With New Tools, Integrations, and Partnerships, NRS is Keeping Corner Stores in the Game

Although corner stores and mom-and-pop shops are cornerstones of local communities, economic challenges are making it tough for small businesses to stay afloat.  The average corner store or bodega can no longer rely on the same business model of years past but must turn to new technology to remain competitive.  That’s why Elie Y. Katz founded National Retail Solutions (NRS), a company that provides point-of-sale (POS) solutions for independent retailers.  In one centralized location, the NRS platform gives small and medium-sized businesses a suite of helpful tools at an affordable price.  

For Katz, the mission is more than just economic–it’s personal.  “Neighborhood stores are far more than retail outlets,” says Katz.  “They’re where neighbors catch up, kids buy their first snacks, and families feel safe.  NRS helps store owners modernize without losing that community feel.  We provide them with technology that enhances their service while reinforcing their role as essential cornerstones of the neighborhood.” 

Katz comes from a background of entrepreneurship and public service that shaped his appreciation for the critical role small businesses play in local communities.  It’s his first-hand knowledge of owning and operating food establishments that allows him to create tools that directly solve the most pressing problems of independent retailers. 

Tools like the NRS POS Integrated Panic Alarm Button and POS-DVR integration are designed to address safety concerns and theft, while LottoShield aids with lottery tracking to automate accounting and streamline reporting.  With NRS Purple, stores can manage payroll and tax compliance with ease.  Through NRS’ Ultimate Ecommerce Package, stores can remain competitive online by building branded websites synced with their inventory.   

Each of these tools has helped NRS live up to its tagline, “Empowering Independent Retailers.”  But the company hasn’t shown signs of slowing down, announcing new partnerships and expanding its ever-growing list of customer-centric tools.  NRS recently expanded its Premium Features suite to include even more advanced tools designed to streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and drive growth.  Some of these new tools include: 

• License ID Scanning to help ensure compliance with age verification 

• Item Modifiers & an Optional IP Kitchen Printer to streamline kitchen operations and allow item customization for specialized orders 

• An Extended Replacement Warranty that keeps comprehensive replacement coverage in place beyond the first year 

• An Employee Time Clock to ensure accurate record-keeping 

• E-commerce Integration that offers access to NRS-built platforms linked directly to the POS system 

• Advanced Data Reporting for detailed reports that deliver actionable insights 

• Customer Tabs that allow store owners to extend store credit to frequent customers 

• Store Loyalty Programs to further increase customer engagement 

• SMS Receipts that promote sustainability and convenience using digital receipts 

Users can access these Premium Features through the NRS Pro, Advanced, and Elite plans.  Retailers can also sign up for NRS Pay to receive a discounted rate on these features without having to sign long-term contracts.  “Each one is designed to save time, reduce shrinkage, and increase profitability,” says Katz.  “For example, a deli owner can track staff hours, sync online orders, and offer rewards to loyal customers—all from the same system.” 

The partnership with Fiscal Systems is far from the only integration NRS has seen this year.  The company announced a first-of-its-kind integration with DoorDash to enable NRS retailers to list their products on DoorDash and manage orders through their existing NRS POS system.  The new solution allows retailers to manage both in-store and DoorDash orders from one centralized platform, eliminating inconsistencies and streamlining operations.  "By eliminating manual data entry and ensuring seamless order management, we equip independent retailers with the agility needed to thrive and capture sales on the world's leading online ordering and delivery platform,” says Katz. 

The company also integrated with Google to allow NRS retailers to showcase their in-store products to local customers.  Whenever a customer searches for a product near them on Google Search, Google Maps, or the Shopping tab, they will automatically see which local NRS stores have that product in stock.  “For retailers with a verified Google Business Profile, this integration helps Google accurately link products to the correct store location, building customer trust and making it easier for them to find your business online,” explains Katz. 

NRS has even been featured on notable television shows such as “Desis on Main Street,” which illuminates the unique journeys of South Asian entrepreneurs in America.  NRS was prominently featured at the ITV GOLD premiere of the show’s second season, where it was recognized for its prominent role in shaping the success of many South Asian Business owners.  “Seeing the drive and innovation of these entrepreneurs firsthand reinforces why we built NRS,” says Katz.  “We're providing a POS system and a platform for their aspirations to take root and flourish in the American marketplace.” 

National Retail Solutions’ efforts have not gone unrecognized, both by the businesses it partners with and the public at large.  The company received ChannelVision Magazine’s 2025 Visionary Spotlight Award (VSA) for Best Emerging Technology Breakthrough – Overall Excellence.  The annual VSA program highlights products, services, and deployments that advance the communications and channel ecosystem.  NRS was honored for its use of innovation in helping small and mid-size convenience stores and bodegas remain competitive with national chains. 

For Katz, the financial success and recognition of NRS pale in comparison to the way the company is helping small business owners.  “Every time I speak to a store owner who feels seen and supported because of NRS, I know we’re doing something right,” says Katz.  “Empowerment means giving people not just tools, but real opportunities to compete and grow on their terms.  That’s the mission that drives me every day.” 

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