POS systems can significantly aid in the sustainability of festivals through the optimisation of various operational aspects, including reducing waste and providing data-driven insights. While the term “sustainability” has become a tagline for many organisations, businesses and public figures, it is important to highlight that it is more than just “an idea”. Sustainability not only makes a business, and its products and services look attractive, but also encourages responsible resource management. This is where point of sale systems come into play.
POS systems, including NOQ, have an end goal – that of which is to ensure events run smoothly from start to finish. They aim to eliminate any obstacles that often present themselves in these sorts of settings. Due to their detailed and diverse nature, these systems contribute to sustainability and actively encourage festivals and events to adopt sustainable practices. Three re-occurring factors regarding sustainability at festivals and events are the implementation of waste management systems, reduced paper usage and the support of eco-friendly initiatives.
Many POS systems now offer digital receipts, enabling attendees to receive them via email or SMS, rather than on paper. NOQ has significantly reduced paper consumption by utilising electronic invoicing, communication and E-receipts. NOQ also supports digital vouchers and loyalty programs, replacing traditional paper-based reward systems. Customers and staff can seamlessly redeem offers all electronically, which both contributes to eco-friendly practices while enhancing user convenience.
NOQ’s real-time tracking of stock levels and inventory forecasting tools helps vendors to avoid ordering excess amounts of food, drink and merchandise, which could potentially increase the risk of waste. Vendors are able to manage their stock levels through NOQ’s backend portal, allowing them to set up their ideal stock levels, of which they receive alerts when stock is running low. When inventory levels are accurately monitored, fewer resources go to waste.
POS systems collect valuable sales data that festival organisers and vendors can use to forecast demand. On NOQ’s Insights App, vendors are able to see peak sales times and the most to least popular items, which in turn gives them the opportunity to adjust their inventory for future events and minimise surplus items which might otherwise just go to waste.
Like many POS systems, NOQ has features to help implement cup refund systems whether it’s reusable, refundable, or deposit based, which helps significantly reduce single-use plastic waste at festivals and events. Attendees can return their cups and get their refunds processed on the spot, which motivates them to ensure cups are returned and in-turn, promotes sustainability. The system also tracks and reconciles deposits and refunds automatically, ensuring accuracy and transparency for organisers.
NOQ’s use of electric cars for all travel supports eco-friendly initiatives, being that each vehicle emits zero pollutants and contributes to cleaner air quality.
By integrating sustainability tracking and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, POS systems can contribute to a significant reduction in waste, emissions and resource consumption at festivals.