"How to Set Up a Retail Store in Odoo 18 Point of Sale (POS)"

Business management ERP solution Odoo 18 offers a robust Point of Sale (POS) module for retail stores. Learn how to configure your retail shop in Odoo 18 POS with this detailed step-by-step guide.

How to Configure a Retail Store in Odoo 18 POS: Complete Guide

In today’s competitive retail environment, having an efficient, easy-to-use Point of Sale (POS) system is essential to streamline operations and boost customer satisfaction. Odoo 18, the latest version of the powerful open-source Business management ERP, comes equipped with a feature-rich POS module specifically designed to support retail businesses.

This guide walks you through the entire process of configuring a retail shop using Odoo 18 POS, helping you take full advantage of its capabilities.

Key Features of Odoo 18 POS

Before diving into the setup process, here are some standout features Odoo 18 POS offers:

• Product Catalog Management: Easily manage products with detailed information including pricing, stock levels, and images.

• Smooth Sales Processing: Handle everything from simple cash transactions to detailed invoices.

• Real-Time Inventory Monitoring: Keep stock levels up-to-date and avoid shortages.

• Customer Database: Build and manage customer profiles to personalize service and offer targeted promotions.

• Powerful Reporting Tools: Gain insights through detailed sales and inventory reports.

• Multi-Channel Payments: Accept cash, cards, mobile payments, and more.

Getting Started with Odoo 18 POS

Ensure that Odoo 18 is installed on your system—either the Community or Enterprise version depending on your business needs.

To activate the POS module:

1. Log into your Odoo dashboard.

2. Navigate to the Apps menu, search for Point of Sale, and install it.

3. Access the POS Dashboard from the main menu.

Creating and Configuring a Retail Shop in Odoo 18 POS

To set up a new retail store:

• Go to the POS Dashboard and click New Session to start configuring.

• Alternatively, under Configuration > Settings, click New Shop to launch the setup wizard.

In the setup wizard:

• Name your POS or shop.

• If you're running a standard retail store (not a bar or restaurant), leave the Bar/Restaurant Mode option unchecked.

• Click Save to confirm and return to the dashboard.

Now you’ll see your newly created shop in the POS Dashboard, ready for further configuration.

Step-by-Step Configuration

1. Product Setup

Go to Products > Products to add or edit items. Define each product’s name, description, category, price, and images to make them visually appealing. This setup mirrors other Odoo modules like Sales or Inventory.

2. Price Lists

Customize pricing with Products > Pricelists. You can create different price lists based on:

• Customer categories

• Bulk purchase discounts

• Time-based promotions (e.g., seasonal sales)

Example: Create a "Retail USD" price list tailored to standard customers.

3. Product Bundling (Combos)

Boost sales by grouping related products using Products > Product Combos. This helps in offering bundled deals, increasing average transaction value.

4. Payment Method Setup

Under Settings > Payments, configure:

• Built-in options (cash, credit/debit cards, mobile payments)

• Custom payment methods (via the Payment Methods link)

5. Receipt Customization

Go to Settings > Bills & Receipts to personalize receipts:

• Add your company logo

• Include contact details

• Add optional disclaimers or messages

6. Tax Configuration

Ensure tax compliance by configuring:

• Default Sales Tax

• Product-Specific Taxes

• Fiscal Positions (adjust taxes based on location or customer type)

Navigate to Settings > Accounting to manage these options.

7. Payment Terminal Integration

Support electronic payments by integrating terminals like Stripe, Adyen, or Paytm under Settings > Payment Terminals.

8. Hardware Connection

Connect POS hardware such as:

• Barcode scanners

• Receipt printers

• Cash drawers

Under Settings > Connected Devices, configure these either directly or via Odoo’s IoT Box. Test all hardware before going live.

Using Your Retail POS

Once configuration is complete, return to the POS Dashboard, select your shop, and click New Session to launch the interface.

The POS screen displays:

• Products organized by category (e.g., Clothing, Electronics)

• Product images, prices, and stock status

• Customer service tools like notes and returns

Processing Sales and Payments

To create and complete an order:

1. Select the products and confirm quantities.

2. Click Payment to choose a method (cash, card, etc.).

3. Input the amount and validate the transaction.

4. Optionally, click Invoice to generate and print/send an invoice.

Receipts and Order Management

• Use Print Receipt to provide a paper or digital copy.

• Start a new transaction with New Order.

• Custom headers and footers will be visible on the printed receipt.

Managing Sessions

Track ongoing and past sessions via Orders > Sessions. This view helps you monitor all transactions and staff activity in real time.

Conclusion

Setting up your retail shop with Odoo 18 POS ensures streamlined operations, better customer engagement, and real-time business insights. Its flexibility, ease of use, and integration with other Odoo modules make it a complete solution for modern retail needs.

With this step-by-step guide, you're now equipped to tailor your POS system to match your store’s unique requirements—keeping your retail business competitive and customer-focused.

Book an Implementation consultation today.