We were happy to see the latest food locker for pickup iteration from Apex for food pickup (Applebees). New enterprise person is Zak Bertram (ex-Grubby). We first ran into Apex in 2021 when they launched food pickup lockers for college campuses. Not too long later, all the little robot delivery automation came. Remember those? The pickup locker picture is from Long Island circa 2025.
We haven’t looked at Starship recently (robots designed to deliver hot food, groceries, and industrial supplies. They utilize a combination of radars, cameras, sensors, and machine learning to navigate and identify objects, ensuring efficient delivery.)
Panasonic generally tries to do everything but nothing in particular very well, or they lose interest if insufficient sales volume). Maybe they resurrect lockers once buzz hits certain threshold.
Nice article by QSR Magazine. Here are the key highlights:
Streamlined Pickup Process: Smart lockers provide a clear option for customers to pick up their orders without interacting directly with staff, enhancing the overall customer experience.
Temperature Control: These lockers keep food at optimal temperatures, ensuring that meals remain fresh and ready for consumption when picked up.
Integration with Delivery Services: Smart lockers integrate with popular delivery platforms like Grubhub and DoorDash, allowing for “seamless” order fulfillment and reducing the chances of mix-ups.
Increased Efficiency: By utilizing smart lockers, restaurants reduce wait times for customers and streamline their operations, allowing staff to focus on food preparation rather than managing pickups. That creates more transactions, faster.
Contactless Experience: In a post-pandemic world, the demand for contactless solutions has surged. Smart lockers cater to this need by minimizing physical interactions during the pickup process.
Cost-Effectiveness: Implementing smart lockers can be a cost-effective solution for restaurants, as they can reduce labor costs associated with managing in-person pickups and improve order accuracy.
This overview highlights how smart lockers transform the restaurant delivery landscape by enhancing convenience, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Those are the keywords and keyphrases being used to describe Food Lockers. Be sure to visit KMA at NRA in Chicago and see Smart Food Fridge vending by RedyRef.
Meanwhile, Apex seems to be moving ahead, and it’s a good time to review.
Exposition of Apex Lockers
Apex Pickup Solutions and related Apex companies are involved in several innovative projects across various industries. Here are the latest updates:
Apex Order Pickup Solutions
Apex Order Pickup Solutions focuses on smart locker systems for seamless order pickup and returns, particularly in foodservice, retail, and campus dining environments. Recent highlights include:
Campus Dining Smart Lockers: Apex has been implementing automated food lockers in colleges and universities to streamline mobile order pickup. These lockers reduce wait times to 10 seconds, eliminate missing orders, and improve efficiency for campus dining teams24.
24/7 Pickup Lockers: Apex introduced 24/7 smart lockers at Behler-Young locations in Grand Rapids and KDC, allowing customers to retrieve orders anytime with a unique access code2.
Airport Food Lockers: Airports have adopted Apex Smart Food Lockers for fast, secure food order pickups, enhancing traveler convenience4.
ApexIQ™ Software: The company leverages its proprietary ApexIQ software to optimize labor efficiency, throughput, and customer experiences through real-time data insights5.
Apex Warehouse Systems
Apex Warehouse Systems has completed several high-profile projects aimed at optimizing warehouse functionality:
ASRS Pallet Shuttle Installation: A semi-automated system was installed for a food products manufacturer, providing 70% more storage than standard racking1.
Furniture Distribution Center Consolidation: Three distribution centers were merged into one efficient facility to streamline operations for a furniture company1.
Cold Storage Solutions: Apex developed underground selective and drive-in racks for high-volume cold storage warehouses1.
New Distribution Center in Salt Lake City: Phase one of a major consumer goods distribution center was completed to serve as a hub for optimized inventory control and order processing1.
Apex Waste Solutions
In Colorado, Apex Waste Solutions has been working on integrating waste services following its acquisition of Waste Management and Twin Enviro Services. Key developments include:
Upgraded Recycling Facilities: Expansion of the Milner Landfill materials recovery facility to handle higher recycling volumes efficiently3.
Community Recycling Services: Offering single-stream recycling with sorting into marketable categories for glass, cardboard, and paper across Routt County3.
These projects demonstrate Apex’s commitment to innovation across logistics, order pickup technology, warehousing, and waste management.
Sponsored (Paid For) APEX Content and what they say
Zak Bertram Pitch on Linkedin
here are three distinct phases in the digital ordering lifecycle:
🔷 The initial customer engagement (placing the order) – restaurants invest heavily in this element by incorporating 1st party online ordering, optimizing menus for self-service, tying in customer loyalty/rewards programs, and boosting visibility on 3rd party delivery apps. The result is that customers feel compelled to take action and place an order.
🔷 The order fulfillment (preparing the order) – while technology such as KDS and kitchen robotics play a role here, the heavy lift is done by the back of house staff. The kitchen team takes the order, no matter which channel it is from, and does what they do best; prepare exceptional meals that meet the expectations of the customer, while accounting for factors such as promised time.
🔷 The final customer engagement (picking up the order) – the work has been completed and verified by the expo; what happens to the order now? Does it sit in the kitchen, awaiting a customer to connect with a staff member who can provide assistance? Does it sit on a shelf, allowing for the opportunity for a customer to leave with the incorrect order? Does it bounce around from employee to employee, leading to friction and frustration among the restaurant staff? None of these are particular appealing outcomes for the restaurant or the customer.
Digital ordering is a major investment for restaurants; but it comes with a major payoff. According to the 2025 State of Digital from Qu, 40% of brands say first-party digital ordering will drive the most growth in 2025.
Don’t risk your investment in digital ordering by leaving successful order pickup to chance – smart pickup solutions are the key to completing the successful digital ordering journey.
Article Pitch
The article titled “Increase Loyalty and Profits Through Smarter Pickup“ discusses how restaurants can enhance customer loyalty and profitability by optimizing their pickup processes. Here are the key highlights:
Key Insights
Integration of Loyalty Incentives:
The article emphasizes the importance of integrating loyalty programs directly into the pickup experience. This creates a rewarding interaction for customers, encouraging repeat visits.
Streamlined Pickup Process:
A smarter pickup system can significantly reduce wait times and improve customer satisfaction. By utilizing technology, restaurants can ensure that orders are ready when customers arrive, enhancing the overall experience.
Data Utilization:
Leveraging customer data allows restaurants to personalize the pickup experience. Understanding customer preferences can lead to tailored promotions and offers, further driving loyalty.
Operational Efficiency:
Implementing smarter pickup solutions can lead to better operational efficiency. This includes optimizing staff workflows and reducing errors in order fulfillment, which can ultimately increase profitability.
Customer Engagement:
Engaging customers through targeted communications and promotions during the pickup process can enhance their experience and encourage them to return.
Conclusion
The article concludes that by focusing on smarter pickup strategies, restaurants can not only improve customer loyalty but also boost their profits. The integration of technology and loyalty incentives plays a crucial role in achieving these goals.
How popular are food pickup lockers becoming. What is market size?
Food pickup lockers are becoming increasingly popular as consumers prioritize convenience, safety, and efficiency in food delivery and storage. This trend is fueled by technological advancements, urbanization, and shifting consumer preferences. Here’s an overview of their popularity and market size:
Popularity of Food Pickup Lockers
Consumer Demand for Convenience:
Food lockers allow customers to retrieve orders at their convenience, bypassing queues and avoiding direct contact with delivery personnel, which aligns with modern lifestyles58.
Contactless delivery has become a key driver post-pandemic, with nearly 70% of consumers preferring such options15.
Technological Integration:
Smart food lockers incorporate IoT sensors, mobile apps, and temperature control systems to ensure food freshness and ease of use179.
Integration with food delivery platforms further streamlines the process for consumers and businesses28.
Expansion Across Sectors:
Food lockers are increasingly used in high-traffic areas like grocery stores, workplaces, residential complexes, and hospitals25.
Specialized lockers cater to dietary preferences such as organic or gluten-free foods, appealing to niche markets1.
Sustainability:
Many companies are adopting eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs for lockers to attract environmentally conscious consumers17.
Market Size
Global Growth:
The smart food locker market was valued at $450 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $1.2 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 12.5%7.
The broader smart food delivery locker market is expected to grow from $1.2 billion in 2024 to $3.5 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 12.5%6.
Regional Insights:
North America dominates the market due to technological advancements and widespread adoption in urban areas29.
Asia-Pacific is experiencing rapid growth with a CAGR exceeding 15%, driven by urbanization and demand for convenient solutions in cities like Tokyo and Shanghai14.
Segment-Specific Growth:
Grocery lockers in retail are projected to grow from $140.6 million in 2024 to $200.12 million by 2033 at a CAGR of 4%3.
Smart fresh food lockers designed for preserving perishable items are also gaining traction as consumer focus on health and safety increases7.
The growing adoption of food lockers reflects a significant shift toward convenience-driven solutions in the food industry, supported by technological innovation and evolving consumer behaviors. This market is poised for substantial growth over the next decade.
Founder and Principal CEO of Deployment Logix, a Nationwide Installation Company specializing in large scale rollouts of Kiosks, Retail , ATMs and other banking equipment.
An article on kiosk deployment by Ken Rogers – Principal/General Manager – Deployment Logix Inc.
At Kiosk Information Systems, we couldn’t agree more with the insights of this article on the complexities of kiosk deployments. As a leader in the self-service kiosk industry, we know that successful deployment isn’t just about installing hardware, it is about ensuring that every step of the process, from planning to execution, is meticulously considered.
The emphasis on the importance of a strategic approach resonates with our core values to create seamless, user-friendly self-service solutions. We appreciate the article’s practical advice and always welcome more discussions that help elevate our industry and drive long-term value for clients.
March 2025
The Rollout Chronicles
Foreword
With over 34 years of deployments at my back in both the ATM and Kiosk spaces, I have decided to share the Deployment Logix recipe and best practices for large-scale rollouts with my industry peers and the “Deployer” community. In these Chronicles, I will take you through the 10 steps of building your deployment plan, including the specifics of what questions you should be asking. If you are a seasoned pro, you should recognize much of this material, but if you are still coming up in the installation business, or you’re a young company that has never deployed on a large or national scale, or you have experienced less than successful rollouts in the past, then pay close attention as this information is specifically for you. I hope that you’ll find The Rollout Chronicles useful in getting your next rollout off on the right track. If you’re not specifically in the “Kiosk” Deployment business, you should find that most of the elements outlined in The Chronicles will translate to your product or technology. See my contact information at the end for questions and comments.
Volume 1 – Kiosk Deployment Scope of Work Documents
Every good project has to start with an “SOW”. (Scope of Work document). It’s the platform on which all details reside, all pricing is calculated and all exceptions are measured. If you are the entity deploying your own technology (the Deployer), work closely with your installer to develop a comprehensive SOW. Whether manufacturing or outsourcing your manufacturing, the deployment SOW picks up where the manufacturing SOW ends. Most likely, at the manufacturer’s loading dock. Everything from that point WILL impact the deployment in various ways. Installation throughput, schedules, logistics and pricing to be specific. If you work with high volumes and short deployment windows, your manufacturing schedule will become part and parcel of your installation schedule.
If your delivery locations are fixed and finite, it’s an easier task to determine your schedules and pricing. If your sales team is concurrently adding locations while installations are ongoing, then be prepared for schedules to change as your priorities shift and pricing fluctuates if economies of scale are disrupted. (More about this in the Pricing Strategies section).
Many other seemingly small details will play greatly in the deployment SOW. Examples include: Are your Kiosks all identical? Will each one be site specific? This will determine how units are shipped, how they are received, how they are scheduled, how the truck is loaded and will factor into how much you will pay to install them. Are the kiosks pre-programmed for specific sites? Same results as above. Are there add-ons for specific (or all) sites? These might include marketing panels, toppers, or other signage, or security devices to be used in high-risk locations. All of these options need to be identified and documented in the SOW.
Detail all the on-site expectations. What and how much communication is expected with the host locations? Pre-call, check in, etc. Will the placement position at the host site be cleared and accessible on the scheduled installation day, and what if it’s not?
Will there be working electrical outlets available in proximity to the placement position? Will the unit be anchored? Will it be brought “live”? Is there a test process that the Installer will perform? Will there be required communication between the Installer and the Deployer? How many and what photos should be captured upon completion of each installation? What data should be collected for each task? Will a site survey be performed prior to installation for each site? Will there be debris that needs to be removed from the site? What hours can installation work be performed? Can work be performed on weekends? Are there any black-out dates? What are the set “installation Window” dates? Are there any “Legacy” units or other items existing on site that need to be removed? (Swaps). If so, what is to happen with the removed units? The answers to all of these questions will impact the on-site time and in turn, the schedule and prices.
These are the most common basic questions that need to be answered, but not all of them. The complexity of your technology, or the restrictive nature of your customer’s “host locations”, can create more project specific tasks that need to be addressed. Let the Installation Vendor bidding on your project spend ample time with the technology, and be clear about your customer’s restrictions and expectations before asking them to provide any schedules or prices.
I want to pay particular attention to projects working with government entities and large institutional rollouts. The concerns with these groups are: delays, reschedules and cancellations. If you’ve been in this industry for any significant amount of time, you’ve probably worked on a project that has been placed on hold. The hold can be days, weeks or indefinitely. Meanwhile there is Work In Progress (WIP). Who is responsible to cover these costs? There may be units in transit and units in storage. Your installation vendor has most likely turned away days, weeks or longer of other work to commit to your project. Those canceled dates may be impossible to back-fill on short notice. This is a contingency that, as a Deployer, you would be well advised to work out contractually with your customer beforehand. Define a daily penalty rate for each day the project is on hold for anything that is out of your control other than weather, war or acts of God. Likewise, negotiate the terms of cancellation should the project cancel altogether. Experienced installation vendors may ask for a compensation schedule to be included in the SOW and what elements would trigger those charges.
As the installation SOW is completed for each site, it should be billed promptly. Don’t forget to add the agreed-upon payment terms in the SOW along with an acceptable billing schedule and elements that should be included in the invoice. Will billable units be identified by unit serial number, location ID or some other unique identifier?
It takes all stakeholders input to develop a comprehensive SOW. The more detailed your SOW, the fewer exceptions you’ll deal with mid-stream.
The SOW is the main factor. If you do not successfully include all the elements that will impact costs, then you’re sure to see “Out of Scope” charges. These Out of Scope charges can be Budget Busters. Un-forecasted expenses that will negatively hit your bottom line. I’ll stress one more time the importance of working closely with your installation partner to diligently walk through the installation process. Confirm with all other stakeholders that they agree that all their concerns are covered.
A side note to newer deployers: The “Pick 2 of 3 Rule” applies to selecting the best Installation Vendor choice for your project. That is…. Quality Work, Preferred Scheduling, Low Pricing. Pick the two most important to you.
Volume 2 – Pricing Strategies
The five basic building blocks of pricing, for every rollout project should include:
Scope of Work details
Schedules
Installation locations
Regional densities
Volume
We discussed firm schedules and moving targets earlier and will touch more on that in the Schedule section. The pricing structure can be firm if the schedule is firm but otherwise you should expect flexible pricing if the above building blocks are fluid. As a Deployer, if you are working with an “evergreen” project, you have options to minimize pricing spikes. This would be through proper selection of your installation partner. Nationwide installation vendors are not all structured the same. Some have a centralized logistics model where all units are dispatched through a single location. Others have multiple distribution hubs that can help dampen the effects of a floating schedule. Example: Current schedule has 15 units scheduled for installation in Kansas City MO. Next month it will have 5 units scheduled. An installation vendor with a hub in KCMO can handle those with little to no price spike while a centralized vendor’s price will always depend on volume and distance traveled. Always best to align with vendors that can execute on a local basis. While no one installation vendor has a Distribution Center (DC) in every market, some are better equipped to minimize “remote sites” than others. For a regional rollout, it’s easy to partner with a vendor who is strong in that region. For a nationwide rollout, it’s more important to see how the regional density matches up with your potential installation vendor’s footprint.
I have found in most cases the high density regions turn out to be cities in California, Florida, Texas, New York, Massachusetts, Virginia (DC area) and Illinois. A nationwide vendor that covers at least these regions should be more price competitive although every vendor will have some volume of remote location pricing.
It’s the volume that makes a project appealing but you should know that high volume doesn’t always translate into lower per unit installation prices and here’s why. For an installation vendor, the costs of running a truck and crew start fresh each day. The volume helps only as far as it is allowed to impact each crew, for each day. If the installer can install 5 units in one day per crew vs. 4 in the same time, that creates a cost savings and therefore a price cut opportunity. So it’s the SOW, the schedule and the locations, (and not as much the volume), that play a primary role in determining price. For regional rollouts, the volume can be more impactful on the price as this generally allows more installations per crew each working day.
Each of these building blocks will weigh either positively or negatively on pricing. For Deployers, it’s important to accept the fact that your installation partner needs to make a reasonable profit on the work they do for you. If you are successful in negotiating their profits away, you are setting your project up for failure. As an installation vendor, if you do not properly quote….. (quote too low, omit or disregard scope elements), you will struggle to meet your commitments and cause harm to your brand. It’s better to pass on a project than to lose money on it. Both parties should strive to create a long lasting partnership that can carry your kiosks or other technology solutions through their life cycle.
There is abundant work out there for good installation vendors but many of the bigger customers pay slowly. My tip: Try negotiating higher prices down by offering quicker payment terms like Net-10 or Net-15 days on weekly billing.
Volume 3 – Logistics Planning
Logistics planning really starts in the engineering process. Think about how your kiosk or other technology will ship from the manufacturer. If it’s a kiosk, it will most likely ship on a pallet. Now think about what size pallet you will specify. The pallet has to be large enough to prevent the kiosk from tipping over in the truck but small enough to maximize the amount that can fit into a 53’ trailer. It doesn’t stop there either. You have to consider how the pallet will be constructed, (solid top or slatted). Do you need shock-absorbing materials incorporated into the pallet? Also, how will the kiosk be anchored to the pallet? If your kiosk has anchor holes, you can utilize those for bolting it down to a solid top pallet. When using a slatted pallet, the slats might not line up with your anchor holes and banding may be your method to secure the kiosk. Finally, will you be adding a cardboard box or bubble wrap to add a level of protection for your kiosk? Your decisions here will bleed into the SOW, hence the Installation Vendor’s pricing.
Your shipping options now will include Full Truckload (FTL), or Less than Truckload (LTL) which can also include general freight carriers that will ship single units, (as long as they are palletized). For large-scale rollouts with aggressive manufacturing schedules, FTL is the most cost-effective option if your volume and density will support that. Otherwise you can plan for multi-stop truckloads and LTL shipments. On a side note, ”Damage in Transit” is much more prevalent at the general freight carrier level due to the amount of on/off loading activity your product sees on the course of its journey. FTL has the least amount of damage within these shipping choices.
Based on your installation partner’s process, and your volume and density, you could be shipping all inventory directly to an installer’s hub, or creating shipments to multiple hubs for local delivery and installation. Some deployers ship single units directly to the host locations and have an installer meet the unit on site. In some cases (depending on the host’s facility), this may be a workable option but in my experience, there are too many missed appointments, too much damage and too many refused shipments for this to work for a large scale project.
If you have signage products, all the same comments apply. If your project is a swap scenario, you will have reverse logistics plans to consider. If you are keeping inventory in the field for expedited installations, you may have storage fees and inventory management tasks. Your Installation Vendor should manage and track any inventory they are holding. I suggest moving units in FTL quantities to your highest volume regions and multi stop shipments to the smaller volume regions.
Your project could grow to have a Move-Add-Change element, (MAC). In the course of your ongoing project you may recognize non productive and/or high risk locations. You will want your vendor to have the capability to remove kiosks, hold them, and then re-install them at alternate locations. They may have to re-palletize the unit and ship it to another region for installation so always have them save some of the original pallets in each warehouse. Consider MAC activity in your SOW and pricing.
Interestingly, we have found that we touch each kiosk we install (on average), three times or more with MAC and removal activity.
Volume 4 – Scheduling
As the Deployer, the more you allow the host sites, (your customers) to control the schedule, the more costly the installations will be. The more freedom you give to your installation partner to develop the schedules, the more cost savings you will enjoy. Get your “Beta Sites” in and “proved” as works best for you but at the same time, hand over the general locations list to your vendor and let them build the schedule with as little input from you or the customer as possible. You should expect your Installation Partner to create a full schedule and routing.
