Dive Brief:
- TXB has chosen technology company Mako Networks as its managed network service provider, the companies announced last week.
- Mako is tasked with ensuring TXB’s network infrastructure is reliable, scalable and secure, according to the announcement. TXB expects to see more seamless transactions, fewer system disruptions, stable wireless performance in its POS systems and back-office applications, and a more centralized IT management structure across all of its c-stores.
- TXB’s network revamp also aims to support the retailer’s growth plans, which include doubling its store count to over 100 locations across its Texas and Oklahoma footprint, the company said.
Dive Insight:
TXB has had roughly 50 c-stores in its network since before the retailer rebranded from Kwik Chek half a decade ago. The Spicewood, Texas-based company has become one of the more well-known mid-size retailers across the industry thanks to its restaurant-style foodservice program.
But TXB appears ready to expand, as leadership touted plans in last week’s announcement to grow its current network of 53 convenience stores to over 100 locations.
While the retailer didn’t offer a timeline for reaching this goal, TXB partnering with Mako may mark the beginning of this growth phase, as the company wants to prepare its network infrastructure for the expansion. According to the announcement, TXB needs a network that handles increased digital transactions, real-time data processing and cloud-based applications.
Daniel Gaddy, vice president of IT for TXB, said in the announcement that the partnership has not only improved TXB’s internal operations but has sped up customer payments and resulted in few network outages.
"That's a huge part of growing from 53 to 100-plus stores,” Gaddy said. “We need wireless to be stable. We need [wireless backup] to work when required. We need to be able to utilize the bandwidth we pay for.”
