It is not an exaggeration to say that seeing the future is a gift every business wants, but such superpowers are only in fiction. Still, the predictive technology and analytics in your POS Software will give you a better understanding of future events. 

For example, using your data-driven analytics and artificial intelligence in your POS system can help you predict your ideal stock holding now based on its historical data. This can help you make real-time decisions, allowing, for example, you to overcome current delivery issues that are leading to shipping delays. 

The problem is that you now have thousands of stock items in your shop. Keeping track of all these stock items is, in practice, unworkable as it is too much work. To reduce the workload, many people try to pick the top-selling items and essentially ignore the rest. It works for the top, say 100 items, but leaves the rest out of control. But it is no problem for the computer to control thousands of items. 

So stop guessing, use your POS System. Users of our POS System have a free AI system years ahead of any other POS Software I know of that can predict future sales, a challenge every retail business faces. Although precise foresight remains fictional, modern Point of Sale (POS) systems with predictive analytics provide a close second. This technology analyses your past sales data to deliver highly accurate demand forecasts, enabling you to optimise stock levels, boost profitability, and make smarter purchasing choices.

The High Cost of Inaccurate Inventory

Ineffective inventory management directly impacts profitability. The most visible consequences are stockouts and overstocking, which contribute to a global problem for retailers. Inventory distortion, which includes both overstocks and stockouts, was projected to cost retailers almost $1.8 trillion in 2023. Stockouts alone account for nearly $1 trillion in lost sales for retailers worldwide each year, as customers who cannot find the product they want will often take their business elsewhere. Research shows that retailers lose nearly half of all intended purchases when a product is unavailable. These lost sales represent a significant revenue loss and can damage brand reputation and customer loyalty over the long term. Furthermore, many businesses resort to costly emergency measures such as expedited shipping and overtime labour to manage stock shortfalls, which erode financial stability.

From Guesswork to Growth: How Predictive Analytics Works

Manually tracking thousands of individual stock items is an unworkable and inefficient task that often leads to errors. Many retailers attempt to manage this by focusing only on their top-selling products, leaving the majority of their inventory unmanaged and susceptible to costly stockouts or overstocking. Predictive analytics integrated within a POS system automates this entire process, providing a comprehensive solution.

The system’s artificial intelligence uses historical data to forecast ideal stock levels for every single item. This enables data-driven, real-time purchasing decisions that can mitigate challenges such as shipping delays. For instance, consider a scenario where your system flags a specific item for review. The data might show you have only two units on hand, but the predictive analytics, based on recent sales velocity and seasonal trends, forecasts four sales for the upcoming week. The system immediately recommends a reorder, allowing you to prevent missed sales and ensure customer satisfaction.

Measurable Business Outcomes and ROI

The implementation of predictive analytics delivers tangible returns by converting data into strategic assets. By ensuring popular items are consistently available, you not only capture immediate sales but also strengthen customer loyalty and satisfaction. One of our clients, a mid-sized retail business, discovered an unforeseen surge in demand for a niche product line through their POS system's analytics. By flagging the initial sales trend, the system enabled them to adjust their ordering strategy promptly, capturing significant sales that would have otherwise been lost.

Moreover, this technology greatly cuts the financial cost of overstocking, freeing up capital that would otherwise be tied up in unsold goods. Case studies have demonstrated that businesses using real-time inventory tracking and predictive analytics can boost revenue by 12% and cut emergency replenishment costs by 30% within 6 months. By automating replenishment, organisations can cut stockouts by up to 40%, directly increasing profits and encouraging sustainable growth.

Conclusion

Shifting to a proactive, data-driven strategy is essential for growth.

Ready to stop guessing and start selling smarter?

Let me show you an example. See the example of a stock item above in the ordering screen. 

We have here two (2) on hand. The expected sales for this week (focus quantity) are four (4) sales a week. So the computer is saying you need to order ASAP or miss out on sales this week and a few next week until you get it in stock. 

