Explore the Best Shopkeep POS Alternatives: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Business

ShopKeep POS is a well-known point-of-sale system that simplifies key business tasks like managing inventory, employees, and customer relationships for retail businesses. In 2020, Lightspeed, another POS company that makes retail management software, bought the platform, and now it’s not available for new users.

If you’re already using ShopKeep, Lightspeed is keeping it running for current users. So, if your business is already on ShopKeep, you’ll still get access to support articles, live customer support, and all the original features you signed up for.

If you’re in the market for a new POS system, though, ShopKeep isn’t an option anymore. Instead, you can check out other popular systems.

Limitations of the Shopkeep POS app

ShopKeep POS isn't an option for new customers anymore. While businesses that already use it can continue to use it, if you're looking for a new POS system, you'll need to check out other choices. Lightspeed now owns ShopKeep, but there are other contenders out there like Epos Now that offer similar features, often at a lower price.

Another issue with ShopKeep is that it can be pretty glitchy. According to a NerdWallet review, a lot of users have complained about bugs, and it seems like these problems have gotten worse since ShopKeep merged with Lightspeed. Since the software isn't getting updates for new users, you might run into more issues if you're already using it.

Top Shopkeep POS Alternatives

Wondering about the best Shopkeep alternatives you have available to you? Let's give you our top options::

Epos Now

Epos Now is one of the leading cloud-based POS systems. It’s loaded with features that help manage all aspects of your business, like loyalty programs, online ordering, employee management, and stock monitoring. The best part? It's super easy to use—you can set it up in just a few seconds. Plus, with top-notch security, your data stays protected.

Started in 2011 by Jacyn Heavens, Epos Now was created to fill the gap for affordable and user friendly POS software. Jacyn's background working in a bar, where he struggled to find a simple and cost-effective POS, inspired him to develop Epos Now. Today, the system is used in several countries, including the UK, US, Canada, and Australia, helping businesses worldwide run more efficiently.

• Integrated payments: Epos Now stands out for its integrated payment processing feature. This allows you to accept multiple payment methods through a single terminal, which speeds up checkout and minimizes mistakes. Everything is controlled from one platform, making it easy for both you and your customers. Plus, there are no hidden fees with their flat-rate payment processing, so you know exactly what you’re paying.
• Inventory management software: The cloud-based system also excels in tracking inventory in real time. You’ll always know what's available thanks to features like product tracking, order monitoring, and low-stock warning notifications when it’s time to reorder. Automated processes help keep inventory levels just right, saving time and cutting down costs.
• Staff management: Epos Now makes managing your employees simple with its built-in tools. You can easily schedule shifts and track hours to ensure everyone is working as planned. Alerts for sales targets keep your team focused, and you can customize permissions so only certain employees can access sensitive information.
• AppStore: The Epos Now AppStore provides a variety of apps to enhance and personalize your system. Whether you want to set up a loyalty program, manage deliveries, or sync with QuickBooks and Mailchimp, there’s an app for it. Popular apps include:

1. Epos Now Loyalty: Create and manage customer loyalty programs.
2. Epos Now Delivery: Simplify the delivery process.
3. Order & Pay: Let customers place orders and pay from their own devices.
4. QuickBooks: Easily sync sales and financial data.
5. Mailchimp: Automate email marketing campaigns.

Epos Now is a fantastic option for small business owners looking for a reliable and easy-to-use POS system. With integrated payment options, live inventory tracking, and comprehensive employee management features, it has everything you need to keep your business running smoothly. And if you need support, their customer service team is always ready to assist.

Lightspeed retail

Lightspeed retail is a versatile POS system that’s been around for over ten years, trusted by well-known brands like Five Guys and Goodwill for its ability to manage franchise retail and hospitality operations. It’s a reliable POS system that's a great fit for any retail business including online stores. You can use it through the cloud, on a web browser, or via an IOS app. Here’s what Forbes had to say about Lightspeed:

What’s great:

• Help anytime: 24/7 customer support, so assistance is available whenever you need it.
• Personal account rep: A dedicated manager for your account to provide tailored support.
• Stock management: Efficiently keeps track of and organizes inventory.

What’s not so great:

• Expensive: Higher cost compared to some other POS options.

• Long-term commitment: Requires signing lengthy contracts.
• Challenging to quit: The cancellation process can be tricky and inconvenient.

Square POS

Square POS is another cloud-based system designed to simplify business operations. It allows you to accept payments via mobile and offers straightforward hardware setup, and tools for managing staff and customer management solutions. The platform also delivers detailed reporting and integrates seamlessly with popular accounting software, making it easy to get started and manage finances.

Based on a Forbes review, here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

• Free to begin: There’s no cost to start using Square POS, which is perfect for small businesses looking to minimize startup costs.
• No monthly fees for basic use: The basic plan has no monthly fees, making it a wallet-friendly option.
• Variety of hardware options: You can pick from a range of hardware choices to find the best fit for your business needs.

Disadvantages:

• Risk of account holds: Sometimes, Square accounts can be put on hold if there’s unusual activity, which can be frustrating if it catches you off guard.
• Not ideal for high transaction volumes: For those larger businesses, the ones handling a large number of transactions, Square’s fees might not be the most economical option.
• No direct phone support: Square lacks phone support, which could be a drawback if you prefer speaking to a representative when issues arise.

Paypal's Zettle

Zettle is PayPal’snewest card reader and POS solution, replacing the soon-to-be-discontinued PayPal Here. Zettle offers more features than PayPal Here did, providing a more robust solution for payment processing.

