Gottschalks Hof: How a farm store ventured into the future with self-checkout

Family tradition meets innovation Gottschalks Hof from the idyllic town of Minden in Westphalia is much more than just a traditional farm. Deeply rooted in the region since 1689, the farm combines tradition and modern innovation in a unique way. Christoph Gottschalk, who runs the family business today, attaches great importance to regionality, quality and transparency. He is supported by his family, who are actively involved in production and the development of new ideas. The farm, nestled in the picturesque Weserbergland region, runs a traditional dairy farm, supplemented by arable farming and livestock breeding. The farm is particularly proud of its own dairy, where ice cream and yogurt with a unique, creamy consistency are produced. The ingredients are mainly sourced from the immediate vicinity - guaranteeing short transportation routes and maximum freshness.

June 3, 2025

Mandatory reporting for electronic checkout systems: What will change in 2025 and what retailers need to do now

It has been mandatory since January 1, 2025: the legal obligation to register electronic cash register systems. This means that every cash register system in use with a technical security device (TSE) must be registered with the tax office. The aim of this measure is to ensure greater transparency in payment transactions and prevent manipulation. For retailers, this means an additional obligation in an already busy working day - but at the same time, the new regulation also creates legal certainty. To ensure that you as a merchant are well prepared and don't miss any deadlines, we explain below exactly what requirements you will face and how LocaFox merchants can benefit from an automated solution.

April 25, 2025

BFSG - All about objectives, rights and obligations in the retail sector

On June 28, 2025, the time has come: the Barrier-Free Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) comes into force. The aim of the BFSG is to promote inclusion in public life, but also in the digital space. People with a disability or mental impairment are to be given easier and, above all, equal access to services and information. Barriers to the use of products or online offerings should also be removed. What does this mean in concrete terms? What rights and obligations do you have as a retailer and how can you best fulfill all requirements? This article will explain.

February 6, 2025

Flowers for the soul - A flower store through the ages

"Flowers for the soul" is a place of joy and inspiration where every customer can find the perfect bouquet for special moments. For 3 years, owner Bianca Meiser has put her heart and soul and creativity into bringing the emotions that flowers convey directly to her customers. But as her success grew, so did demand, and Bianca took up the challenge of making shopping even quicker and more convenient for her customers. By switching to LocaFox's flexible checkout system, she not only managed to make her day-to-day work more efficient, but also integrated a self-checkout system that revolutionized the purchasing process. This inspiring story of a special flower store tells how Bianca manages the balancing act between personal service and modern technology and what plans she has for the future.

December 11, 2024

Retail opening hours: Shops with a self-service concept or SCO system must observe these rules.

Sunday is a day of rest, right? A question that is currently the subject of controversial debate again. The reason: more and more stores in the retail sector are relying on concepts such as autonomous shopping or self-checkout (SCO), which reduce or even completely eliminate the need for staff. As AI, a digital algorithm or self-service checkouts do not need a day off, many business representatives are calling for the Shop Opening Act (LadÖG) to be overhauled and adapted to the requirements of modern retail. We show you which regulations currently apply and whether relevant changes are to be expected.

November 6, 2024

Enfore insolvency - What does this mean for existing checkout customers and what alternatives are there?

The news of the insolvency of checkout system provider Enfore has taken many companies in the retail sector by surprise. As a checkout customer, you are now understandably asking yourself a few questions: What does this mean for my business? Do I need to look for alternatives? And if so, what options are there? In this blog article, we address the most pressing questions and show you how you can future-proof your business.

October 15, 2024

Autonomous shopping - how digitalization is changing the retail sector

Only change is constant: this old adage is particularly true for the retail sector. Hardly any other industry picks up on new trends and technologies so quickly. One current example is autonomous shopping. We explain what exactly is behind this term, what digitalization in retail has to do with it and how you can benefit from autonomous shopping as a store owner or independent business owner.‍

September 23, 2024

The future of direct marketing - challenges and opportunities for retailers

Regional. Sustainable. Authentic. Farm stores are all the rage. Around 18 million people buy their food directly from the producer. Farm stores are therefore the best example of what successful direct marketing in retail can look like. Florists and artisans also benefit from the desire of many people to store in the "store around the corner". Self-employment as a direct marketer therefore offers a number of opportunities, but is also associated with challenges and risks. We don't know exactly what the future holds for the retail sector and direct marketers in particular. In this article, however, we want to discuss some topics that will be relevant for you as a direct marketer now and in the coming years. After all, the best way to predict the future is to shape it yourself, right? Exactly!

