Two specialty retail stores can use the same POS system, and still see very different results. One store struggles with inventory issues, slow reporting, and constant workarounds. The other runs smoothly, makes confident buying decisions, and consistently improves...
Choosing a point-of-sale system isn't just about ringing up transactions. For specialty retailers, your POS controls inventory, purchasing, reporting, customer relationships, and ultimately how smoothly your store runs every day. And while many systems promise to...
Where stores quietly lose money, and how to stop it. When retailers talk about rising costs, the conversation usually focuses on the big ones: rent, payroll, utilities, and inventory prices. But in reality, many stores lose just as much profit from small...
In February, we talk a lot about relationships, and while your point of sale system may not bring you flowers, it does play a major role in your day-to-day happiness as a retailer. If your POS causes constant stress, downtime, or frustration, it might be time to...
In today's always-connected world, it's easy to assume your point-of-sale system will always have internet access. But outages happen, from ISP issues and weather events to routine maintenance and unexpected hardware failures. When your business relies on being...
Every retailer knows the feeling: traffic dips, transactions slow, and it's tempting to coast until spring. But here's the thing, slow months like February aren't a setback. They're a strategic opportunity to prepare your business to crush the next busy season....
Retail in 2026: Change is the New Constant Retail continues to evolve, and 2026 is shaping up to be a year where efficiency, insight, and customer experience matter more than ever. Independent retailers who adapt to changing expectations, while staying focused on...
Winter weather has a way of forcing us to slow down, sometimes without much warning. If your store is closed today due to snow or unsafe conditions, you're not alone. While no one plans for a weather shutdown, a snow day doesn't have to mean a lost day for your...
Today's customers don't think in terms of "online" versus "in-store"; they expect a seamless experience everywhere they shop. For retailers, that means inventory accuracy across all channels is no longer optional. As more retailers expand into eCommerce, the...
Many retailers think loyalty programs start and end with points, discounts, or punch cards. While incentives matter, true customer loyalty is built on something far more important: consistency. In 2026, customers return to retailers they trust, those who deliver...
Big-box retailers and national brands have deep pockets, massive marketing budgets, and name recognition, but in 2026, small retailers still have powerful advantages. Success isn't about outspending the competition; it's about outsmarting them. At Mainspring, we...
Running a tobacco store comes with unique operational challenges, including strict age verification requirements, complex inventory management, and manufacturer rebate programs. Having the right point-of-sale system isn't just helpful; it's essential. That's why...