Remote locations should be peppered into the routes as best determined by the installation vendor. On many occasions, your vendor will get other work in those areas. Let them know you will be flexible on remote sites if they will discount the pricing when “remotes” can be paired with work from others.
For installations in Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico: These installations will be costly and take additional time. The most cost-effective way to get your products to these locations is by ship, and we are at the mercy of the sailing schedules. To protect your equipment from the elements, it’s always best to have the units crated when shipping to these destinations. Air freight is costly and prone to damage as most kiosks will get laid down for shipping. I do not recommend air freight.
If there is flexibility in the creation of the schedule, keep in mind that weather is going to play a big part in the on-time execution of it. Try to avoid winter months in the Northeast, Northern states and Alaska. Avoid the summer months in Florida, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Travel costs can also affect specific regions during certain times. Whenever possible, be mindful of these potential scheduling snafus.
An agreed upon “on-site time window” is another key to the scheduling. Try to negotiate as much flexibility as possible with the hosts. Certain types of hosts have special demands. Mall locations, for instance, ask that you be there before and after open hours. We have had some success in broadening that window allowing us to install more units per day. Adding evenings and Saturdays will allow your installation partner to more effectively schedule remote sites and locations with long drives. It’s always good to have additional recovery time available when weather or truck problems arise.
Most retailers have “Blackout” dates. Confirm those prior to scheduling. For Installers, hold some of your local installs for those short weeks to minimize long drives during heavy traffic and paying overtime to your crews for working on the holidays.
Finally, customers (the host locations), sometimes like to be unrealistic by making the project “start/finish” window too narrow. It’s the Deployer’s responsibility to keep them in check. As mentioned in the beginning of this section, the less influence they have on the schedule, the more cost effective your rollout will be.
Volume 5 – Site Surveys
Not every rollout requires a site survey, but if the placement positions vary at all your host locations then your project is a good candidate. The basic goal of the site survey is to confirm the placement position, make sure there is proper working electrical available in proximity, and that you will not impede ADA requirements. Additionally, you should confirm your kiosk is positioned in a high visibility location and not hidden away from potential customer activity. There are several ways to facilitate the Site Survey process:
Have your installation partner visit each site prior to the scheduled install date.
Have a low tech 3rd party vendor handle the task.
Ask the host locations to take photos of the planned placement position, check the xxxxxxelectrical, capture some measurements and text you back the desired information.
Option 1 may be your best bet if the SOW is complex, the equipment has specific dimensional requirements, or there are multiple pieces of equipment to install. If the equipment and scope are both straightforward and option 3 is NOT a workable scenario, then option 2 might be the way to go. The key here is capturing the survey results and the ability to share that information easily and timely. I found that providing all stakeholders access to a cloud-based database has been the best format to use.
Surveys can be as simple or as detailed as you need them to be but remember, it costs the same to get there either way.
Volume 6 – Delivery/Install
Choosing the right delivery/installation model is very important if you are deploying a large nationwide rollout. There are three general vendor models that will determine how your installations will be handled. Some of this information was covered earlier in the Logistics Planning section.
The Moving and Storage Industry has mostly adopted the ” Centralized ” system and is driven by different large agents with affiliates in many geographic markets. Typically, the agent will have all units shipped to their own warehouse(s) and ship them out to be delivered by moving and storage long-haul drivers. Once at site, they will either use the line driver or a local agent to complete the installation. In my experience, this model provides the most risk for schedule slippage and inconsistency (in following the installation procedures). Keep in mind that if you are using a “Moving Company” to handle your installs, you also run the risk of getting de-prioritized during the peak summer moving months as that is their prime high income opportunity.
Another version of the Centralized system is the “one-off” freight forward model. This is more applicable to Deployers that maintain their own warehouse and as I stated earlier, this method is limited to projects with very specific host sites that can receive a pallet and store it for up to a week at a time The host site receives the unit and it is stored on-site (on its pallet). Upon confirmation of receipt, a local installer is dispatched to the site, removing the kiosk from its pallet and completing the installation SOW. Also noteworthy, if the host location does not have a dock high door and a pallet jack or forklift, the shipment must be booked as an “inside delivery”. The downside of this is the additional cost of transportation. Inside delivery means the carrier is responsible for scheduling the delivery on a truck with a lift-gate. The driver is responsible for getting the pallet inside. I have seen many cases where the pallet will not fit through the door and the driver either leaves the unit in the parking lot or the host will deny the shipment. The issues can stack up like dominoes so be extra cautious if you consider this model for your rollout.
The “Regional” installation model typically consists of a vendor who is dedicated to the installation business. Crews have the training, equipment and experience to install various kiosks, signage, banking and other technology products. They have local warehouses to cover the region(s) they serve and would also support remote locations adjacent to their market. The regional model might be a good option if all your installs fall within a specific area. If you are using a Regional installer for a nationwide rollout, you will yield a high level of remotely priced locations and an abundance of subcontracted work (which usually provides inconsistent results).
The “Nationwide” installation model is like having a unified network of regional installers and the single relationship benefits of centralized project management, pricing and billing. The best of both worlds. Your Installation Partner will have DC’s in all the major market areas. Based on the schedule, shipments will be routed directly to their DCs for future installations. Local installation crews will deliver and install the units following the SOW. As with all delivery models, the installer will handle the bring-live and testing, then capture the data and photos to upload into the database. The unit is cleaned, any badging or signage is added and the debris is removed. For the nationwide model (and the regional model), the same crew would typically move on to the next scheduled site.
From the Installer’s perspective, the typical process looks like this:
Trucks are loaded the night before (for the day or week).
The inventory is scanned out of the warehouse.
The load is inspected making sure all units are secure in the truck.
Confirmation that all necessary piece parts and supplies are on board.
On delivery day, follow prescribed schedule and routing.
Install all scheduled units as per the SOW.
Collect any debris and wipe down the kiosk.
Complete “bring-live”, testing and data/photo uploading (for Deployer viewing).
Move on to subsequent sites per schedule.
The Project Management staff is the conduit between the field installers and the Rollout Team. A good plan will minimize the amount of required communication but, the “PM” must always be readily accessible to the field with the ultimate goal of reducing down time when out of scope issues arise. This is key to staying on schedule.
Volume 7 – Bring-Live & Host Training
Today, most deployers expect the installation partner to leave the installed kiosk in “production mode”. It’s common for the Deployer to have a “test screen” engineered into the bring-live process. Often the installers will need to have a personal account or a test account set up to test the functionality of all the kiosk features. That could include testing a camera, a scanner, a card reader, a printer, a bill acceptor or a bill recycler. Once the features are tested and a test transaction has been completed, the installer will place the unit into its operational or production mode.
Occasionally some host sites may need to be trained in basic troubleshooting, changing receipt paper or other defined tasks. The installer will walk the host through the process as defined in the SOW.
A good installation partner (in most cases), should be the only resource needed on site to complete an installation.
Volume 8 – Consistency
For a national rollout your installation partner can’t be great in a few regions and poor in others. A good partner has to be great in every market. The last thing you want to hear is that your installer is on the phone with Tech Support saying “this is my first time installing one of these units”.
As an installation vendor, you need to invest in the upfront training in every region your project covers. Consistency in quality is the key to your success. Before the project’s start day, you should have dissected the complete SOW into a short version specifically for your Installers and the Project Management staff. The short form SOW needs to travel with the installers to each site. Along with defining the tasks specific to the installers, it should have any known troubleshooting notes and any project-related contact numbers. For most of my major rollouts, I have provided in-warehouse training and on-site training on each crew’s first day of installs. Though expensive, it has always gotten our projects off to a drama-free start. I highly suggest you follow this tactic.
As a Deployer of technology, when you are interviewing potential installation partners, ask them to outline their process for providing consistent results throughout your footprint. How will each installer be trained? Will each installer be required to read the SOW before engaging? Will they be using subcontractors outside of their normal network?
One last thing on consistency……communicate to everyone on your team the depth of the opportunity and your commitment to creating this new partnership with your customer. Their “buy-in” to the project goals will greatly improve your chances of turning a one-off customer into a valuable long-term relationship.
Volume 9 – Documentation
In the SOW, you and your installation partner will agree on post installation delivery of collected data, photos and exceptions. It’s important to include access to all stakeholders so that all parties receive the data they need to better the technology and the process. As an installer, you will also be safeguarding your brand and your customer relationships. The documentation is an important tool that can and should:
Track the success of each scheduled task.
Illuminate trends for any failures in the technology or the process.
Verify the correct placement and branding for each installed unit.
Document how the unit looked after installation. (Correct screen, branding, clean).
Verify that all tests were completed successfully.
Add any additional requests to capture the photos that are important for you and any other data needed. This can include technology-related, site-related, or schedule-related elements.
Decide and agree on how and at what stages of the installation process that information will be collected. Do you want/need “before” installation photos, (of the placement site), as well as “after” installation photos? How many photos and from what angles? Will specific screenshots be required? What questions do you want each installer to answer prior to their departure from each site? How will this data be communicated to the Deployer? Will you have a cloud-based site you can monitor? Will the information be text or email-based? When will you receive the data? Real time? Hourly? Daily? Reported weekly via spreadsheets?
You will find that the quantity and quality of the data, as well as the format and timeliness of its availability, are of great value and should be weighted appropriately in selecting your installation partner. Consider the documentation platform as your Project Metrics for success or failure. The sooner you can identify the issues, the sooner they can be rectified.
Dashboards have become commonplace in our industry and can provide a very efficient way for Deployers and Installation Partners to present selected information. The Deployer or the Installer can own the platform that creates the reports and dashboards. Permissions can be granted to any party responsible for populating the database. In many cases, multiple stakeholders associated with the Deployer need to see and monitor progress. Your Dashboard can be designed to include a variety of reports that focus on the needs of all parties. Standard reports can consist of but are not limited to:
Failure reports.
Upcoming schedules.
Site Survey status.
Installation Status.
Issues reports.
Budget information.
Inventory Information.
Shipping Information.
Billing status.
Different stakeholders may not be authorized to receive and view specific reports. Each report can be “pushed” to all, or only parties that have been assigned permission to receive them. Multiple dashboards can be generated for the various stakeholder groups to ensure they are only seeing the information they are authorized to see. This can often include the end customer.
Volume 10 – Invoicing
Best Invoicing practices are often left out of the SOW discussion but are very important to the harmony of the relationship. Negotiate the terms and invoicing frequency up front so that each party can clearly understand their cash flow issues. If funding for the project is tight, then a longer scheduling window may be helpful to minimize the cash burn for any one billing cycle. If the payment terms are long, (30 days or more), the Installation Partner is more likely to invoice daily to keep cash flowing in to support the project. Here are some “truths” that each party needs to consider:
It’s expensive to perform project Installation work. Direct expenses are high and much of the logistics world expects payment in 10 days.
Bigger projects with short schedules cause the Installation Partner to act as a “Bank”, funding much of the projects ‘ up-front expenses.
Good installation vendors are always in demand. If you want to successfully compete with other project opportunities they may have…….pay fast.
A project that pays in Net-10 days can be more appealing than a slow-paying project paying higher rates.
Finally, agree on what should be included in every invoice. For the accounting staff, define the standard identifiers. Are we tracking location names, site numbers, machine numbers or host addresses for payment triggers? Everyone needs to get on the same page so invoices can be processed quickly. What, if any, backup reports are required? Inventory reports? Who is to receive the invoices? What is the agreed-upon invoicing frequency? Daily? Weekly? As mentioned at the start of this volume, negotiate these details before your first invoice goes out.
The Rollout Chronicles
A framework for successful kiosk rollouts
I have shared with you what I believe are the 10 most important elements of creating a successful rollout plan. Thank you for reading The Rollout Chronicles. I hope you have found this information helpful. If you have comments or questions, please feel free to contact me at: [email protected]
About Deployment Logix:
Deployment Logix is a true Nationwide Installation Vendor focusing on large scale rollouts of Kiosk and other technologies designed for consumer use in the retail, banking, campus and other commercial spaces. Please contact me for a quote or help in creating a Rollout Plan, review and advise on product installability and/or advise on scheduling, pricing, and logistics.
Additionally, I consult Installation vendors seeking to build, grow, update your business model or prepare your entity for M&A activity.
Click for full size — The McDonalds-type self-service kiosk features a vibrant touchscreen showcasing an ad for Mango Pie. With illuminated edges, it stands against a brick and tiled wall. Convenient payment options, including cash and coin, are available right below the screen.
We are impressed with the new cash and coin self-order kiosk from Acrelec and Glory. Good note and coin capacity and reasonably fast.
Benefits of Offering Cash and Coin Transactions at Fast Food Kiosks
Inclusivity and Accessibility
Accepting cash and coins ensures that all customers, including the unbanked and underbanked, can make purchases. Millions of people globally do not have access to credit cards or digital payment methods, and removing cash options can alienate or exclude these customers, particularly lower-income individuals and families24.
Cash payments are also important for those who prefer to use cash for budgeting, privacy, or teaching children about money management2.
Customer Convenience and Satisfaction
Kiosks that accept both cash and electronic payments provide greater flexibility, allowing customers to choose their preferred payment method. This leads to a smoother, more inclusive checkout experience and reduces the likelihood of lost sales due to payment limitations19.
Cash-accepting kiosks can reduce wait times and streamline the ordering process, as customers do not need to queue separately for cash transactions at a staffed register45.
Providing a seamless, end-to-end self-service experience for cash customers increases customer loyalty and repeat business, as these customers are not penalized with longer lines or additional steps5.
Operational Efficiency and Cost Savings
Self-service kiosks that handle cash reduce the need for dedicated cashiers, allowing staff to be redeployed to higher-value tasks such as food preparation or customer service, which can improve overall efficiency and reduce labor costs47.
Automated cash handling minimizes human error, reduces opportunities for employee theft, and increases security and visibility of cash flow within the business5.
Introducing the Greeter Visitor Management System: The Future of Check-In Efficiency and Security
Managing visitors can be one of the most challenging tasks for any organization—especially when relying on outdated processes like paper logs and manual check-ins. These traditional methods create bottlenecks at your front desk and expose you to security vulnerabilities and compliance risks.
Enter the Greeter Visitor Management System and Advanced Kiosks, a fully automated, plug‐and‐play solution designed to modernize and secure your visitor check-in process. Read on to discover how Greeter transforms the visitor experience, streamlines front desk operations, and enhances overall security.
The Problem with Traditional Visitor Management
Traditional visitor management methods, such as manually signing in on paper logs, are far from ideal:
Paper logs can be lost or misplaced, making it difficult to maintain accurate records.
Manual processes create bottlenecks that delay both visitors and your staff.
Security and compliance risks increase without digital tracking, as incomplete records complicate audits and can expose your organization to vulnerabilities.
The Greeter Visitor Management System is a state-of-the-art, self-service kiosk solution that replaces cumbersome manual processes with an automated, streamlined check-in experience. Designed with today’s security and efficiency challenges in mind, Greeter integrates seamlessly into your workplace to provide:
Automated Check-In: Visitors sign in using a user-friendly touchscreen kiosk. This completely removes the need for paper logs and minimizes human error.
Instant Badge Printing: As soon as visitors sign in, the system prints a customized ID badge. This immediate identification not only speeds up the process but also enhances on-site security.
Real-Time Host Notifications: Your staff is instantly informed when their guest has arrived, ensuring that appointments run smoothly and without delay.
Comprehensive Visitor Logs: Every visitor’s data is automatically recorded in a digital log, making it easy to retrieve information for audits or security reviews.
Customized Interface for Your Needs: Come up with your own information buttons to display anything you’d like on the Greeter Visitor Management System interface, from welcome videos to safety policies.
A Success Story: Utah Housing Authority
A case study cover image featuring the text Salt Lake City, UT Housing Connect Success Story
1 CASE STUDY HOUSING CONNECT IMPROVES COMMUNICATION AND REDUCES COSTS WITH SELF-SERVICE (603) 865-1000 advancedkiosks.com THE CHALLENGE One of the challenges Housing Connect faces in serving residents in Salt
📣 A New Era for ACRELEC We’re proud to unveil the new ACRELEC logo. With 20+ years leading the QSR industry and more than 120,000 installations worldwide, we’re reimagining the way the world engages with restaurants and retail.
Very nice video of new Burger King drive-thru AI ordering and regional updates. Not surprising as it seems the most accomplished of all kiosk providers in the world is ACRELEC (and especially ACRELEC America). Acrelec just rebranded too.
We actually awarded “Best of 2024” to two separate kiosk models (K27). Here is our awards page. ACRELEC might be the smartest acquisition Glory ever makes. The ACRELEC AI Voice article caught our attention. They are very adept at knowing the news pulse.
Insight:The idea of upselling and greater sales without people is fine, but, as a customer, what I really want is a speedier transaction. The concept of “Pre-processing” comes to mind. If providing my loyalty number is only good for getting pitched, then I might NOT provide my loyalty number. How many times does it take calling customer service for them to recognize your number and dispense with the usual “We are experiencing extra time blah blah”, then something about latest whizbang and then they ask you for your phone number? Where is AI when you want it?
Taco Bell talks all the time about AI in the drive-thru. Maybe Wall Street likes hearing that but the local ordering attendant at my brand new Taco Bell CANNOT hear me or me her thru the ultracheap microphone and speaker they use.
With 300 restaurants installed, it might seem odd that there is no single recorded video of it in operation. That is not the case apparently with ACRELEC. See below.
Why Write About Drive Thru AI Voice Order When We can listen to it (At Burger King)?
Here is summary of AI article
“AI is the New Voice at the Drive-Thru – Are You Ready?” discusses the integration of AI-powered voice assistants in fast-food drive-thru systems. Here are the key points:
Enhanced Order Accuracy: AI voice assistants are being implemented to take orders with near-perfect accuracy, significantly improving the customer experience.
Reduced Wait Times: AI technology is designed to streamline the ordering process, leading to shorter wait times for customers.
Modernization of Drive-Thrus: This shift toward AI is part of a broader trend to modernize drive-thru operations, making them more efficient and user-friendly.
Impact on Staff: The introduction of AI may also change the roles of restaurant staff, allowing them to focus on other aspects of customer service while the AI handles order taking.
Consumer Readiness: The article raises questions about how ready consumers are to embrace this technology and the potential implications for the fast-food industry.
This development reflects a significant shift in how fast-food chains leverage technology to enhance service and efficiency.
ACRELEC AI Voice
In a recent article for The AI Journal, ACRELEC US CEO Thibaud Denolle dives into how AI-powered voice ordering is transforming the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry. From improving order accuracy to enhancing customer interactions, AI-driven drive-thrus are no longer the future—they’re happening now. 🚀
With labor shortages and evolving customer expectations, restaurants need technology that delivers both speed and consistency. AI voice ordering is not just an upgrade—it’s a game-changer.
The exhibition booth, adorned with a purple carpet, showcases digital kiosks and screens featuring technology products. Brand logos like AURES Group, EuroCIS, and ACRELEC are prominently displayed, alongside interactive displays highlighting AI Voice Ordering and a brochure stand.
¡Acercaos a nuestro stand en el pabellón 4, F664 y os mostraremos todos los equipos que hemos traído a la feria!
Agradecemos a todos los que os habéis pasado a visitarnos, para compartir ideas y poder enseñaros las distintas soluciones de ACRELEC y GLORY!. Si aún no lo has hecho, ¡te esperamos en nuestro stand!
Two ACRELEC self-service kiosks sit against a colorful brick wall. The left kiosk features a digital menu, while the right screen presents drink options with Whats your flavor?—highlighting cocktails and kids drinks—enhanced by AI Voice Ordering for a seamless experience.
The SSP Unit in The Mezz at Terminal 2, Dublin Airport features ACRELEC cutting-edge technology, bringing a revolutionary dining experience to travellers. ✈️
🍽️ Four Kitchens in One: ACRELEC‘s custom software brings a unique concept to airport dining, allowing customers to explore and order from four diverse menus, all from a single kiosk. Whatever your pre-flight craving, we’ve made it simple and got you covered!
💡 A Seamless Ordering Experience: With ACRELEC‘s K27 Kiosks, customers can view all menus and place orders effortlessly. The integrated cash recycler from GLORY ensures a smooth and secure transaction every time.
🔧 State-of-the-Art Hardware and Software: The combination of ACRELEC‘s advanced software and robust K27 Kiosks guarantees a reliable and efficient service, enhancing the customers overall dining experience.