June 28, 2024

Successful in retail Tips for store founders and business owners

Your own business or a small store: For many people, self-employment is a lifelong dream. Maybe for you too? If so, we have some valuable tips in this article that are particularly useful for owners of small retail businesses. From the business idea and start-up to marketing and the right POS system, you'll find everything you need in this short guide to ensure that your lifelong dream of self-employment doesn't turn into a nightmare.

May 28, 2024

Röstwerk: Why a specialty coffee shop relies on the LocaFox POS system

Coffee is not a drink. Coffee is a way of life. With this philosophy, Olliver Hermey has been running the coffee roastery in Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock for six years. Together with his wife Stefanie, he develops coffee creations here that are delighting more and more customers in the region and beyond. Even companies have discovered the fine coffee varieties for themselves and purchase their very own house coffee from the roasting plant - as a gift for customers or their own employees. How do we know all this so well? It's simple: not only are we big coffee fans ourselves, we have also been supporting Röstwerk with our LocaFox POS system for many years. Time to stop by for an espresso with Olliver and his wife!

April 18, 2024

How the Bavarian flower store Chez Anna delights customers with an SCO system.

Flowers speak a language that is understood worldwide. And not just on Valentine's Day. Roses, tulips or tied bouquets are therefore the perfect gift for anyone who wants to make their partner, family or simply themselves happy. But tying the bouquets, advising customers and cashing up takes time. Master florist Anna Ferchl-Bergmann was therefore looking for a solution to make the processes in her pop-up store more flexible. Today, she uses the LocaFox self-checkout system (SCO) and her business is literally flourishing. We made our way to Bavaria and spoke to the owner about her store, the self-checkout and her plans for the future.

March 22, 2024

Card payment: Everything you need to know about cashless payment in retail.

Coins and banknotes are among the oldest means of payment known to mankind. And sometimes they look exactly the same. But crumpled banknotes and coins with more patina than an antique statue are increasingly rare in circulation. This is because cashless payment by card is more popular today than ever before. But what are the differences between an EC card and a debit card? What fees are charged when paying by credit card and what are the advantages of NFC payments for retailers? In this article, we take a closer look at the topic.

February 23, 2024

Discounts in retail - how to generate new sales and retain customers in your store

"What is the last price?" A question that is often asked on classified ad portals or at the local flea market. But bargain hunters who want to save money are also out and about in the retail sector. Discount promotions are a great way to lure customers into your store. From Black Friday and summer sales to gift shopping at Christmas, you have plenty of opportunities to offer discounts all year round. Why discounts make sense, what types of discounts there are and how you can use them as a targeted marketing tool? We'll tell you in this article.

January 17, 2024

Stocktaking in retail - a guide for business owners and shopkeepers

An inventory is like Christmas: It comes around every year, causes hectic moments and one or two surprises. Founders in the retail sector in particular, but even experienced business owners and shopkeepers often ask themselves the same questions: What exactly is a stocktake? How does a stocktake work and what do I need to bear in mind during a stocktake? We are happy to rack our brains and have the most important tips and useful tools for you here.

December 15, 2023

Use Case: Our SCO cash registers in use - Bergladen Todtnauberg combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technologies.

The Black Forest is not a region. The Black Forest is a promise. It stands worldwide for traditional craftsmanship, precision and the joy of innovation. The cuckoo clock was invented here, as were the wind turbine and the fuel cell. The Black Forest is also a real tourist magnet with more than six million visitors every year. In search of regional specialties and beautiful woodwork, many of these tourists find their way to the small village of Todtnauberg. This is where Markus Vienenkötter runs the Todtnauberg mountain store together with his wife. What makes it special: The mountain store is one of the first stores in the area to use a modern self-checkout system (SCO checkout). We spoke to Markus Vienenkötter and asked him why he opted for the SCO checkout and LocaFox.

