Coventry-based construction firm FPM, located on the Charter Avenue Industrial Estate, has recently secured ultra-fast internet connectivity, a significant upgrade that was previously out of reach. This advancement was made possible through a fortuitous meeting at a networking event.
Robert Villette, Managing Director at FPM, shared the company's challenges and the breakthrough they experienced: "As our business expanded, we increasingly relied on cloud technology, which placed additional demands on our internet connection. Our existing connection couldn't keep up, leading to slow speeds and outages that hindered productivity and frustrated our team. Initial efforts to find a solution were discouraging due to lack of fibre connections at our location or prohibitive costs, leaving us unsure of how to proceed. However, a chance encounter with René Wheeler from SolaaS IT at a Chamber event changed everything. René offered to conduct a free survey and cost analysis, confident he could address our connectivity issues."
René Wheeler, Managing Director at SolaaS IT, explained the broader context: "Despite promises of widespread ultra-fast connectivity, many areas in the UK still lack adequate coverage. We specialise in providing a stand-alone solution that is transforming businesses across the country, especially those in remote areas or industrial estates like FPM's location, where traditional internet services fall short."
René elaborated on their solution: "Our Starlink service delivers a dedicated internet connection via a satellite dish installed on the building. This method avoids the need for costly and disruptive infrastructure work, such as digging up roads to lay cables. After conducting a site survey, we determined the optimal position for the dish. The installation process is quick and causes minimal disruption."
Robert confirmed the positive impact of the new system: "From the initial survey to going live, the process was smooth and efficient. Our daily operations have significantly improved, and our new phone system provides us with the flexibility to answer calls as though we are in the office, even when team members may be on site or working remotely. We have the additional benefit of being prepared for the upcoming BT switch-off."
The BT switch-off, which will phase out traditional landlines in favour of internet-based phone systems, represents a major shift in the telecom sector.
Robert continued, “As our plans for growth come into fruition and our commercial building project portfolio increases, it is vital we have a robust communication platform in place, and I am confident we have that now.”