That is one item. You now have thousands of stock items in your shop. Doing this is too much work manually. 

Using it, you can spot early warning signs.

One of my clients recently discovered that he had forgotten about Diya lamps. These surged in sales last month, so okay, he missed some but managed to get much of it. So he got some excellent sales that he would have missed out on without this predictive analytics. 

If you need any help or want to get an automated stock control system going in your shop, please get in touch with us.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Product bundling is probably the most successful and standard marketing tool in business today. Ours is one of the few retail packages that does it really well, I have noticed. So please follow the logic and the solution below.

You go to buy a a cable TV plan. It will have a set of channels and access to some loyalty club, all for one price. Another example would be going to a restaurant and getting a special price if you buy a set menu. In both cases, if you add up the items, you will find it cheaper to take the bundle.

From the business point of view, the fact is that you were unlikely to pay for six (6) news channels. Once they sell you on one, the rest is a bonus. Few would buy a full meal at a restaurant, so they package a few high-margin items, sell them at a low price, and give you a bit of a discount, so you buy more. Both are classic examples of product bundling.

Where it often works well in retail is to take a hot seller and pair it with an item that isn't selling well, so you intend to discount it to get rid of it, then put the two items together and make a bundle at a special price. What you often find is that you can sell more as a result of the hot sellers and get a better price for the lousy seller together than you could obtain individually.  

Try it out. I think you will find it's a lot better an idea than discounting.

You will find it one of the most effective ways to generate traffic in your shop and generate sales.

Here is where you do it. In this example, one ordinary Father's Day card was used to sell four good sellers in one bundle.

Bundling several products into one package is a great retail strategy. It works well because customers see it as good value, which prompts them to spend more than they originally intended. For businesses, this tactic isn’t just about providing discounts; it’s also a smart way to control inventory and boost profits.

The real magic occurs when you combine a best-selling item with an older, slower-moving product. For example, if you have a popular book that sells quickly and a related magazine that isn't moving well, instead of cutting its price, you can bundle it with the bestseller. This way, you're not only selling the hot item but also moving the less popular one without significant losses. Customers tend to focus on the overall value of the package rather than individual prices. This simple strategy has helped some businesses increase their average sale amount by 20-30%.

There are several strategies to consider. Why not create exclusive bundles, such as a "new parent" kit? It could include a parenting book and a small toy, sold as a bundle. Then, offering your customers the option to buy items separately or as a discounted bundle. This encourages bundle sales. You can test products with different categories. Pairing a popular novel with a toy to get them to explore new products.

Bundles are especially incredible for holidays and seasons. Christmas 2025 is just around the corner. You could start thinking about gourmet hampers that mix books with chocolates or family activity boxes with board games and snacks. And don't forget the "build your own" bundle. Letting customers pick any three books for a set price, for instance, gives them a sense of control and personalisation that people really appreciate.

You don't have to guess what to bundle, either. Your own sales system is probably sitting on a goldmine of information. By looking at your sales reports, you can see what products people are already buying together. Suppose you notice that customers often buy a specific magazine whenever they pick up a particular genre of book. In that case, you’ve got a ready-made bundle idea that's already backed by real behaviour. 

A modern point-of-sale system can make this all seamless, allowing your staff to process a bundle with a single scan while automatically updating inventory and pricing.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

[1](https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Product_bundling)

The official start of Black Friday 2025 is 28 November, but waiting is not a good idea. Standard practice for many Australian retailers is to start now. Major retailers like Myer and David Jones have already begun their sales. Some promotions actually started in late October. Amazon has announced its Black Friday sale begins next week, on 18 November. The Black Friday period has expanded, making an early start crucial. Here are some images of shops that have started their Black Friday Sales now. I took some pictures of retailers now in a shopping centre in the DFO in Moorabbin, Vic, already pushing their Black Friday Sales.We are also doing a Black Friday Sale now. 

Leveraging POS System

Your POS systems provide critical tools, such as the "Top Selling Items" report, to identify high-demand products. Analyse your sales of last November 2024 and the previous 30 days to see what sells in your shop. Details here.

