Author name: Georgia Mather

@evolvebg Visit Evolve’s LinkedIn Lancashire, UK – 2023 Fuel forecourts are undergoing a period of significant transformation, with the rise of EV charging and the retail landscape of fuel forecourts evolving. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), the landscape of these traditional refuelling stations has changed dramatically. One notable change is the increase in dwell time as individuals spend more time at forecourts due to the introduction of EV charging stations. This shift has brought new opportunities and challenges, particularly in terms of the demand for increased bandwidth to support these changes. The integration of EV charging stations at fuel forecourts has significantly increased the amount of time customers are spending on site. On average, for a typical electric car, it takes just under 8 hours (empty to full) to charge with a 7 kw charging point. Due to this, most drivers will top up their chargers rather than wait. As a result of this, more customers are using fuel forecourts to charge their EV vehicles. For many electric cars, you can add up to 100 miles in 35 minutes with a rapid charger. The statistics demonstrate the increase in dwell time at the forecourt. This leads to an era of digital transformation for fuel forecourts. Not so long ago, fuel was the sole reason for visiting a fuel forecourt; today, this has dropped to a 50/50 split between fuel and non-fuel retail. In some cases, service stations are becoming as much of a destination as a pit stop. Digital transformation reports suggest that in the future we will see a significant increase in the retail and leisure presence at forecourts as people begin to spend more time on the premises. Because of the increase in dwell time and EV at fuel forecourts, there is an increasing need for enhanced bandwidth. Greater bandwidth not only supports these technological aspects of the forecourt, but it also supports the customer experience, transaction speeds, data processing for EV charging, and managing multiple users. Forecourts without adequate bandwidth face significant challenges such as slow transactions, connectivity issues, and potential customer dissatisfaction. EvolveISP, Evolve’s connectivity solution, can help aid the transition to increased bandwidth. EvolveISP provides business-grade, seamless connectivity that promises to minimise downtime and provide high-speed internet access. In conclusion, the convergence of EV charging, increased dwell time, and the demand for heightened bandwidth represent a pivotal moment in the evolution of fuel forecourts. Embracing these changes and investing in technology and infrastructure will not only address the current challenges and opportunities but also pave the way for a more efficient, customer-centric forecourt experience in the future. About Evolve Business Group and Evolve Evolve Business Group is an independently owned company that specialises in providing end-to-end IT and managed network solutions to a range of businesses. Evolve Managed Network solutions are helping businesses to reduce costs and simplify the management of services and give business owners and their teams more time to do what they do best. Founded in 2005, it has worked with a variety of clients across different industries around the world, building a team of highly experienced specialists to help create effective and efficient packages using any combination of different offerings. It keeps a range of cross-sector networks protected and connected. Explore Evolve’s website to find out more about how their Managed Network Solutions can help your business stay secure.

Lancashire, UK – 2023 FTTP and Ethernet both differ in many ways, lets start by defining each.  What is FTTP? FTTP is the technology that employs fibre cables straight to the premises and is the foundation of future connectivity and broadband. High-speed connectivity can be directly delivered from the exchange to your company location via FTTP, which makes use of fibre-optic cables. With up to 1 GB of download bandwidth and 114 MB of upload capacity, FTTP ensures lightning-fast data transfers and uninterrupted business operations. It is very quick and simple to order FTTP using our Nexus Portal. The FTTP network is expanding quickly; at the moment, 52% of the UK is connected. Compared to conventional copper-based broadband, it has lower latency, is less prone to failure, and is more reliable. With the use of shared broadband technology, FTTP provides consumers with a fast, dependable, and reasonably priced connection. What is Ethernet? Since Ethernet was first created with businesses in mind, it offers dedicated broadband services with synchronous speeds and guaranteed bandwidth. Frequently referred to as a leased line, fibre Ethernet provides uncontested high-speed access with speeds ranging from 10Mbps to 10Gbps. Ethernet also has significantly better availability and is available nationwide. So which is best for your business? Because you are sharing bandwidth with others, FTTP is frequently less expensive than Ethernet. However, this comes at the expense of losing the guaranteed maximum speeds that come with an Ethernet (leased line) connection. While FTTP is just as stable as a fiber-based Ethernet connection, it’s not a accessible in terms of its availability. Though there is a lot of effort being put towards increasing its availability, it is not yet nationwide.  