost. It is possible for SMEs to learn from the forerunner and implement some of their most successful techniques, with regards to their use of ecommerce personalisation and AI, to increase sales cost effectively.

Read More

How Retailers Can Utilize In-Store Digital Signage

Article | February 10, 2020

Consumer attention is shifting. Brick-and-mortar stores must now compete with e-retailers as customers spend more time online, thanks to targeted ads and personalized deals. As noted by Digital eCommerce, online sales rose almost 18 percent last year to $3.46 trillion worldwide and are on track to top $892 billion across the U.S. in less than two years. This shift has alerted most brands to the need for a retail evolution to ensure ongoing success. With e-commerce sales still accounting for just under 10 percent of retail revenues, businesses have an opportunity to boost sales and raise their brand profile — if they can reliably capture consumer interest. One solution: effective and engaging digital signage. Retailers Can Capture Crucial In-Store Moments To capture attention and drive conversion, businesses must capitalize on what Google calls micro-moments, when customers leverage their mobile devices to discover more information, find a price or pinpoint a vendor online.

Read More
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Spotlight

Arvind Lifestyle Brands Limited

Arvind Lifestyle Brands Limited is the leading lifestyle company in India offering the widest array of fashion brands in the country. Our proud heritage goes back to Arvind Ltd. which is India’s largest integrated textile player and one of the oldest & most respected groups in the Textile Business in the country. Since our inception, we have built an un-matched bouquet of brands both homegrown and global which straddle lifestyles, categories and price points.

Related News

e-commerce

Citi Integrates U.S. Institutional eCommerce Payments and Electronic Bill Presentment Platforms

Citi | October 31, 2022

Spring by Citi, Citi’s digital payments service enabling ecommerce and B2B funds flows launched in the U.S. in 2020, has now been fully integrated with Citi® Present and Pay, Citi’s electronic bill presentment platform. The combined solution offers comprehensive digital payment acceptance and electronic bill presentment in one integrated platform. With the new solution, Citi’s institutional clients will now have the ability to both collect payments across a full range of U.S. payment methods and provide world-class digital billing capabilities through a single contracting structure with Citi and a single technical integration, helping them save time and streamlining implementation. Previously, support for all relevant payment methods would have required a connection to an external third party – this comprehensive solution now makes it possible for payment acceptance all in one single contracting structure with Citi. “For many companies, the ability to offer their customers a fully digital billing experience can be very complex; requiring various third parties, and it is often expensive to migrate away from using manual, time-intensive paper-based processes,This new combined solution gives our clients an easier way to digitize their invoice presentment and payment processes, providing additional payment options to their customers.” Anupam Sinha, North America Payments and Receivables Head, Citi Treasury and Trade Solutions. The combined solution helps institutional clients simplify access to the following services through a single contracting structure and technical integration: More options for their customers to pay from a wide range of U.S. payment methods, including credit and debit cards, ACH direct debit and real-time Requests for Payment, and alternative payment methods such as digital wallets Ability for their customers to receive and pay their bills via a variety of methods, including web/mobile web, secure email, SMS text and voice (automated IVR and live customer service) Ability to validate payer bank account details in real-time to help ensure compliance with NACHA related to ACH direct debits without needing an additional technical integration with another third party As a trusted treasury bank to leading enterprises, we are always looking for ways to make it easier for our clients to use our solutions and we are constantly innovating to help reduce friction for them," continued Sinha. “The integration of Spring by Citi with Citi Present and Pay is one of several initiatives targeted at helping institutional billers address pain points associated with accepting digital payments. About Spring by Citi Spring by Citi is an end-to-end digital payments service enabling ecommerce and B2B funds flows, globally. Built on top of Citi TTS's industry-leading and proprietary payments network, Spring by Citi delivers seamless market-relevant payment experiences, combined with a robust set of globally consistent treasury solutions. This comprehensive solution helps businesses optimize their marketplace payments, business-to-business and direct-to-consumer transaction flows. In parallel, Citi's embedded FX, enhanced reconciliation and reporting capabilities help ensure that the critical needs of corporate treasury, payment operations, marketing and sales teams are met. For more information, visit www.spring.citi.com. About Citi® Present and Pay Citi Present and Pay enables clients to distribute digital billing information across multiple communication channels based on a consumer’s preference, including secure email, SMS text, Interactive Voice Recognition / phone, web and mobile web experiences, and digital voice assistants. The omni-channel electronic bill presentment and payment platform also collects corresponding payments via multiple forms of payments. Citi Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS) enables our clients' success by providing an integrated suite of innovative and tailored cash management and trade finance services to multinational corporations, financial institutions and public sector organizations across the globe. Based on the foundation of the industry's largest proprietary network with banking licenses in over 90 countries and globally integrated technology platforms, TTS continues to lead the way in offering the industry a comprehensive range of digitally enabled treasury, trade and liquidity management solutions. About Citi Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.