With Zettle, you can accept payments through your PayPal account without any monthly fees; you’ll just pay a processing fee of 2.29% plus $0.09 per transaction for card or contactless payments. It works seamlessly with Bluetooth card readers, mobile terminals, and iPad POS systems, and the app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Based on a Forbes article, here’s a look at the pros and cons of choosing Zettle.

Advantages:

• No monthly costs: You can use Zettle without paying any subscription fees.
• Lower fees per transaction: Offers lower processing fees compared to the old PayPal Here.
• Accepts various payment types: Supports credit cards, debit cards, contactless payments, and even Venmo.
• Centralized payment management: All payment data is conveniently stored in your PayPal account.

Disadvantages:

• Requires internet access: As web-based software, it requires a stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection for it to function properly.
• Fewer extra features: Doesn’t offer as many additional features or integrations as some other POS systems.
• Limited online and accounting integrations: There are fewer options for connecting to e-commerce platforms or accounting software.

SumUp POS

SumUp is a point-of-sale system that’s been gaining popularity in Europe and has recently expanded to the US market. It’s well-suited for handling credit card payments and offers a variety of hardware and POS software options to meet different business needs. Since its launch in 2012, SumUp has grown to serve over 3 million businesses globally. Here’s a quick overview of what SumUp has to offer:

Advantages:

• Lower transaction fees: SumUp’s fees are more affordable compared to many other POS systems.
• Accepts international payments: You can easily process payments from cards issued anywhere in the world.
• Free trial available: You get a 30-day trial to test out the system before making a commitment.

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for high-risk businesses: SumUp isn’t an option if you’re operating in a high-risk industry.
• Limited customer support hours: Phone support is only available on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Need a virtual terminal for remote payments: If you want to take payments and manage sales over the phone or online (basically not in your physical stores), you’ll need to apply for a virtual terminal separately.

Benefits of switching to Epos Now

Epos Now's POS system offers its own built-in payment processing system called Epos Now Payments. This all-in-one solution is designed to work perfectly with your POS setup, eliminating the need for a third-party processor. You won't have to worry about extra fees or compatibility issues since everything is integrated into one system. This integration simplifies payment processing, making transactions faster and more efficient for both your business and your customers.

When it comes to app integrations, Epos Now stands out from the crowd. It connects seamlessly with a wide range of business applications, whether you need tools for accounting, inventory management, or customer relationship management (CRM). This smooth integration allows you to sync all your essential tools in one place, which simplifies tracking inventory, managing payroll, creating detailed sales reports, and running marketing campaigns. By consolidating everything on a single platform, Epos Now helps streamline your business operations and reduces the need for manual data entry, saving you both time and effort.

Epos Now also offers specialized POS systems tailored to meet the needs of different industries. For retail businesses, the Epos Now retail POS provides comprehensive features such as advanced inventory management, customer loyalty programs, and powerful reporting tools. These features help manage stock levels, support multi-location operations, and offer detailed insights into sales performance, ensuring retailers have everything they need to run their stores efficiently.

If you operate in the hospitality sector, Epos Now's Hospitality POS is specifically designed with features like table management, split billing, online ordering, and even reservation management. This makes it an ideal choice for restaurants, cafes, bars, and other food service businesses that need to manage a high volume of transactions and customer interactions smoothly.

In addition, Epos Now supports features like employee management with customizable permissions and time tracking, which is crucial for businesses with large teams or multiple locations. It also provides real-time analytics and reporting that allow you to monitor business performance, adjust strategies on the fly, and make data-driven decisions.

Overall, Epos Now offers a fully integrated, industry-specific solution with its own payment processing system, excellent app integrations, and specialized POS systems tailored to your business needs. Whether you're in retail, hospitality, or another sector, Epos Now provides the tools necessary to manage and grow your business effectively.

Switching Steps from Shopkeep

Switching from ShopKeep to a new POS system? Here’s a straightforward guide to help you transition smoothly:

First, identify your needs. Consider what your current ShopKeep POS system lacks and what features you want in a new one. Are you looking for better inventory management, more flexible payment options, or enhanced reporting features? Understanding your requirements will help you find a system that aligns with your business goals.

Next, choose your new POS system. Explore different options and pick the one that best suits your needs. Evaluate the features, pricing, and user feedback to make an informed choice. After selecting a new system, it’s time to export your data from ShopKeep. Make sure to download all customer information, inventory data, and sales records. ShopKeep allows you to export this data in CSV format, which makes transferring it easier.

Then, set up your new POS system. Follow the installation and setup guide provided by your new system's vendor to get everything up and running. This process might involve setting up new hardware and installing necessary POS software. Once the new system is ready, import your data. Most POS systems provide clear instructions for data import, making it a straightforward process.

After your data is imported, connect the new POS system with any other tools you use, like your accounting software or e-commerce platform. Make sure all integrations are set up correctly and are working seamlessly. It’s also important to train your team on the new system. Ensure that your staff is comfortable with the new setup before it goes live to avoid any operational issues.

Before fully switching over, run some tests. Check that payments process smoothly, inventory updates correctly, and reports are generated accurately. Look for any potential glitches or problems that need fixing. Once everything is working perfectly, go live with your new POS system. Keep an eye on operations closely to quickly identify and resolve any issues.

Inform your customers about the change, especially if it affects how they make payments or navigate your store. Keeping them informed ensures a smooth transition for everyone. Finally, ensure you have access to ongoing support. Stay in contact with your new POS provider's support team in case you need help or face any challenges after the switch.

By following these steps, you’ll make the move from ShopKeep to your new POS system as seamless and stress-free as possible.