When broken down into sectors, we can see that FTTP will best suit retail businesses, hospitality such as pubs and residential. Ethernet would be most suitable for businesses with higher data demand such as multi-site businesses and healthcare. Evolve are able to equip your business with the right solution and the right level of connectivity that your business needs.  Evolve Managed Network With a variety of dependable and effective carrier partners around the UK, Evolve can assist your company in making the transition to Full Fibre via FTTP or Leased Line. This means that Evolve is not limited to the Openreach’s network. With initiatives like Digital Greenwich Connect and the Liverpool City Region project, among others, ITS Technology one of Evolve’s connectivity partners is laying the groundwork for a more fully fibered nation. End About Evolve Business Group and Evolve Evolve Business Group is an independently owned company that specialises in providing end-to-end IT and managed network solutions to a range of businesses. Evolve Managed Network solutions are helping businesses to reduce costs and simplify the management of services and give business owners and their teams more time to do what they do best. Founded in 2005, it has worked with a variety of clients across different industries around the world, building a team of highly experienced specialists to help create effective and efficient packages using any combination of different offerings. It keeps a range of cross-sector networks protected and connected. Explore Evolve’s website to find out more about how their Managed Network Solutions can help your business stay secure. @evolvebg Visit Evolve’s LinkedIn

Lancashire, UK – 2023 Software-defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) such as EvolveWAN technology can significantly enhance the security measures and success of franchise network infrastructure. Staying secure in the world is currently imperative. This blog will outline how cybersecurity practices can intersect with SD-WAN implementation. Sure, Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) technology can significantly enhance the security measures within a franchise coffee shop’s network infrastructure. Here’s how cybersecurity practices can intersect with SD-WAN implementation: Secure Connectivity: By using encrypted tunnels to transmit data across various locations or franchise branches, SD-WAN systems offer secure communication. Sensitive data is kept safe in transit thanks to encrypted communication. Segmentation and Isolation: Network segmentation is made possible by SD-WAN, which divides traffic into multiple categories by establishing virtual barriers. Potential risks are kept from propagating throughout the network by this segregation. To reduce security threats, franchise coffee shops might divide up POS transactions, guest Wi-Fi, and administrative duties. Centralised Security Policies: Security policies can be centrally monitored and enforced throughout the network with SD-WAN. This entails implementing uniform security protocols, including intrusion prevention, content filtering, and firewall regulations, to guarantee consistent protection throughout all franchise locations. Dynamic Path Selection for Security: Depending on the state of the network, SD-WAN technology dynamically chooses the safest and most effective routes for data traffic. This entails directing traffic via encrypted tunnels or secure VPNs to maximise security without sacrificing efficiency. Improved visibility and monitoring: A lot of SD-WAN solutions have powerful reporting and monitoring features. Owners of franchise coffee shops can see more clearly into network activity, which helps them identify irregularities and any security risks. Resilience and redundancy: By offering redundancy through several connection alternatives (e.g., MPLS, internet, and LTE), SD-WAN improves network resiliency. Traffic can be immediately redirected in a more secure way in the event of a security attack or outage on one link, reducing disruption and security risks. Integration with Security Services: Integration with third-party security appliances or services is a feature of many SD-WAN solutions. Through this connection, extra security features like sandboxing, anti-malware, and intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) can be implemented straight into the SD-WAN infrastructure. Scalability and adaptability: Franchise coffee shops can modify their security protocols in response to changing requirements because of the scalability and flexibility of SD-WAN. Security standards are simply expanded to match network changes, whether new sites are opened, or activities increase. Mako Networks powers Evolve’s SD-WAN solution; Mako’s security gateway is the only one that can offer Level 1 Certified PCI Compliance. Because of our added service wrap, Evolve is the sole platinum partner for Mako. As part of Evolve’s service wrap, you will receive proactive monitoring and support 24/7, 24/7, 365 days of the year. Our network operations centre is fully manned, multilingual, and equipped with real humans to guarantee that your business is running smoothly at all times. By combining robust cybersecurity practices with SD-WAN technology, franchises such as coffee shops, food-to-go restaurants, and others can fortify their network infrastructure, ensuring connectivity, data protection, and streamlined operations across multiple sites while effectively managing potential security threats.  About Evolve Business Group and Evolve Evolve Business Group is an independently owned company that specialises in providing end-to-end IT and managed network solutions to a range of businesses. Evolve Managed Network solutions are helping businesses to reduce costs and simplify the management of services and give business owners and their teams more time to do what they do best. Founded in 2005, it has worked with a variety of clients across different industries around the world, building a team of highly experienced specialists to help create effective and efficient packages using any combination of different offerings. It keeps a range of cross-sector networks protected and connected. Explore Evolve’s website to find out more about how their Managed Network Solutions can help your business stay secure. @evolvebg Visit Evolve’s LinkedIn

