First Data, Microsoft and HP’s POS solution targets small retailers

First Data, Microsoft, and HP recently announced that they’ve combined their payment solutions, store management software programs and computer hardware in a point of sale solution targeted at small businesses.

The First Data POS Value Exchange is intended to replace a cash register and traditional point-of-sale terminal with a computer-based system that comes with a store management solution.

According to a press statement, the POS solution leverages the companies' core competencies: 1) First Data's payment processing; 2) Microsoft Dynamics - Point of Sale 2.0 software from Microsoft, for managing inventory and track sales; and 3) a point of sale hardware solution from HP. The solution will be offered by First Data, along with its participating partners and independent sales organizations. Purchase and lease options will be available, with pricing set by the individual sales channels.

The trio said the product will benefit merchants, and from the looks of things, they’re right.

We particularly found the solution’s ability to track purchase behaviors and identify buying trends as the most interesting features. The system also uses a touch screen display, and comes with the ability to accept different types of payments.

POS Value Exchange is designed for smaller retailers, typically with a single store location with up to five lanes.