Join us at The Mezz and experience the ease and future of airport dining!🍴
Three images depict a brightly lit fast-food restaurant with self-service kiosks featuring large touchscreens and ACRELEC AI Voice technology. Branded kiosks offer menu options for ordering, and customers can choose payment methods like cash, card, or mobile.
ACRELEC MALLORCA
Airport visits to Palma de Mallorca & Ibiza to get ready for summer peak season ☀️✈️ (PMI) (IBZ)
Fantastic airports, outstanding SSP units, and an impressive digital journey with great potential! It’s great to see digitalization taken to such a great level, with a strong focus on enhancing the entire guest experience.
We have a few final touches to take care of, and then we’ll be ready to maximize sales and value for the summer peak season with Mobile Order, Ordering Kiosks, and Digital Signage. ☀️☀️☀️
A big thank you for your hospitality! Looking forward to an exciting summer season ahead!
Collage of various fast food restaurant interiors and digital menu displays. Images showcase colorful menu boards, ordering kiosks enhanced by ACRELEC AI Voice technology, and seating areas with bright signage, highlighting different meal offerings in a modern setting.
ACRELEC is recognized as a world leader in the kiosk industry, particularly in the self-ordering kiosk market. Here are some key points that support this status:
Market Share and Leadership: ACRELEC holds a significant share of the global self-ordering kiosk market, with a reported 16% of global hardware shipments. This positions them as a leading supplier to major quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC14.
Global Presence and Partnerships: ACRELEC collaborates with prominent brands across various sectors, including SSP in airports, enhancing customer experiences through tailored self-service solutions6. Their technology is used in multiple countries, further solidifying their global influence7.
Innovative Solutions: ACRELEC offers a range of cutting-edge digital solutions, including self-service kiosks, drive-thru systems, and self-checkout products. These solutions are designed to boost efficiency and customer satisfaction, making them a preferred choice for many leading brands57.
Parent Company and Financial Backing: ACRELEC is owned by Glory, a global leader in cash technology solutions, which provides strong financial backing and expertise in cash handling technology35. This partnership enhances ACRELEC’s capabilities in developing kiosks that accept various payment methods, including cash and credit3.
Taco Bell AI Drive Thru News
Taco Bell has frequently discussed its use of AI in drive-thru operations, particularly in recent months. Here are some key instances where Taco Bell has highlighted its AI drive-thru technology:
Expansion Announcement: In July 2024, Yum! Brands announced plans to expand AI voice technology to hundreds of Taco Bell drive-thrus across the U.S. by the end of the year. This was a significant step after successful trials in over 100 locations across 13 states135.
Benefits and Testing: Taco Bell emphasized that AI helps streamline operations, improve order accuracy, reduce wait times, and enhance customer experience. The technology was developed over two years of testing and refinement235.
Employee and Customer Experience: The company highlighted that AI eases team members’ workloads, allowing them to focus on hospitality. It also enables new ways to engage with customers237.
Global Ambitions: Taco Bell aims to implement AI globally, with ongoing tests in KFC locations in Australia57.
Recent Updates: As of November 2024, Taco Bell’s AI drive-thru was operational in 300 U.S. locations, processing over 2 million orders since its pilot began6.
Taco Bell’s leadership has consistently emphasized the role of AI in enhancing both employee and customer experiences, positioning it as a core part of their innovation strategy
We all heard about the settlement with VISA and Mastercard and how consumers would see benefit. Unfortunately that is only a headline, not a fact. Once again Jordan with Reforming Retail breaks the settlement down, and what we find is same old same old (increasing rates). I like his cookies analogy where there are three ingredients: eggs, flour and sugar. After much discussion the cookie manufacturers agree to lower the cost of eggs. But guess what — the flour and sugar are going up.
Get a subscription to Reforming Retail to stay in the know is our advice.
Here’s a Pilot summary of the key points:
20-Year Litigation: discusses a lengthy legal battle involving Visa and Mastercard, accused of operating a duopoly and imposing excessive fees
Settlement Outcome: It highlights that the settlement benefits lawyers more than merchants, with no significant changes for small businesses.
Swipe Fees Data: The article provides data showing a record $160 billion in swipe fees paid by U.S. merchants in 2022, a 16.7% increase from 2021
Fundamental Change Needed: The text argues that without a fundamental restructuring of the payment system, merchants will continue to face unfair fees
The article is critical of the current payment system and suggests that real change is necessary for merchants to benefit.
Here’s your Chat GPT summary of the Visa, Mastercard settlement:
After 20 years of litigation there’s no practical change and merchants will continue to get screwed
The lawyers are the real winners, reaping billions of dollars despite a useless outcome
Visa and Mastercard will continue making unlimited money via non-Interchange fees (i.e. dues and assessments)
Small merchants on flat-rate pricing will see any potential benefit accrue to their processors
Zero practical changes to surcharging despite the lip service
The Visa, Mastercard Settlement Is A Massive Joke And A Waste of Everyone’s Time
After 20 years of litigation, where merchants (rightly) accused Visa and Mastercard of operating a duopoly and extracting limitless fees as they sought fit, a settlement has finally been reached.
The winners?
The lawyers.
In fact, in reading the outcome of the settlement we’re convinced that the plaintiffs’ lawyers knew that their clients weren’t actually going to receive any benefit.
That’s right merchants: after this settlement you can… keepbending over and taking even more from the payments ecosystem.
In no way, shape, or form do merchants win, particularly the “small business” variety for which Visa and Mastercard so arduously fight to protect from… themselves? We never understood their positioning, frankly.
And nor will merchants ever win without a fundamental restructuring of payments as we know it.
Some data:
FACT: Per Nilson Report, in 2022, U.S. merchants paid a record $160 billion in swipe fees. This represents a 16.7% increase in fees from 2021.
FACT: American merchants—retailers, restaurants, contractors and anyone that accept credit cards—pay five times more in swipe fees for the exact same transaction than VISA and Mastercard charge businesses in other countries.
That’s because Visa and Mastercard (and to lesser extent Amex) are utilities, protected by banking and finance laws that ensure that utilities continue to reap tens of billions a year in what is tantamount to EBITDA (the card schemes have no real costs and one only need examine Pix to quantify the expense of both building and maintaining a real-time payment network supporting trillions of dollars in volume; hint, it’s a few million dollars).
Let’s break our discussion/analysis into three buckets.
Interchange “Cap” Does Not Equal Lower Processing Costs
Talk about a con job.
What great collusion from the attorneys on this one.
Plaintiff Attorneys: Okay, so our law firm can’t make billions without something to show for it. What can you offer us?
Defendant Attorneys: Hmm… what if we agree that our clients will lower “Interchange”?
Plaintiff Attorneys: Wait: won’t that affect your client’s revenues? I own a lot of their stock since they’re duopolies with infinite pricing power and I need that to pay from my wife’s 9th rhinoplasty.
Defendant Attorneys: LOLz. Bro, do you even litigate? “Interchange” caps mean nothing! Our clients have dues, assessments, and other fees that they can add to their hearts’ desire to ensure that they keep crushing the quarter so your wife won’t look a day over 77.
Plaintiff Attorneys: Thank you, Jesus!
Defendant Attorneys: Just remember who did you a solid when your firm takes your $2B payday.
Plaintiff Attorneys: Oh, don’t you worry: I’ll definitely be calling my wife’s plastic surgeon to tell him that your wife’s next boob job is on me.
Defendant Attorneys: Perfect. See at our 8 AM tee time tomorrow.
Let’s see if we can’t put this into an easier analogy to follow.
Imagine that you belong to a race of people that must eat cookies to survive.
Cookies have three ingredients: eggs, flour, and sugar.
There are only two cookie manufacturers, and they are very aware that your entice race of people will die without cookies.
And they keep increasing the price of cookies.
Well, some of you cookie-eaters band together and sue the cookie manufacturers.
After much hemming and hawing, the two cookie manufacturers agree to lower the price of eggs.
Your lawyers pat themselves on the back.
But you’re no fool.
You know that there are two other ingredients in the cookies.
Without a guarantee that the flour and sugar will also come down in cost, the cookies might be more expensive.
Not only might, but with near certainty will be more expensive given the history of the cookie manufacturers.
WTF?
Note: we are not anti-capitalists by any stretch of the imagination. Indeed, we are about as pro free-market as one can get. But Visa and Mastercard do NOT operate in a free market, and that is the delusion here.
Visa and Mastercard are free to change non-Interchange fees as they see fit, and we guarantee that they will.
Watch.
There will be no missing earnings despite the optics this settlement might have you believe.
SMB Merchants Get Hosed
Let us tell you a story from 9 years ago.
In a far away land called Europa, the governing bodies looked at the costs of payment acceptance and viewed them as a tax on their constituents (never mind that Europa had a seemingly endless number of other taxes that drove many businesses to establish operations elsewhere).
In 2015 these governing bodies passed a law called PSD2 that included provisions to lower the cost of payments acceptance.
How?
By reducing the cost of interchange, or the amount that the card issuing banks and card schemes take from each card transaction.
But the people working in those governing bodies had never actually had a real job, or they would know better.
Just because one decrees something doesn’t make it so.
The governing bodies had clearly forgotten about mercedem fratibus, colloquially known as merchant acquirers, or to all our readers, payment bros.
This particular group of individuals believe it their God-given responsibility to ensure that merchants receive no such savings from any decree, and that instead those savings end up in their own pockets.
And that’s precisely what transpired.
A European Commission study in 2020 found that the interchange caps redistributed revenues from interchange: merchants saved $1.2B Euros annually, and then merchant acquirers gained $1.2B Euros annually.
The merchants who recognized the savings?
Large, tier 1 merchants that hired their own payment bro consultants.
Back to the US settlement…
Under the agreed-upon guidelines, Visa and Mastercard would reduce swipe rates by at least four basis points (0.04 percentage points) for three years and ensure an average rate that is seven basis points below the current average for five years.
These savings will not reach SMB merchants because their processors are nearly exclusively flat-rate their processing pricing. So instead of their merchants seeing the benefit on an interchange plus pricing model, their merchants are paying a flat, fixed percentage on each transaction, with savings accreting to the processor.
Just like in that magical land of Europa, these processors will see a 7 bps increase in EBITDA.
Not revenue: EBITDA.
As far as this blog’s coverage is concerned, here’s who stands to benefit:
Toast
Square
Shopify
Lightspeed
The math for these guys will be quite compelling. Toast for example, does $126B of GPV. 7 bps on this is $88M.
Of free money.
The Surcharging Changes Do Nothing
There’s a lot of indigestion over surcharging.
Smart consumers hate it. The average consumer who thinks that they’re earning 1% cash back by paying via card is actually losing 3% to pay via card as processors convince more merchants to surcharge.
The card schemes hate it because the above math should, at some point, lead consumers to use alternative payment methods (but Americans are nearly as financially illiterate as merchants).
Payment bros love it. What easier way to make free money than to surcharge?
But those asshole card schemes are capping my surcharge income by decreasing the surcharge limits to 3%. It should be a much more reasonable cap of 3,000,000%.That feels fair for the value I provide.
No shortage of animosity.
And confusion.
That’s because if you actually read the surcharging language in the merchant rules for Visa, Mastercard, and Amex, you’ll find discordance that makes it impermissible to surcharge.
Since this settlement pertains to Visa and Mastercard we need to read the Amex rules:
3.2. Treatment of the American Express Brand
Merchants must not… impose any restrictions, conditions, disadvantages, or fees when the Card is accepted that are not imposed equally on all Other Payment Products, except for electronic funds transfer, or cash and check,
FIS does a great job producing collateral that explains the discordance:
Amex has a non-discrimination policy, but their regulations require imposing equal treatment across all Other Payment products. A payment product is defined as any charge, credit, debit, stored value, prepaid, smart card, account access devices or other payment cards, services or products other than the Card. Since the Amex requirement includes debit and prepaid products and it is against Visa and Mastercard rules to surcharge debit and prepaid products, merchants wishing to charge a surcharge would be considered non-compliant (from an Amex rules perspective) in certain scenarios.
None of the merchant rules make sense because none of the card schemes actually want merchants to surcharge.
In comes this VIsa, Mastercard settlement to confuse surcharging even more… but it’s for absolutely nothing.
Motion for the sake of motion with nothing substantive accomplished.
At least the proposed surcharging language is consistent with the rest of the settlement and is, in itself, a huge joke and waste of everyone’s time.
Borrowing from TSG’s analysis, here are the four main points as the settlement pertains to surcharging:
Brand Level Surcharge Rules on Credit (not Debit) Cards: A brand-level surcharge is one in which the merchant imposes the same surcharge on all of a particular network’s (e.g., Visa’s) credit cards regardless of the issuing bank (e.g., Chase) or the product (e.g., Visa Signature card). Under the Settlement Agreement, a merchant can surcharge all Visa-Branded Credit Cards up to 1% regardless of whether the merchant also surcharges other comparator credit cards that it accepts, e.g., American Express or Discover. Under the Settlement Agreement, a merchant can surcharge all Visa-Branded Credit Cards up to 3% (or the merchant’s cost of acceptance if it is less than 3%), if the merchant either (a) does not accept other comparator credit cards (e.g., American Express or Discover) or (b) does accept those comparator credit cards but also surcharges them in at least the same amount. The same rules apply to surcharging Mastercard-Branded Credit Cards at the brand level.
Product Level Surcharge Rules on Credit (not Debit) Cards: A product-level surcharge is one in which the merchant imposes the same surcharge on all of the network’s (e.g., Visa’s) credit cards of a specific product type, e.g., Visa Signature credit cards, regardless of the issuing bank (e.g., Chase). Under the Settlement Agreement, a merchant can surcharge a particular Visa-Branded Credit Card product up to 1% regardless of whether the merchant also surcharges the comparable products of other comparator credit cards that it accepts (e.g., American Expressor Discover). Under the Settlement Agreement, a merchant can surcharge a particular Visa-Branded Credit Card product up to 3% (or the merchant’s cost of acceptance if it is less than 3%), if the merchant either (a) does not accept other comparator credit cards (e.g., American Express or Discover) or (b) does accept those comparator credit cards but also surcharges their comparable products in at least the same amount. If the merchant cannot readily determine its cost of acceptance of the Visa product at the point-of-sale, before authorization using electronic data, the merchant can consider its cost of acceptance to be 3%. The same rules apply to surcharging Mastercard-Branded Credit Cards at the product level.
Surcharging Visa but not Mastercard, and Vice-Versa: The Settlement Agreement provides that, subject to the rules described above, a merchant may surcharge Visa-Branded Credit Cards (at the brand or product level) but not Mastercard-Branded Credit Cards (at the brand or product level), or surcharge Visa-Branded Credit Cards at one level (brand or product) and surcharge Mastercard-Branded Credit Cards at a different level (brand or product), and vice versa, in any combination.
No-Discounting and Non-Discrimination Rules: Visa and Mastercard will modify their “no discounting” and “non-discrimination” rules to clarify that merchants may offer discounts to their customers at the issuer level, i.e. discounts that vary by the issuing financial institution of the credit or debit card.
In plain English:
You still can’t surcharge more than 3% even if your cost of acceptance is higher than 3% (it happens)
You can’t practically surcharge any card brand (e.g. Visa) more than any other card brand (e.g. Mastercard)
Technically any surcharging is still impermissible if the merchant accepts Amex
So, in effect, no actual benefit to merchants.
Shocker.
This is how absurd this whole thing is.
Imagine you’re in the market to buy a car and you want a lower price.
You: What’s the best you can do on price?
Car dealer: How about I call a random person in India?
You: Huh? What’s that have to do with anything?
Car dealer: I know: I’ll eat a salad for lunch tomorrow!
You: Are you f*cking high? What is wrong with you?
This conversation, in essence, summarizes the entirety of this settlement.
Here’s your Chat GPT summary of the Visa, Mastercard settlement:
After 20 years of litigation there’s no practical change and merchants will continue to get screwed
The lawyers are the real winners, reaping billions of dollars despite a useless outcome
Visa and Mastercard will continue making unlimited money via non-Interchange fees (i.e. dues and assessments)
Small merchants on flat-rate pricing will see any potential benefit accrue to their processors
Zero practical changes to surcharging despite the lip service
Carvana has experienced significant success and growth over the past 12 months, achieving several notable milestones:
Financial Performance — Record Revenue: Carvana reported total revenue of $13.67 billion for the full year 2024, representing a 27% increase year-over-year14.
Profitability: The company achieved its first-ever annual profit, with a net income of $404 million and a 3.0% net income margin for the full year 202414.
Adjusted EBITDA: Carvana reached a record adjusted EBITDA of $1.38 billion with a 10.1% margin, setting an industry-leading benchmark among public automotive retailers14.
Sales Growth — Retail Unit Sales: The company sold 416,348 retail units in 2024, marking a 33% increase compared to the previous year14.
Market Share: Despite its strong growth, Carvana still only holds approximately 1% market share in the used car market, indicating significant potential for further expansion1.
Recent Performance In the fourth quarter of 2024, Carvana demonstrated continued momentum:
Sold 114,379 retail units, a 50% year-over-year increase
Generated revenue of $3.55 billion, up 46% year-over-year
Achieved a net income of $159 million with a 4.5% margin14
Future Outlook
Carvana expects significant growth in both retail units sold and Adjusted EBITDA for 2025, including sequential increases in the first quarter of 202514.
This strong performance over the past 12 months represents a remarkable turnaround for Carvana, positioning the company as a leader in the e-commerce platform for buying and selling used cars
Update 1/23/2024 — One year performance has been pretty good up from 10 to 40 basically. Not anywhere near its former high of 300. In 2024 it has been sliding and it has been shorted. All in all it appears there are some dark clouds on the horizon.
Carvana Vending
Update 2/25/2023 – The slide continues (8 stock price). The operative phrase seems to be “red flags”. While still up this year there is little good news to support as poor earnings just came out and the debt level is too high and high cash burn rate. Link
It wasn’t that long ago the Carvana was all over your TV screen. Here in Denver a large 8-story car vending machine was built, and now sits empty. Local news stations satirize it with “what should we do with it” scenarios. Back in the day it was a revolutionary concept with promises of a big expansion, not a big collapse. Stock price has plummeted from a high of $337 in July of 2021 to a current price of $14.
carvana vending machine stock price
Automated car vending seemed like a good idea (Intellivision, Laserdisc, etc) but then so many promising technologies silently reversed and retreated into the darkness so to speak.
Carvana isn’t quite dead yet but given inflationary pressures, interest rates they are going to likely have to more than the usual cost-cutting measures in order to remain viable.
Video
Excerpt
Just in January, the Wall Street Journal reports Carvana has laid off and let go of more workers and is letting other positions remain open, at the same time as having smaller sales and inventory that doesn’t sell as quickly as it used to. Barron’s reports Carvana admitted to breaking the law in Michigan which resulted in losing the operating license for its sole vending machine site in the state, and Seeking Alpha reports the battle between meme stock punters and the wider market got so volatile that the exchange briefly halted trading in the stock. We’re only two weeks into the new year. So the press launch date in Denver is likely well down the company’s list of priorities. Maybe things will go better with the Professional Pickleball Association, which counts Carvana as the title sponsor since October of last year.
If Carvana had played its cards correctly, it might have been a market monster comparable to Amazon in the U.S. or Alibaba in China. That it didn’t is the problem. Everything was in Carvana’s favor, which only serves to highlight how terrible the result is. During the pandemic, even consumer segments that traditionally were not interested in online retail discovered digital technology. Used car dealers had to close their brick-and-mortar locations. And buyers received stimulus checks they could use as a down payment for a used car. Basically, the entire universe conspired in favor of Carvana, and for a while, it worked.
Carvana’s (CVNA) stock closed 6% higher on Wednesday after soaring as much as 27% during the session, triggering a volatility halt. Shares of the online car retailer, which is at risk of bankruptcy, have gained more than 200% year-to-date amid a recent rally reminiscent of the pandemic-era “meme craze.” Carvana’s stock is heavily shorted, with short interest hovering around 67% of the float. Short sellers have been betting that the unprofitable company’s share price will go down. But when it rises, they are forced to cover their positions by buying the stock back. This creates what’s called a short squeeze. — Link on Yahoo Money
Avoid the Short Squeeze Like The Plague – Motley Fool — Carvana (NYSE: CVNA) stock just experienced a dramatic turnabout. The stock price is up more than 200% since the beginning of the year as investors communicating through Reddit investing boards have again banded together to buy shares of a distressed company in the hopes of inducing a short squeeze.