Evolve announce strategic partnership with Mint Technology.   Lancashire, UK – 2023   Evolve is thrilled to share news of its latest dynamic partnership with Mint Technology, a distinguished managed service provider founded in 2015. The Mint Technology team, led by key figures Jon Dunn and Damon Smith, boasts an impressive collective experience of over 30 years in the IT and telecom sectors. Specialising in a range of managed services encompassing IT, phone systems, mobiles, connectivity, data, and more, Mint Technology is dedicated to allowing businesses the freedom to concentrate on their core competencies. Both Evolve and Mint share a common focus on the ascent of SD-WAN in 2024, recognising its potential to enhance business efficiency. During this collaboration, Mint Technology will be at the forefront of delivering Evolve’s comprehensive managed SD-WAN solution to its customers. The prospect of integrating a fully managed SD-WAN offering has Mint Technology brimming with enthusiasm, anticipating manifold advantages for both the company and its customers. Looking ahead to 2024, Mint is actively working on expanding its IT services to both new and existing customers, with plans to establish a new office in the East Midlands. Presently, Mint’s business verticals encompass manufacturing and transportation. For those keen on exploring fresh business possibilities and becoming part of Evolve’s community of like-minded partners, reaching out to Evolve today is the first step. About Evolve Business Group and Evolve Evolve Business Group is an independently owned company that specialises in providing end-to-end IT and managed network solutions to a range of businesses. Evolve Managed Network solutions are helping businesses to reduce costs and simplify the management of services and give business owners and their teams more time to do what they do best. Founded in 2005, it has worked with a variety of clients across different industries around the world, building a team of highly experienced specialists to help create effective and efficient packages using any combination of different offerings. It keeps a range of cross-sector networks protected and connected. Explore Evolve’s website to find out more about how their Managed Network Solutions can help your business stay secure. @evolvebg Visit Evolve’s LinkedIn

Empowering Connectivity Across Multiple Locations.   Lancashire, UK – 2023 Franchises such as coffee shops often operate across various locations, each demanding reliable and secure connectivity. SD-WAN offers a sophisticated solution by providing a centralised management platform that enables seamless connectivity between branches. Whether it’s processing transactions, sharing data, or managing customer interactions, SD-WAN optimises network performance across geographically dispersed sites. Enhanced security measures When it comes to protecting client data and corporate operations, security is a must. Not only does SD-WAN improve connections, but it also strengthens security protocols. By leveraging sophisticated security protocols and encrypted tunnels, SD-WAN guarantees that information transferred across the network is shielded from possible attacks. It greatly lowers vulnerabilities by enabling the application of uniform security measures throughout all franchise sites. Dynamic traffic management and optimisation The flexibility of SD-WAN is seen in its capacity to dynamically control network traffic. It optimises traffic flow by intelligently choosing the safest and most effective routes for data transfer. This flexibility ensures a seamless and uninterrupted user experience, which is especially helpful during peak hours or in the event of network congestion. Cost-efficiency and scalability Franchises that operate businesses such as coffee shops and want to grow or optimise their operations can do so with scalability that doesn’t break the bank, thanks to SD-WAN. It offers redundancy and reliability by enabling the integration of several network connections, including MPLS, internet, and LTE. Furthermore, minimal on-site IT equipment is required thanks to SD-WAN’s centralised management feature, which lowers operating costs. Simplified network management The days of overseeing the network at each place separately are long gone. Franchise owners can monitor, modify, and upgrade the entire network from a single interface thanks to SD-WAN’s centralised management panel, which makes network administration simpler. This simplified method ensures uniform network policies and security measures throughout all branches while saving time and money. Future-ready adaptability In a time when technology is always changing, flexibility is essential. Franchise coffee shops are