Retailers of all sizes know that customer experience is a key competitive differentiator. The 2025 BCG Global Consumer Radar Survey, which analyzed feedback from 23,000+ consumers worldwide, found that the majority of retail customers around the world expect personalized experiences, particularly those that help them get the most value, enhance convenience, and add enjoyment to their shopping journeys. Virtually all Tier 1 retailers have implemented technology that allows them to deliver on those expectations. Using data from past purchases, online browsing history, payment solutions, and other sources, enterprise retailers can hyper-personalize customer engagements, putting insights about customers right at sales associates’ fingertips.
For many mid-market retailers, the cost of implementing technology that equals their Tier 1 competitors is beyond their reach. However, payment solutions have evolved to give retailers the tools they need to build customer loyalty through personalized experiences and operate successfully.
Payment solution features that benefit the mid-market include:
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Android-based Platform
A payment solution that runs on a flexible Android-based platform gives retailers more options at the point of sale. Running on the right platform, Android terminals can accept the full range of payment methods, including alternative payments like buy now, pay later (BNPL). The platform can even support tap-to-pay payments on mobile devices via payment solutions like Ingenico’s SoftPOS, eliminating the need to invest in a mobile payments terminal for curbside or delivery payments or in-aisle service. Android also allows retailers to expand payment terminal features and to run third-party business applications, like inventory management and point of sale applications, right on payment devices. Android’s unique architecture makes it possible while strictly complying with Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards.
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All-in-One Solution
Smaller retailers need technology that they can manage with a limited IT staff and reliance on service providers. An all-in-one system that includes a smart payment terminal with integrated sales, business applications, and payment provides all the tools necessary to operate efficiently and collect data to personalize engagements and increase customer satisfaction. In addition, if the payment platform provider offers payment services, like estate management, enabling remote key injection for faster deployment, remote management, and issue resolution, retailers can implement, monitor, and maintain their payment solutions more easily.
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Opportunities for Innovation
Another thing to look for is a platform with the capability to support new technologies and add new features as the retail landscape continues to evolve. Mid-tier retailers can stay on the cutting edge with options like biometric payments and cryptocurrency acceptance. Smart mid-tier retailers will ensure the solutions they implement today are future-proof.
Magnifying Strengths
You may think that in the retail space, bigger is better, but businesses of all sizes have strengths and weaknesses. Tier 2 retailers usually have a greater ability to focus on meeting the needs of their particular markets, building strong customer relationships, and reacting to change with agility. With the right payment solution leveling the playing field, mid-tier retailers can focus on their niche specialties, create unique products and services, and craft loyalty-building experiences to improve their competitive positions.
To learn more about Ingenico’s payment solutions that have all the features mid-tier retailers require to compete, contact us.