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POS RETAIL

FRAME Deploys NewStore Omnichannel Platform to Power the Brand's Modern Retail Experience

NewStore | March 29, 2022

NewStore, a modular, mobile-first omnichannel cloud platform for retail brands worldwide, announced today that American fashion brand FRAME has launched the NewStore Omnichannel Platform across its retail business. By powering the brand's mobile point-of-sale (mPOS), order management, inventory, and store fulfillment solutions, NewStore is now the backbone of FRAME's retail operations. FRAME is known for its collections in denim, cotton, leather, and cashmere, and it strives to design a modern versatile wardrobe with the finest natural materials. The fashion brand sells its products through e-commerce, wholesale, and in 15 retail stores today. Most recently, FRAME opened its first international store in London, expanding its global footprint. As it continues to grow its retail presence, FRAME is reinvigorating its customer experience and prioritizing technology's role in creating a seamless shopping journey. "While we pride ourselves on providing an excellent customer experience, we're always looking for ways to enhance our shopping journey by blending our online and offline channels in a friction-free way," said Jens Grede, Co-founder, FRAME. "NewStore is enabling us to optimize our growing business with omnichannel capabilities that scale and create an even more personalized shopping experience." Through its partnership with NewStore, FRAME is enabling its employees with the tools and data required to provide the best shopping experience possible. Store associates can view sales, gauge product inventory across store locations, and complete mobile checkouts to improve customer convenience and maximize profitability. Now that all of FRAME's store locations are live on the platform, the brand will work with NewStore to further enhance the customer journey by rolling out features that allow employees to better guide shoppers and create more meaningful relationships. "Retail stores should be operating as an extension of e-commerce. Customers want seamless access to products, modern fulfillment options at little to no cost, and quick and contactless payments. These expectations are difficult to meet without a global omnichannel solution. With enterprise-wide access to inventory and the right technology in place, FRAME is offering the direct-to-consumer experience that is required to win in retail today. This is critical as they grow the business." Stephan Schambach, Founder and CEO, NewStore About FRAME FRAME is an American fashion brand renowned for its collections in denim, cotton, leather and cashmere. The company's founders Erik Torstensson and Jens Grede strive to design a modern versatile wardrobe through signature denim fits, cotton shirting and coveted leather pieces. Since the brand's inception in 2012 in Los Angeles, California, FRAME has evolved from making handcrafted denim to offering ready-to-wear and accessories collections in the finest natural materials. FRAME is committed to sustainable and fair manufacturing practices, balancing profit with a commitment to people and planet. Today, FRAME is sold through its own retail stores and e-commerce as well as through leading department stores and boutiques across the world. About NewStore NewStore provides Omnichannel-as-a-Service for retail brands worldwide that want to accelerate their digital transformation. Built for speed and flexibility, NewStore allows brands to easily deliver amazing shopping experiences that store associates and consumers love. Its mobile-first, modular cloud platform includes POS, order management, clienteling, inventory, and native consumer apps. NewStore customers such as Burton, Faherty Brand, G-Star RAW, Marine Layer, Scotch & Soda, UNTUCKit, and Vince benefit from the most complete, global omnichannel retail solution available. The company is backed by General Catalyst, Activant Capital, and Salesforce Ventures.