well-positioned for the future thanks to SD-WAN, which can readily adapt to changing security requirements and technological improvements. SD-WAN provides the ability to scale up for new sites or integrate extra security services without any interruptions. In essence, SD-WAN is not just about optimising connectivity; it is a comprehensive solution that integrates security, scalability, and efficiency into the network infrastructure of franchises such as coffee shops. Embracing SD-WAN empowers these businesses to deliver exceptional customer service, safeguard sensitive data, and adapt to the ever-changing demands of the industry. As franchises aim for growth and reliability, SD-WAN stands as a powerful ally in achieving these aspirations. About Evolve Business Group and Evolve Evolve Business Group is an independently owned company that specialises in providing end-to-end IT and managed network solutions to a range of businesses. Evolve Managed Network solutions are helping businesses to reduce costs and simplify the management of services and give business owners and their teams more time to do what they do best. Founded in 2005, it has worked with a variety of clients across different industries around the world, building a team of highly experienced specialists to help create effective and efficient packages using any combination of different offerings. It keeps a range of cross-sector networks protected and connected. Explore Evolve’s website to find out more about how their Managed Network Solutions can help your business stay secure. @evolvebg Visit Evolve’s LinkedIn

Lancashire, UK – 2023 This year, Evolve set their sites on giving back to the people that need it most. Looking to take it to the next level in 2024. This June, Evolve took part in the strenuous Yorkshire 3 Peaks walk. The goal of this endurance challenge is to summit Whernside, Ingleborough, and Penny-Ghent, Yorkshire’s three highest peaks, in less than 12 hours. In addition to accomplishing this amazing milestone, Evolve’s hardworking team raised a remarkable £4,246 to benefit the Christie Foundation in the Northwest of England. The Christie is well-known for its innovative work in cancer treatment, research, and patient care, constantly aiming to enhance the future for those dealing with the challenges of cancer. Evolve’s commendable endeavour embodies its philosophy of merging athletic accomplishment with social accountability, significantly improving the lives of cancer patients. During the summer, Evolve participated in the Macmillan Bake sale, bringing people together and interacting for a worthy cause by baking (and buying 😅) cakes and savoury treats to support MacMillan. At Evolve, the team members organise a ‘dress down Friday’ every payday, during which they are asked to donate to the selected charity of the month, such as breast cancer awareness. Evolve has persisted in increasing the amount of money it raises for a variety of charity initiatives, such as Movember, Donna’s Dreamhouse, and others. This has been made possible by a variety of altruistic endeavours, such as bake sales, tuck stores, and interesting challenges. Most recently, Evolve wore Christmas jumpers and offered luxurious hot chocolates in exchange for a charitable donation, raising almost £300 for Save the Children. Evolve’s contribution boxes were sent to the charity Daffodils Dreams this week. The group joined together to help struggling families. They requested the staff to provide a small item, such as cosy socks or colouring books, for a “reverse advent calendar.” Evolve is committed to promoting more charity endeavours in the coming year, with the goal of making a significant difference in their industry and the community at large. About Evolve Business Group and Evolve Evolve Business Group is an independently owned company that specialises in providing end-to-end IT and managed network solutions to a range of businesses. Evolve Managed Network solutions are helping businesses to reduce costs and simplify the management of services and give business owners and their teams more time to do what they do best. Founded in 2005, it has worked with a variety of clients across different industries around the world, building a team of highly experienced specialists to help create effective and efficient packages using any combination of different offerings. It keeps a range of cross-sector networks protected and connected. Explore Evolve’s website to find out more about how their Managed Network Solutions can help your business stay secure. @evolvebg Visit Evolve’s LinkedIn

Lancashire, UK – 2023 The food-to-go and quick-serve industry has experienced a seismic shift in recent times in terms of the way that consumers interact with these businesses. As the industry continues to evolve, one of the most impactful requirements that has emerged is the surging demand for increased bandwidth. The demand is not simply about faster internet, it’s about enabling seamless operations, enhancing customer experiences, and meeting the evolving digital requirements of a fast-paced industry.  People’s attitudes towards food consumption have changed because of the rise of digital transformation and shifting consumer behaviours, such as contactless payments and online ordering. The internet of things and technological modernisation can facilitate the creation of seamless operations like logistics and distribution, as well as inventory management.   