At a glance
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Reduced Queues and Faster ServiceWith two self-checkouts now operating in-store, approximately 30% of transactions are processed through self-service, allowing faster service for customers on the go.
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Improved Operational EfficiencyEDGEPoS has streamlined processes such as batch downloads, price changes, and promotional rollovers, saving staff significant time. Eamon praised the reporting functionality: “The reporting is top-class. You can dissect anything and get the results you need, helping us stay tight on gross profit.”
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Reinvesting Time into PresentationWith staff no longer burdened by time-consuming tasks like label changes, they now focus more on visual merchandising — key to the store’s standout appearance and in-store promotions.
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EDGEPoS Solutions used
“EDGEPoS, self-checkouts and ESELs have transformed how we run McKillop’s SPAR. The long-term benefits are immense. We’ve improved efficiency, enhanced the customer experience, and freed up time to focus on what matters most — our community. I couldn’t imagine running the store without it now.”
Eamon Mckillop, Owner, McKillops SPAR
McKillop’s SPAR – Advancing Community Retail with Henderson Technology
Eamon McKillop, owner of McKillop’s SPAR on Frys Road, has proudly continued his family’s retail legacy since taking over the store more than two decades ago. Established in 1988 by his father, the store has remained at the heart of its community, nestled between two primary schools and a secondary school. To keep pace with customer demand and modern retail expectations, Eamon
implemented a suite of solutions from Henderson Technology, including the EDGEPoS system, self-checkouts (SCOs), and electronic shelf edge labels (ESELs). These tools have not only increased operational efficiency but also strengthened the store’s customer service capabilities.
Eamon recognised the importance of preserving its long-standing community roots while embracing innovation to stay ahead. With a deep understanding of the store’s role in the local area, he knew it was more than just a place to pick up groceries — McKillop’s SPAR is a
trusted, familiar presence that plays a vital role in everyday life for many residents.
As the needs of the neighbourhood evolved and customer expectations shifted, Eamon was quick to respond. Determined to ensure the store remained relevant and resilient in a competitive market, he took bold steps to future-proof the business.
One of the store’s biggest challenges was managing high footfall during specific times of
the day. “We’re very school- driven, ” said Eamon. “You’d have a massive rush in the mornings, lunchtime, and again at pickup.” Long queues were frustrating for customers and challenging for staff. With a limited number of traditional tills, transactions during these spikes could be slow and inefficient. The need for a faster, more scalable solution became clear.
The first step was introducing self-checkout technology from Henderson Technology. Starting with one unit, Eamon quickly realised that demand warranted more. “It just wasn’t enough. We saw queues forming even at the self-checkout, so we added a second one. Two is the sweet spot for our 3,000 sq ft store,” he explained.
The location of these self-checkouts proved crucial. “We initially had one placed at the end of the till bank — it didn’t work. We moved them away from the main tills, and the difference was night and day. It created a much smoother flow in-store.” Now, roughly 30% of all transactions go through self-checkouts, mainly used by customers with smaller baskets, such as van drivers picking up hot food or coffee.
The next major step was replacing traditional paper shelf labels with electronic shelf edge labels (ESELs). The operational benefits were immediate. “Changing promotional pricing used
to take hours — we’d print 20 sheets of labels, and by the third one staff would give up and bin the rest,” said Eamonn. “Now it’s the click of a button. It saves time, ensures compliance with Trading Standards, and we always know the price is correct.”
EDGEPoS has also provided McKillop’s SPAR with powerful back-office capabilities. Eamon and his team use the system’s comprehensive reporting tools to keep a tight grip on margins and product performance. “The reporting is absolutely first class, ” he said. “You can drill into anything — margins, performance, trends. It keeps us sharp and focused on the numbers.” He also appreciates the promotional tools and the ability to customise training videos for staff depending on their role. “It saves time and makes onboarding more efficient.”
Award-Winning Recognition
McKillop’s SPAR was recently recognised as the Independent Retailer of the Year, a major achievement reflecting the hard work of Eamon and his team. “I didn’t expect it at all, ” he admitted. “It’s a reflection of how far we’ve come and how much the community supports us. I brought my whole family to London for the awards — it was a proud moment.”
A Future-Ready Store Rooted in Community
By embracing Henderson Technology’s EDGEPoS system, self-checkouts, and electronic shelf edge labels, McKillop’s SPAR has successfully modernised its operations without losing the personal touch that defines its role in the local community.
Eamon McKillop has demonstrated that innovation and tradition can work hand in hand. These technologies haven’t just streamlined internal processes — they’ve enhanced the customer experience, empowered staff, and helped the store manage its busiest periods with confidence and consistency.
With a forward-thinking mindset and a clear vision for continued integration and improvement, McKillop’s SPAR stands as a powerful example of how independent retailers can thrive in today’s competitive retail landscape while staying true to their
roots.
“We’re not just investing in tech — we’re investing in the future of our community, our team, and the experience we offer every single customer.”