Conclusion

Early Black Friday sales in 2025 offer you a strategic edge by starting now.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

​As retailers, we're heading into our busiest and most profitable time of the year. As deliveries grow, managing delivery expectations is crucial to customer satisfaction and repeat business. Let me share some practical advice on handling your Christmas shipping schedule.

Choose the Right Service Level

Considering what happened last year, Express Post is your best mate for last-minute orders. It offers next-business-day delivery to 80% of Australian addresses. While it costs more than standard delivery, the tracking capabilities and faster delivery times make it worth every cent during the Christmas rush. Plus, you get verification from Australia Post that it was delivered.

Setting Your Store's Cut-off Dates

Remember, the dates below are guidelines, not guarantees. The earlier you send your parcels, the better their chance of arriving before Christmas. Consider offering Express Post as a premium option for last-minute shoppers who need guaranteed faster delivery.

Australia Post Christmas lodgement dates are here.  One point is that these dates apply to items delivered by 2:30 pm at an Australia Post outlet.

Delivery issues now

Australia is currently experiencing a shortage of postal and delivery drivers of about 14% as we approach Christmas. It's important to be cautious about pushing current shipping deadlines, as many shoppers do switch to retailers that offer faster delivery. Plus, if you do miss these deadlines, it will lead to significant customer dissatisfaction.

Domestic Deliveries

I recommend setting your store's order cut-off dates at least 2-3 days before Australia Post's deadlines:

• Regular parcels: Set your cut-off to 17 December
• Express orders: Final orders by 20 December

International Shipments

New Zealand: 13 December 2025

United States: 16 December 2025. Note: As of now, Australia Post can no longer use couriers to the USA.

Canada: 13 December 2025

United Kingdom: 13 December 2025

Practical Tips for Smooth Operations

-Packaging and Processing Tips Address Verification Essentials Proper addressing might seem basic, but it's crucial for timely deliveries. Include:

Unit/apartment numbers

Complete street address

Suburb and postcode

Trust me, no one will complain if you put too much detail.

Order Processing

• Dedicate specific times each day to packing orders
• Print shipping labels in batches
• Use your POS to generate packing slips automatically

Communication Strategies

Clear Messaging Display shipping cut-off dates:

• On your website homepage
• At checkout
• To confirm emails
• In-store signage

Customer Updates Use your POS system to:

• Send shipping notifications to your customer when you send it, and include the expected delivery date
• Include tracking information
• Alert customers about potential delays
• Bookmark the Australia Post Page for reference.

Preparing Your Team

• Understand and communicate delivery timeframes
• Handle shipping enquiries confidently
• Process orders efficiently using your POS system

Looking After Regional Customers

If you're serving customers in WA, NT, or regional areas:

• Add extra processing days
• Consider express shipping options
• Be upfront about extended delivery times

Last-Minute Solutions

For those inevitable last-minute shoppers:

• Offer click-and-collect until 24 December
• Provide gift cards as a backup option
• Consider local courier services for nearby customers, or deliver it yourself.

Remember, while Australia Post has announced its cut-off dates, we retailers must work backwards from them.

Planning and using your POS system effectively can turn the Christmas rush into an opportunity.

​

Recently, a client brought an almost-new computer, it was claimed, but it turned out to be an old one. Interestingly, the client himself is very computer-knowledgeable, and he was fooled.

Here, you can discover how to protect your investment and avoid getting scammed when buying a computer with these expert verification techniques. I always recommend purchasing only from reputable vendors. Note that this means more than just big ones, as many small vendors are reputable.

The Importance of Accurate Age Verification

Outdated systems disguised as new can create multiple problems:

• Performance issues affecting daily operations

• Compatibility problems with modern software

• Potential security vulnerabilities are threatening your business.