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POS SOLUTIONS

Mercaux Announces Release of Next Generation POS that Decomposes Experience, Basket, and Checkout Layers

Mercaux | March 17, 2022

Mercaux, The Next Generation In-Store Experience Platform, today announces an extension of its in-store suite to include Next Generation POS. The arrival introduces decomposed basket and checkout layers, resulting in a fluid, flexible and fast checkout process, irrespective of where the omnichannel journey started or finished, or method of payment the customer wishes to use. Where legacy monolithic POS has remained stagnant for many years, delivering little in the way of value to retailers, Mercaux's fully composable, cloud-based and API-first solution derives true business value, and provides a frictionless authentication, cross-channel basket transfer and checkout experience for customers. Next Generation POS from Mercaux consists of a decomposed basket and checkout layer, meaning that a customer can start a journey in one channel (in-store, online or remotely), pick it up in another, and complete the checkout wherever, and however they want. This is enabled via Mercaux's "Universal Basket" that follows the customer wherever they go and supports the rise in popularity of customers who ROPO, or those who would like to use modern payment methods including BNPL, anywhere. Furthermore, by deploying a composable vs monolithic platform, retailers now have the freedom to control how they transform their business, the flexibility to work with other Next Generation solutions of their choice, and the agility to deploy and add new functionality quickly. "Retail is behind other industries, such as banking or e-commerce, when it comes to composability. By extending our in-store experience platform though to basket and checkout, we are helping retail to take advantage of the agility and speed in which the industry can evolve to meet the heightened demands of the customer." Mercaux co-founder and ceo, Olga Kotsur Kotsur concluded, "This is an incredibly exciting development, finally allowing retailers to offer an entirely frictionless cross-channel experience and checkout process for their customers. With the pain of legacy removed, retailers can facilitate new omnichannel service models, understand true customer journeys and leverage online and payment innovations in-store - all leading to tangible top-line benefits." About Mercaux Mercaux's Composable Platform future-proofs stores. The 3-layers comprise of In-Store Experience, Universal Basket and Next Generation Checkout. The Experience layer redefines how customers interact with the physical store, through assisted selling and self-service solutions. Universal Baskets are created from these solutions that follow the customer wherever they continue their omnichannel experience. Next-Gen Checkout allows customers to complete the transaction anywhere, using any payment.

Read More

e-commerce

Citi Integrates U.S. Institutional eCommerce Payments and Electronic Bill Presentment Platforms