With Carvana in severe financial straits, buying such a stock brings a significant risk of an eventual wipeout. Investors should understand how the higher stock price could help the company. Still, they should probably see the jump in shares as a cautionary tale rather than an opportunity for a quick return on this retail stock.
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…technology in the Braille Tablet Although there have been many Braille displays, they have typically relied on piezoelectric cells, which made creating a multi-layered display a challenge. Up to this…
CES 2023 Innovation Award for Braille Pioneer Kiosk Industry is happy to note that one of our sponsors recently won two awards at the CES 2023 show. The Dot Pad…
…(much like Japan) and one of their products that has been in development for the last couple of years has been released. Braille Tablet with Tactile Navigation NEW Braille Tablet…
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The kiosk originally began as the town square notice board for the community to post notices. The usual reference in Wikipedia will call out Persia as the originating language for the word. What began as common ground notice posting location matured into RMUs (Remote Merchandising Units) that you see in malls or wherever. With the advent of the internet they took on their electronic iteration in the late 90s.
You now have electronic kiosks aka kiosk machine or digital kiosk and you have RMUs (think of Verizon phone kiosk or the Godiva chocolates .at the airport). The old original kiosks have been replaced by the digital signage kiosk and digital kiosk signage. Wayfinding and big 55 inch screens with software from 22Miles and others.
A “functional” variant might be the supermarket self-checkouts but those are more aptly described as “hybrid POS” or Point of Sale. They are also usually assisted by dedicated person scanning coupons and solving issues. Legal suits have come up for those assistants helping the disabled with cash back. Supermarket checkouts have their own set of fraud and theft both customer and employee.
Recently Amazon began the “Just Walk Out” stores which are million-dollar iterations utilizing lidar and cameras. Typically there is a “kiosk” at the entrance where you sign in via biometrics (palm print). Technically you have a kiosk inside a kiosk with those.
What is a kiosk?
July 1994 from comp.infosystems.kiosks — well, I seem to recall having a discussion like this during the discussion phase for the group. If you’re asking me PERSONALLY what a kiosk is, I’ll answer as best I can, but I’d also like to see some other people’s responses. After all, my definition might be wrong — I’d like to find out.
My definition of a kiosk is a stand-alone terminal of some sort, usually surrounded by some sort of booth (but not always). Kiosks can perform many functions including transactional (electronic funds transfer) and informational (what hours are the Valley Library open?) and functional (print me out that Hallmark card I just designed). Much if not all of what a kiosk does is determined by it’s software. They can be network-connected or not, can have fancy video, etc. or not — it all depends on the software and how much effort the developers put into it.
There are also a number of hardware considerations, but I think these are something I’m not as strong on and will let others answer. -dknight
For the masses, it started with airline check-in terminals and photo kiosks (from Kodak and Fujifilm) and also ATMs.
For more frequently asked questions including “What is a kiosk” be sure and look over the KMA Global website FAQ. You will also learn under what conditions a burrito is considered a sandwich 🙂
What a kiosk is NOT
Sometimes it helps to figure what something isn’t in order to narrow down what it is. Here are some examples.
An ATM — it really is an “kiosk ATM” but it has been branded an ATM forever so in that sense it is not. Follows the same regulations.
Supermarket Checkout – these hybrid POS “pod-oriented” self-service checkout machines are generally a conglomeration of devices mounted together, and generally under the supervision of store employee (which grants them “assisted” transaction status)
A bulletin board at your local park providing rules, hours of operation and other related info. Sometimes they go digital but not often
Digital signage in storefronts advertising latest specials/etc and having no form of interaction. That can get tricky if the digital sign includes presence detectors and does a demographic analysis but that is NOT bidrectional interactivity.
Some General Observations on What A Kiosk Is
For sure:
They allow interaction usually with touchscreen
Usually customers/prospects oriented
What is a kiosk? Kiosk Definition Click for full size image
Many are employee-oriented
Generally a touchscreen.
Either informational or transactional in nature.
Multiple units are typically standalone and in a line to help traffic flow
Your typical kiosk today is very much different than those. They are self-service kiosks, usually electronic, and can be found in all walks of life. The form factor ranges from a mobile device to a tablet to a larger enclosures (usually metal but also plastic and wood).
Kiosk Definitions and Iterations
Our latest definition? A terminal that allows customers or employees to get information and/or conduct a transaction, without the assistance of a person. It may or may not have a touchscreen for example.
Here are some of the main categories for the modern-day kiosk.
In malls, events, tradeshows and other locations you have the RMU, which is a Remote Merchandising Unit. Point of Purchase fixture iterations. Many current self-service kiosk companies evolved from these units design and manufacture and continue to do a large business in these. Examples would be Olea Kiosk and Ikoniq (main business being RMUs).
It is generally interactive but not always.
It most often provides a computer (such as Dell Optiplex) and has a 17 or 19″ 5:4 aspect touchscreen (between 7 and 84 inches). 2020: more likely an AIO and at least a 22 landscape.
Most often than not it is unattended. Companies like to stretch this into a quasi semi-attended mode where employees offer to assist.
It is a standalone enclosure in the most common iteration.
Examples follow
Airline Check-In Kiosks – pioneered by Kinetics and others. Major vendors include NCR, SITA, and dwindling IBM. They have also moved into the baggage area.
ATM Machines – Historically it has been NCR, Fujitsu, Nautilus, Triton, IBM with Wincor Nixdorf and the ISOs (Independent service operators).
Bitcoin Kiosks and BTMs and Crypto Kiosks are big things in 2022
Electronic kiosks – this is a big category. It basically includes all categories which can be bill pay kiosks, kiosk software for lockdown, financial kiosks and more.
Internet Cafes – sometimes a keyboard can’t be beaten. These are one of the originals and helped educate the masses on using the Internet everywhere. We used them all the time when we would visit London, England.
POS Terminals – includes customer-facing POS terminals whether for entering loyalty number.
Food Order Kiosk – Mcdonald’s kiosk is a prime example. Order your own burger made to your preferences.
Gaming Kiosks – the military uses these for letting the soldiers relax (and train) at the same time.
Parking kiosks – whether on the street or in the garage
Hoteling – this is where office workers work at the same building but can sign up for any desk for the day. Larger companies experiment with this and in this age of BYOD it is relevant.
Information Kiosks terminals – can be as simple as barcode lookup in grocery aisle or online “showrooming”. AKA Interactive kiosk.
Interactive Digital Signage – a contradiction in terms but Digital Signage often is a large touchscreen and offers Content Management Services as well as Advertising. The touchscreen provides major ROI component.
Immigration and Security Kiosks – found at airports as well as Border Control. These units typically utilize biometrics.
Registration kiosks for loyalty and membership.
Gift card kiosks such as Coinstar Gift Card Exchange Kiosk.
Retail kiosk – this can be many iterations. The latest ones are beginning to introduce Beacons and Facial Recognition for recording demographics and traffic patterns and customer flow.
Gift Registry kiosk – one of the originals and still going. Our teeth were cut developing the Bridal Registry and Baby Registry kiosks for Target. Multi-generational marketing at its best (kids shop where Mom shopped)
Tablet kiosk – typically used for registration and quick lookup they have the advantage of being small and can be place at eye level.
Vending – these can add nutritional information mandated by the government. They can dispense sandwiches, coffee and a large range of merchandise (Zoom is a pioneer).
Telemedicine and Telehealth – whether at the supermarket or at corporate headquarters, remote healthcare structures are hybrid of RMUs. These extend into home monitoring and follow up for post operative patients to maximize results (and government incentive rewards).
Marijuana & Cannabis – one of the emerging markets with its high use of cash, security and new multiple form factors such as edibles.
Photo Kiosk – still going strong and one of the original heavy hitters. Kodak at one point had over 60,000 in place.Prison kiosk – video visitation and more
Social kiosks – interacting with your friends at wanna-be-seen locales becomes fodder for Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. The payback is demographics.
Survey Kiosks – can be as simple as a 4 button “How Was Your Experience?” device (we like those) or a tablet. Surveys are better being short to improve response rate.
Wayfinding kiosk – despite GPS enabled mobiles navigating a large structure can require clear instructions whether consumer or corporate.
Wine Kiosks – As a recommendation and selector function these do quite well. Experiments in dispensing wine were plagued by being poorly regulated and operated.
So what is a kiosk? Here is one:
Typically a computerized terminal used by the public or employees for services.
We’ll continue to add details and more information in the future.
From anxiety over test results to anxiousness while sitting in a hospital bed, patients need every tool possible to help relieve stress. One of these tools that can make the process of hospital visits easier are health care kiosks.
Update April 12 — Tariff Mini-PC Quote – US versus Poland versus Mexico – Apr12 — Comparing realtime quotes. Also latest CBP guidance and a list of US manufacturers as well. Buy American when you can we say! Support and maintenance is huge overlooked factor. Article link
Update March 5th — It took a month by tariffs announced on Canada, Mexico and China. This time around, the president is choosing across-the-board tariffs over targeted ones, invoking a legal authority with fewer constraints, and not giving time for companies to plead their case for special exceptions. It’s only been 2 days though and odds are pretty good Trump will announce some deal in his favor and mitigate them.
The line chart presents the average effective tariff rate in the U.S. from 1975 to 2025, highlighting stability until a spike during Trumps term in 2018-2019. With tariffs unchanged, a rise to 9.5% is expected by 2025, potentially impacting kiosks and digital signage industries. Data source: Yale Budget Lab.
Article on Impact of Tariffs on kiosks and digital signage. With the election comes new trade policies. One in particular is tariffs. If put in place, it will have ramifications across the kiosk and digital signage industries. Article on AVIXA
It’s early on for sure but good idea to lay out starting framework for cautions and also new opportunities.
Updates:
Seeking Alpha 11/25 — Trump’s tariffs could cost Americans $78B in annual spending power: NRF – The increased prices would be too high to be absorbed by U.S. retailers, resulting in prices that many consumers would be unwilling or unable to pay, the NRF report said.
Cryptopolitan 11/25 — No-one wins in a trade war’ – China warns Trump against crashing the global economy. China has fired back at President Donald Trump’s latest threat to slap a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports.
Speaking with lawyers specializing in business formation there is a big rush by Chinese companies to set up US offices.
Many Chinese companies have already set up in Vietnam
The kiosk industry has always had a complex relationship with Chinese component and kiosk pricing. We love to buy devices at the lowest cost, such as barcode scanners, touchscreens and displays. The kiosks selling for a third the price (before shipping) are not so loved. Made in China, it is easy to find.
This year, in order to learn and understand more, I began an Asia Pacific group on WhatsApp and began recruiting participants, primarily from Shenzen but from all over. The Grotto image is from Luoyang, where one of my members makes lockers, for example. I have 50 participants currently.
The recent election has raised potential outcomes that directly impact both Chinese suppliers and American manufacturers. Tariffs have long been a negotiating tool but have also been implemented and implemented. Importers pay that fee. See article on APnews explaining potential impact on China, US manufacturers utilizing China and Mexico (100% tariffs).
In February 2025, there is a strong possibility for additional tariffs, as high as 60% for Chinese goods. I have advised my APAC members to prepare and consider as the probability of some type of impact is relatively high. Maybe there is a two to three-month window for “buy now before the price goes up…”? FOMO is the acronym for selling tactics.
While the potential increase in tariffs may decrease competition for American-made kiosks, it’s important to note that those US-made kiosks also rely on main components from China, which means their costs are also likely to rise. However, this situation could also present new opportunities for the industry.
Generally, the cost of a kiosk consists of an enclosure, the computer, and the display. Usually assembled, which is another factor. Assemblies and parts are often treated differently.
Of note: BOE in China is the dominator regarding screens/glass.
Many Chinese companies have taken the unusual step of setting up mirror facilities in Vietnam, which faces different challenges.
My advice to my Chinese members? Sell as much as possible, as fast as possible, and then back off from the US market. Not surprisingly, my Chinese members had no idea of potential tariffs in play till I told them this week.
American kiosk producers would have an advantage, but higher profit is seductive.
It’s important to remember that this is relatively unknown and speculative. I’ve been an investor for 40 years so my first reference point is always the financial markets. I like to predict. As such, it’s crucial to approach the situation with caution but also a readiness to adapt to any changes that may occur.
Given the current situation and the potential for change, all industry stakeholders must prepare and carefully consider different scenarios. This proactive approach can help mitigate potential risks and ensure the industry’s resilience.
Pandemic — The Sequel? Good chance we might be headed towards parallel of pandemic when prices & costs increased “because of pandemic…). Tariffs present close approximation of those conditions. Walmart and Lowes have weighed in and support that idea. Walmart says, Walmart’s CFO, John David Rainey, said the retailer could have to raise prices on some items if President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs take effect. On an earnings call, Lowe’s CFO Brandon Sink said about 40% of the company’s cost of goods sold comesfrom outside of the U.S., including direct imports and merchandise from national brands. He said tariffs “certainly would add product costs,” but added “timing and details remain uncertain at this point.”
I’ll keep an eye out and will post comments and updates here.
Excuse me while I admire my unbelievable gains in digital currency and bitcoin markets over the last month…Not a big fan of Blackrock but the IBIT ETF has been stellar. It’s not hard to foresee less regulation of digital currency and wider monetization across American public in form of bitcoin ATMs and others. Fasten your seatbelt!
Comments:
How tariffs could be structured matters: Prior, the bulk of the products tariffs put on on were B to B products. By and large, tariffs on B to C products were not levied. Regarding the B to B product, if the tariff is raised to 60%, it is an actual 23% increase from the product currently tariffed at 30%.
Here is an example of cell phone carriers and iPhones to differentiate between B to B and B to C tariffs. When the cell carriers want to upgrade their store, the display that cost $1,000 before the first tariff now costs 1,300. At a 60% tariff, the carrier will pay $1,600 for the same display. The higher display cost is allocated against thousands of customers, so the impact on any one customer is pennies at most and not apparent to them. Restated, the cost impact to a given consumer is negligible.
Compare that to putting a 60% tariff on a new iPhone the consumer purchases from the carrier store. If the sell price of a $1,000 iPhone goes to $1,600, the consumer is painfully aware, and all hell would break loose on social media.
Related Impact of Tariffs on kiosks and digital signage Links
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DPL Wireless offers the Hercules line of modems tailored for kiosk applications like Bitcoin ATMs, ordering kiosks, and digital signage. Their modems feature dual SIM/carrier support for redundancy, remote reboot capabilities, and high throughput. Additionally, DPL provides a 5-year warranty, robust metal enclosures for durability, and 24/7/365 support via their Hercules Portal for remote device management245.
Digi International
Digi International ranks among the top wireless modem manufacturers globally. They provide advanced wireless communication solutions suitable for various kiosk applications. Their products are known for reliability and adaptability to different environments3.
Antenna
Ventus Wireless offers a range of cellular wireless networking hardware, including routers and antennas, designed for applications like ATMs, kiosks, and digital signs, with a focus on managed connectivity solutions and ensuring reliable, always-on connectivity.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Products:
V2000X4:A network router supporting cellular 4G LTE-A and broadband connectivity, suitable for M2M/IoT deployments, retail, restaurants, and branch environments.
LC100:A compact device with a lay-flat antenna, designed for tight installations, and offering optional corded antennas for placement outside enclosures.
LC300:Engineered for mission-critical devices like ATMs, digital signs, kiosks, and IoT equipment, with dual SIM capability, five Ethernet ports, and a dedicated Ventus Compact Dual Antenna.
VXI300:Provides secure LTE-A connectivity with advanced signal reception from distances of up to 328 feet from required network access.
Ventus Compact Dual Antenna (CDA):A 4G LTE compact antenna series for cellular wireless networking hardware.
VRB842:A router providing secure 4G LTE connectivity with remote power reboot functionality.
Update March 2025 — The latest news about Coinstar highlights the company’s expansion into cryptocurrency services and digital financial management. And if interested in the company who created and maintain the software we can put you in touch. We are not allowed to publicly disclose. ([email protected])
Launch of CINQ by Coinstar: In October 2024, Coinstar introduced CINQ by Coinstar, a digital wallet enabling users to convert cash into over 25 cryptocurrencies at kiosks across the U.S. The app further allows users to buy, sell, and transfer over 30 digital assets. This initiative is supported by a partnership with Zero Hash, showcasing Coinstar’s commitment to expanding its financial service offerings17.
Addition of Cryptocurrencies to Kiosks: Coinstar has also added six new cryptocurrencies to its kiosks through its partnership with Coinme, enhancing the variety of digital assets customers can purchase using cash3.
Upcoming Financial Management Features: Coinstar plans to roll out additional money management capabilities in 2025, building on the infrastructure established with CINQ by Coinstar7.
Locations update — As of 2025, Coinstar operates more than 60,000 kiosks worldwide. These kiosks are located in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the Eurozone1
Okay – so how many coins these days? — Coinstar processes approximately 43 billion coins annually through its global network of kiosks126.
These developments reflect Coinstar’s strategic focus on integrating cryptocurrency and digital financial tools into traditional coin-counting kiosk services.
Coinstar kiosk and Amazon Partner in cash reload sites 2018.
BELLEVUE, Wash.May 15, 2018/PRNewswire/ — Coinstar announced today that customers can now add cash to their Amazon Balance by using Amazon Cash at select Coinstar® kiosks across the country.
“We’re excited to team up with Amazon and give shoppers an easy and convenient way to add cash to their Amazon Balance,” said Jim Gaherity, CEO. “Coinstar is proud to enable Amazon Cash at Coinstar kiosks for cash-preferring customers, who can now enjoy the same benefits of shopping online as any other customer. Best of all, there are no fees to use the service.”
Coinstar Amazon Cash Reload
Amazon customers wishing to spend their cash on Amazon need to associate their phone number to their Amazon account, which they can do at www.amazon.com/cash. To begin a transaction at cash-accepting kiosks, the customer selects “Cash Services,” and then “Amazon Cash.” Next, the customer enters their phone number and inserts bills into the cash acceptor on the kiosk totaling any amount between $5 and $500. An Amazon.com Gift Card is automatically purchased and claimed to the customer’s Amazon Balance and is available for immediate use for eligible items on Amazon.com or select affiliated properties. There is no fee to use this service at the kiosks.
The kiosks are conveniently located in high-traffic retail locations, including grocery stores and mass merchants. Coinstar expects to have approximately 5,000 kiosks enabled by the end of the year to accept cash for Amazon Cash customers, and the rollout begins today at select grocery stores in the northeast. To find a cash-accepting kiosk with Amazon Cash functionality, customers may visit: coinstar.com/amazoncash. For additional details on Amazon Cash, including full terms and conditions, customers may visit: amazon.com/cash.
About Coinstar, LLC
Based in Bellevue, Wash., Coinstar owns and operates the largest fully automated, multi-national network of self-service coin-counting kiosks. With nearly 20,000 kiosk locations, Coinstar provides convenient and reliable coin counting services at mass merchants, grocery and drug stores and financial institutions. Consumer solutions include coin-to-cash, coin-to-eGift card and charity donation options. For kiosk locations and information, visit www.coinstar.com.
SOURCE Coinstar
Coinstar Kiosk News
There are some recent news articles regarding Coinstar, a company that operates self-service coin counting kiosks, and its partnership with Amazon, the online retail giant. Here are some of the main points:
Coinstar agreed to pay $6 million in fines and restitution to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) after its prepaid debit cards were found to have taken unfair advantage of some 1.2 million prisoners who were issued one since 2011. The cards charged fees for accessing the money that prisoners were owed, and Coinstar failed to provide them with a cardholder agreement or an alternative option to receive their funds. The CFPB ruled that Coinstar violated the Electronic Fund Transfer Act and Regulation E3.
Yes, there are kiosks available for redeeming unused gift card balances. These are called gift card exchange kiosks, and they allow users to convert unwanted gift cards into cash or store credit. Here’s how they work and where to find them:
How Gift Card Exchange Kiosks Work
Insert the Gift Card: You insert your gift card into the kiosk’s scanner or swipe it.
Receive an Offer: The kiosk scans the card and provides a cash offer, usually ranging from 60% to 85% of the card’s value depending on the retailer and location367.
Accept or Decline: You can choose to accept the offer or retrieve your card if the offer is unsatisfactory.
Print a Voucher: If accepted, the machine prints a voucher.
Redeem Cash: Take the voucher to the customer service desk at the same store to receive cash or another form of payment36.
Popular Locations for Gift Card Exchange Kiosks
Gift card exchange kiosks are typically found in high-traffic areas such as:
Most kiosks accept gift cards from major retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, Home Depot, etc., with a balance minimum of $2037.
