Texas-based retailer TXB (Texas Born) has selected Mako Networks as its Managed Network Service Provider (MNSP) to “enhance network reliability, security and scalability” as it plans to expand from 50 to more than 100 store locations across Texas and Oklahoma, according to a press release sent to NACS.

"We need wireless to be stable. We need WBU to work when required. We need to be able to utilize the bandwidth we pay for," said Daniel Gaddy, TXB's vice president of information technology, noting that reliable IT infrastructure is critical for growing from 53 to more than 100 stores. "The adoption of Mako Networks has not only improved internal operations but has also enhanced the customer experience with faster payments and fewer outages. Mako has also enabled a higher quality Wi-Fi experience, and their operational support has been a huge blessing."

By deploying Mako's cloud-managed security gateways, managed switches and SD-WAN technology, TXB said it now benefits from:

• Higher uptime, ensuring seamless transactions and customer service
• Full utilization of ISP bandwidth for improved efficiency
• Reliable failover solutions to prevent disruptions
• Stable wireless performance for POS systems, back-office applications and guest Wi-Fi
• Centralized IT management for secure, scalable operations across all locations

TXB also implemented the Mako 6600 Security Gateway and the Mako 1024 Managed Switch, which the retailer said provides:

• SD-WAN capabilities for optimized, secure network traffic
• Dual-SIM LTE failover for uninterrupted connectivity
• Advanced VLAN routing and firewall protection to ensure compliance and security
• Remote monitoring and real-time diagnostics through the Mako Central Management System (CMS)

TXB's IT team is “now empowered to handle many issues themselves and troubleshoot problems internally rather than logging tickets and waiting for a vendor to respond. For example, Mako's advanced network switches can be programmed to give the IT team total control of any templates or changes they wish to deploy,” TXB said.

“With Mako Networks, TXB has dramatically improved IT operations, cutting down time for issue resolution. TXB's network infrastructure now supports its growth while delivering a seamless customer experience and improved operational efficiency,” the retailer said.

Last month, TXB partnered with Techniche’s Urgent, an “asset and maintenance management software … to optimize assets and automate maintenance processes across the business.”

TXB “recognized that a new software platform would drive further efficiencies within the business, adding value by bringing the management and maintenance of its convenience store assets and IT related issues into one platform.”