In Norway, a Scandinavian country of roughly 5.5 million people, restaurants use a variety of POS (Point of Sale) systems tailored to meet the needs of the local market, focusing on features like inventory management, seamless payment processing, and robust integration with Norwegian banking and tax systems. Here are some of the common types of POS systems used in restaurants in Norway:
1. iZettle by Zettle (a PayPal service)
- Overview: iZettle, which has been integrated into Zettle by PayPal, is popular among small and medium-sized restaurants in Norway. It is known for its user-friendly interface and ability to handle various payment methods.
- Features:
- Mobile payments, including card and contactless payments.
- Integration with accounting software like Xero.
- Inventory tracking and basic analytics.
- Easy-to-use setup and interface, making it suitable for smaller businesses.
- Use Case: Ideal for cafes, smaller restaurants, and food trucks due to its portability and simplicity.
2. POS Systemer (POS Systems AS)
- Overview: POS Systemer is a Norwegian company that offers customized POS solutions for the restaurant industry. Their systems are designed to meet local regulatory requirements and offer Norwegian language support.
- Features:
- Tailored to meet the specific needs of Norwegian restaurants, including integration with local accounting systems.
- Robust reporting features and data analytics.
- Can handle multiple terminals, making it suitable for larger restaurants or chains.
- Local customer support and assistance.
- Use Case: Suitable for mid-sized to large restaurants that require a more customized solution with local support.
3. Front Systems
- Overview: Front Systems is another local provider that has made a name in the Norwegian market by offering cloud-based solutions for restaurants. It is especially popular among hospitality businesses looking for flexibility and scalability.
- Features:
- Cloud-based system with remote access to data and reports.
- Advanced inventory management and tracking.
- Integration with various third-party applications like accounting and CRM tools.
- Support for multiple payment options and loyalty programs.
- Use Case: Ideal for restaurants that need to access their data remotely or have multiple locations.
4. Lightspeed POS
- Overview: Lightspeed POS is a global POS solution that has a strong presence in Europe, including Norway. It’s known for its robust functionality and easy integration with a variety of restaurant management software.
- Features:
- Comprehensive inventory management and menu customization.
- Advanced reporting and data analytics.
- Multi-location support for restaurant chains.
- Integrations with delivery platforms and online ordering.
- Use Case: Great for mid-sized to larger restaurants that need advanced features and integrations, as well as support for multiple locations.
5. Nets Payment Solutions
- Overview: Nets is a prominent payment service provider in the Nordic region, and their payment terminals are widely used in restaurants throughout Norway. While not a POS system in itself, it often integrates with existing POS solutions.
- Features:
- Supports various payment methods including cards, contactless, and mobile payments.
- Integrates seamlessly with POS systems for streamlined operations.
- Provides real-time transaction data and reporting.
- Use Case: Suitable for restaurants that prioritize seamless payment integration and need a reliable payment solution that can work with their existing POS system.
6. Shopify POS
- Overview: While Shopify is traditionally known for e-commerce, its POS solution is increasingly used by Norwegian cafes and restaurants with retail components. It allows for easy integration between online and offline sales.
- Features:
- Centralized inventory management between online and physical stores.
- Customizable interface to fit the branding of the restaurant.
- Integration with payment processors and accounting software.
- Analytics and reporting tools to track sales and performance.
- Use Case: Ideal for restaurants that also sell merchandise or have an online presence, allowing for seamless management of both aspects.
7. WaiterMate by SwiftPOS
- Overview: SwiftPOS, an international POS system, is used in Norway, especially in high-volume restaurants and bars. WaiterMate, their solution tailored for table service, is known for its efficiency and scalability.
- Features:
- Table management, split billing, and customizable floor plans.
- Integration with reservation and booking systems.
- Detailed sales reports and customer data insights.
- Multi-terminal support for large dining spaces.
- Use Case: Best suited for full-service restaurants that require advanced table management features.
8. Caspeco
- Overview: Caspeco is a Scandinavian POS system popular in Norway, focusing on simplifying restaurant operations through a user-friendly interface and integration with local banking and payment systems.
- Features:
- In-depth labor and staffing management.
- Analytics for optimizing operations and reducing waste.
- Integration with local accounting software.
- Online ordering and delivery integrations.
- Use Case: Ideal for restaurants with a focus on efficiency in labor management and operations.
9. Square POS
- Overview: Square POS, although based in the United States, has a presence in Norway and is used particularly by small cafes and restaurants. It offers a cost-effective and flexible solution for those starting out.
- Features:
- Free basic software with the option to upgrade for advanced features.
- Integration with Square’s payment hardware for card and contactless payments.
- Real-time sales tracking and analytics.
- Inventory management for small-scale operations.
- Use Case: Suitable for small to medium-sized restaurants, food trucks, and pop-up eateries due to its affordability and ease of use.
10. Oracle MICROS
- Overview: Oracle MICROS is a globally renowned POS solution known for its robust functionality and ability to handle large-scale operations. It has a strong presence in Norway, particularly among larger restaurant chains and hotels.
- Features:
- Advanced reporting and analytics tailored for high-volume restaurants.
- Integrations with reservation systems and hotel management platforms.
- Cloud-based options for centralized management across multiple locations.
- Support for custom workflows and user permissions.
- Use Case: Best suited for large-scale restaurants, chains, or hotel restaurants needing a highly customizable and robust system.
Considerations for Choosing a POS System in Norway
- Local Regulatory Compliance: Norway has specific regulations regarding digital invoicing, reporting, and taxation. Choosing a POS system that integrates smoothly with local tax systems (such as Altinn) can simplify compliance.
- Multi-Currency Support: Many restaurants in Norway cater to tourists and need POS systems that can handle different currencies and provide language support for international customers.
- Customer Support: Given the emphasis on reliability, many restaurants prefer POS systems that offer local customer support, ensuring quick assistance for any technical issues.
- Integration Capabilities: POS systems that integrate with delivery platforms (e.g., Wolt, Foodora) are valuable, especially for restaurants offering online ordering and delivery services.
These POS systems collectively serve the diverse needs of restaurants in Norway, from small cafes to large dining establishments, ensuring that the right solution is available for various operational requirements. The choice often depends on the size of the business, the need for specific features like advanced inventory management or multi-location support, and the level of customization required.