kassentisch

A kassentisch is a desk or counter used as the cashier’s workspace in retail and service environments. It provides the surface and equipment needed for transactions, including space for a cash register or point-of-sale (POS) terminal, a receipt printer, a card reader, and a cash drawer, as well as storage for bags, receipts, and change. The counter also serves as a boundary between staff and customers and is designed to support an efficient transaction flow.

Designs and variants range from compact, single-person units in small shops to larger, modular counters in supermarkets or service desks. A kassentisch may be freestanding or integrated into a larger checkout line. Common features include an employee work surface at a comfortable height, a customer-facing area for interaction, a lockable cash drawer, and space for payment devices and peripherals. Some designs incorporate privacy screens, tilt mechanisms for receipts, or built-in storage cabinets. Ergonomics, accessibility, and the efficient handling of money and goods are typical considerations in its design.

Function and security considerations are central to the kassentisch. It supports sales, returns, and payment processing, and is usually configured to optimize cashier visibility and customer service. Security elements often include lockable drawers, clear sightlines for staff, and layouts that minimize opportunities for theft while maintaining smooth customer traffic.

Historical and contextual notes: the kassentisch evolved with cash registers and later electronic POS systems. Today, it remains a common feature in small shops, market stalls, and service counters, where it may be a standalone unit or part of a larger checkout area. The term can also apply to similar desks in other settings, such as post offices, hotels, or clinics.