Nationwide SD-WAN Modernisation for a well renowned retail chain

A leading UK retail group initiated a multi‑year programme to modernise network connectivity across its supermarket and department‑store estate. The nationwide SDWAN rollout programme spanned hundreds of sites with diverse layouts and legacy infrastructure.

Challenge: A Complex, Multi-Site SDWAN Transformation

The retail group’s estate had evolved over decades, resulting in inconsistent network setups and significant operational variability across stores

Network Complexity
- Legacy Vodafone and WTR routers required safe disconnection and structured labelling
- Wide variation in power, cabling, rack readiness, and store layouts
- Frequent “Power Rectification” scenarios due to non‑standard historical installations
Logistics & Hardware Readiness
- SDWAN devices (Meraki, CloudGenix ION), switches, and PSUs required secure storage
- Pre‑configuration, labelling, and insurance were essential to avoid deployment delays
- Dynamic scope changes and missing hardware created recurring operational escalations
Programme‑Scale Delivery Challenges
- Hundreds of sites requiring coordinated engineering visits
- Real‑time communication and rapid resourcing adjustments
- Need for predictable commercial governance across multiple change requests

Solution: Industrialised Rollout with Nationwide Engineering Execution

Simplex Services delivered a structured, scalable SDWAN rollout model designed for high‑volume, multi‑site retail transformation.

Engineering & SDWAN Migration
- Nationwide field engineering for physical installation and racking
- Router cutovers, WiFi/uplink validation, and power checks
- Safe removal and labelling of legacy Vodafone/WTR equipment
- Onsite troubleshooting and rectification during migration windows
Hardware Storage, Pre‑Configuration & Insurance
- Secure storage of SDWAN devices and accessories
- Pre‑configuration of Meraki and CloudGenix hardware
- Labelling and preparation for dispatch to each store
- Insurance coverage for stored and transported equipment
Industrialised Delivery Approach
- Standardised playbooks for racking, stacking, testing, and migration
- Repeatable engineering templates across all store formats
- Pre‑deployment device preparation to reduce onsite time
- Real‑time communication via Teams channels for rapid escalation handling
Strong Stakeholder & Commercial Governance
- Direct coordination with Wipro PMs and senior leadership
- Transparent cost tracking through structured change requests
- Stabilised resourcing and issue resolution during peak escalation periods

Outcome: A Nationwide SDWAN Rollout Delivered Under Complex Conditions

Simplex Services enabled a modern, resilient, and consistently delivered SDWAN estate that strengthened network stability, improved operational control, and positioned the retail group for future digital infrastructure programmes.

Nationwide SDWAN Deployment
- Hundreds of sites successfully migrated from legacy WAN to modern SDWAN architecture.
Improved Network Stability & Store Performance
- Standardised WAN architecture reduced outages and improved resilience, particularly in high‑traffic regions.
Operational Recovery at Scale
- Missing devices, power issues, cabling gaps, and logistics challenges were systematically resolved through coordinated engineering cycles.
Predictable Commercial Governance
- All price changes and extensions were approved through structured CRs, ensuring transparency and financial control.
Strengthened Delivery Partnership
- Improved collaboration between Wipro and Simplex resulted in smoother workflows and expanded engineering responsibilities.
Pathway to Future Opportunities
- Programme closure discussions highlighted new areas for Simplex to support upcoming JLP digital infrastructure initiatives.

Field Force

Technology Stack

Core Banking & Customer Platforms: Temenos (core banking), DPR (mortgages), Backbase (commercial banking)
Integration & Messaging: IBM IIB and MQ, Apigee API Gateway, Kafka for microservices, Kong Gateway
Identity & Security: Transmit, 4Tress, ForgeRock (Ping)
Containers & Cloud‑Native: Docker, Kubernetes, Podman
CRM & Customer Engagement: Microsoft Dynamics
Data & Databases: Oracle, MS SQL (with SSIS), GoldenGate (replication), Delphix (data management), Snowflake, MongoDB, PostgreSQL
Payments & Connectivity: IBM ConnectDirect, Bottomline, TSYS, PayUK

Nationwide SD-WAN Modernisation for a well renowned retail chain

Challenge: A Complex, Multi-Site SDWAN Transformation

Solution: Industrialised Rollout with Nationwide Engineering Execution

Outcome: A Nationwide SDWAN Rollout Delivered Under Complex Conditions

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