AUSTIN, Texas -- Wincor Nixdorf, a supplier of IT solutions for the banking and retail industries, has announced its support for Microsoft Corp.'s Windows Embedded for Point of Service software platform, which offers retailers plug-and-play functionality and ease of setup, use and management.
Windows Embedded for Point of Service is a component of the Microsoft Smarter Retailing Initiative, which provides an approach based on open standards that allows retailers to create next-generation point-of-sale (POS) systems connecting their stores to consumers ([image-nocss] for example, kiosks and self-checkout systems). It lowers lifecycle costs by simplifying the setup, deployment and management of POS systems, resulting in faster development and integration of systems, applications and device peripherals. The platform provides plug-and-play functionality for installing and managing retail peripherals, such as scanners and cash drawers. Also, stronger default security settings and tools increase network protection to enable a more secure experience on POS systems.
The Wincor Nixdorf BEETLE platform based on Windows Embedded for Point of Service will extend a range of versatile solutions to our mutual retail and hospitality customers who are concerned with lowering life-cycle costs and easing deployment and management, said Jane Gilson, director of marketing for the Mobile & Embedded Devices Division at Microsoft.
Wincor Nixdorf also has introduced StoreForward, a comprehensive product suite for GMS/Specialty retailers, in conjunction with Sun Microsystems. StoreForward for Grocery was released in February, with the same benefits and segment-specific products.
StoreForward combines Wincor Nixdorf's vision of in-store systems functionality with Sun Microsystems' network computing infrastructure to offer a fully integrated, end-to-end solution for retailers.
Wincor's StoreForward solution includes StoreForward POS software; StoreForward Interactive software; thin-client BEETLE POS hardware; the BEETLE /iScan self checkout system; self-service kiosks; industry standards-based x64 server hardware and Sun Java Enterprise System software; and service and support, including 4690 migration services from Wincor Nixdorf.
Through StoreForward, retailers can gain a competitive advantage by implementing the right mix of products, services and infrastructure. StoreForward allows retailers to turn their store systems into performing assets, said Doug Evans, vice president of Wincor Nixdorf USA. By expanding the store and enabling highest-touch interaction with the customer, StoreForward creates more opportunities for profit and simplifies store optimization.
Networked solutions are creating a revolution in Retail. Retailers are gaining a competitive edge by connecting all customer touchpoints to create a compelling experience in their stores. StoreForward provides this competitive advantage to retailers while reducing the cost of store systems, said Michael Green, global vice president, retail industry, Sun Microsystems.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.