Consider these statistics:

• The average lifespan of a new system is 3 to 5 years; a two-year-old computer gives you 1 to 3 years, and a three-year-old probably has about a year left.
• Outdated systems will have higher repair costs.
• Performance degradation in older systems will lead to slower transaction times.

The Bigger Picture

While determining the exact age of a computer system is crucial, it's not the only factor to consider when upgrading your POS setup. The reliability, compatibility with your chosen Best POS software, and the vendor's support are just as crucial.. A slightly older, well-maintained system that's fit for purpose might serve your business better than a brand-new system that needs optimisation for retail operations.

Consider these key factors:

• System reliability and uptime
• Compatibility with modern POS software
• Vendor support and warranty options
• Overall performance for your specific retail needs

Serial Number: Your First Line of Defence

The serial number is your most reliable age indicator.

To locate it:

• Check the back of desktop computers

• Look under Computer

• Inspect the battery compartment.

The Difficulty of Changing Stickers

Now it's not impossible to change a sticker if it's there, but its not easy for anyone trying to do so deceptively:

• Designed for Tamper-Evidence: Manufacturers often use special adhesives and materials that cause the sticker to tear, shred, or leave behind a "VOID" pattern if peeled off.

• Hard to Replicate: The stickers are printed with specific fonts and layouts, and often include barcodes that are difficult to reproduce.

• Physical Imperfections: Check if the sticker is peeling at the corners, isn't aligned correctly, or has bubbles underneath it.

For Windows-based systems, use the Command Prompt.

"wmic bios get serialnumber"

It might display the serial number if it is in the BIOS.

Once you have the serial number, visit the manufacturer's website or contact customer support. Many companies can provide manufacturing date information based on the serial number.

However, many computers today do not have the serial number here, so you get a "Default String."

While serial numbers can be reliable indicators, sometimes they're not accessible. In such cases, the BIOS date provides another verification method."

BIOS Date: A Window into the Past

Look for the "BIOS Version/Date"

This date shows when the computer's BIOS was last updated. Now, some manufacturers or tech-savvy sellers might update the BIOS before selling, which could mask the system's actual age. So, like always, buyer beware.

Another way I prefer to determine the approximate time your computer was assembled is to check the BIOS date here. You can check the system information in Windows. To access this, type "system information" in the Start menu's search bar, then run it; a window will pop up showing details about the computer, including the BIOS Date.

What you will get is

This will only work if the computer's BIOS has not been updated since the initial installation. 

Here's how to check it:

1. Open the Command Prompt (search for it in the Start menu).
2. Type one of these commands and press Enter:

While you are there, look at the processor. Doing a net search, you can quickly find when the manufacturer first released that computer. It will not tell you how old the computer is, but it will tell you the oldest possible age.

Windows Installation: A Clue, Not a Guarantee

In Windows settings > About, it will tell you the Windows version and when Windows was installed. Again, it is no longer a guide, as a new version of Windows may have been installed on that computer.

Checking the Windows installation date can tell you its setup date, but it does not always indicate the hardware's age. Here's how to find this information:

1. Go to Windows Settings (use the Windows key + I shortcut).
2. Navigate to System > About.
3. Scroll down to find the Windows version and installation date.

However, someone may have reinstalled Windows by upgrading it. Again, this date might reflect that not the computer's age. However, it can be a helpful piece of the puzzle when combined with other verification methods, as it can reasonably be assumed that the computer is older than this date. I can only emphasise that a computer cannot be older than its processor.

Check the Hard Drive

While the methods above help determine the age of the computer's core components, a savvy buyer should also inspect the components themselves. The hard drive is, I think, the most important as an old, heavily used drive is just real trouble.

How to Check Power-On Hours

You will need a free third-party tool to get this. CrystalDiskInfo is pretty good. It's the one I mainly use, but there are others. Download, install, and run this program. It will automatically scan your drives and display their health status and detailed information, including the "Power-On Hours" value.​

Interpreting the Results

By comparing Power-On Hours with other clues, such as the CPU release date, you can uncover the computer's true history. Let us say the laptop is 2 years old; one would expect the hard drive to be used about (2 years) x (250 days) x (8 hours) = 4,000 hours.