Citi | October 31, 2022

Spring by Citi, Citi’s digital payments service enabling ecommerce and B2B funds flows launched in the U.S. in 2020, has now been fully integrated with Citi® Present and Pay, Citi’s electronic bill presentment platform. The combined solution offers comprehensive digital payment acceptance and electronic bill presentment in one integrated platform. With the new solution, Citi’s institutional clients will now have the ability to both collect payments across a full range of U.S. payment methods and provide world-class digital billing capabilities through a single contracting structure with Citi and a single technical integration, helping them save time and streamlining implementation. Previously, support for all relevant payment methods would have required a connection to an external third party – this comprehensive solution now makes it possible for payment acceptance all in one single contracting structure with Citi. “For many companies, the ability to offer their customers a fully digital billing experience can be very complex; requiring various third parties, and it is often expensive to migrate away from using manual, time-intensive paper-based processes,This new combined solution gives our clients an easier way to digitize their invoice presentment and payment processes, providing additional payment options to their customers.” Anupam Sinha, North America Payments and Receivables Head, Citi Treasury and Trade Solutions. The combined solution helps institutional clients simplify access to the following services through a single contracting structure and technical integration: More options for their customers to pay from a wide range of U.S. payment methods, including credit and debit cards, ACH direct debit and real-time Requests for Payment, and alternative payment methods such as digital wallets Ability for their customers to receive and pay their bills via a variety of methods, including web/mobile web, secure email, SMS text and voice (automated IVR and live customer service) Ability to validate payer bank account details in real-time to help ensure compliance with NACHA related to ACH direct debits without needing an additional technical integration with another third party As a trusted treasury bank to leading enterprises, we are always looking for ways to make it easier for our clients to use our solutions and we are constantly innovating to help reduce friction for them," continued Sinha. “The integration of Spring by Citi with Citi Present and Pay is one of several initiatives targeted at helping institutional billers address pain points associated with accepting digital payments. About Spring by Citi Spring by Citi is an end-to-end digital payments service enabling ecommerce and B2B funds flows, globally. Built on top of Citi TTS's industry-leading and proprietary payments network, Spring by Citi delivers seamless market-relevant payment experiences, combined with a robust set of globally consistent treasury solutions. This comprehensive solution helps businesses optimize their marketplace payments, business-to-business and direct-to-consumer transaction flows. In parallel, Citi's embedded FX, enhanced reconciliation and reporting capabilities help ensure that the critical needs of corporate treasury, payment operations, marketing and sales teams are met. For more information, visit www.spring.citi.com. About Citi® Present and Pay Citi Present and Pay enables clients to distribute digital billing information across multiple communication channels based on a consumer’s preference, including secure email, SMS text, Interactive Voice Recognition / phone, web and mobile web experiences, and digital voice assistants. The omni-channel electronic bill presentment and payment platform also collects corresponding payments via multiple forms of payments. Citi Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS) enables our clients' success by providing an integrated suite of innovative and tailored cash management and trade finance services to multinational corporations, financial institutions and public sector organizations across the globe. Based on the foundation of the industry's largest proprietary network with banking licenses in over 90 countries and globally integrated technology platforms, TTS continues to lead the way in offering the industry a comprehensive range of digitally enabled treasury, trade and liquidity management solutions. About Citi Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.

Read More

POS RETAIL

FRAME Deploys NewStore Omnichannel Platform to Power the Brand's Modern Retail Experience

