Wakefern Food Corp.’s recent extension of its services with Acuative Corp. includes a multi-year contract to migrate more than 400 stores and Wakefern locations to SD-WAN in a service model.
As a result, Wakefern will benefit from faster throughput, enhanced security and improved network resiliency. Acuative, a networking communications and security technology provider, also has streamlined and renewed Wakefern’s UC calling and Contact Center licensing.
The largest retailer-owned cooperative in the United States, Wakefern’s member companies own and operate supermarkets under the ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage and Fairway Market banners.
The contract includes upgrading the Wakefern network to Cisco SD-WAN architecture with Cradlepoint devices providing cellular resiliency. Acuative will provide technical support for all locations covered and upgrade the backup wireless network connectivity within each site.
“Acuative can enhance some of the core technologies that power retail and office locations while our Wakefern IT team focuses on new initiatives that will provide even more value for our customers,” said Joseph Pregnolato, Wakefern’s IT director.
“The technical expertise that Acuative brings to the relationship means we have a trusted supplier who delivers timely results with the flexibility we need.”
[RELATED: Wakefern Donates $1M For Scholarship Honoring Sheridan]
Acuative provides networking and communications technologies as a service through a subscription model to a number of major retail and manufacturing customers and sees its relationship with Wakefern as a collaborative fit, providing wall-to-wall wireless network coverage for employees and customers.
“By establishing a collaborative relationship, Acuative enables Wakefern’s core resources to align with their business outcomes and innovative ideas for the customer experience while Acuative supports the network and communications at an enterprise level,” said Chad Mead, Acuative’s COO. “Refocusing resources is crucial in today’s business environment and we are grateful that Wakefern has entrusted Acuative to help deliver those outcomes.
“Much like Wakefern is committed to providing the best service to its members, Acuative continues its commitment to Wakefern to ensure excellence. We are excited to continue a near 20-year relationship with one of our most valued clients.”
Acuative recently celebrated its 40-year anniversary, having started in 1984 by providing field services to providers in the New York metro area. It has continued to provide leading services to help clients leverage technology to meet their business goals.
