Tates Ltd, a SPAR regional distribution company and the UK's largest independent convenience store operator, has selected the latest addition to Epson's touchscreen Intelligent Register range - the IR-700. Chosen for its small footprint, integrated design and ease of installation, the IR-700 will enhance efficiency and save valuable counter space at the point of service.

"The efficient use of space is very important at the checkout," commented Martin Rushton, retail IT development manager of Tates Ltd. "We wanted to implement the next generation of compact EPoS systems in order to make the checkout as comfortable and easy as possible for staff, and efficient for our customers."

Powered by a single mains plug, the IR-700 is stylishly and elegantly designed. Including large integrated touchscreen, built-in thermal receipt printer and magnetic stripe reader, it has the smallest footprint in its class. With its totally open architecture, the IR-700 provides the ideal platform for SPARPoS - software developed for SPAR by Business Computer Projects.

Piloted within SPAR stores at Liverpool's John Lennon Airport and Nefyn in North Wales, Epson's IR-700 will be installed in all new stores and during the refurbishment of existing outlets. "Installation is child's play," said Martin. "Staff find them so comfortable and easy-to-use, and they are also incredibly simple for our staff to maintain."

"The IR-700 is Tate's EPoS system of choice," added Martin. "The size and flexibility of the IR-700 allows us to design our counters around the system which is ideal." Going forward, Tates will be extending its new EPoS system by using the IR-700's dual screen capability to display customer advertisements and promotions. "We think the IR-700 is the ultimate tool for the point of service," said Martin. "With its unique features, advanced performance and compact design, it has everything a retailer could want."