Jacyn Heavens: Epos Now

Jacyn Heavens, 34
Company: Epos Now
Web: www.eposnow.com

Following a “testing experience” when he owned a city centre bar, Jacyn Heavens struggled to find an electronic point-of-sale (EPOS) system that would “offer an affordable, scalable solution” and provide the degree of insight he needed for his business. So, he decided to build it himself.

In 2011, Epos Now was born, a point-of-sale hardware and software solution provider, equipping businesses across retail and hospitality with the tools they need to cut costs and boost profitability.

Designed with small and medium-sized businesses in mind, the company’s platform is customisable and “infinitely scalable”, meaning it can adapt as its customers grow and change. In August 2015, Epos Now launched the UK’s first POS AppStore, allowing its customers to build their own bespoke EPOS systems to suit their requirements, and winning the Queen’s Award for Innovation in recognition.

It seems Heavens was onto something: Epos Now is the UK’s fastest growing EPOS provider as recognised by the Sunday Times Tech Track. As well as independent high street businesses, the company has attracted a number of high-profile corporate clients including Swalec Stadium, the Nottingham National Ice Centre and the Boxpark development in Shoreditch.

Having experienced life as a sole trader, for Heavens, the oft-repeated saying “It’s not personal, it’s business” doesn’t ring true. The entrepreneur has embedded a customer-centric culture in all his teams and boosts productivity by encouraging friendly competition and incentivising his 272 staff with prizes and leader boards.

It’s this approach, coupled with a “single-minded determination” that the entrepreneur credits with his success to date, and has put Epos Now on track to hit £16m turnover next year.

You can read more about the product in our guide to Epos Now