KIOSK Quarterly Update: Innovations in Smart Lockers, Returns, and Self-Service Design

By | April 14, 2026
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Last Updated on April 14, 2026 by Craig Allen Keefner

KIOSK November 2025 Update: Building Smarter, More Human-Centered Self-Service Solutions

Company Overview
KIOSK Information Systems highlights major innovations, partnerships, employee features, and technology updates shaping its self-service and automation solutions for retail and beyond.  Original article is available on LinkedIn.


Partnership Spotlight: Open Lockers

KIOSK partners with Open Lockers to redefine contactless order pickup for retail and restaurants.

  • Smart lockers feature individually controlled compartments and door screens for secure, branded customer interactions.

  • Integrated with POS systems for real-time tracking and automated notifications.

  • Benefits include labor savings, hygiene, and improved customer experience.

  • KIOSK supports design refinement and large-scale manufacturing to scale the technology.


Solution Feature: Automated Returns Kiosk (ARK)

The ARK system simplifies retail returns through self-service kiosks.

  • Addresses high in-store return volumes (~17.6% of online sales).

  • Automates scanning, selection, and deposit steps for quick processing.

  • Frees staff for higher-value tasks such as customer assistance or upselling.

  • Two models (classic and compact) adapt to different store spaces.

  • Enhances brand perception and loyalty by making returns effortless.


Industry Insights: Empathy in Self-Service Design

KIOSK emphasizes human-centered design as key to effective automation.

  • Empathy-driven prototypes improve accessibility for vision, mobility, and neurodiversity.

  • Design choices—from lighting to interface layout—are informed by user observation.

  • Goal: create intuitive, inclusive kiosks that build trust and emotional connection with users.


Tech Update: Transition to Windows 11

With Microsoft ending Windows 10 support:

  • Upgrading to Windows 11 is critical to maintain compliance and security.

  • Extended Security Updates (ESU) are available for up to three years post-support (total $427, increasing annually).

  • KIOSK advises clients to assess compatibility or plan hardware upgrades.


Employee Spotlight: Theresa Hunter

Theresa Hunter, Product Owner/IT Functional Lead, is recognized for her leadership and innovation.

  • Delivered major software solutions for clients such as IVS, Monie Corp., Penske, and Carnival.

  • Transitioned from accounting to IT, inspired by her mentor.

  • Outside work, she enjoys Zumba, martial arts, volunteering, camping, and sports.

  • Her story underscores lifelong learning and growth through stepping beyond comfort zones.


Upcoming Event: NRF 2026 — Retail’s Big Show

  • Date/Location: January 11–13, 2026, New York City, Booth #6221

  • KIOSK and Posiflex will showcase next-generation retail automation solutions.

  • The event will highlight how self-service kiosks enhance efficiency and elevate customer experience.

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External Links

Author: Craig Allen Keefner

Craig Allen Keefner is an industry analyst, content strategist, and longtime authority on self-service kiosks, digital signage, unattended payment systems, and interactive technology. He manages content and industry strategy for Kiosk Industry and The Industry Group, with a focus on kiosk software, hardware-software integration, accessibility, payment compliance, healthcare kiosks, restaurant self-service, and emerging AI automation. Craig has covered the self-service and kiosk industry since the 1990s, tracking how public-facing terminals move from concept to field deployment. His work combines industry research, vendor analysis, operator conversations, standards tracking, trade show coverage, and practical experience with the real-world constraints of kiosk deployments. https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiosk