Groupon launches Breadcrumb

CHICAGO — A year after Groupon acquired Breadcrumb, a point of sale system and iPad app, the deal-of-the-day website has launched the suite of cloud-based iPad and smartphone tools. The free iPad app enables quick-service eateries, salons, spas and retail merchants to maximize revenue.

Breadcrumb products include flexible iPad point-of-sale products and payments solutions for all businesses, which include a low price guarantee on credit card transaction fees, free installation assistance and 24/7 phone technical support.

Groupon intends to convince businesses to replace their cash registers with Breadcrumb POS. Businesses can download the free app, sign up for a payments account, connect a card swiper and optional printer and begin using an iPad to process transactions in a few minutes.

Businesses can also use the tools to log cash transactions, accept credit card payments, print or email receipts, calculate multiple tax rates, manage menu items, view transaction history and issue refunds. In addition to low rates on credit card processing fees, merchants will receive their deposits within 24 hours rather than after two to three business days. The suite of tools also allows businesses to view in-depth, real-time reports on product mix, daily and monthly sales, past customer purchases and deposit records.

"With this launch we can help every local business replace their outdated cash registers with a modern, affordable, money-saving tool that allows them to save on credit card transaction fees and run their businesses better," said Mihir Shah, VP merchant OS. "The successful adoption of Breadcrumb Pro by restaurants and bars has been very encouraging, with some of the finest venues in the country using it to run their businesses. As a result, we decided to launch Breadcrumb POS and bring the power and simplicity of this product to more merchants."

Moreover, businesses can use the Groupon Merchants App for iPhone and Android to process credit card transactions, accept and redeem Groupon vouchers and measure the performance of Groupon deals.