NewStore | March 29, 2022

NewStore, a modular, mobile-first omnichannel cloud platform for retail brands worldwide, announced today that American fashion brand FRAME has launched the NewStore Omnichannel Platform across its retail business. By powering the brand's mobile point-of-sale (mPOS), order management, inventory, and store fulfillment solutions, NewStore is now the backbone of FRAME's retail operations. FRAME is known for its collections in denim, cotton, leather, and cashmere, and it strives to design a modern versatile wardrobe with the finest natural materials. The fashion brand sells its products through e-commerce, wholesale, and in 15 retail stores today. Most recently, FRAME opened its first international store in London, expanding its global footprint. As it continues to grow its retail presence, FRAME is reinvigorating its customer experience and prioritizing technology's role in creating a seamless shopping journey. "While we pride ourselves on providing an excellent customer experience, we're always looking for ways to enhance our shopping journey by blending our online and offline channels in a friction-free way," said Jens Grede, Co-founder, FRAME. "NewStore is enabling us to optimize our growing business with omnichannel capabilities that scale and create an even more personalized shopping experience." Through its partnership with NewStore, FRAME is enabling its employees with the tools and data required to provide the best shopping experience possible. Store associates can view sales, gauge product inventory across store locations, and complete mobile checkouts to improve customer convenience and maximize profitability. Now that all of FRAME's store locations are live on the platform, the brand will work with NewStore to further enhance the customer journey by rolling out features that allow employees to better guide shoppers and create more meaningful relationships. "Retail stores should be operating as an extension of e-commerce. Customers want seamless access to products, modern fulfillment options at little to no cost, and quick and contactless payments. These expectations are difficult to meet without a global omnichannel solution. With enterprise-wide access to inventory and the right technology in place, FRAME is offering the direct-to-consumer experience that is required to win in retail today. This is critical as they grow the business." Stephan Schambach, Founder and CEO, NewStore About FRAME FRAME is an American fashion brand renowned for its collections in denim, cotton, leather and cashmere. The company's founders Erik Torstensson and Jens Grede strive to design a modern versatile wardrobe through signature denim fits, cotton shirting and coveted leather pieces. Since the brand's inception in 2012 in Los Angeles, California, FRAME has evolved from making handcrafted denim to offering ready-to-wear and accessories collections in the finest natural materials. FRAME is committed to sustainable and fair manufacturing practices, balancing profit with a commitment to people and planet. Today, FRAME is sold through its own retail stores and e-commerce as well as through leading department stores and boutiques across the world. About NewStore NewStore provides Omnichannel-as-a-Service for retail brands worldwide that want to accelerate their digital transformation. Built for speed and flexibility, NewStore allows brands to easily deliver amazing shopping experiences that store associates and consumers love. Its mobile-first, modular cloud platform includes POS, order management, clienteling, inventory, and native consumer apps. NewStore customers such as Burton, Faherty Brand, G-Star RAW, Marine Layer, Scotch & Soda, UNTUCKit, and Vince benefit from the most complete, global omnichannel retail solution available. The company is backed by General Catalyst, Activant Capital, and Salesforce Ventures.

Read More

POS SOLUTIONS

Mercaux Announces Release of Next Generation POS that Decomposes Experience, Basket, and Checkout Layers

Mercaux | March 17, 2022

Mercaux, The Next Generation In-Store Experience Platform, today announces an extension of its in-store suite to include Next Generation POS. The arrival introduces decomposed basket and checkout layers, resulting in a fluid, flexible and fast checkout process, irrespective of where the omnichannel journey started or finished, or method of payment the customer wishes to use. Where legacy monolithic POS has remained stagnant for many years, delivering little in the way of value to retailers, Mercaux's fully composable, cloud-based and API-first solution derives true business value, and provides a frictionless authentication, cross-channel basket transfer and checkout experience for customers. Next Generation POS from Mercaux consists of a decomposed basket and checkout layer, meaning that a customer can start a journey in one channel (in-store, online or remotely), pick it up in another, and complete the checkout wherever, and however they want. This is enabled via Mercaux's "Universal Basket" that follows the customer wherever they go and supports the rise in popularity of customers who ROPO, or those who would like to use modern payment methods including BNPL, anywhere. Furthermore, by deploying a composable vs monolithic platform, retailers now have the freedom to control how they transform their business, the flexibility to work with other Next Generation solutions of their choice, and the agility to deploy and add new functionality quickly. "Retail is behind other industries, such as banking or e-commerce, when it comes to composability. By extending our in-store experience platform though to basket and checkout, we are helping retail to take advantage of the agility and speed in which the industry can evolve to meet the heightened demands of the customer." Mercaux co-founder and ceo, Olga Kotsur Kotsur concluded, "This is an incredibly exciting development, finally allowing retailers to offer an entirely frictionless cross-channel experience and checkout process for their customers. With the pain of legacy removed, retailers can facilitate new omnichannel service models, understand true customer journeys and leverage online and payment innovations in-store - all leading to tangible top-line benefits." About Mercaux Mercaux's Composable Platform future-proofs stores. The 3-layers comprise of In-Store Experience, Universal Basket and Next Generation Checkout. The Experience layer redefines how customers interact with the physical store, through assisted selling and self-service solutions. Universal Baskets are created from these solutions that follow the customer wherever they continue their omnichannel experience. Next-Gen Checkout allows customers to complete the transaction anywhere, using any payment.

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