What is an electronic receipt?

An electronic receipt is a digital version of a traditional receipt that documents a transaction between customer and business. Instead of printing a physical slip on the spot, the receipt is sent electronically, usually by email. Many POS systems, including Flexybox, can send the receipt automatically straight to the customer's inbox, which saves paper and makes it easy for the customer to keep the receipt.

An electronic receipt usually contains the same information as a paper one: date and time of purchase, the name of the restaurant or café, a list of items bought and prices, VAT details and possibly a message or thank-you for the visit.

Example in a restaurant or café

Imagine a customer paying for dinner at a café. Once the payment is complete, the customer asks for the receipt to be sent electronically. The staff enter the customer's email in the POS system (if it isn't already saved), and the receipt is generated automatically and sent straight away. The customer now has the receipt easily available in their email – ready for any refund or bookkeeping.

Why is it important?

Electronic receipts create value for both business and customer. For the café owner they mean faster service, lower paper costs and easy access to past purchases, for instance if a customer later needs a credit note. For the customer it is easier to find and keep their receipts – with no risk of losing the paper copy.

In the hospitality industry, digital documentation saves time and resources. It is also an important part of running a more environmentally friendly business.

Compared with a digital receipt, which takes the same form, the term “electronic receipt” is often used for the receipt document itself, while “digital receipt” can also cover receipts in the form of a QR code or via apps.

How Flexybox uses electronic receipts

With the Flexybox POS system you can easily send electronic receipts to your guests. When a payment is completed, the receipt is generated automatically and sent straight to the customer's email if one is linked to the order. This saves staff time and ensures the customer receives their proof of purchase quickly and securely.

Frequently asked questions

The two terms are often used interchangeably, but “electronic receipt” usually refers to a document sent by email, while a “digital receipt” can also be shown in an app or via a QR code.

In most countries it isn't a legal requirement – receipt rules differ, so check with your national tax authority – but it is becoming increasingly common – both to meet customer expectations and as part of a greener operation.

In the Flexybox POS system you can easily send the receipt to the customer's email if the information has been entered or saved. It takes just a few clicks.

Yes, Flexybox gives you access to historical transaction data, including all electronic receipts, so you can easily follow up and document.