Free pitch helps sell more services

In response to the unfavorable economic climate, Westshore Processing Inc. has developed a new model to help struggling businesses and bolster its revenues simultaneously. The key word: free.

The Sarasota-based firm recently launched a campaign that offers its point-of-sale system, along with training and installation, for free.

The systems, which normally cost between $6,000 and $9,000, assist businesses in tracking everything from sales and orders to employee hours and attendance. The company claims that its products help level the playing field for small businesses.

In exchange for the free systems, businesses contract with Westshore to process their credit card transactions and pay $949 annually for support and upgrades. These fees are expected to recoup the losses from the product giveaway. National Sales Manager Paul Dion says he considers it an investment in fresh businesses.