Satellite tech seems like something dragged out of a science fiction convention, but it’s becoming increasingly important to High Street businesses
Traditional internet connectivity options, while effective, sometimes fall short in addressing certain needs of modern retail operations, particularly in remote or newly established locations. Satellite connectivity is emerging as a game-changing solution, providing fast, reliable internet access that can support a wide range of retail activities. Its uptake is increasing rapidly, with Starlink predicted to have 4 million subscribers by the end of 2024.
From enhancing customer experiences to enabling rapid store deployments, satellite tech could transform the High Street – if you implement it.
Fast and reliable connectivity anywhere
One of the most significant advantages of satellite connectivity is its ability to provide reliable internet access regardless of location. This capability is particularly beneficial for High Street businesses looking to establish new stores in remote areas where traditional broadband infrastructure may be lacking.
Mark Kershaw, Gamma’s Sector Head, highlights the potential: “Satellite certainly has a place today, which is probably more around your fast start-up instead of your greenfield sites. There’s no reason why you just don’t skip a technology, moving from physical straight into satellite as they become more and more known.”
By bypassing the limitations of terrestrial internet infrastructure, satellite connectivity enables the High Street to set up operations quickly and efficiently, ensuring that they can meet customer demands from day one.
Enhancing customer experiences
Ensuring that shoppers have access to reliable internet while in-store is now meeting a basic expectation. Satellite connectivity can support a variety of customer-facing technologies that enhance the shopping experience, from mobile apps to in-store Wi-Fi.
Hannah Lipczynski, one of our Business Development Managers, hammers home the importance of connectivity for customer engagement: “Customers expect seamless connectivity that supports their shopping experience, whether they’re using mobile apps for promotions or in-store Wi-Fi for navigation. Reliable internet access is crucial for meeting these expectations and enhancing overall customer satisfaction.”
With satellite connectivity, High Street organisations can provide seamless and high-speed internet access, enabling features like mobile checkouts, personalised promotions, and interactive in-store displays. These technologies not only improve customer satisfaction but also provide valuable insights into shopping behaviours; insights that can drive revenue.
Facilitating rapid store deployments
The ability to quickly establish new retail locations is a significant competitive advantage. Satellite connectivity simplifies the process of setting up new stores, providing immediate access to high-speed internet without the delays associated with traditional broadband installations.
Mark elaborates on the benefits of rapid deployment: “The retail landscape moves so quickly. You need to be able to spin up new stores, close down other ones, repurpose kit, repurpose people, and not get stuck in a rut where everything requires paperwork, and everything requires eighty-day lead times.”
By taking advantage of satellite tech, High Street businesses can respond more quickly to market opportunities, opening new stores and scaling their operations without the constraints of conventional internet infrastructure. This agility is essential in a fast-paced, competitive space where speed to market can make a significant difference.
Ensuring business continuity
Business continuity is so important. If your business can’t function, it’s game over. In the event of network outages or disruptions in traditional internet services, satellite connections can provide a reliable backup, minimising downtime and maintaining critical operations.
Laurence points out that the businesses themselves are aware of the criticality: “If they go offline and they can’t trade, it’s very easy for that retailer to then quantify how much money they’re losing as a result of that store going down. Hence, why they see everything as a P1.”
By incorporating satellite connectivity into their network strategies, High Street businesses can ensure that they have a resilient and reliable connection.
It’s NOT the end of the world as we know it
So, there you have it. According to our experts, satellite connectivity is set to revolutionise the retail industry by providing reliable, high-speed internet access regardless of location. From enhancing customer experiences to supporting operational efficiency and facilitating rapid store deployments, the benefits of satellite technology are clear to see. When working alongside a reliable managed service provider like Gamma, further technological innovations can be supported with a robust network infrastructure.