December 1, 2023

Self-Checkout Cash Registers for Farm Shops - How SCO Cash Registers Work in Practice

More than 17 million Germans buy their food directly from the producer. Farm stores like the one run by the Breil family from the municipality of Raesfeld in the district of Borken are particularly popular. Here, customers can find potatoes grown on the farm and freshly baked brown bread, as well as more than 150 other products from the region. The goods are sold via self-checkout. Why the SCO checkout was the right choice for the farm store, what are the advantages of a SCO checkout for the customers and why the solution is ideal especially for more remote sales stands? We asked the Breil couple personally during our visit.

October 27, 2023

Self-Checkout Cash Registers: Digital. Secure. Cost-efficient.

Shopping is a nuisance? Not at all. At best, it's an experience. And customers who experience something are happy to come back. Especially when shopping is fast, relaxed and uncomplicated - without queues or annoyed employees who would rather spend their time advising customers than behind the checkout. You can offer your customers all this and much more. Self-checkout systems (SCO) are digital checkout systems that allow customers to scan and pay for their goods themselves. In this article, you will learn more about the advantages of SCO systems and how to integrate them into your business.

October 12, 2023

Change cash register system: What do I need to consider?

Your own POS system is a bit like a vacation on your favorite island. You know your way around, there are usually no nasty surprises, and at some point it's time for something new. There are as many reasons as there are to change your POS system. Maybe an update has messed up your database, the provider insists on a price increase or the support is not worthy of the name. Fortunately, you can actually change your POS system relatively easily and quickly - as long as you keep a few things in mind.

August 23, 2023

Cash register inspection: What is it and how can I prepare?

In recent years, there have been many changes in the law that are relevant for companies in the retail sector. In addition to the TSE regulation, the cash register inspection is a particular concern for founders, self-employed persons and store owners. These were introduced in 2018 and include numerous regulations and obligations that affect you and your business. Are you wondering who is supposed to keep track of all these changes in the law and regulations? Well, we for example!

August 1, 2023

Cash register receipt: What must be written on the receipt?

A well-filled wallet is not always a sign of prosperity. Sometimes it's just countless receipts that make for a fat wallet. That's because with the introduction of mandatory cash receipts in 2020, retailers will have to issue every customer with a receipt proving the sale of the product. Bakeries are just as affected by this regulation as decor stores, steam stores or florists. Other industries such as the service sector with hair salons or beauty salons are also included. But what exactly belongs on the sales slip? Is it absolutely necessary to print it out and what legal regulations do I have to observe? We take a closer look at the cash register receipt.

July 12, 2023

Combine online store with stationary sales: How to open a local store as an online retailer

Slow. Inflexible. Obsolete. Stationary retail has an image problem. And wrongly so. Even in the digital age, there are good arguments in favor of opening a brick-and-mortar store - especially if you already operate an online store. We'll show you why traditional retail has a future and how you can optimally combine your online store with a brick-and-mortar store.

May 5, 2023

Building an online store: Tips for store owners and retail business owners

Web stores and online sales portals in the retail sector are very much in vogue. Clothing, electrical household appliances and furniture in particular are being purchased online. Experts expect the online share of retail to rise to 11.5 percent for the first time by the end of 2023. A development that the Corona pandemic, with its restrictions on stationary sales, has once again significantly accelerated. Do you also want to open up another sales channel? Do you want to sell your goods online and turn users into customers? We show you the advantages of an online store and how to set it up. Spoiler alert: It's easier than you think.

April 21, 2023

Digitization in retail: How modern checkout systems make the difference

Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning or Big Data: Have we forgotten a keyword of digitalization? Never mind. Because this article is not about the benefits of ChatGPT or why digital transformation is turning our economy upside down. We want to leave the big picture behind and take a closer look - at your POS system, for example. A digital POS system can make a real difference to your retail business and become a "game changer". We will now show you how this can be achieved and what advantages a modern POS system has for your business.

March 31, 2023

#ProudOwnerStory: ALC Tile & Bath Design

A cool February morning in Bielefeld. The rain is pelting our windshield and the first puddles have formed in the parking lot in front of Marktkauf Oldentrup. Weather that calls for tea and perhaps a hot bath. Nevertheless, we set off. Our destination: ALC Fliesen & Baddesign - the new decor store in the east of Bielefeld. We are greeted by founder Leyla Celebi. The bad weather is quickly forgotten. Because the atmosphere in the store is as inviting, warm and cordial as the owner herself.