• Scenario 1: New Drive
  The hard drive has only 50 Power-On Hours. This suggests the hard drive was recently replaced. I would not complain about that.

• Scenario 2:Problems
  The seller claims the PC was "lightly used," but the Power-On Hours are really high (e.g., over 15,000).  Something does not sound right.

• Scenario 3: A Consistent Story
  The drive shows around 4,000 Power-On Hours. This story adds up.

By checking the Power-On Hours, you move beyond simply finding the computer's age and start to understand its history, condition, and actual value.

Component Inspection: Devil in the Details

For those with more technical know-how, inspecting individual components can reveal much about a system's age, but this raises another problem. I have seen people replacing components with older ones. If you open the computer, you may find stickers that can help you.

Summing up

It is not easy to find out. These methods, at best, can only help.

It's important to note that a computer's age is not always an accurate indicator of its performance or lifespan. An older computer that has been well-cared for often functions perfectly for many years. New computers that are lemons are not uncommon, either.

FAQ

Q: How can I tell if a computer is new?
A: Check multiple age indicators: serial number verification, BIOS date, CPU model release date, and Windows installation date. No method is foolproof, so various verification techniques provide the best assurance.

Q: What's the most reliable method to check a computer's age?
A: The serial number is the most reliable indicator when available. You need this number when contacting the manufacturer to obtain the manufacturing date.

Q: How do you find out how old a computer is?
A: Use multiple verification methods above.

Q: How do you find the date on the computer?
A: Access dates through System Information (systeminfo.exe) to find the Original installation date and BIOS Version/Date, or check Windows Settings > System > About for the installation date.

Q: What is the age of the computer System?
A: Generally, computer systems are typically categorised
- New (1-2 years)
- Middle-aged (3-5 years)
- Aging (5+ years) 

Most businesses value a computer for five years, and after that, it has no book value. 

Q: How old is my computer in human years?
A: This is an awful measure, but it is commonly stated that a computer ages at five human years for each actual year. 

Q: Can the BIOS date be manipulated?
A: The BIOS can be updated, which changes its date. That's why using multiple verification methods is essential rather than relying solely on BIOS information.

Q: How do I check the Windows installation date?
A: Access Windows Settings > System > About. While this shows when Windows was installed, remember that Windows could have been reinstalled on older hardware.

Q: What should I do if I discover my "new" computer is used?
A: Document all evidence, contact the seller immediately for resolution, and if necessary, file complaints with consumer protection agencies. 

Q: How often should I replace my computer?
A: Replacement for business and POS systems is typically recommended every 3-5 years. Systems older than this are often prone to performance issues and security vulnerabilities.

Q: Can I trust component inspection?
A: Component inspection can be helpful but requires technical knowledge. Be aware that components can be swapped, so this method should be used alongside other verification techniques.

Q: What if the serial number shows "Default String"?
A: This is common in modern computers, where the serial number isn't stored in the BIOS. In these cases, check the device's physical serial number or use alternative verification methods.

Q: How can I verify the age of individual components?
A: Use system information tools to identify component models, then cross-reference their release dates with manufacturer specifications. However, keep in mind that components may have been replaced over time.

Updated: I was asked some questions by a client a few days ago, so rather than answer them, I decided to rewrite this article and give my readers here an answer too.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director at POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience. He consults to various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Dear Valued Customer,

We have received several inquiries about renewing EFTPOS plans, and we are writing to provide strategic advice in light of the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) proposed surcharging reforms. We recommend proceeding with caution before committing to any new or existing supplier.

The RBA is moving to ban surcharges on EFTPOS, Visa, and Mastercard payments, with the changes likely to be effective from July 2026.

Looking at these blended-rate surcharging plans currently being promoted by EFTPOS providers, we have big doubts about some of their claims. While these plans are often presented with attractive incentives, they may expose your business to higher-than-necessary fees once you can no longer pass on those costs to customers.

