How to Choose an EPOS System in Ireland: 2026 Buyer’s Guide

Choosing an EPOS (electronic point of sale) system is one of the biggest operational decisions an Irish hospitality or retail business makes. The right system speeds up service, tightens stock control and makes VAT returns painless. The wrong one locks you into a contract you regret.

1. Start with how you trade

List your must-haves: table service, tabs, kitchen screens, barcode scanning, multiple sites, charge-to-room. A café and a hotel need very different tools.

2. Understand the total cost

Compare the total cost over three years, not the monthly headline:

• Software subscription per till or per site
• Hardware: terminals, printers, cash drawers, handhelds
• Installation, menu build and training
• Card-processing fees and contract length

3. Check VAT and reporting

Your EPOS should record the VAT rate on every sale, support eat-in and takeaway rates, and produce reports your accountant can use for your VAT3 return. Always confirm current rates with Revenue.

4. Ask about local support

When the till goes down at 9pm on a Saturday, you want someone in the same time zone who picks up the phone. Ask for support hours, response times and whether on-site help is available in your county.

5. Look at integrations

Accounting (Xero, Sage), payments, hotel PMS, online ordering and payroll integrations save hours each week. Check which ones are included and which cost extra.

The bottom line

Shortlist two or three providers, book demos using your own menu, and ask to speak to a customer like you. Book a Tilly demo and we’ll set it up for your business.