March 16, 2023

Inflation: Tips for the retail trade

Wars, crises and other disasters: The year 2023 is still young, but already brings numerous challenges. In addition to rising energy costs, inflation in particular is an issue that start-ups and store owners will have to face. This rose to a record high of 10.4 percent at the end of 2022 and remains at a constantly high level. And as is the way with rising prices - they spoil customers' mood to buy. Understandably so. As a business owner or retailer, however, you are not helpless in the face of inflation.

March 3, 2023

Local SEO: How to convince customers from your region

"Florist Bielefeld", "Dog groomer Munich" or "Jeweler Dresden": Google is fed millions of similar search entries every day. Retail companies in particular are searched for and found via this local search. Your business is not one of them? You are annoyed about a bad search engine ranking and your offers are hiding in no man's land on page 2 of the Google search results? Then we have good news for you. Because with Local SEO you can bring your company into visibility and make customers from your region aware of your company. We'll show you now how to do that and what you should keep in mind!

February 14, 2023

Choosing a legal form: Tips for founders and business owners

GbR, GmbH, KG or AG: As a founder, you have to decide on a legal form sooner rather than later. This is not only true for startups. Freelancers, sole proprietors and seasoned store owners should also know the advantages and disadvantages of the various legal forms for their business. After all, who knows: Perhaps a simple UG will develop into a high-growth GmbH over the years? Legal forms are not set in stone, but develop together with your business. That's why we are now introducing you to the various legal forms. So you can choose the ideal variant for you.

February 3, 2023

Card terminals: Which terminal provider suits my business?

As a business owner or entrepreneur in retail, you want to offer your customers the best possible service. This also includes the payment process. This must be fast, secure and uncomplicated. At the same time, you need a solution that is legally compliant and generates as few costs as possible. A modern and TSE-compliant POS system is just the beginning. The right card terminal is at least as important. From SumUp to Zettle or omono to conventional providers, you will find plenty of solutions for your business. But which system is ideal for your business? We compare the different POS terminals with all their advantages and disadvantages.

January 16, 2023

Technical security device hardware and cloud solutions in comparison

The introduction of the Technical Safety Equipment (TSE) is a bit like a weekend visit from the dear relatives. It's announced well in advance, upsets a lot of things, and in the end you're usually glad to get it over with. Yet the TSE is quite useful. After all, it is supposed to prevent the manipulation of cash register data and make tax evasion much more difficult. And: in addition to many obligations, it offers you real freedom of choice. Because as a business owner or entrepreneur in retail, you can decide whether you prefer the TSE hardware solution or a cloud variant. With this article, we present both models to you in more detail.

January 6, 2023

Technical security device for electronic cash registers - Everything about obligations, deadlines and approved cash register systems.

Next year, everything will be different. At least, that's how the German state sees it. Because the legislator also knows something like good intentions. One example: On January 1, 2020, the German Cash Register Insurance Ordinance (KassenSichV) came into force. Since then, companies have been obliged to use electronic cash registers with tamper protection. The aim is to ensure that data on every business transaction is stored and protected from change by a certified technical security device (TSE). This is no reason for potential tax evaders to pop the champagne corks. But TSE also poses challenges for blameless entrepreneurs and business owners. Since 2020, new obligations, deadlines and regulations have been developed. Who is supposed to keep track of all this? Well, us for one!

December 23, 2022

Digital POS system: Does the switch make sense?

Many fashion retailers have them, as do decor stores and an increasing number of florists anyway: digital cash register systems. They offer numerous advantages over conventional cash registers. Are you also considering switching from an open cash register to a modern model? But you are still undecided whether the switch to a digital POS system is really worth it? Then we would like to offer you an initial decision-making aid in this article.

December 12, 2022

Opening a business: step by step to your own store

2030 called and wants to thank you. Why? It's simple: A few years earlier, you fulfilled a dream - by opening your own business. Since then, your courage has paid off in the truest sense of the word. Because thanks to our guide for store owners, you have been able to avoid typical stumbling blocks. Your business is flourishing and, incidentally, giving you a lot of pleasure. Self-employment can be so beautiful! But what do I need for a successful store opening? Which business idea is worthwhile and how do I minimize my financial risk? Our guidebook will give you answers to these and many other questions. Because with us, the store runs!

November 29, 2022

LocaFox Magazine | Checkout, Retail & Digitization