Choosing the correct EPOS solution in London is critical for any service, hospitality, or retail company. An excellent EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) solution does not just handle payments—it streamlines processes, improves customer experience, and helps with stock, staff, and sales monitoring.
But many London businesses rush into decisions or focus solely on price, only to regret them later. In this guide, here we reveal the 5 most common errors that companies make when selecting an EPOS system in London—and how to avoid them. We also walk you through how to compare EPOS systems, find affordable EPOS solutions, and choose reliable EPOS providers that are really the right fit for your business.
Mistake 1: Going Only for Price, Not Value
Though all businesses desire a low-cost EPOS, opting for the lowest price may prove expensive in the long run. Budget systems often fall short of necessary functions or levy secret charges for support, software upgrades, or hardware support.
What to Look For Instead:
- Clear pricing: Check that the price covers software, hardware, support, and upgrades.
- Necessary functions: Avoid compromising on functionality (e.g., reporting, inventory management, multiple payment support) for the lowest cost.
- Scalability: Is the system capable of being expanded to your company’s requirements?
Example:
A small Camden café in London selected a cheap EPOS with no stock control. After one month of manual stock errors, they upgraded to a cost-effective but fully featured EPOS system that liberated hours of admin work per week.
Error 2: Forgetting Local Support and Compatibility
When selecting an EPOS system in London, most businesses overlook the need for local support. Overseas systems may be cheaper but respond slowly, lack UK-specific integrations (like native payment gateways), and lack complete UK tax compliance support.
Key Considerations:
- Does the supplier offer UK-based support?
- Is the system compatible with UK payment processors, printers, and tills?
- Can it generate HMRC-compliant receipts and reports?
Tip:
Choose an Epos london supplier that can provide a local presence, swift support, and systems built for UK businesses.
Mistake 3: Not Comparing EPOS Systems Properly
With so many alternatives to choose from, it’s possible to get overwhelmed. Some businesses just pick the first system a friend has recommended or is advertised online. Not all EPOS systems are equal—comparing EPOS systems on features, usability, and long-term costs is essential.
How to Compare epos systems:
Comparison Factor | What to Look For |
Features | Inventory management, sales reporting, CRM, loyalty programs, payment options |
User Experience | Easy for staff to use, intuitive interface, short learning curve |
Hardware Compatibility | Compatibility with existing tills, receipt printers, tablets |
Support & Training | Comprehensive onboarding, troubleshooting assistance, ongoing maintenance |
Cost | Total cost of ownership including monthly fees and hardware expenses |
Use online comparison tools or request EPOS providers to offer demos and trial periods.
Mistake 4: Choosing a One-Size-Fits-All System
A retail EPOS system may not suit a restaurant, and vice versa. Vendors of EPOS sell “universal” systems, which lack industry-specific functionality for automating day-to-day activities.
Industry Examples:
- Table management, kitchen display integration, and split billing are required for restaurants.
- Barcode scanning, inventory alert, and promotions management are required for retail stores.
- Appointment scheduling, staff commission tracking, and customer records are beneficial for salons.
Best Practice:
Choose an EPOS which is appropriate for your industry’s needs. Most Epos london solutions are industry-specific modules or can be tailored to meet your needs.
Error 5: Not Taking into Account Data and Analytics Capabilities
Many businesses buy an EPOS system only to realize down the line that it has no advanced reporting or lacks knowledge that helps them grow. Without sales trend, staff performance, and customer behaviour data, you’re running your business blind.
Things to Take into Account:
- Real-time reporting: Track sales, revenue, and product performance.
- Customer data: Monitor spending habits and reward loyalty schemes.
- Staff analytics: Track individual performance and time-of-day efficiency.
Why It Matters:
An East London shop of just a few hundred square feet utilized EPOS reporting to identify their slow-sell and best-sellers products. This helped them optimize stock and increase profit margins within a few months.
How to Find the Most Appropriate EPOS System for London – An Affordable Approach
Step 1: Be Aware of Your Needs
List your business-specific needs:
✔ Number of tills and staff
✔ Size of stock
✔ Payment types accepted
✔ Integration with online order or delivery
Step 2: Be Sensible in Budgeting
Cost must be offset with value. Get cost-effective EPOS solutions that give you essential features without locking you into long-term contracts.
Step 3: Research EPOS Providers
Seek out reputable EPOS suppliers in London with local support, clear pricing, and good reviews. Request demos and trial periods where possible.
Step 4: Compare epos systems
Use comparison tables, review websites, and expert advice to compare epos systems effectively.
FAQs About EPOS Systems in London
Q1: What is the average price of an EPOS system in London?
A: Entry-level systems start at £30–£50/month. Prices overall differ based on hardware, software, and support. Most inexpensive EPOS systems include flexible monthly subscriptions.
Q2: Can I fit an EPOS system onto my existing hardware?
A: The majority of new systems are compatible with typical tills, tablets, and printers. Check with your EPOS company for compatibility.
Q3: Is internet needed for an EPOS system?
A: They are predominantly cloud-based and internet-requiring. Some offer offline functionality in case of continuous service during outages.
Q4: Are small business EPOS systems available?
A: Yes. There are several London-based providers with lower-scale solutions for independent retailers, salons, and cafes.
Q5: How long does it take to set up an EPOS system?
A: Installation can be anything from a few hours to a few days, depending on system complexity and training needs.
Prevention is Better than Cure
Choosing the best EPOS system in London can spare you time, money, and stress. By avoiding common traps—like searching for price alone or not comparing in the right manner—you put your business on the way of superior performance and growth.
The right Epos london provider will offer affordable epos solutions that are tailored to your business requirements, with local knowledge and cutting-edge features to drive your business forward.