LAS VEGAS -- From images of succulent burgers flashing over in-store flat-screen TV screens to a debit-payment option that bypasses the major credit-card issuers, technology at the NACS convention last week redefined the convenience store of tomorrow.
Other emerging technologies involving cash-management systems, enterprise software and loyalty solutions also emerged as popular developments. Here are a few highlights:
In-pump TVs. Austin, Texas-based Dresser Wayne in partnership with London, Ontario-based EK3, have developed a video-based marketing [image-nocss] system that starts at the pumps and leads into continuing messages on flat-screen TVs inside the store. EK3 handles content, which allows retailers to use visually compelling images to arouse emotion around foodservice products, and provides customers with payment and coupon options. In a similar vein, Greensboro, N.C.-based Gilbarco has teamed with a company called Gas Station TV, which is an IP-based digital television network that delivers ABC programming and other original content. Credit-card fee solution. San Mateo, Calif.-based Debitman, an ACH-based debit processor, has begun to see traction in the c-store channel with tests by Wawa Inc., Wawa, Pa., and Wesco, Muskegon, Mich. The option allows retailers to bypass the major credit-card processors using the automated clearinghouse (ACH) alternative. Savings from processing fees get passed to consumers via a loyalty program, said Anthony Ruebner, vice president of sales and relationship management for Debitman. Cash management. Developments in this area include bulk-cash acceptors from Austin, Texas-based Wincor-Nixdorf and a bag-drop coin dispenser that gets away from rolls of coins from Carrollton, Texas-based Tidel Engineering. Other companies with developments in this area were AT Systems, Carlsbad, Calif., and Corporate Safe Specialists, Posen, Ill. Enterprise software. Temple, Texas-based PDI introduced its new enterprise offer that ties its financial, wholesale and retail solutions together. A foodservice module is due out next year. Along this same line, representatives from Alpharetta, Ga.-based BlueCube Software were touting their solution as well as their company's recent acquisition by RedPrairie. Expanding offers. Plano, Texas-based Retalix had a couple of new offerings inclusive of a truckstop option that is an alternative to the popular Trendar payment solution, as well as a new business-intelligence application.Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.