Why Receipts Matter More Than You Think
Receipts aren't just proof of payment that gets tossed. They're reconciliation tools, tax documentation, and branding opportunities.
Reconciliation
When a customer says "my change was wrong" and you don't have a receipt — there's no evidence. With a receipt: total, paid, change. It's right there. This also applies internally — receipts are the paper trail for cross-checking cash discrepancies.
Tax Documentation
For VAT-registered businesses, receipts are part of tax documentation. Even for non-registered ones, receipts prove transactions are recorded and auditable. Tax authorities are getting stricter about this.
Micro-Branding
Receipt header: name, address, logo. Receipt footer: "Follow @yourcafe" or "Show this receipt for 10% off next visit." It's free real estate directly in the customer's hand. Small, but effective when used well.
Digital vs Print
Default to not printing — saves paper. But be ready to print anytime. Some customers want a physical receipt, some situations don't allow digital. A hybrid approach is usually the most flexible.