Flexible, digital and ready for the future: the retail advantages of Mobile POS

Flexibility and digital expertise are crucial in brick-and-mortar retail. More and more retail companies are relying on mobile POS systems in order to operate flexibly, efficiently and in a customer-centred manner – and thus remain fit for the future. The EHI's POS Study 2024 recently confirmed this trend: mobile checkouts, intuitive software, omnichannel capability and fast, contactless payments are at the top of the list of priorities.

Mobile POS systems offer retailers far more than just mobility. They allow sales areas to be optimally utilised and make the POS independent of a fixed location. Whether in-store, at events, in pop-up stores or at markets – sales can be processed in real time, regardless of location. This flexibility can make all the difference – through greater efficiency and adaptability. This becomes particularly exciting when companies utilise multiple channels. 

In addition to local flexibility, mobile checkouts also offer a modern solution for changing consumer behaviour: contactless, hygienic payment processes are fast, secure and uncomplicated.

Brick-and-mortar retailers are constantly emphasising how important omnichannel capability is for the future – and for good reason. It makes it possible to combine stationary sales, online orders, click & collect and inventory management across all channels. This not only ensures a seamless transition between the various sales channels, but also demonstrably strengthens customer loyalty. In this context, mobile checkouts can play a decisive role, as they increase operational efficiency in the background through flexibility and mobility.

A modern POS must not only fulfil today's requirements – it must also be able to grow with them. Mobile POS systems are scalable from the ground up: New devices, functions or points of sale can be easily integrated. This makes them the ideal solution for growing retail companies.

The technical integration is also impressive. Thanks to advanced software interfaces, mobile checkouts fit seamlessly into existing IT and POS infrastructures. Implementation is straightforward – so companies quickly benefit from the new flexibility.

What used to require a separate card reader is now simply done by the smartphone: with SoftPOS – also known as PhonePOS or Tap to Pay – every NFC-enabled end device becomes a fully-fledged payment terminal. Customers pay contactlessly by card, smartphone or smartwatch, while the PIN is entered directly on the display if required – securely and encrypted via ‘PIN on Glass’. The advantages are obvious: less hardware, more flexibility and a modern customer experience that can be seamlessly integrated into a wide variety of sales situations. Stephan Kück, Managing Director of Computop, is optimistic about the future: “The full potential of card acceptance via smartphone will only become apparent in the next few years. PhonePOS will open up completely new service and optimization opportunities for retailers and service providers.” In addition to numerous Android solutions, Apple's ‘Tap to Pay’ is now also available in Germany.

Today, a mobile checkout system that combines all essential functions in one device is far more than just a technical aid – it is a strategic tool for greater efficiency, flexibility and customer satisfaction. When used correctly, mobile checkouts offer a uniform and seamless shopping experience for customers and employees and can therefore contribute to process optimisation in all areas. Anyone who decides in favour of a mobile checkout is investing in the future viability of their business: legally compliant, intuitive, mobile and ready for use at any time.

Source: POS Studie 2024 des EHI (German)