Durham University enlists hospitality tech firm Lolly for EPoS roll-out across its campus

Durham University has partnered with Lolly to implement a new electronic Point of Sale (EPoS) system across its campus.

This has seen the deployment of more than 90 EPoS terminals across 30 sites, supporting a large and diverse catering operation. The new system is used by over 190 EPoS and 65 back office users.

Paul Taylor, Head of Operations at Durham University, says: “This partnership represents an important step forward for our catering operations. The roll-out has delivered a modern and flexible EPoS platform that supports our teams across multiple sites and provides a strong foundation for future innovation. We’re pleased to be working with a partner that understands the complexity and scale of a university environment.”

Paul Markey, Head of Sales & Accounts at Lolly, says: “Durham University is a great example of how institutions are investing in flexible, future ready technology to support both operational performance and the student experience. We’re proud to be partnering with the University and look forward to supporting the next phase of its digital catering strategy.”

Durham University enlists hospitality tech firm Lolly for EPoS roll-out across its campus

Durham University is now working with Lolly on the next phase of its EPoS roadmap. Planned developments include self-service kiosks, counter self-service and AI tray scanning solutions.

A key project currently in development is the integration of the EPoS platform into a loyalty and cashless app, which will streamline operations and increase engagement with students and staff. A pilot version of the app is scheduled for release at Easter, with a full roll-out planned for Freshers 2026, aligned with the start of the academic year.

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

Brarista, IBM Consulting, Foundit!, Quorso, Vusion, Sensei, Reckon.ai, EE, Walkbase, Globant, Riskified, and Goddiva were among the winners at the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, sponsored by VenHub Global, 3D Cloud, EdTech Innovation Hub, and Retail Technology Show.

Our 2026 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 29th January, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “According to Amazon’s Andy Jassy: AI is a once in a lifetime reinvention of everything we know, and the largest technology transformation since the cloud.”

“Whether that’s overstating it or not, we're certainly seeing an increasing number of innovative, potentially game changing developments in this space across both traditional and digital retail spaces. And that is reflected in tonight's finalists, who are boosting customer experiences and tackling retailers' painpoints across the likes of physical stores, online, omnichannel, supply chain, and payments.”

“To quote one of our judges: I have to admit, judging these awards was so difficult. So many that would have been worthy winners. And great to see how AI has moved firmly into delivery mode. Firmly into delivering for customers and driving huge innovation.”

Congratulations to our 2026 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended our Thursday, 29th January gathering.

Stay tuned for an indepth review of the awards ceremony in the next edition of RTIH magazine.

You can also download our awards brochure here.