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How to Change Product Code

This article explains how to configure product codes in C-Store Essentials to support loyalty programs like Shell Rewards and Plenti

Updated this week
  • Product codes help determine which items are eligible for loyalty rewards

  • Instead of managing thousands of PLUs, rewards programs use fewer, categorized product codes

Why Product Codes Matter

  • Product codes are used to identify eligible items for loyalty programs

    • When a customer makes a purchase, the product code is sent to the loyalty program to determine if the item qualifies for a reward

    • Helps you participate in loyalty programs without needing to upload thousands of PLUs

    • Makes your store eligible for brand-sponsored promotions and discounts

    • Reduces setup complexity for rewards eligibility

Where Product Codes Are Set

Product codes can be assigned in two places:

  • Department Level: Preferred, since it lets you customize codes by category

  • Default Level: Used only if no department-level code is set

Step-by-Step:

Default Product Code

  1. Log In to your C-Store Essentials Account

    • Log in to your PDI C-Store Essentials account using the link here

2. Navigate to Settings

  • On the top right side of the screen, click on the Human Silhouette Icon

  • Next click on POS Settings

  • Then click on the General Settings tab

3. Add a Default Product Code

  • Scroll down to Default Product Code for Price Book Item

  • Enter the default product code value for general merchandise

    • For most POS systems, this is typically 400

4. Save and Resend the Pricebook

  • Click Update Setting and resend the Price Book to apply changes in your point-of-sale


Department-Level Product Code

  1. Go to Department Settings

    • From the POS Settings screen, click on the Departments tab

2. Edit a Department

  • Click the pencil icon next to the department you want to edit

3. Add the Product Code

  • Scroll down to the Primary Reg PCode field and enter the appropriate product code

4. Save Your Changes

  • Click Update to apply the product code to the department


What Happens Next?

  • Your POS will use the correct product codes for loyalty program eligibility

  • Items in departments with product codes will override the default

  • Loyalty program partners can now recognize eligible items automatically


Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Product Code?

  • A product code is a category-based identifier used by loyalty programs to determine which items qualify for rewards.

Where do I find my Product Code values?

  • You can typically find recommended product codes in your POS system. For general merchandise, 400 is commonly used.

What happens if I don’t assign a department-level product code?

  • The default product code will be used for any items that don’t have a department-level code assigned.

Can I change product codes later?

  • Yes. You can update product codes at any time by following the same steps.

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