Some kiosks may require identity verification, such as a driver’s license or email address37.
Availability
While these kiosks are convenient, their availability may vary by location. Many Coinstar Exchange kiosks (yellow machines) have been discontinued in some areas due to operational costs, but alternatives like Alula kiosks and store-specific systems may still be operational137. It’s recommended to search online or call ahead to confirm if a kiosk is available near you.
In addition to physical kiosks, online platforms like CardCash and Raise also allow users to sell gift cards for cash or trade them for other cards24.
Resources
Looking for a Coinstar kiosk? click here — the yellow gift card exchange kiosk went away in 2019 though
Target will exchange gift cards for Target cards
CardCash option
Yes, CardCash offers gift card exchange services, allowing users to sell or trade their unwanted gift cards. Here are the key details about their platform:
How CardCash Works
Sell Gift Cards for Cash: Users can sell their gift cards directly on the CardCash website. Payments are made via check, ACH deposit, or PayPal, typically within 1-2 days of order approval6.
Trade Gift Cards: CardCash also allows users to trade their gift cards for new ones from a selection of available brands. Trading often provides better value compared to selling6.
Instant Offers: Users receive an instant offer for their gift card after entering its details (merchant name and remaining balance). If accepted, the transaction is processed quickly6.
Features
No Mailing Required: Many exchanges can be completed online by entering the card number and PIN, though some cards may require mailing6.
Wide Brand Selection: CardCash accepts gift cards from over 200 brands and offers discounts on purchased cards56.
Fraud Prevention: The platform uses advanced tools like FraudFix to ensure secure transactions1.
Additional Partnerships
CardCash has partnered with platforms like Mercari to allow users to exchange gift cards for Mercari credit, which can be used for purchases on Mercari.com or its app3. It also collaborates with local retailers for in-person exchanges4.
CardCash is a reliable option for converting unused gift cards into cash or trading them for more desirable options.
Target offers an in-store gift card exchange program at participating locations. Customers can trade unwanted gift cards for Target store credit or cash, typically receiving 75%–85% of the card’s value23.
Walmart Money Centers:
Walmart provides gift card exchange services at its Money Centers. Customers can exchange gift cards for cash, with rates ranging from 70%–80% of the card’s value3.
Coinstar Exchange (Limited):
Coinstar no longer operates its original yellow gift card exchange kiosks for cash transactions. However, Coinstar kiosks still offer eGift cards and other services, such as coin exchanges and cryptocurrency purchases15.
CardCash Local Partners:
CardCash partners with local retailers to provide in-person gift card exchanges. Rates typically range from 70%–85%, and the service is available in select grocery stores and other retail locations34.
Grocery Stores:
Chains like Kroger, Safeway, and Publix offer gift card exchange services at customer service desks or through partnerships with platforms like Cardpool3.
Gas Stations and Electronics Stores:
Some gas stations (e.g., Shell, Chevron) and electronics retailers (e.g., Best Buy) provide gift card exchange services at select locations3.
Coinstar discontinued its yellow gift card exchange kiosks on June 26, 2019, primarily due to operational challenges and shifting business priorities. These kiosks, which allowed customers to exchange unused gift cards for instant cash, were phased out as Coinstar refocused its efforts on its core coin-counting services and other offerings, such as e-gift cards and cryptocurrency transactions12.
Several factors likely contributed to the discontinuation:
Operational Costs: Maintaining the kiosks and managing the logistics of reselling exchanged gift cards through secondary markets may have been cost-prohibitive3.
Fraud Prevention Challenges: The kiosks required identity verification to prevent fraud, adding complexity to operations3.
Market Competition: Online platforms like CardCash and Raise gained popularity, offering similar services with greater convenience, which may have reduced demand for physical kiosks23.
Coinstar now focuses exclusively on its green coin-counting machines, which provide options for cash redemption, e-gift cards, or donations
Ingenico has launched the AXIUM CX9000, a new all-in-one integrated point-of-sale (POS) system designed to enhance the retail experience. This sleek device combines advanced payment technology with inventory management, offering a compact solution that saves counter space and speeds up checkout time. It runs on the Android 14 platform, ensuring flexibility and integrated payment security with PCI certification and EMV V3 compliance. The AXIUM CX9000 features a dual display, including a 15.6” touchscreen and an 8” customer-facing screen, and supports third-party ECR app. It also offers plug-and-play setup, a user-friendly interface, and optional accessories like a printer, cash drawer, and barcode scanner.
Paris, February 25, 2025 – Ingenico, a global leader in payment acceptance and services, is launching the new AXIUM CX9000, an amazing addition to upgrade your sales experience. This sleek all-in-one cash register provides advanced payment technology into a simple device that handles any retail situation from checkout to inventory management.
With modern aesthetics and high performance that enables smooth operations, integrating payments and ECR services, this device allows integrated sales, payment, and any business services as inventory management. Besides, the fact that it is a compact all-in-one device will make you save counter space while speeding up checkout times to improve customer satisfaction and ensure a seamless experience.
Based on the Android 14 platform, the AXIUM CX9000 also provides flexibility and integrated payment security thanks to its PCI certification and EMV V3 compliance. It also offers plug-and-play with minimal setup and a user-friendly interface, making it easy to use, install, integrate and manage. Its easy customer tool integration could provide loyalty programs, digital receipts, and CRM tools for the best customer experience, as well as optional accessories including printer, cash drawer and bar code scanner.
For the retail industry, the AXIUM CX9000 is a great addition as it is a checkout POS solution with all essential tools in one system, which supports third-party ECR apps. It is equipped with a dual display: featuring a 15.6” touchscreen with an Open Android that is GMS (Google Mobile Services) certified, as well as a second 8” customer-facing screen to facilitate payment and interaction at checkout, which is built to last and inspire infinite possibilities.
Ingenico is here to help its customers to simplify the POS solution and its payment integration with its partners ecosystem.
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We are excited by the possibilities that the new AXIUM CX9000 provides for merchants. Not only does it leverage Ingenico’s advanced payments technology, but it also offers a fast checkout experience, delivering a fully integrated solution answering to merchant needs in all aspects of their activity, round the clock.
Author
Vincent Fillaud, Head of Accept Solutions at Ingenico
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Learn more about the new AXIUM CX9000 solution here.
About Ingenico
Ingenico is the global leader in payment acceptance and services. We support our customers, and their customers to do more with payments. Active in 32 countries, with over 3,300 employees we have been at the forefront of the commerce landscape for over four decades. With more than 40 million payment devices deployed worldwide, powered by over 2,500 apps, the company is servicing the needs of millions of consumers every day. Through our advanced integrated solutions and network of partnerships, we simplify the world of payments and bring value added services to move commerce forward.
Press contacts
Elena Chadaigne, Global Head of External Communications
Let’s talk about internet content filtering. When it comes to your business or providing public access via WiFi, the objective is to provide value to your customers or users. Some considerations:
You have users that will impact your bandwidth by downloading videos for example.
They will get cookies installed on browsers in your system.
They will get emails with dangerous links
Age-restricted content may become available.
Malicious users will surf to their favorite hack tool sites with penetrating javascript to hijack your system.
Many of the most popular social networking sites like Whatsapp or Facebook or Pinterest have threaded in “more suggestive” content including external links. Those have been typically allowed in the past but good chance they qualify now as “dangerous” site.
With the recent analysis of the Smart City RFP that Dallas is doing, reviewing internet content filtering seems like a good idea. Pornvideo being the main issue. Public WiFi that supports streaming sounds a lot like LinkNYC and they still have problems. And now the latest social sites have only increased their sexual stimuli content to raise audience, valuations and ad dollars.
Ironically posting a PSA on the subject and clearly identifying a typical gateway is not filtered on LinkedIn. Their AI detection is still rudimentary. The post was removed but then we appealed for review, and then they agreed and re-posted online. Pretty quick response too which surprised us (less than 4 hours).
Excerpt from Smart City RFP:
Kiosks will provide Wi-Fi internet service free of charge to the public for a minimum radius of 150 feet around each kiosk, with bandwidth and IP connections sufficient to support a minimum of 100 users at each kiosk, scalable at up to 200 users in high-traffic areas. Kiosk providing free Wi-Fi internet service must include a City of Dallas Terms of Service “Splash Page” prior to access. Kiosks must provide capability for: (a) wired connectivity with a minimum 1 gigabyte connection speed; (b) cellular provider sim network card via integrated hardware of the proposed solution; or (c) standard 4G/5G cellular via hotspot or cradle point (or similar) device. Proposed solutions must be capable of supporting streaming video based on the standards associated with each connectivity type. Proposers shall include detailed network connectivity specifications including: (a) any minimum upload/download requirements; (b) device connection types for each of the capability methods described above; (c) provide list of cellular provider exclusions, if any exist; (d) LAN port specifications.
Editors Side Note — let’s imagine young kids with mobiles attaching to free WiFi and using it to view PornHub. We checked the Domain rankings and the organic traffic for PornHub is 2 Billion (yes, 2 Billion). They #11 on most popular sites. YouTube, Instagram and Facebook are all in the top 10, and all of them use sexualized photos and videos to snag their scrolls and views (and advertising dollars).
In New York City, LinkNYC Wi-Fi kiosks faced challenges with users accessing pornographic content on the free public tablets. Despite implementing content filtering systems, some users found ways to bypass these restrictions14. Here the most likely problem is trying to save money. Rather than use a very mature content filtering, and pay a licensing fee, companies try to DIY with Microsoft Kiosk Mode.
At Union Station in Washington D.C., a large touchscreen display was hacked to stream explicit pornographic videos for about three minutes during rush hour, shocking commuters.
The issue is not limited to intentional hacking. In some cases, authorized users might accidentally upload inappropriate content, or vulnerabilities in the system could allow unauthorized access.
To address these problems, kiosk management solutions often implement:
Web content filtering software to block access to adult content and other inappropriate websites35.
Kiosk browser lockdown solutions to restrict browsing to only approved websites and web apps7.
Enhanced security measures to prevent unauthorized access and system compromises6.
Despite these efforts, the challenge persists due to the vastness of the internet and the difficulty in creating foolproof filtering systems
Editor Notes
Dallas RFP for smart cities analysis — review the players, projects and pricing. Update on LinkNYC. Oh, condition to cover $770K cancellation cost to CBS Group (former vendor). Revenue share 12% — LINK
Content filtering for corporate sites is probably even more significant — Sitekiosk has thousands of licenses doing just that.
We see these digital kiosks for smart city projects at least once a month. Today Dallas issued one and it bears analysis to understand. We run a separate Smart City website and LinkedIn group for Smart Cities. We post RFPs and RFIs there.
Summary of Deal
150 kiosks in play
potential $770K payoff to cancel CBS Group (in place since 2006)
All costs are borne by deployer + 12% cut of advertising revenue to city
Resembles 2018 RFP (see link below). Apparently no takers?
Accessibility – a cursory nod to “should be in compliance and your problem if not” — Accessibility, usability and inclusion – creating a welcoming and inclusive technology for our community at large. Kiosks must be accessible to persons with disabilities and adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”) and other relevant legal requirements; including, but not limited to, serving individuals with visual and/or hearing impairments.
Texas has some odd “blacklists”
Who Are The Usual Suspects?
OBM (Orange Barrel Media) with its IKE kiosks, 19 cities and 500 kiosks. Double-sided 65″ at 3000 NITS. 100 employees
CityBridge (LinkNYC) — Intersection and Boldyn are partners. Started in 2014 and supposed to have 7500 kiosks in NYC by 2023. Currently there are 2,000. NYC expected $500M in revenue but in 2021 CityBridge defaulted $70M payment. They restructured the franchise agreement and haven’t disclosed the revised agreement. LinkNYC revenue is estimated between $5M and $1M a year. See recent news on LinkNYC facelift
78% of New Yorkers see LinkNYC content and ads every week5.
The network generates more than two billion ad impressions every month5.
CIVIQ Smartscapes: Offers smart kiosk solutions designed to address urban needs such as improving city mobility, wayfinding, public Wi-Fi, emergency alert systems, smart lighting, and environmental monitoring13.
Smart City Media: Provides a platform for Internet and mobile applications, IoT sensors, and location-based media to engage local residents, empower small businesses, and help tourists13.
SmartLINK: Offers kiosks that provide event monitoring, security alerting, Wi-Fi, wayfinding, communications, environmental monitoring, and traffic study solutions13.
Soofa: Uses a web-based platform allowing locals to share information and cities to communicate directly with residents about local events and emergencies1
Editor Notes
Worth noting LinkNYC has been plagued in the past by “bad content”. Latest article — Pxxxvideo on smart city terminals? YouTube, Instagram, Tumblr, Facebook and 100 new ones. Companies pay for bandwidth used. LinkNYC still has problems. Our recommendation is Sitekiosk for content filtering. https://kioskindustry.org/pornvideo-and-kiosks/
Premise:
The City of Dallas is seeking proposals from qualified firms with extensive experience in designing, implementing, fabricating, installing, operating, maintaining, replacing, upgrading, and removing interactive digital kiosks. These kiosks will be primarily located on City of Dallas sidewalks and other rights-of-way and public areas in locations as approved by the City. The kiosks will provide information of interest to both residents and visitors.
The city is seeking a ten-year contract agreement with up to two (2) five-year renewal options subject to vendor contractual compliance. The City reserves the right to negotiate a term other than referenced above if it adds value to the City. The City and the selected vendor will mutually agree upon the final contract term.
An interactive digital kiosk terminals featuring specialized components that provide access to information and applications for emergency notification, communications, commerce, entertainment, navigation, event promotion, activities, education, and services for residents and visitors that are available to the public to be used at locations throughout the City of Dallas
IV. Scope of Work
The City of Dallas is seeking proposals from qualified firms with extensive experience in designing, implementing, fabricating, installing, operating, maintaining, replacing, upgrading, and removing interactive digital kiosks. These kiosks should provide information, including (but not limited to) services for residents and visitors, activities, and upcoming events. The kiosks will primarily be located on City of Dallas sidewalks and other public right-of-way areas in business districts and other locations approved by the City including but not limited to parks, trail entry points, convention center district locations, etc. The determination of the suitability of any location for placement of a digital kiosk shall be made solely by the City. Approval of each kiosk location is subject to the sole approval of the City, which approval may be withheld or delayed for any reason at City’s sole discretion.
All services and responsibilities of the digital kiosk vendor as described herein will be provided at no cost to the City of Dallas. The awarded firm(s) will be responsible for the design, implementation, fabrication, installation, operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of all kiosks and kiosk components. City reserves the right to annually audit the selected vendor’s compliance with the agreement, including a third-party audit of the selected vendor. The selected vendor shall agree to allow City or its agent access to any materials necessary to conduct such an audit.
The kiosks shall serve the following public purposes, at a minimum:
1. Wayfinding – providing information regarding civic and cultural institutions, transit amenities, restaurants, retail, and other business
2. Public information and emergency messaging – serving as a central dissemination point for public information to enable real-time posting of City communications
3. Increased vibrancy and visual interest of City streets – promoting placemaking in Dallas through City events and programming
Creating a supportive environment for retail and entertainment commerce – furthering economic development within our community
Enhanced visitor experience and brand perception of Dallas
Accessibility, usability and inclusion – creating a welcoming and inclusive technology for our community at large
Kiosk Requirements
Kiosks must support English and Spanish at a minimum, and additional language selections shall be included if requested by City to address community needs.
Kiosks must be accessible to persons with disabilities and adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”) and other relevant legal requirements; including, but not limited to, serving individuals with visual and/or hearing impairments.
Kiosks shall accept content in various formats, including Adobe PDF, documents created using Microsoft Office Suite, web links, maps, images, and other content and formats from the City for presentation on the kiosks.
Kiosks must include interactive, easy-to-use features that appeal to a broad population with ease of navigation.
Kiosks will provide Wi-Fi internet service free of charge to the public for a minimum radius of 150 feet around each kiosk, with bandwidth and IP connections sufficient to support a minimum of 100 users at each kiosk, scalable at up to 200 users in high-traffic areas. Kiosk providing free Wi-Fi internet service must include a City of Dallas Terms of Service “Splash Page” prior to access. Kiosks must provide capability for: (a) wired connectivity with a minimum 1 gigabyte connection speed; (b) cellular provider sim network card via integrated hardware of the proposed solution; or (c) standard 4G/5G cellular via hotspot or cradle point (or similar) device. Proposed solutions must be capable of supporting streaming video based on the standards associated with each connectivity type. Proposers shall include detailed network connectivity specifications including: (a) any minimum upload/download requirements; (b) device connection types for each of the capability methods described above; (c) provide list of cellular provider exclusions, if any exist; (d) LAN port specifications.
The selected vendor will be responsible for all actions and expenses required to secure site approvals, permits, electrical access, installation, repair, and any other cost required to install, maintain, or operate the kiosks. Likewise, the selected vendor will be responsible for all actions and costs required to restore damage created or caused by the vendor or its agents or employees, or damage created or caused by the kiosks. Vendor shall be responsible for restoration of all city right of way or other property to a condition acceptable to City upon removal of any kiosk, either during the term of the agreement or at the end of the term of the agreement.
Kiosk Number and Location. The selected vendor may install up to one hundred and fifty (150) kiosks at locations approved by the City in its sole discretion. No more than fifty (50) kiosks may be installed in any one calendar year.
Special Requirements
As a condition to awarding this agreement, and upon execution of the agreement with the City, the selected proposer may be required to pay the City an amount equal to the termination fee payable by the City under the City’s existing static kiosk agreement with CBS Outdoor Group, Inc., dated January 3, 2006. If the City chooses to terminate the existing static kiosk agreement, the termination fee as of the date of this solicitation is estimated at $770,833.33, and the successful proposer will pay no more than this amount. The final payment amount will be determined by City prior to contract execution. If payment of this fee changes the terms of your proposal, please indicate what those changes would be. The early termination fee is reduced by $20,833.33 per month until the termination by expiration is reached on June 30, 2028.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design have several key differences:
Scope and Definition
The 2010 Standards expanded the definition of “disability” to include major bodily functions, not just limitations in major life activities9.
The 2010 Standards broadened the scope of the ADA, increasing the number and types of persons protected under the law6.
Technical Requirements
Reach ranges: The 2010 Standards changed the maximum reach range to 48 inches for both front and side approaches, compared to the 1991 Standards which allowed 54 inches for side approaches11.
Toilet centerline: The 2010 Standards allow a range of 16-18 inches from the side wall to the center of the toilet, whereas the 1991 Standards required an absolute 18 inches11.
Clear floor space: The 2010 Standards increased the clear-floor-space requirements for water closets in toilet rooms11.
Additional Provisions
The 2010 Standards include new requirements for elements not covered in the 1991 Standards, such as recreation facilities, play areas, and swimming pools8.
The 2010 Standards introduced a “safe harbor” provision for elements that complied with the 1991 Standards before March 15, 20128.
The 2010 Standards added provisions addressing ticketing, service animals, communications, and mobility devices like Segways11.
Implementation
The 2010 Standards provided an 18-month grace period for implementation, similar to the original ADA, allowing facilities to choose between the 1991 and 2010 Standards during this time11.
The 2010 Standards became mandatory on March 15, 2012, setting new minimum requirements for newly designed, constructed, or altered facilities4.
These changes reflect an effort to broaden the ADA’s protections, clarify technical requirements, and address new accessibility concerns that have emerged since the original act was passed in 1990.
Addendum Texas Laws
Texas has implemented measures that allow for the cancellation or avoidance of contracts with entities that boycott energy companies, specifically those in the oil and gas industry.
In August 2022, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced a list of financial companies that boycott energy companies3. Under Texas Government Code Chapter 809, these listed companies are subject to divestment provisions. This means that state entities may be required to divest from or avoid contracts with companies on this list.
The law defines a financial company as a publicly traded financial services, banking, or investment company. After extensive research, the Comptroller’s office identified 10 financial companies and nearly 350 individual investment funds that are subject to these provisions3.
Texas has implemented a similar policy regarding gun rights, alongside its measures protecting oil and gas interests. The state has enacted laws that restrict government entities from doing business with companies that discriminate against the firearms industry13.
In 2021, Texas passed SB 19, which prohibits state agencies and political subdivisions from contracting with companies that endorse discriminatory practices and policies aimed at firearm industries, including the ammunition industry, or firearm trade associations5.
This law has had significant impacts:
Major lenders have left the Texas municipal bond market because they wouldn’t support the manufacturing of AR-15 style weapons1.
