Hughes Europe Selected by Smiggle in its UK Debut

Comprehensive HughesON™ Managed Network Solution Includes Wireless Back-Up to Support Australian Retailer’s UK Launch

Milton Keynes, UK, 8 July 2014 – Smiggle, a fast-growing Australian stationery brand, announced today that it has selected Hughes Europe to provide its market-leading HughesON managed network services to all Smiggle’s UK stores. The comprehensive solution comprises business broadband DSL, including voice services, connecting Smiggle stores to the company’s stocking and distribution infrastructure and with secure, round-the-clock connectivity to the company’s headquarters in Australia. Back-up 3G routing technology ensures that in the event of a temporary service interruption, the connection will be maintained by seamless switchover to wireless networks.

The breadth and flexibility of the HughesON solutions portfolio, combined with Europe-wide availability, makes Hughes an ideal partner for the Australian stationer, which opened its first stores in the South East of England early this year. Founded in 2003, Smiggle specialises in brightly coloured stationery aimed at children, offering a wide range of bags, lunchboxes, notebooks, pens, erasers, accessories gadgets and more.

Frank De Sa, Chief Information Officer, Smiggle & the Just Group said, “Hughes Europe came highly recommended by another established UK retailer. The company’s expertise, Europe-wide reach and agile approach were key factors in choosing them as our preferred UK supplier, along with rapid response, delivery capability and provision of a dedicated team.”

Chris O’Dell, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Hughes Europe, said, “Our record in providing reliable, flexible and rapid network services has made us the first choice for retailers across Europe, like this colourful newcomer to the UK market. The cost-effective HughesON solution we’re delivering is tailored to Smiggle’s current needs and can be readily expanded as their business grows.”

Working to a tight deadline, Hughes Europe created a dedicated solution, team and platform for Smiggle, ensuring installation was fully tested and operational ahead of schedule. Hughes Europe’s Network Operations Centre provides Smiggle with 24/7 pro-active monitoring, which is especially important given the time difference between the UK and Smiggle’s headquarters in Australia.