The Rise of Integrated Control Systems
By Cheryl Ashton, Marketing Coordinator, TSG UK
How unified platforms streamline operations and unlock new efficiencies.
The forecourt sector is entering a new era. Fuel stations are evolving into multi-purpose retail hubs shaped by shifting consumer habits, the rise of electric vehicles and the demand for seamless digital experiences. At the heart of this transformation lies the integrated control system, a unified platform that connects payment, media, surveillance and operational technologies to simplify operations and optimise workflows.
TSG UK Systems is leading this shift, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions that enable forecourt operators to manage every aspect of their site from a single interface. From electronic point-of-sale systems (EPOS) and self-checkouts to EV charge point terminals and digital signage, TSG’s portfolio reflects the growing need for cohesion, speed and security in modern energy retail.
The Shift Towards Unified Operations
As forecourts diversify to include cafés, convenience stores, car washes and EV charging hubs, the complexity of managing these services has increased. Operators are now responsible for a wide range of equipment and customer touchpoints, often spread across multiple locations. Integrated control systems simplify this challenge by consolidating disparate technologies into a centralised platform.
TSG’s Prizma EPOS is a prime example. It connects seamlessly with dispensers, payment terminals, closed-circuit television (CCTV), tank-level gauges, price signs and car wash systems, allowing site owners to monitor and manage operations efficiently. Prizma exceeds Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requirements; encrypting customer data via a secure VPN and ensuring compliance with the highest standards of payment security.
When paired with Tokheim’s Online Authorisation and Switching Environment (OASE), Prizma accepts all major credit, debit and fuel cards, delivering a fast and reliable transaction process. The system also facilitates digital receipts, reducing paper waste and contributing to sustainability goals. Retailers can easily manage user permissions, generate detailed reports and configure fuel grades and shop items, all from a single interface.
Enhancing Customer Experience Through Automation
Speed and convenience are now at the forefront of customer expectations. Long queues and manual transactions are no longer acceptable in a world where contactless payments and mobile apps dominate. Self-checkout kiosks respond to this shift by enabling customers to pay for fuel, groceries and car washes in a single swift transaction. A single employee can supervise multiple kiosks, reducing staffing costs and improving throughput.
For food service, the DFS Order Kiosk powered by FLYX streamlines ordering and frees up staff to focus on other tasks. Its sleek interface and omnichannel capabilities, including mobile app and table ordering, make it a versatile addition to any forecourt. The kiosk integrates with Prizma, allowing operators to utilise their existing infrastructure while enhancing customer engagement.
CoffeePay and CoffeePay Pro extend this convenience to self-service coffee stations, handling contactless payments and creating an opportunity to upsell. Customers can purchase additional items such as biscuits or bottled water, while retailers benefit from reduced staffing requirements and increased basket value. Similarly, CarwashPay and SelfwashPay offer intuitive interfaces for car wash purchases, complete with loyalty features and digital receipts.
Meeting the Demands of the EV Market
As EVs become more prevalent, forecourts are adapting to new charging habits. TSG’s ChargePay terminals provide a transparent and secure payment experience for EV drivers, accepting cards, mobile payments and QR codes. ChargePay Lite and ChargePay CIT integrate flexibly with all charging stations, supporting seamless transactions and customer engagement.
These terminals not only simplify the charging process but also promote cross-selling and loyalty initiatives, helping retailers maximise revenue from every visit. With centralised management via a dedicated portal, operators gain full visibility into transactions and customer behaviour. Customers can remotely monitor their charging sessions, receive instant digital receipts and benefit from tailored promotions.
Driving Sales with Digital Media
Digital signage is another powerful tool in the integrated control ecosystem. TSG’s T-Media platform allows site owners to deploy targeted promotions at the fuel dispenser, encouraging impulse buys and upselling premium products. In-store screens can highlight daily specials, manage perishable stock and display community messaging, reinforcing the site’s local identity.
Strategically placed screens guide the customer journey, from entrance to exit, while scheduled content ensures relevance throughout the day. Whether highlighting coffee during the morning rush or refreshing drinks on warm afternoons, digital signage helps retailers influence purchasing decisions in real time.
Beyond marketing, dynamic content reduces perceived wait times, enhancing the overall visitor experience. TSG’s expertise in installation and site planning ensures that screens are positioned for maximum visibility and impact. From single displays to multi-screen networks, TSG tailors each solution to suit the site’s layout and business objectives.
Securing the Site with Smart Surveillance
Security remains a critical concern for forecourt operators. The Tokheim EYE CCTV system offers high-definition monitoring with motion-activated recording, enabling real-time response to suspicious activity. Integrated with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and EPOS systems, the cameras capture detailed transaction data, vehicle registration and staff involvement, providing a comprehensive view of site operations.
Operators can filter footage by incident type, zoom in without losing clarity and access recordings remotely via smart devices. This level of control not only deters crime but also protects valuable infrastructure and helps safeguard staff. The system’s ability to link footage with transaction data makes it a powerful tool for investigating incidents and preventing fraud.
The Influence of Fintech and Data Analytics
The rise of fintech has reshaped how consumers expect to pay. Digital wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and PayPal are becoming mainstream, prompting site owners to update their systems to remain competitive. TSG’s systems accommodate these payment methods, delivering a seamless experience across all platforms.
In addition, integrated EPOS systems provide valuable data insights that inform stock management, promotional timing and customer loyalty schemes. By analysing transaction data, operators can identify peak times, best-selling items and individual preferences, tailoring their offerings to drive repeat business and reduce waste.
Many forecourts now offer loyalty programmes that track customer purchases and preferences. This insight allows retailers to reward frequent shoppers, personalise promotions and build long-term relationships. The ability to harvest and analyse data from every transaction is a key advantage of centralised systems, turning routine purchases into strategic opportunities.
Safe and Secure Payments
Security is paramount in the digital forecourt. One isolated data breach can damage a retailer’s reputation beyond repair. TSG’s systems are designed to meet and exceed the standards set by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council. Prizma and OASE operate with advanced encryption, fraud detection and secure switching environments, ensuring that every transaction is protected.
As payment volumes increase and fraud techniques evolve, manual monitoring is no longer sufficient. Artificial intelligence, biometric authentication and machine learning are now being employed to detect anomalies and safeguard customer data. TSG’s commitment to data protection is evident in its robust compliance protocols and hands-on assistance for site operators
A Trusted Partner for the Digital Transition
With over 30 years of experience, TSG UK Systems is a trusted partner for fuel retailers navigating the digital transition. Whether installing PIN pads, self-checkouts, outdoor payment terminals or surveillance systems, TSG delivers end-to-end service, including staff training and seamless integration.
As the forecourt sector continues to evolve, integrated control systems will be essential in delivering the speed, security and intelligence required to thrive. TSG’s unified platforms not only optimise operations but also unlock new efficiencies, helping retailers stay ahead in a competitive and fast-changing market.