The reduced competition in the bond market has reportedly cost Texas taxpayers an estimated $300 to 500 million in extra interest1.
Companies contracting with Texas governmental entities must verify in writing that they do not and will not discriminate against firearm entities or firearm trade associations during the term of the contract4.
These measures apply to contracts valued at $100,000 or more4. The policy aims to protect the firearms industry from what Texas lawmakers perceive as discrimination by financial institutions and other companies adopting ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) policies13.
It’s worth noting that as of February 2025, these laws continue to be in effect and have influenced business practices in Texas, despite the additional costs to taxpayers.
Here is the offer. Our 4G kiosk modem provider member DPL Wireless, is offering a free trial of their top-tier Hercules Modem.
Trial kit comes with Antennas and Remote Restart cable – everything you need to get started. Call or email Dennis to find out more.
DPL is a big provider in the Bitcoin Kiosk, aka Bitcoin ATM market, which has been gathering steam with the favorable view of the current administration.
High Availability Design
The Hercules Duo is a 4G LTE CAT-4, dual carrier (including 2 SIMs), dual Ethernet, high throughput modem, ideal for applications requiring faster speeds and higher throughput such as bitcoin ATMs (BTMs), interactive teller machines (ITMs), kiosks, and digital signage. The Hercules Duo’s dual SIM/carrier feature makes it ideal for fringe areas and high-volume locations requiring high network availability or redundancy. Its two Ethernet ports allow it to provide multi-service support for auxiliary devices such as video toppers, or it can be configured for WAN Failover.
Internet Connectivity Considerations – What About An Antenna?
Whether a 4G modem for self-service kiosks needs an external antenna depends on several factors:
Signal Strength and Quality
Indoor Location: If the kiosk is indoors, especially in a building with thick walls or a basement, an external antenna may be necessary to improve signal reception5. An external antenna can significantly boost signal strength and quality in such cases.
Outdoor Location: The need for an external antenna for outdoor kiosks depends on their proximity to cellular towers and potential obstructions. The built-in antenna might suffice if the kiosk has a clear line of sight to a nearby tower.
Performance Requirements
Data Speed: If higher data speeds are required for the kiosk’s operations, an external antenna can help. In one case, using an external antenna improved download speeds from 2-20 Mbps to 40-100 Mbps.
Reliability: For kiosks that require consistent, uninterrupted connectivity, an external antenna can provide a more stable connection, especially in areas with weak cellular signals7.
Installation Considerations
Flexibility: External antennas offer more flexibility in terms of placement. They can be mounted on the outside of the kiosk or in a location with better signal reception.
MIMO Technology: Many 4G modems support MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology. Using two external antennas can take advantage of this, potentially improving performance.
Specific Scenarios
Strong Signal Areas: An external antenna may not be necessary in locations with excellent 4G coverage.
Weak Signal Areas: An external antenna is highly recommended in areas with poor reception to ensure reliable connectivity8.
Temporary Installations: A modem with a good internal antenna might be sufficient for temporary or easily relocatable kiosks, avoiding the need for external antenna installation.
In conclusion, while not always necessary, an external antenna can significantly improve the performance and reliability of 4G modems for self-service kiosks, especially in challenging signal environments or when high-speed, consistent connectivity is crucial for the kiosk’s operations.
Ingenico is a leading global provider of payment solutions and a key player in the fintech industry. Founded in 1980 in France, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of point-of-sale (POS) terminals and payment systems.
Ingenico’s core business revolves around designing, producing, and selling a wide range of payment devices and software solutions. These include:
Payment terminals: From countertop models to mobile and wireless devices
Self-service payment kiosks
PIN pads
Contactless payment solutions
E-commerce payment gateways
The company’s products support various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and contactless transactions. Ingenico’s solutions are used across diverse sectors such as retail, hospitality, transportation, and healthcare.
In addition to hardware, Ingenico offers a suite of software and services, including:
Transaction processing
Security solutions
Data analytics
Merchant services
Ingenico has a strong focus on innovation, continuously developing new technologies to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving payments landscape. They’ve been at the forefront of implementing EMV chip technology, NFC contactless payments, and mobile point-of-sale solutions.
The company has a global presence, with operations in over 170 countries and partnerships with major financial institutions, retailers, and payment processors worldwide.
In 2020, Ingenico was acquired by Worldline, creating one of the largest payment services providers globally. This merger has further strengthened Ingenico’s position in the market and expanded its capabilities in digital payments and merchant services.
Ingenico’s commitment to security, reliability, and innovation has made it a trusted name in the payments industry, serving millions of merchants and facilitating billions of transactions annually.
Ingenico is a global leader in payment solutions, providing retailers and businesses with the tools they need to accept payments securely and efficiently. The company offers a wide range of products and services, including point-of-sale terminals, mobile payment solutions, and cloud-based payment processing platforms. Ingenico also provides a variety of support services, including training, consulting, and technical support.
Ingenico was founded in France in 1980, and today it has operations in over 170 countries. The company’s headquarters are located in Suresnes, France.
Ingenico’s mission is to “power the new world of commerce.” The company’s vision is to be the “trusted partner of choice for merchants and businesses around the world.”
Ingenico’s products and services are used by a wide range of businesses, including retailers, restaurants, hotels, transportation companies, and government agencies. The company’s customers include some of the world’s largest and most successful businesses, such as Amazon, Walmart, and McDonald’s.
Ingenico is committed to innovation, and the company is constantly developing new products and services to meet the needs of its customers. The company’s recent innovations include the AXIUM terminal, which is a cloud-based payment terminal that offers a variety of features, including contactless payments, mobile payments, and e-commerce payments.
Ingenico is a leading provider of payment solutions, and the company is committed to helping businesses succeed in the digital age. The company’s products and services offer a variety of benefits, including:
Security: Ingenico’s products and services are designed to be secure, and the company uses the latest security technologies to protect customer data.
Efficiency: Ingenico’s products and services help businesses to accept payments more efficiently, which can save businesses time and money.
Flexibility: Ingenico’s products and services are flexible, and they can be customized to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
Support: Ingenico offers a variety of support services, including training, consulting, and technical support.
If you are looking for a payment solution that is secure, efficient, flexible, and supported, then Ingenico is a good option. The company offers a wide range of products and services to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
JCP Kiosk News – We haven’t seen images of the Elo M60 deployed in JCP but the benefits and strategy make sense. Pilot stage. Brick and Mortar retail must adapt and integrate the digital factors and the Elo M60 does that. Potential benefits: If JCPenney is indeed using the Elo M60 or similar modern POS systems, it could potentially help the company in several ways:
Improved checkout speed and efficiency
Enhanced customer experience
Better inventory management
More robust data collection for business insights
Flexibility for various payment methods
Company performance:
JCPenney’s overall performance would need to be analyzed to determine if any specific technology implementation has had a measurable impact. This would involve looking at recent financial reports, customer satisfaction metrics, and operational efficiency indicators.
I’m excited to share the pilot launch of an incredible project that we’ve been working on at JCPenney! See details below.
JCPenney is responding to evolving consumer demands with innovative technology. Teaming up with Kitestring Technical Services and Elo Touch Solutions to streamline operations with a mobile-first approach.
Watch this case study video to discover how we’re reshaping retail shopping into a customer-first experience with a mobile payments-powered handheld, the Elo M60.
The history of JCP Kiosk reflects JCPenney’s efforts to adapt to technological advancements and changing retail landscapes. Below is an overview of its evolution:
Origins and Early Technological Integration
JCPenney began experimenting with point-of-sale (POS) systems in the 1970s, following IBM’s innovations in retail automation. IBM installed one of its first retail POS systems at a JCPenney store in North Carolina, enabling the company to streamline sales flow, inventory management, and customer service4.
By the late 1990s, JCPenney embraced e-commerce with the launch of jcpenney.com, marking its entry into online retailing2.
Development of Employee Kiosks
The JCP Associate Kiosk was introduced as a tool for employees to manage work-related tasks such as accessing payroll information, benefits, employment verification, and W-2 forms. This kiosk system streamlined HR processes for active and former associates3.
Modern Retail Kiosks
In recent years, JCPenney has integrated advanced kiosk technology into its operations to enhance customer experiences. For example:
The company partnered with Elo Touch Solutions and Kitestring Technical Services to launch handheld mobile POS devices like the Elo M60. These devices allow for mobile payments and improved customer service in stores1.
The introduction of kiosks aligns with JCPenney’s broader strategy to modernize its retail approach and respond to evolving consumer demands1.
Impact on Retail Operations
JCP kiosks have played a significant role in optimizing both employee workflows and customer interactions. They reflect the company’s efforts to remain competitive in a challenging retail environment by adopting innovative technologies.
Crypto Can Be a Positive, Disruptive Force.” Kiosk Manufacturer Kenneth Larsen Explores How the Industry Can Prepare for Sports Betting’s Next Revolution
Introduction
As of February 2025, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are increasingly used in the sports betting industry, including for betting machines. As cryptocurrency adoption continues to soar, Kenneth Larsen, CEO of KT Group, warns that the sports betting industry is not doing enough to prepare for it. While Larsen is optimistic about the potential for cryptocurrency to transform the sector, he believes that regulatory alignment, education and awareness, and infrastructure development are needed to leverage the revolutionary potential of decentralized digital currencies fully.
“Crypto’s integration into sports betting offers a clear opportunity to shake up the market, but the industry isn’t quite ready to meet the moment,” says Larsen. “That’s a shame because it could be transformative, with an improved user experience, a more transparent, open playing field, and secure, cost-effective transactions. Crypto can be a positive, disruptive force for sports betting — if we do the work to make it happen.”
The advantages of crypto over fiat for sports betting
Larsen identifies three primary advantages of cryptocurrencies in the sports betting landscape:
A new way for bettors to engage with terminals
“Cryptocurrencies enable near-instant transfers, significantly speeding up the betting process for bettors. The seamless nature of crypto transactions is appealing to tech-savvy players, and adoption could position operators as forward-thinking and receptive to their needs.”
Increased transparency and trust
“Blockchain technology provides an open ledger of transactions. Such transparency can help address one of the sports betting industry’s most persistent issues: trust. Bettors and operators gain the assurance of secure, verifiable transactions while providing additional protection against fraud, chargebacks and data breaches.”
Cost-effective transactions
“Traditional fiat-based payment systems can incur costly transaction fees and often run into processing delays, especially for international users. Cryptocurrencies enable near-instant transfers with minimal fees, meaning global betting platforms can enhance user experience and cut costs at the same time.”
Getting regulation right
While establishing a legislative framework is incredibly complex, Larsen does have some pointers on which approach he believes would be most effective. “I would propose a structured framework, implemented by government legislation. Adoption could drive a nationwide law that operates as a transparent, clear law across all states. Currently, there’s a tangled web of laws. Federal oversight, with a policy of standard guidelines, would assist in streamlining compliance laws whilst still appeasing each unique state’s autonomy.”
Education and awareness
“The industry hasn’t quite grasped yet that crypto has redefined what users expect from online platforms,” he says. “A significant portion of the new generation revels in the decentralised essence of crypto. They crave both privacy and speed, and currencies like Bitcoin offer a host of enticing perks, like anonymity, robust security features, and lightning-fast transaction times.”
“These payment options are fast becoming non-negotiable with an increasingly tech-savvy demographic, and we in the industry need to adapt to this paradigm shift.” he explains. “Of course, blockchain technology isn’t without its risks, and users must educate themselves on the potential pitfalls to protect themselves.”
Infrastructure development
Larsen stresses that any advancement in regulation and/or awareness may be futile if operators don’t ready themselves for adoption. “Naturally, the adoption of crypto into the betting space depends on whether operators invest in technical infrastructure. Secure wallets, integration with multiple different crypto options, and user-friendly interfaces are all key to provide a betting experience that leverages all crypto has to offer.”
Ultimately, Larsen is confident that cryptocurrency isn’t just a passing trend, but a cornerstone of the industry’s future. “We know the market is resilient, and consumer interest in crypto is undeniable. The question is no longer ‘if’ crypto will revolutionize sports betting — it’s when. It’s up to us to seize the opportunity with care and conviction.”
KT Group is a globally recognized provider of full-turnkey self-service kiosk solutions designed to meet the diverse requirements of clients. With expertise centered on crafting self-service kiosks and digital signage terminals that exceed client expectations, KT Group has solidified its position as a leading international manufacturer in the field.
Over the past 15 years, the company has expanded its presence, establishing staff and offices in multiple countries across the globe. This global network enables KT Group to provide efficient and timely service to customers, regardless of their location. Contact Kenneth for more info — [email protected]
Our Take on Sports Betting and Bitcoin
Bitcoin machine operators, at least ATMs, seem to be their own worst enemy so far. Reference recent splashing all over Colorado news. A bipartisan group of Colorado lawmakers is proposing regulations for the crypto ATMs to protect consumers who fall for a growing list of scams. The legislation would create daily transaction limits, would require machine operators to reimburse consumers who have been scammed in some cases and would require disclosures on the screens of the machines alerting consumers to the possibility of a scam. Not unlike California. You think transaction fees for ATM cash are high? Check out 20+ at Bitcoin ATMs. Very predatory.
Sports betting may be sanctionable venue where bitcoin is transparent and works.
Still, as of February 2025, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are increasingly being used in the sports betting industry, including for betting machines. Here’s an overview of the current situation:
Online Platforms: Many online sportsbooks and betting platforms already accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as payment methods.
Betting Machines: Some physical betting machines, particularly in jurisdictions with more relaxed regulations, have started to incorporate Bitcoin and other crypto payment options.
Regulatory Landscape: The use of Bitcoin for sports betting varies significantly by country and jurisdiction. Some areas have embraced it, while others have stricter regulations.
Anonymity: Bitcoin transactions offer a higher degree of privacy compared to traditional payment methods.
Speed: Bitcoin transactions can be processed quickly, allowing for faster deposits and withdrawals.
Lower Fees: Cryptocurrency transactions often have lower fees compared to traditional banking methods.
Global Accessibility: Bitcoin can be used across borders without the need for currency conversion.
Volatility: The value of Bitcoin can fluctuate significantly, which may affect betting amounts and payouts.
Regulatory Compliance: Betting operators must navigate complex regulations surrounding both sports betting and cryptocurrency use.
Technical Implementation: Integrating Bitcoin payment systems into existing betting machine infrastructure requires technical expertise.
User Adoption: While growing, cryptocurrency use is not yet mainstream, which may limit initial adoption.
The trend suggests that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will likely continue to gain traction in the sports betting industry, including betting machines. However, the extent and speed of adoption will depend on factors such as regulatory developments, technological advancements, and consumer demand. As always, it’s important for bettors to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding both sports betting and cryptocurrency use in their jurisdiction.
More Sports Betting Bitcoin Background
Published Release of GLI Gaming Security Framework Modules GLI-GSF-1 and GLI-GSF-2
February 12, 2025 – Gaming Laboratories International, LLC (GLI), is pleased to announce the final published versions of the following modules to the GLI Gaming Security Framework (GLI-GSF):
GLI-GSF-1: Gaming Information Security (GIS) Controls Audit v1.0: This module sets forth the common controls necessary for auditing a gaming organization’s gaming information security management system (GISMS), to ensure robust security measures across all aspects of gaming operations.
GLI-GSF-2: Gaming Technical Security (GTS) Assessment v1.0: This module establishes the minimum benchmark on which to perform security testing on a gaming organization’s gaming production environment (GPE), including but not limited to servers, internet websites, mobile applications, internal, external, and wireless networks.
The GLI-GSF was created in response to an overwhelming industry request for a comprehensive framework covering gaming security. Leveraging three and a half decades of knowledge and gaming industry insight, as well as a thorough review of global best practices for information security, GLI worked diligently alongside Bulletproof Solutions to establish a framework for gaming security. The GLI-GSF-1 and GLI-GSF-2 have been finalized based on industry feedback received.
These initial modules apply to all forms of gaming, effectively replacing the technical security tests previously established in GLI-27 for landbased gaming operations and, in the near future, will replace the technical security controls previously established in Appendix B of GLI-19 and GLI-33 for interactive gaming and event wagering as other modules are released.
Each module in the GLI-GSF is a culmination of industry best-practices. The GLI-GSF is created using a collaborative approach which involves thousands of gaming industry stakeholders. This framework is intended to assist regulators by creating baseline security guidelines which they can adopt and/or utilize in the manner they see fit. In addition to assisting regulators, this framework is of tremendous value to gaming organizations who seek comprehensive guidance and recommendations for enhancing security across all aspects of gaming operations, saving both time and expense. The GLI-GSF is available for free download on the ‘GLI Standards’ tab found at www.gaminglabs.com
Comments
Mike Jarmus — Strategic Marketing for Crane past role — This is a great article, and I completely agree that the sports betting industry must stay in tune with the evolving cryptocurrency landscape. Based on our research, 28% of American adults (approximately 65.7 million people) own cryptocurrency. However, ownership does not necessarily equate to transactional usage, highlighting the gap between adoption and practical application. While crypto’s role in sports betting is undeniable, its success depends on both regulatory clarity and infrastructure development. Not only should sportsbook operators take notice, but OEMs of betting kiosks and even component suppliers like CPI must adapt to ensure seamless integration between traditional and digital payment ecosystems.
To drive widespread adoption, two key hurdles must be addressed. First, federal clarity on cryptocurrency regulation is essential. State-by-state policies create fragmentation that slows progress. Second, the inherent volatility of cryptocurrencies can be mitigated by incorporating stablecoins or, in the long term, a U.S. central bank digital currency (CBDC). While the Bitcoin Lightning Network significantly improves transaction speed and reduces costs by processing payments off-chain, it does not address price fluctuations. Therefore, sports betting operators, kiosk manufacturers, and payment providers must collaborate to develop cash-to-digital solutions that seamlessly integrate with mobile devices, allowing for both crypto and fiat transactions. The industry’s ability to adapt to these evolving payment technologies will determine how effectively it capitalizes on crypto’s potential.
A row of red and white kiosks with large screens and card readers, branded with Bitstop. These machines are likely used for cryptocurrency transactions.
A Bitcoin ATM with a touchscreen display is shown against a blurred background of people walking. The screen has options for buying and selling Bitcoin, featuring the Bitcoin logo in the center. The machine is orange and white.
Bitcoin ATM Kiosk image
Recent Bitcoin News
Reference recent splashing all over Colorado news. A bipartisan group of Colorado lawmakers is proposing regulations for the crypto ATMs to protect consumers who fall for a growing list of scams. The legislation would create daily transaction limits, would require machine operators to reimburse consumers who have been scammed in some cases and would require disclosures on the screens of the machines alerting consumers to the possibility of a scam. Not unlike California. You think transaction fees for ATM cash are high? Check out 20+ at Bitcoin ATMs. Very predatory.
Nebraska – regulations advanced — A measure that would make operators of controllable electronic records, such as cryptocurrency, subject to regulation under the Nebraska Money Transmitters Act advanced from the first round of debate Feb. 11.
“AI for Kiosks and More: Must-Know Self-Service Trends for 2025” by DynaTouch provides insights into the latest trends shaping the self-service kiosk industry in 2025. The rapid technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), have significantly influenced self-service kiosks, transforming both customer interactions and internal processes.
Key Trends
Meaningful AI Integration AI is revolutionizing how companies operate and interact with customers. DynaTouch emphasizes integrating AI in an innovative, safe, and meaningful way rather than merely for buzzword appeal. AI can enhance customer interactions and streamline internal processes. The company is committed to safeguarding user data while effectively utilizing AI to improve its solutions.
Data Privacy With the increasing concern over data breaches and new privacy laws, data privacy has become a focal point. Users are cautious about how their information is used. DynaTouch highlights the limitations of basic “Kiosk Mode” options and stresses the need for dedicated kiosk management software. This software offers robust security features, such as user session management and restricted browsing, to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access.
Personalization Personalization is becoming an expectation in self-service kiosks. DynaTouch is exploring technologies like SmartVX, which allows for customized video content tailored to individual customers. This technology can enhance user experiences by providing personalized interactions, such as personalized videos at the end of utility bill payments with unique usage stats and payment history.
The webpage also offers several helpful resources for organizations considering implementing self-service kiosks:
7 Questions to Ask Before Adding a Kiosk to Your Office: A comprehensive guide to help organizations make informed decisions about adding kiosks.
A Journey Through the History of Kiosks: An exploration of the evolution of kiosks, showcasing their transformation into advanced self-service solutions.
