Empowering Large-Scale Franchisee Operations with Reliable Connectivity Solutions
Franchisee Enhances Network with 5G Solutions from Ericsson Enterprise WirelessFor large-scale franchisees, managing a single location is just the beginning. These organizations are businesses in their own right, often operating dozens, if not hundreds, of separate franchise locations under one corporate umbrella. Each location represents a node in a complex, interconnected network that must be consistently monitored, managed, and optimized to ensure seamless business continuity. The larger the scale, the more crucial it becomes to have robust connectivity solutions that provide reliable communication, data flow, and operational efficiency across the entire breadth of operations.
This case study highlights the journey of a major franchisee, overseeing over 100 locations of a national sandwich chain, and its commitment to modernizing its network infrastructure to support both its current operations and future expansion into new business ventures. With diverse demands such as point-of-sale systems, real-time inventory management, surveillance, guest Wi-Fi, and more, they needed a comprehensive connectivity strategy that would not only solve today’s challenges but also position them for continued growth in an increasingly digital marketplace.
Case Study
Ericsson’s Hybrid WAN Solutions Streamline Operations and Reduce CostsAs one of the original and largest franchisees of a renowned national sandwich chain, this organization has been delighting customers with fresh sandwiches for over 45 years. With over 100 locations, maintaining reliable network connectivity across all stores is crucial. To stay ahead in a competitive retail landscape, the company faced the challenge of upgrading its network infrastructure while managing costs and maintaining operational efficiency.
The Challenge | Network Demands Across Widespread Locations
The organization had reached a point where its current network setup was insufficient. As a family-owned business planning to expand into urgent care clinics and spas, they required a robust, future-proof solution. Rising landline costs and an outdated network setup left the business at a technological crossroads. The IT team, consisting of just two employees, struggled to support numerous widely distributed locations. The demands on their network included supporting point-of-sale systems, guest Wi-Fi, inventory management, surveillance, and much more.
Any downtime could mean lost sales, so it was essential to implement a more reliable, scalable, and cost-effective solution.
The Solution | Ericsson Enterprise Wireless’ Hybrid WAN and 5G Technology
The organization had reached a point where its current network setup was insufficient. As a family-owned business planning to expand into urgent care clinics and spas, they required a robust, future-proof solution. Rising landline costs and an outdated network setup left the business at a technological crossroads. The IT team, consisting of just two employees, struggled to support numerous widely distributed locations. The demands on their network included supporting point-of-sale systems, guest Wi-Fi, inventory management, surveillance, and much more.
Any downtime could mean lost sales, so it was essential to implement a more reliable, scalable, and cost-effective solution.
The Benefits | Reduced Costs and Increased Efficiency
Lower Operational Costs
One of the major advantages the organization experienced was a 20% reduction in operational expenses. By consolidating devices like routers, firewalls, and failover solutions into a single Ericsson device, they significantly reduced the number of service subscriptions and equipment needed at each location. This resulted in significant savings that could be redirected to other business areas, including future innovation and growth.
Simplified Management with NetCloud
The small IT team gained centralized, single-pane-of-glass visibility over all their network connections. From monitoring WAN link health to receiving alerts and performing remote troubleshooting, the team was able to resolve issues faster. This proactive management saved 50% of staff time, reducing the need for costly on-site visits.
Enhanced 5G Connectivity
The power of 5G plays a key role in the network transformation. Whether as a primary or failover connection, 5G provides the bandwidth needed to support in-store applications such as point-of-sale systems, inventory management, and even HVAC and refrigeration systems. The company can quickly set up new locations with zero-touch deployment, enabling faster revenue generation and a smoother customer experience.
Future-Proofing Their Network
Ericsson’s hybrid WAN solution doesn’t just solve current network challenges - it also prepares the company for the future. By investing in 5G, they are well-positioned to expand their operations without needing to replace equipment frequently. This future-proofing allows the franchisee to focus on growth without being hindered by outdated network technology.
A Smart Investment for the Future
By partnering with Ericsson, the organization has effectively streamlined its network infrastructure, reduced costs, and improved overall efficiency. The robust combination of 5G connectivity, hybrid WAN solutions, and centralized management gives the franchisee a competitive edge, ensuring that operations run smoothly while keeping customers and employees happy.
The organization’s IT director said, “The happier we can keep our teams in the field, the better our operations will be in the field—which equates to happier employees, happier customers, and increased revenue.”
The organization’s adoption of Ericsson's cutting-edge technology showcases the benefits of investing in advanced network solutions to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced retail environment.
About MCA and Our CNS Team
MCA is one of the largest and most trusted integrators in the United States, offering world-class voice, data, and security solutions that enhance the quality, safety, and productivity of customers, operations, and lives. More than 65,000 customers trust MCA to provide carefully researched solutions for a safe, secure, and more efficient workplace.
Our Cellular Networking Solutions (CNS) team (formerly known as USAT) is made up of certified experts in designing and deploying fixed and mobile wireless data connectivity solutions for public and private enterprises nationwide - complete with implementation, training, proof of concept (POC), system auditing, and on-site RF surveying services with optional engineering maintenance contracts.
Our extensive Ericsson catalog of world-class routers, antennas, and software designed for remote monitoring and management in even the harshest environments allows us to deliver a full suite of reliable technologies capped with a service-first approach.
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