Solutions Built for Grocery Retail
Reliable Connectivity & 5G-Enabled Networks
Deliver always-on wired and wireless connectivity across every store location, ensuring digital services — from POS to inventory scanners — perform without interruption. 5G and broadband solutions provide scalable bandwidth that adapts to peak shopping hours without performance degradation.
Managed SD-WAN for Distributed Stores
Connect multiple store locations with centralized control, streamlined routing, and application prioritization that ensures fast, consistent performance — especially for mission-critical services like checkout systems and digital signage.
In-Store Wi-Fi with Personalized Engagement
Offer customers fast, secure in-store Wi-Fi that not only enhances the shopping experience, but also unlocks opportunities for personalized services — from targeted promotions and loyalty offers to location-based notifications and mobile app features that increase frequency and basket size.
Cybersecurity & PCI Compliance
Protect sensitive customer data, POS transactions, and loyalty systems with managed cybersecurity services including Zero Trust, threat monitoring, and ongoing compliance support that safeguards your brand and shopper trust.
Full Stack Observability & Analytics
Gain cross-environment visibility into network performance — from edge Wi-Fi access points to cloud services — that empowers IT teams to proactively resolve issues before they impact store operations or customer experience.
On-Site Field Services & Technology Procurement
From installation to ongoing maintenance and break/fix support, Acuative’s nationwide field force ensures fast, efficient service when and where you need it. We also simplify procurement of hardware, software, and licenses to reduce complexity and accelerate deployments.
Benefits for Grocery Retailers
Enhanced Customer Experience
Fast, reliable connectivity ensures smooth checkouts, uninterrupted Wi-Fi, and digital engagement that builds loyalty.
Reduced Downtime
Proactive monitoring and redundant connectivity minimize costly outages that disrupt sales.
Scalable Growth
Standardized deployments accelerate new store openings and technology upgrades.
Stronger Security Posture
Layered security architecture protects transactions, loyalty programs, and sensitive customer data.
CASE STUDY
Cub Grocery Stores Modernizes Network Infrastructure to Power E-Commerce Growth
As grocery e-commerce demand surged during COVID-19, Cub faced mounting pressure to modernize its IT infrastructure, strengthen cybersecurity, and improve network reliability across dozens of store locations.
To support rapid digital transformation and operational resilience, Cub partnered with Acuative to design, deploy, and manage a secure, scalable SD-WAN network with next-generation firewall protection—dramatically increasing network capability, reliability, and security across the enterprise.
The Challenge
Grocery retail historically lagged in digital adoption compared to other retail sectors. The pandemic compressed years of digital transformation into months, creating immediate pressure to modernize infrastructure while maintaining store-level operational continuity. Cub needed:
- Reliable, high-performance connectivity across 80+ locations
- Strong cybersecurity and network visibility
- Scalable infrastructure to support e-commerce growth
- A trusted partner to manage and integrate IT systems
The Solution
Cub engaged Acuative to deliver a fully managed, secure network solution designed specifically for distributed retail environments.
Managed SD-WAN Deployment: Acuative designed and deployed a fully managed SD-WAN network to optimize performance across all store and corporate locations.
Next-Generation Firewall & Security: Integrated advanced firewall protection strengthened Cub’s cybersecurity posture while improving visibility and risk management.
End-to-End Network Management: Acuative assumed responsibility for network design, deployment, 24/7 monitoring, ongoing management, performance optimization
The Cub corporate office now operates entirely on the Acuative-managed network, with enterprise-wide visibility and centralized control.
The Results
Increased Network Capability: The new SD-WAN architecture significantly expanded bandwidth and performance to support growing e-commerce demands.
Improved Reliability: Enhanced redundancy and proactive monitoring reduced risk of downtime across store locations.
Strengthened Security Posture: Integrated next-generation firewall solutions and centralized oversight improved enterprise security and compliance readiness.
IT Team Empowerment: With infrastructure management streamlined, Cub’s internal IT team could focus on strategic digital initiatives rather than reactive troubleshooting.
Why Acuative?
Retail expertise backed by 24/7 monitoring and scalable managed services.
Deep Retail & Grocery Expertise
With decades of experience delivering managed services to grocery and convenience retailers, we understand the unique demands of high-velocity environments.
End-to-End Managed Services
We support everything from network design and deployment to ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and on-site service — reducing complexity and letting your teams focus on growth.
24/7 Monitoring & Proactive Support
Our Network Operations Center monitors store networks around the clock. We identify and resolve performance issues before associates or customers ever notice a problem.
Strategic Partnerships & Procurement
Trusted partnerships across leading technology vendors mean you get best-in-class solutions with expert implementation, simplified procurement, and long-term support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What IT services do grocery stores need?
Grocery stores require reliable broadband connectivity, managed Wi-Fi, SD-WAN, POS network support, cybersecurity services, PCI compliance management, cloud connectivity, and 24/7 monitoring to ensure continuous store operations and secure transactions.
How does SD-WAN benefit multi-location grocery chains?
SD-WAN centralizes network management, prioritizes mission-critical applications like payment systems, improves bandwidth efficiency, and simplifies scaling across new store locations.
How can grocery retailers reduce network downtime?
Retailers can reduce downtime by implementing redundant circuits, 5G failover, proactive network monitoring through a NOC, and full stack observability tools that detect issues before they impact store operations.
What cybersecurity measures are required for grocery stores?
Grocery retailers must implement PCI-compliant network segmentation, firewall management, endpoint security, continuous threat monitoring, access controls, and Zero Trust frameworks to protect payment data and customer information.
What role does technology play in grocery store customer experience?
Technology powers self-checkout, mobile payments, digital coupons, loyalty platforms, personalized promotions, and real-time inventory visibility — all of which directly influence customer satisfaction and repeat visits.