Kiosk Mode Isn’t Enough: Protecting Your Self-Service Devices: An eBook explaining why dedicated kiosk management software is essential for secure and reliable self-service experiences.
Self-service kiosks are poised to rise in 2025, driven by advancements in AI, enhanced data privacy measures, and increased personalization. DynaTouch is at the forefront of these trends, ensuring that its solutions not only meet but exceed customer expectations. As technology continues to evolve, self-service kiosks will play a crucial role in providing users with smarter, simpler, and more secure solutions.
Hotel Kiosk Check-In Upgrades to SIHOT.KIOSK bolsters upselling for hotels
Some interesting hospitality hotel kiosk news from SIHOT. Established in 1986, SIHOT Group – including hardware solutions provider Addipos – employs around 250 people at 11 global locations with SIHOT used in around 3,500 top hotels worldwide. Among SIHOT’s global customers include Accor, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, Motel One, FTI Group, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Meininger Hotels.
Latest features and functionalities open up revenue opportunities while enhancing user experience for both guests and operators
SIHOT, one of the leading hotel management systems, has updated SIHOT.KIOSK – the self-service terminals for hotels – with a suite of additional features to support upselling and enhance the user experience.
The upgrades complement existing upselling options, which include room upgrades and booking additional service packages. Hoteliers can now capture additional revenue on arrival by offering guests the option to select and pay for early check-in, dependent on availability.
In addition, reservations can be made from SIHOT.KIOSK by walk-in guests whether for the same day or future days – by using an integration with the SIHOT.WEB booking engine. Hotels can also better manage late check-outs through a control mechanism that automatically directs guests to reception if they stay beyond their check-out time.
SIHOT has integrated existing technology to enhance the benefits of the self-service kiosks. By completing pre-check-in through SIHOT.GO! guests simply collect their key card from SIHOT.KIOSK on arrival. By streamlining the payment process, the time required for guest data collection and billing is reduced, enhancing efficiency and convenience for hotel staff.
The latest suite of updates provides further administrative support for hoteliers to lessen the pressure on Front Desk and Reservations teams. SIHOT.KIOSK also now supports the collection of personal guest data to meet compliance requirements for domestic and international guests.
QR code recognition enables quicker and easier processing for multi-room and group reservations. On scanning guest QR codes, guests receive instant, smart options tailored to their stay. This provides a more seamless digital experience for guests to easily make selections without needing to navigate through the options.
Carsten Wernet, Chief Executive of SIHOT said, “These new features don’t just facilitate operations and provide better guest experiences, they also enable hotels to capture more revenue. Our future enhancements are designed to elevate the capabilities of the SIHOT.KIOSK system to provide guests with an unparalleled user experience. We’re simultaneously taking repetitive and tedious administration tasks away from hotel staff, giving them time to focus on the guest.”
About SIHOT:
SIHOT (www.sihot.com) is one of the leading, privately-held modular hotel management software systems designed for leisure resorts, hotel chains, mice hotels, camping and hostels. The SIHOT hotel management platform built for hoteliers covers all operational processes with full customisation, offering a highly qualitative and complete property management solution. Established in 1986, SIHOT Group – including hardware solutions provider Addipos – employs around 250 people at 11 global locations with SIHOT used in around 3,500 top hotels worldwide. Among SIHOT’s global customers include Accor, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, Motel One, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Meininger Hotels.
Earlier News
SIHOT launches self-ordering terminal for F&B outlets
Hospitality businesses can now reduce pressure on operations with customer self-service ordering terminal
SIHOT, one of the leading hotel management systems, has unveiled its latest hardware-software solution, a self-ordering terminal designed for fast-moving food and beverage outlets.
Click – sihot terminal hotel kiosks hospitality
SIHOT developed the self-ordering terminal to support busy catering establishments – reducing queues, waiting times and pressure on staff – improving operations with digitalised ordering systems. The self-ordering terminal features an intuitive touch screen display with customised menus, enabling customers to easily place orders and access information about nutritional values and allergens. Payments are fast and secure using credit card or mobile via the integrated payment system.
SIHOT’s self-ordering terminal is fully integrated with SIHOT.POS, benefiting from real time data transfer of customer orders to the kitchen printer, and providing customers with a digital receipt. As part of the self-ordering terminal, hospitality and catering businesses can improve the customer experience with a fully integrated card terminal and barcode scanner.
Carsten Wernet, Chief Executive of SIHOT said, “With increasing expectations from customers and greater pressures on businesses, there’s a need to improve processes to fulfil customer orders. Our self-ordering terminal gives F&B outlet customers more autonomy to process their own orders, while teams and processes are efficient to enhance customer experiences and reduce wastage across the business. The integration with our existing systems provides business leaders with full commercial transparency to improve business processes and maximise revenue potential.”
SIHOT’s self-ordering terminal will be unveiled at Südback, Stuttgart from the 26th – 29th October 2024 in Hall 5, Stand D68. For more informations contact SIHOT or visit www.sihot.com
How kiosks work is often asked question. Kiosks perform a multitude of functions in a multitude of verticals.
In this video the owner gives you and operational walkthru demonstrating the efficiency the kiosk brings to table. And seeing how important installation and service are to the equation. Seeing how it works is so much better than pretty blah-blah language describing it in usual marketing 101 terms (think hackneyed terms like “frictionless” or synergy).
The People’s Choice Family Fun Center upgraded to Semnox’s state-of-the-art systems, enhancing both guest experience and operational efficiency. With the introduction of RFID cards and self-service kiosks, guests enjoy faster, smoother visits, while the center saves on labor costs and boosts revenue!
John Sarantakis, President of The People’s Choice:
“Working with Semnox has been a great experience. During the conversion, they brought in their people making the installation seamless. We didn’t lose any revenue and that just doesn’t usually happen, especially when switching over to a new system.”
Watch the transformation unfold!
Editors Note — this unit won 1st place at IAAPA show in 2024 — 1st Place, Parafait Klassic Pro Kiosk – Session/Slots Bookings with Automatic Waiver Management Semnox Solutions LLC 2036 “Truly operator less, requires no labor, sell variety of products. Comes in variety of kiosk formats (outdoor, indoor, big). Robust technology.”
Redemption kiosks are commonly used in various settings to provide customers with a convenient way to redeem rewards, coupons, or loyalty points. Here are a few examples:
Casino Redemption Kiosks: These kiosks allow casino patrons to redeem their loyalty points for cash, free play, or other rewards. They are often located throughout the casino floor for easy access.
Retail Store Kiosks: Many retail stores have kiosks where customers can redeem digital coupons, loyalty points, or gift cards. These kiosks can also provide information about ongoing promotions and special offers.
Amusement Park Kiosks: In amusement parks, redemption kiosks are used for guests to redeem tickets or points earned from arcade games for prizes. These kiosks help streamline the prize redemption process and reduce wait times.
Supermarket Kiosks: Some supermarkets have kiosks where customers can redeem loyalty points for discounts on their purchases. These kiosks can also print out coupons that can be used at checkout.
Movie Theater Kiosks: Movie theaters often have kiosks where customers can redeem points from loyalty programs for free tickets, concessions, or other rewards.
These kiosks enhance the customer experience by providing a quick and easy way to access rewards and incentives.
Here is the main kiosk website — https://www.cranepi.com/en/self-service-kiosks – For contacts we recommend Ron Turlington. Super smart long time. Worth noting Crane has “returned”. One of the original charter members they had some reorganizations and we lost our champion so to speak. But they are back!
Consumers want fast, flexible solutions that keep them moving. Associates want to perform value-add work. At CPI, we want it all. That’s why we develop integrated technologies that keep you moving. Our portfolio includes everything from self-checkout, custom kiosks, and attended lane automation to smart safes, cash processing and fourth wall revenue solutions. We have everything you need for productivity and peace of mind. Collaboration with diverse partners means we satisfy the requirements of the global retail market and help you focus on what matters.
With 30 million devices in operation, processing 40 million cashless payment and powering 4 billion transactions each week, there are many reasons to partner with CPI.
Kiosks
66% of consumers love self-service kiosks because they are faster and less stressful for ordering and payment. Business love them because they help fill the labor gap and redeploy associates to value-add customer services. Whatever your reason for self-service, we’ll help you make it a reality.
Vending
Convenience drives the Vending industry, and the biggest challenge operators face today is enabling consumers to pay at their vending machine with any payment options available to them, to promote growth as well as increase sales revenues. With over 50 years experience in the payment industry, CPI is at the forefront of innovation when it comes to new technologies and products targeted to increase end-user satisfaction.
Retail
Consumers want fast, flexible solutions that keep them moving. Associates want to perform value-add work. At CPI, we want it all. That’s why we develop integrated technologies that keep you moving. Our portfolio includes everything from self-checkout, custom kiosks, and attended lane automation to smart safes, cash processing and fourth wall revenue solutions. We have everything you need for productivity and peace of mind. Collaboration with diverse partners means we satisfy the requirements of the global retail market and help you focus on what matters.
From Chosun Biz Xmas Day 2025 — The Korea Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises conducted a survey on 402 companies utilizing kiosks for the ‘2024 Small Business Kiosk Utilization Status and Policy Discovery Survey,’ and reported on the 25th that 93.8% responded that ‘the introduction of kiosks helps management.’ Respondents noted that they saw effects such as labor cost reduction and decreased work burdens through the kiosks.
Typically, the stance on this has been deflective by noting higher and faster sales create better jobs and more employees. Generally that is true but those conditions are not the same for small business. They may have 10 tables total (or less). Half their business might be take out.
Some place like a supermarket may replace 3 employee checkout lines with two pods of six self-checkout. Probably net increase of ten employees (service and techs) with sales.
A study by Chron showed that self-checkout kiosks process about 60 items per hour, while cashiers can process around 40 items per hour. This means self-checkout can be about 50% faster under ideal conditions.
However, factors like unfamiliarity with the technology, unexpected errors, and the need for staff assistance can slow down the process significantly.
Summary —
It was determined that small business owners saw a cost reduction effect by using kiosks (self-service machines) to reduce more than one employee.
Among the 294 companies that answered that labor costs had been reduced, an average of 1.2 employees were cut, and they noted a reduction in monthly labor costs of about 1.38 million won.
Problems — 29.6% of the companies reported experiencing difficulties after implementing kiosks. The difficulties they encountered included technical problems like order errors, inability to contact customer service during late-night hours, challenges in utilization due to lack of digital skills, and customer complaints.
Among the 294 companies that answered that labor costs had been reduced, an average of 1.2 employees were cut, and they noted a reduction in monthly labor costs of about 1.38 million won.
29.6% of the companies reported experiencing difficulties after implementing kiosks. The difficulties they encountered included technical problems like order errors, inability to contact customer service during late-night hours, challenges in utilization due to lack of digital skills, and customer complaints.
61.4% of the responding companies noted that the installation and operating expenses of kiosks were burdensome. The average purchase cost of kiosks was about 3.56 million won ($2500 USD) for stand-type and about 1.33 million won for table-type. If kiosks were lent, the monthly average cost was about 100,000 won ($1000 USD) for stand-type and about 190,000 won for table-type.
In addition, respondents identified necessary government support related to kiosks, including training on kiosk utilization for small business owners, guidance on how customers can use kiosks, support for kiosk maintenance and expansion of after-sales service (A/S) channels, and regulation of kiosk fees.
Airport & Airline Accessibility — See us at FTE Oct28-30 Long Beach
Join us at FTE in Long Beach. We will be displaying Braille labels for use in airports and airlines with SysTech and Ken Parnell in E12. Given the show is in California makes it even more relevant for Braille. Amazon Hubs just upgraded all of their Hubs in California to meet specific California spec. Have you?
Long Beach has its problems as does San Diego (50+ SITA kiosks)
Along with audio, one of the mandated requirements for ADA Accessibility are braille labels, especially ones that last…
Quote — “As I had mentioned I am trying to figure out who handles the Airline Industry ticketing Kiosks, every time I travel, I see what is being installed on ticketing Kiosks or the lack of and I know that we can provide a much superior product that will last and hold up to the heavy public exposure keeping the Kiosk 100% ADA compliant and legible. I was stuck in Long Beach due to flight / weather cancellations for the last two days and had plenty of time to stare at their ticketing kiosks”, said Ken Parnell.
At SysTech Displays, we offer a wide range of standard Braille decal sets, voice guidance signage, audio signage, and network decals for most makes and models of ATMs. We also have an in-house design team that can help with custom ATM signage.
Click for full size – braille label decal kiosk
All our products are manufactured in the USA at our state-of-the-art facility in Northern California with our proprietary “Solid Dot” technology that stays 100% ADA compliant for the life of the decal.
While at the show be sure and visit imageHOLDERS in C10 and Pyramid Acceptors
ImageHOLDERS are a worldclass, award-winning digital kiosk manufacturer specializing in self-service Airline kiosks. With existing customers such as United, Lufthansa and Swissport, imageHOLDERS can offer end-to-end airline solutions which digitally transform any airline or airport. Digital airline kiosks boast a range of benefits, from enhancing passenger experience to saving on costs by reducing queue times and increasing check-in efficiency. They also provide opportunities for upselling once passengers are in dutyfree whilst enabling the redeployment of staff to other roles within the airport setting.
Self Service Kiosk October 2024 News from Kiosk Manufacturer Association
Our kiosk industry booth at IAAPA features a strong lineup of partners
WESTMINSTER, Colo., Oct. 15, 2024 (PR Newswire) — Kiosk Manufacturer Association updates for October 2024, announced. As we gear up for IAAPA in Orlando this November, we’re excited to showcase our expertise in the kiosk market. Our demos will include self-order, digital wayfinding, cash-to-card, and accessibility. These solutions are particularly well-suited for amusement parks and cruise ships, where self-service, self-order, and digital signage (such as wayfinding) are in high demand. Did you know that Disney in Orlando has over 200 restaurants and covers 43 square miles?
Did we mention free passes? We have those too.
“Our booth at IAAPA features a strong lineup of partners, including Pyramid kiosks (two units), RedyRef (two units), AcquireDigital, & TPGi. TPGi will be showcasing a demo from imageHOLDERS,” says KMA executive director Craig Keefner. “In the digital signage pavilion, you can also find 22Miles and Elotouch, demonstrating our commitment to collaboration and innovation. Our next tradeshow after IAAPA is NRF in January.”
DataByte — The latest India datamart report says “kiosk market 64B. That is for 2032 and more than half of their numbers are ATMs. This data is significant for us as it underlines the trending growth in the kiosk market. There is double-counting (KFC deploys 5000 kiosks & so does ACRELEC America who makes them for KFC. McDonalds deploys 10,000 kiosks? Diebold Nixdorf does too. \And for triple counting Pyramid Computer makes the McD units for DN.
• Stats Smorgasboard
• EV Chargers by LG Available
• Patient Kiosk – Top 5 Reasons
• WCAG for Non-Web Guidelines
• Self-Order Management – Case Study 1100 Units
• Interactive Display Software
• Europe – Advantech Buys AURES
• Europe – Restaurant Self-Order – Ordu & Lazenby
• Wendy’s Deploys ACRELEC
• SUZOHAPP New President Geoff McDowell
Retail Automation
• Chipotle Robots Peeling Avocados
• Sweetgreen Robots – Not So Fast !
• Self-Checkout Systems – Advantages Disadvantages
• Payment Processors – Shift4 is really Shaft4?
• McDonald’s Market Research
• Touchscreen or Person – Which is Better?
• Concerns for Toast’s TAM
Contact [email protected] with questions or contacts. We accept no financial commission or paid advertising.
About Kiosk Industry
Your best source for opinions, insights, news, and market trends for self-service kiosks, digital signage, POS, and more. Learn from the experts. We are a “co-op” of over 700 companies.
About the Kiosk Association
Our mission is to inform and educate. Accessibility, ADA, PCI, UL are some of our focus points. Join us for informative Q&A webinars and weekly or monthly update emails (no ads). Learn more: https://kma.global/
Thanks to the companies who make this possible.
MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
Craig Keefner
Kiosk Association of Manufacturers
EMAIL: [email protected] | PHONE: 720-324-1837
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Latest guidance from W3C on basically closed systems which do not fall under the Open systems that WCAG normally applies to,
Think someone using their desktop at home versus using an ATM.
The accessibility guidelines for closed systems do in fact have references to WCAG (three total) and the US Access Board certainly considers W3C guidelines as one of their foundations for accessibility. The European standards (349) also follow.
These new “guidelines” are not legalistic in nature. They are suggestions and recommendations on what WCAG parameters should be considered when doing “closed systems”.
Oddly enough large format screens such as interactive digital for wayfinding, smart cities, or classroom schools are not detailed.
The working committee deciding all this had no representation from the kiosk or digital signage sector though Phil Day is very accomplished albeit basically NCR ATMs and checkouts (based in Scotland). NCR checkout technology such as that at Walmart or Whole Foods (based in Atlanta) only marginally pass ADA rules. The question then becomes is whether all that is client-driven and for the most part we believe it is. Walmart decides its liability. See ADA – Whole Foods SCO Review – Amazon Accessibility
We are not sure why they spent two years on this just to create a subset of the main WCAG. We also wish regulatory guidelines took the daring step of providing actual real like examples but that is problematic for them. And then you have to wonder about California. ADA is different in California (Braille Label – Braille Decals for ADA Accessibility)
Including mobile is definite plus for sure.
For baseline testing of desktop and mobile accessibility the best option is to have Google do it for you (https://pagespeed.web.dev/). It uses WCAG 2.1 as base.
Definition of closed systems by W3C
self-service transaction machines or kiosks — examples include machines used for retail self-checkout, point of sales (POS) terminals, ticketing and self-check-in, and Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).
telephony devices such as internet phones, feature phones, smartphones, and phone-enabled tablets
educational devices such as interactive whiteboards and smart boards
entertainment technologies including gaming platforms or consoles, smart TVs, set-top boxes, smart displays, smart speakers, smart watches, and tablets
an ebook reader or standalone ebook software that allows assistive technologies to access all of the user interface controls of the ebook program (open functionality) but does not allow the assistive technologies to access the actual content of book (closed functionality).
medical devices such as digital blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, or other wearable devices
an operating system that makes the user provide login credentials before it allows any assistive technologies to be loaded. The login portion would be closed functionality.
other technology devices, such as printers, displays, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices
On October 8th, 2024, the W3C Accessibility Guidelines Working Group (AGWG) published Guidance on Applying WCAG 2 to Non-Web Information and Communications Technologies (WCAG2ICT) as a completed W3C Group Note. WCAG2ICT describes how Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) principles, guidelines, and success criteria can be applied to non-web information and communications technologies (ICT), specifically to non-web documents and software. The Note includes guidance for WCAG 2.0, 2.1, and 2.2 success criteria and glossary terms. For an introduction, see: WCAG2ICT Overview.
New line of open frame monitorsfrom Elo. Enable power, video and touch with a single USB‑C cable.
Connections, especially during shipment, fail probably 20% of the time. Add in cable runs and tie wraps PLUS the big power brick and life gets complicated quick.
Elo’s 64-Series Open-Frames deliver industrial-grade, optically-bonded touchscreen monitors designed for easy integration into enclosures. Available in 7-, 10- and 15-inch
sizes with sleek, narrow borders and a modern form factor, the 64-Series are well-suited for industrial controls, HMI, warehouse automation, gaming and more.
Part number
Marketing description
E970862
Elo 0764L 7-inch HD Optically bonded LCD (LED Backlight), Open Frame, Projected Capacitive 10 Touch, Zero-Bezel, USB-C, HDMI & Display Port video interface, USB-C touch, Clear, No power brick
E971060
Elo 1064L 10.1-inch HD Optically bonded LCD (LED Backlight), Open Frame, Projected Capacitive 10 Touch, Zero-Bezel, USB-C, HDMI & Display Port video interface, USB-C touch, Clear, No power brick
E971256
Elo 1564L 15.6-inch FHD Optically bonded LCD (LED Backlight), Open Frame, Projected Capacitive 10 Touch, Zero-Bezel, USB-C, HDMI & Display Port video interface, USB-C touch, Clear, No power brick
Specifications
Part Number(s)
TouchPro PCAP – E971256
Enclosure Color
Black
Touch Technology & Capacity
PCAP (TouchPro® Projected Capacitive) – 10 Touch
Touch Thru
TouchPro® PCAP supports up to an additional 6mm glass/3mm plastic with up to 2 touches.