However, there are opportunities and challenges associated with the food-to-go industry’s increasing bandwidth demand. For instance, companies need to make sure their infrastructure can grow to meet demand without sacrificing performance or dependability, which highlights the need for scalable networking solutions like EvolveISP.   Furthermore, upgrading to high-speed internet connections such as full-fibre and investing in robust network solutions such as EvolveISP becomes imperative to sustain operations and meet customer expectations in an increasingly digital Landscape.  The future demand for bandwidth in the food-to-go sector is expected to continue growing. As the industry adopts more Internet of Things (IoT) devices for various operations, bandwidth needs will further increase, requiring businesses to prepare their infrastructure for IoT integration. Emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR) menus, virtual kitchens, and AI-powered customer service tools will demand substantial bandwidth capacities for seamless integration into operations. In conclusion, as the food-to-go sector continues its digital evolution, the demand for increased bandwidth becomes a necessity rather than a luxury. Businesses must invest in robust networking infrastructures and scalable solutions to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry and ensure operational efficiency and exceptional customer experiences. Embracing the need for increased bandwidth is not just an option but a strategic imperative for businesses aiming to stay ahead and effectively cater to the evolving needs of their consumers. About Evolve Business Group and Evolve Evolve Business Group is an independently owned company that specialises in providing end-to-end IT and managed network solutions to a range of businesses. Evolve Managed Network solutions are helping businesses to reduce costs and simplify the management of services and give business owners and their teams more time to do what they do best. Founded in 2005, it has worked with a variety of clients across different industries around the world, building a team of highly experienced specialists to help create effective and efficient packages using any combination of different offerings. It keeps a range of cross-sector networks protected and connected. Explore Evolve’s website to find out more about how their Managed Network Solutions can help your business stay secure. @evolvebg Visit Evolve’s LinkedIn

Lancashire, UK – 2023 The landscape for fuel forecourts, once predominantly recognised as just fuel dispensing stations, is now undergoing a drastic change propelled by the force of digital transformation. In this era of technological advancements, the integration of more sophisticated network solutions, particularly Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN), stands as the cornerstone of modernisation fuel forecourts, revolutionising operations, and elevating customer experience to unprecedented heights.  Digital transformation has reshaped the essence of fuel forecourts, transcending them into multifunctional hubs. From efficient fuel distribution systems and automated payment processes to enhanced customer experiences.  In fact, according to industry reports, over 70% of fuel forecourts have either initiated or completed digital transformation initiatives in recent years.  Not only this but a further study revealed that nearly 80% of customers expect fuel forecourts to provide digital payment options and personalised services, therefore emphasising the pivotal role of technology in shaping the consumer’s preferences.  The role of network solutions in fuel forecourts. The operational backbone of these transformations lies in the implementation of robust network solutions. Traditional networks, limited in scope and agility, have given way to the evolution of SD-WAN, offering significant advantages including Enhanced connectivity, improved efficiency and cost savings. With Evolve’s SD-WAN offering, EvolveWAN the advantages don’t stop there – EvolveWAN offers the customer an exceptional support wrap including 24 x 7 x 365 proactive monitoring.  The implementation of SD-WAN in forecourts redefines the operational paradigm, SD-WAN offers remote management, and enhanced security including PCI Compliance and scalability. Fuel forecourts embracing SD-WAN and EvolveWAN are on the cusp of digital revolution. Through integrating technology, modernising operations, catering to the consumer’s ever-changing demands and driving operational efficiencies, forecourts are standing at the forefront of industry innovation.  Contact Evolve today to find out more about EvolveWAN and how SD-WAN can revolutionise your business and industry. End   About Evolve Business Group and Evolve Evolve Business Group is an independently owned company that specialises in providing end-to-end IT and managed network solutions to a range of businesses. Evolve Managed Network solutions are helping businesses to reduce costs and simplify the management of services and give business owners and their teams more time to do what they do best. Founded in 2005, it has worked with a variety of clients across different industries around the world, building a team of highly experienced specialists to help create effective and efficient packages using any combination of different offerings. It keeps a range of cross-sector networks protected and connected. Explore Evolve’s website to find out more about how their Managed Network Solutions can help your business stay secure. @evolvebg Visit Evolve’s LinkedIn