Our priority is your business's long-term profitability.

You can give us a call to discuss your options if you want.

Best regards,

Bernard Zimmermann

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

​

 Don't Get Left Behind: Upgrade Your Shop with Our Biggest Black Friday POS Sale Ever!

Is your old cash register slowing you down? This Black Friday, revolutionise your newsagency with a next-generation POS system at an unbeatable price. We've negotiated exclusive deals with our suppliers to help you boost efficiency, manage your unique inventory, and increase profits. This is a limited-time offer you can't afford to miss.

Secure Next-Gen POS Systems at Low Prices

Now is a good time for us to offer you low prices, as many of our partners have excess stock that they know they cannot clear out for months. They are keen to move, so we offer to pass some good savings on to you to help you and them. We tell them what we want: "Our Black Friday Sale is here, with limited-time offers and doorbuster deals!" That's why we worked with our suppliers to bring you incredible Black Friday deals.

I can tell you this: when this stock goes, it doesn't return at these prices.

Huge Savings on Computer Equipment

If you've been holding off on upgrading your computers and tech gear, now is a great time to take the plunge! We have deep discounts. See our newsletter for details.

Why Upgrade Now? 

Inflation and the Australian Dollar

This is the last chance to get such great prices on computer equipment. With rising inflation and the weakening Aussie dollar against the US dollar, prices are expected to increase next year.  The dollar doesn't look pretty right now.

Improved Efficiency

Upgrading your POS system can lead to faster checkouts and happier customers, ultimately driving more sales. Stay ahead of the competition by investing in technology that supports long-term growth.

Call Us Now for a Free Quote and See How a Modern POS System Can Transform Your Shop.

Offer Ends Soon!.

Today, your data must back your strategic decisions. Analysing sales data moves you from gut feel to certainty, revealing what boosts profits. Your POS system captures this info to refine growth strategies.

Analysing Halloween Sales Performance

Begin by extracting detailed insights from your POS system to evaluate Halloween results.

Your POS system has the information you need. It's there, waiting for you to dig in. Here is how to gather insights you can use.

Getting Started: Your First Data Deep Dive

Here's how you can tap into this resource to gain a clear picture of your performance:

Accessing Your Sales Comparison Report

Knowing where your business is going is essential.

Now is an appropriate time to take a quick look at how well you did in 2024, where you are now in retail strategy and compare your performance to previous years.

Go to the register reports.

Now select the item marked "Sales Comparison for a Given period".

Key Performance Metrics to Track

Let's use a month of information as the holiday starts nowadays, long before the actual day, and continues a bit after. Here's how to do it:

Conducting a Month Analysis

First Comparison:

Input the date range: 06/10/2024 to 06/11/2024 AND 06/10/2025 to 06/11/2025.

Run the report and note key figures

Second Comparison:

Return to the report and input: 06/10/2023 to 06/11/2023 AND 06/10/2025 to 06/11/2025.

Record key statistics

These data points give you a solid foundation for understanding your business's performance over the past two years.

Visualising

A simple graph of your annual turnover can provide a clear visual representation of your business's growth trajectory.

Go to the Cash register.

Then go to Sales - Register Select Dissection Monthly Sales Trend (Graph)

Please select the date range. I suggest 4 weeks, 06/10/2025 to 06/11/2025

As you examine your sales data, ask yourself:

Is there a consistent upward trend in turnover?

Are there any noticeable dips or spikes? What might have caused these?

How does your 2025 performance compare to previous years?

What factors influenced your sales performance over this period?

Now, go back and look at the past two years. Two years is good, as you can see from the seasonal variations.

Remember, this analysis isn't about numbers. It's about understanding the story. We are using these numbers to gain insights that will help us make a strategy for the future.

Leveraging Advanced POS Features

While this simple analysis provides valuable insights, your POS system offers even more advanced reporting capabilities. Use these features to uncover powerful insights that will drive your business decisions:

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.