Touch Interface
USB 2.0
Diagonal Size
15.6” diagonal, Active matrix TFT LCD (LED)
On Screen Display
On screen OSD with menu and power buttons on the back of the unit.
Supported Touch gestures include:
1. Call out the OSD menu.
2. lock/unlock the OSD button function.
3. lock/unlock the power button function.
Settings: Auto Scan, Video Priority, Brightness, Contrast, Aspect Ratio, Sharpness, Color Temperature, Color Enhance, Low Blue Light, OSD Timeout, OSD Language, Recall Defaults, Information, Touch On Sleep Mode, Touch Through
Languages: English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese
Horizontal: ±89° or 178° total / Vertical: ±89° or 178° total
Number of Colors
16.7 million
Brightness (typical)
LCD panel: 450 nits
TouchPro PCAP: 405 nits
Response Time-total (typical)
25 msec
Contrast Ratio
1000:1
Video
HDMI V1.4 Type A receptacle for HDMI input
DisplayPort V1.2 – Supports later versions of Display Port video input
USB Type-C
*Suggest using Elo USB Type-C to Type-C (Elo P/N: E129019) cable to prevent any compatibility issues
Input Video Horizontal Sync frequency range: 30 – 80K KHz
Input Video Vertical Sync (frame rate) frequency range: 50-75Hz
Power
Option1:
External DC – Optional power brick (sold separately)
Monitor input power connector: Coaxial power jack (2.0mm (+0.0 -0.1mm) pin outer diameter, 6.4mm (+/- 0.3mm) barrel inner diameter, 8.8mm (+/- 0.3mm) Barrel depth)
Monitor input power signal specifications: 12V – 24V DC +/- 5%
ON (Default – 80% Brightness): 9.36W
ON (Typical – 100% Brightness): 12.95W
SLEEP (monitor + adapter): 0.45W
OFF (monitor + adapter): 0.25W
Dimensions
14.76″ x 8.83″ x 1.24″ / 375.0 mm x 224.4 mm x 31.6 mm
Shipping Box Dimensions
17.72″ x 11.89″ x 5.55″ / 450 mm x 302 mm x 141 mm
Weight (Unpackaged)
4.91 lbs / 2.23 kg
Weight (Packaged)
9.09 lbs / 4.12 kg
Operating Temperature
0°C to 40°C / 32°F to 104°F
Storage Temperature
-20°C to 60°C / -4°F to 140°F
Humidity
Operating: 20% to 80%
Storage: 10% to 95%
Sealability
IPX1 for front side
MTBF
50,000 hours demonstrated
Warranty
3-year
Regulatory approvals and declarations
Australia RCM
Canada cUL, IC
China CCC
Europe CE, TUV
United Kingdom UKCA
Japan VCCI
Korea KCC
Mexico NoM
Taiwan BSMI
United States UL, FCC
International CB
RoHS, China RoHS, WEEE
Compliance
GLI 27 kV air / 8 kV contact ESD compliance
UL62368 ball-drop compliant
IK08 impact compliant
TUV Rheinland (Low Blue Light)
Power collection function via DDCCI
Energy Star
Energy Star 8.0
Mounting Options
75 mm and 100mm VESA mount
Mounting interface on all 4 sides
Flush mount with included brackets
See dimensional drawings for details
What’s in the Box
1564L
HDMI cable
Touch USB Cable (USB-A to USB-C)
Flush Mount Brackets w/Screws
Quick Install Guide
EEI Label
Options / Peripherals / Upgrades
Cable Kit DVI-D to HDMI – Elo P/N: E538507
North America power adapter and cable kit – Elo P/N: E005277
European & Korea power adapter and cable kit – Elo P/N: E571601
UK power adapter and cable kit – Elo P/N: E180092
China power adapter and cable kit – Elo P/N: E558862
Taiwan power adapter and cable kit – Elo P/N: E818655
Japan power adapter and cable kit – Elo P/N: E182546
Argentina power adapter and cable kit – Elo P/N: E887099
Optional PCAP Stylus Pen – Elo P/N: E066148
Elo Backpack® 4 (Value Model)- Elo P/N: E393754
Elo Backpack® 4 (Standard Model) – Elo P/N: E393359
KioWare Launches New Website: User-Friendly Features With A Fresh Look And Feel – Kiosk Software Secure Browser Kiosk Mode
September 17 th , 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—KioWare, the leading secure browser and lockdown, is pleased to announce the official aunch of its redesigned website, marking an important milestone in its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional service to the self-service kiosk industry. The redesigned website represents the first step in a series of planned updates to improve how KioWare users interact with KioWare products and services.
The enhancements implemented in this phase are a direct response to customer feedback and the evolving needs of the industry.
secure browser lockdown
Enhanced Design and Interface
The website’s product layout and user interface have been refreshed, presenting a modern, visually appealing look and feel. This update, importantly, also simplifies navigation, allowing users to find information and resources with fewer clicks.
Improved Purchasing Process
To provide the best customer service from the start, KioWare’s online shopping experience has been refined to offer a more streamlined, user-friendly system. Users can easily access the products they need and check out, quickly and efficiently. International customers will also now see prices in their currency.
New Software Subscription Options
Choose your software subscriptions directly through our website for added convenience.
KioWare OS for Linux and Android
In addition to Light, Basic, and Enterprise level software, KioWare’s award-winning, secure software is now also available for Android, Windows, Chrome OS, and Linux. KioWare OS for Linux is now available for purchase directly from the website. This addition illustrates KioWare’s commitment to serving a diverse range of platforms and meeting the needs of their extensive customer list, spanning across different operating systems.
“This redesign marks a substantial step forward for KioWare as we continue to evolve and grow. Our goal has always been to provide our customers with the best possible experience: the new website and its upgraded features are a testament to that,” said Jim Kruper, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at KioWare. “We are confident that these updates will position KioWare for continued growth in the self-service industry.”
Behind the Scenes
The successful launch of the website results from extensive collaboration and effort across multiple teams. The design process, led by Amy Brancato, Senior Graphic Designer, was pivotal in bringing that vision to life. “We focused on making the design both engaging and functional, emphasizing ease of use. It was a true team effort. I’m grateful to the team and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished,” Amy shared.
A Word of Thanks
KioWare extends its sincere gratitude to all of its customers for their ongoing support. It is their trust in KioWare that drives us to innovate and push the boundaries of what we can offer. We believe this new website will not only enhance your experience with KioWare but also reinforce our commitment to delivering our exceptional products to the self-service kiosk industry.
KioWare, located in York, Pennsylvania, is a worldwide market leader in self-service kiosk and purposed device markets. KioWare is kiosk system software that kiosk applications are built on and is used in over 16,000 projects in over 140 countries with project deployments that range from a handful to many thousands of kiosks.
Electronic Podium – Digital and Smart For Less than $5000
This week, we want to examine the podium as a digital mobile kiosk and mobile interactive terminals. The word “mobile” usually refers to a handheld phone or tablet, but here, we are looking at mobility in positioning. Typically, these devices come with casters for moving from one place to another.
We are starting with portable podiums, also known as speaker podiums, speaker dais, lecterns and rostrums.
Part 1 – Podiums
Nice interaction.
TERMS — So what are interactive podiums called? There are many names including lectern, dais, and rostrum to name some. They used to be wooden (like kiosks of old) but now they come with super media connectivity, adjustable heights (like check-in units) and top tier technology for AV (AudioVisual)
Here is RFP by FBI last year requesting Thirty eight “Portable Podiums”
Where are Podium Smart for Dais Rostrum Lecterns Used
Universities
Classrooms
SLED
Corporate Meeting Rooms
Corporate Auditoriums
Typical Specifications
Highly Integrated Design: Built-in all-in-one system with detachable side trays; motorized height adjustment; lightweight aluminum construction for portability.
Computer Module: Detachable OPS unit for easy maintenance and upgrades.
Display Output: HDMI output for large screens or projectors; also supports HDMI input.
Mobility: Hidden lockable caster wheels for easy movement.
Integrated Software: Provides presenter and audience with separate views, real-time annotations, timer display. Supports importing Word, video, web, and image files into PowerPoint without interruptions; preloads up to 10 PowerPoint presentations for seamless multi-speaker sessions.
Electronic Whiteboard Functionality: Includes tools for annotation, drawing, note-taking, synchronized with projection screens or video walls; supports collaborative editing and interactive engagement.
Podium PRICE
A nice smart podium like this is probably less than $5000. If interested please contact [email protected]
A person navigates a digital touchscreen podium in a room where a large screen displays a computer interface, complete with files and icons. A microphone stands ready on the podium. The space is highlighted by its white walls and tiled floor.
Smart Podium
Screenshot of a procurement request document from the FBIs Finance Division for digital PA systems. It includes quotes, delivery details, and contact information, along with submission deadlines and requirements. Page 1 of 7 features email addresses for further inquiries about the podium equipment.
The current environment for credit card readers gets more complex every day. Not only from a deployment standpoint but also as retro upgrades. Four years from now whatever you put out now, you will likely want to switch then. Kiosk and terminal manufacturers don’t have the option of a clean VESA mount like LCDs and touchscreens do. Mounts come in all flavors.
Historically too deployers have “cheated” with POS devices just like they cheat with assistive technology. The rationale used is “we have people available to help”. For larger companies they just exact a guarantee of limited liability using a device NOT rated for unattended. SMBs take it on the chin. In assistive tech, it becomes “we are providing meaningful access” legally albeit in violation of Title III for same service.
What we think about:
mitigating all of the different mounts so present and future is easier
Does the KMA raise that as relevant action item to review?
Why does PCI SSC ignore accessibility and assistive qualities?
Why does PCI SSC ignore companies that use attended devices instead of unattended? Enforcement?
Processors and POS systems could encourage proper card reads by using fees (that only go up)
Companies like Ingenico have made strides but Verifone seems stuck.
NRF tried Javapos and other methods to standardize middleware connections (think CUSS and Java)
Hotels and restaurants unite?
Cheap slow credit card readers should be replaced.
We asked some experts about it.
Looks good to me. Although, one comment I have is that we have many partners leveraging semi-attended installs for merchants of all shapes and sizes and we’ve never really had pushback from the processor for boarding the accounts. In fact, strangely enough one of the most popular devices used by our kiosk provider partners is a mounted Ingenico LANE/3000. OEMs like Touch Dynamic, PartnerTech, Pye, and others standardize on mounted countertop devices for their kiosks – against our recommendations since we support purpose-built unattended products as well and recommend those for any unattended use-case. I have received feedback that the mounts for attended devices are surface-mount friendly (and therefore easier to swap), whereas the purpose-built unattended devices require custom casework because they’re designed to be more integrated. We see this in amusements, fast-casual/QSR kiosk ordering, lighter-use vending, ticketing, cafeteria, municipal kiosks, etc…
Couple of hardware OEMs that standardize on countertop hardware for their kiosks.
Just wanted to weigh in since this is pretty prevalent among hardware OEMs that cater to a variety of POS providers.
And another
Yes, the article looks good to me as well. I would suggest expanding a bit on what xxxxxx mentioned regarding the mounting of attended versus unattended terminals. Experienced kiosk companies often incorporate modularity into their designs by using removable block plates. This allows for the flexibility to use different unattended devices on the same kiosk by simply changing the block plate, rather than replacing the entire cabinet door. In fact, I would argue that switching between different attended devices on a kiosk requires nearly the same level of engineering.
And another
Hi xxxx. I agree with Jared that semi-attended has become much more commonplace as the years have progressed since we had that original conversation. To me now the use case and environment the kiosk will be placed into is the biggest deciding factor between using an attended or unattended terminal. I added a chunk of sentences addressing that point. I added some additional info and edits to make some of the statements less matter-of-fact and more up to the reader’s interpretation. Thanks for the shout out.
Here is original instigator (super major kiosk manufacturer)
If the LCD companies of the world can work within a standard for mounting, (VESA) then why can’t the Credit Card Reader manufacturers? I’ve got to be far from the only person who thinks this sucks. Unless you make a living making 100’s of different mounting stands for them I guess…
Here is edited version of Cardholder Activated Terminal FAQ
There are two primary classifications of Point of Sale Terminal Types: Attended and Unattended Payment Terminals are classified into two major types, depending on the situation:
Attended Terminals
A POS Transaction occurring at an attended POS Terminal is a face-to-face Transaction, since a Sales Person or Representative is present at the time of the Transaction.
Unattended Terminals or Cardholder Activated Terminals (CATs)
A POS Transaction occurring at an unattended POS Terminal is a non-face-to-face Transaction, as NO Sales Person or Representative is present at the time of the Transaction. Examples of unattended POS Terminals include ticket dispensing machines, vending machines, automated fuel dispensers, toll booths, kiosks, and parking meters.
Resource: we highly recommend UCP Inc. and Rob Chilcoat for detailed questions on CAT terminals. For actual terminals we recommend Ingenico Self Service
Saying Yes to a McDonalds, Costco or a Home Depot
Quasi Classification of “Semi-Attended” — This is a gray area coined by processors in order to permit use of Attended Terminals on self-service kiosks. in an Unattended Mode. Typically this is seen by large corporations Solution like this have become common in big box retail stores (e.g. Home Depot, Costco). where They wish to use the same terminals throughout their organization as this reduces their upfront costs and long term support costs. business case with the same liability. The processors will “concede” to the use but only with If a kiosk maker goes this direction, it is important to be aware that merchant accounts may come with additional stipulations for use. Example stipulations might be that the kiosk is only accessible during business hours and is under the supervision of an agent of the merchant (store employee). Preconditions for obtaining such a classification by the processor is directly related to leverage the corporation may exert. Small business is not in that position.
As far as the PCISSC is concerned there is no such thing as “semi-attended.” A device is either an attended device (used with the assistance and under the supervision of a representative of the merchant) or is unattended (cardholder activated and used for self-service). Another big determining factor when deciding to go to market with a semi-attended solution is the physical environment the kiosk will be placed. We’ve had major transportation system companies ask to use an attended device on a train platform or another client that wanted to use it for ferry ticketing at a marina. An attended device is not designed to stand up to temperature variations, humidity, direct sunlight, or the abuse and traffic it will experience in these use cases. Other things like wet fingers at a water park and wet credit cards will also make using an attended device cost much more money in the long run due to frequent field support and repair issues. This gray area of “Semi attended” was coined by the processors who allow some merchants to use attended terminals in unattended situations which always comes with stipulations like the terminal must be only accessible during business hours and up to X number of self-checkout stations have to be supervised by an attendant, or you can’t sell alcohol or cigarettes at them. The alcohol stipulation was changed a while back by having the attendant at the self-checkout area check the ID and either swipe a badge or enter a code to allow for the sale of age-restricted products. If a kiosk solution provider wants to do everything aboveboard from a PCISSC perspective they should use unattended devices designed for self-service environments and have enhanced physical and tamper detection features. It is important that all merchants routinely check their terminals for signs of tampering and merchants operating self-service kiosks need to be extra vigilant. so that no exceptions ever have to be sought to operate in this semi-attended gray area with their prospective client’s processor. Use case and terminal model to be used are made part of a merchant account application and it is always possible an underwriter who reviews that application for risk might flag an attended device used at a kiosk as unacceptable. Also, when a kiosk solution uses a device that has gone through all the required testing to be considered and certified as a true unattended solution there are other added cost savings benefits when the merchant account is setup properly. it comes to an EMV certification, there is a whole host of tests scrips the person doing the certification has to run through to get an L3 EMV cert with a processor, and when the use case is for self-service there are additional tests cases that have to be run for the L3 EMV cert to cover unattended. It’s all-around best practice to use a device designed for self-service basically.
There are two primary classifications of Point of Sale Terminal Types: Attended and Unattended Payment Terminals are classified into two major types, depending on the situation:
Attended Terminals
A POS Transaction occurring at an attended POS Terminal is a face-to-face Transaction, since a Sales Person or Representative is present at the time of the Transaction.
Unattended Terminals or Cardholder Activated Terminals (CATs)
A POS Transaction occurring at an unattended POS Terminal is a non-face-to-face Transaction, as NO Sales Person or Representative is present at the time of the Transaction. Examples of unattended POS Terminals include ticket dispensing machines, vending machines, automated fuel dispensers, toll booths, kiosks, and parking meters.
Resource: we highly recommend UCP Inc. and Rob Chilcoat for detailed questions on CAT terminals. For actual terminals we recommend Ingenico Self Service
Saying Yes to a McDonalds, Costco or a Home Depot
Quasi Classification of “Semi-Attended” — This is a gray area coined by processors in order to permit use of Attended Terminals in an Unattended Mode. Typically this is seen by large corporations (e.g. Home Depot, Costco) where they wish to use the same terminals throughout the business case with the same liability. The processors will “concede” to the use but only with additional stipulations for use. Preconditions for obtaining such a classification by the processor is directly related to leverage the corporation may exert. Small business is not in that position.
CAT Definitions
The generally used CAT definitions for Mastercard for example are for CAT1, CAT2, CAT3, CAT4, CAT6, CAT7 and CAT9
IDEMIA Public Security North America, the market-renowned provider of solutions for Motor Vehicle Agencies, in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS), has launched its new self-service kiosks at Tennessee Driver Service Centers to reduce customer wait times.
Tennessee residents can use IDEMIA’s SMART-E Kiosks to complete many driver’s license transactions, including renewing or replacing a duplicate driver’s license or ID card, changing an address, updating emergency contact information, advancing a Teen/Graduated Driver License, paying reinstatement fees, and requesting a license reissue after reinstatement requirements are met.
Web Enrollment platform
IDEMIA’s next-generation kiosk, the SMART-E, has been redesigned for motor vehicle agencies
IDEMIA’s next-generation kiosk, the SMART-E, has been redesigned for motor vehicle agencies, offering self-service options built on the same industry-renowned browser-based Web Enrollment platform used by examiners to capture customer data, photo, signature, and payment.
With cloud-hosted Issuance 360 Back Office providing integration with the State System of Record on the backend, users can enjoy a seamless solution that spans industry-renowned customer service at examiner workstations, and flexible and efficient self-service, along with many great benefits:
Easy to Use and ADA-Compliant: Easy-to-follow instructions over two screens for dynamic workflow and privacy protection. ADA-compliant audio navigation via speaker or audio jack.
Flexible Placement: Easily deployed wherever power and ethernet connection is available, with the option of space-saving, back-to-back arrangement.
Configurable Workflow: Offers flexibility to be used with agent assistance (“Attended Mode”) or as self-service (“Unattended Mode”).
ICAO-Compliant Photos with Automatic Height Adjustment: Photo capture for seated or standing customers with a 13 MP autofocus camera. Automatically crops to ICAO and AAMVA standards and performs ICAO quality compliance checks.
Upfront Eligibility Check: Uses 1:1 facial recognition to compare against the photo on file and determine eligibility for self-service transactions.
New self-service kiosks
“We are excited about the added flexibility and convenience the new self-service kiosks will provide for Tennesseans. Citizens can complete many Driver Services transactions at one of these new kiosks, which will help reduce wait times at Driver Services Centers,” said TDOSHS Commissioner, Jeff Long.
“We are thrilled to launch our new self-service kiosks in the state of Tennessee. With our commitment to serve Motor Vehicle agencies across the country, we are excited to bring this solution to help Tennessee Driver Services Centers bring an efficient, convenient, and seamless experience to their customers who come into their offices,” said Donnie Scott, CEO, IDEMIA Public Security North America.
Other advanced DMV solutions
In addition to IDEMIA’s self-service kiosks, IDEMIA serves Tennessee residents with other advanced DMV solutions, including mobile travel cases, physical driver’s licenses, facial recognition, remote web test, proctor ID (at home testing), and front office/capture equipment.
On top of IDEMIA’s advanced DMV solutions, IDEMIA also provides Tennessee residents access to statewide enrollment services, Automated Fingerprint ID System (AFIS), LiveScan Devices, Morpho/Mobile IDent 2.0, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Checkpoint Identity Authentication, and TSA PreCheck.
Dot Pad has been selected as a finalist in the Community Empowerment category at the SXSW Innovation Awards 2024.
SXSW is a globally renowned event based on innovation and creativity, and we are thrilled that Dot Pad has been chosen as a finalist in the Community Empowerment category, which focuses on projects addressing social issues and advancing society.
We would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to all the Dot family who have supported us. With your help, we are striving towards greater goals.
Moving forward, we will continue to propose innovative solutions to social problems, aiming to improve accessibility and create a barrier-free world.