Gateshead-based technology experts, Advantex has executed a transformative IT infrastructure upgrade for Mills Hill Development Limited (MHDL), the visionary team behind the acclaimed El Gato and Canto restaurant chains.
This pivotal project played a key role in transforming MHDL’s Manchester and Leeds outlets into the innovative Black Cat Club, a high energy entertainment venue that blends darts, shuffleboard, and multiple sports screens.
At the heart of the Black Cat Club concept lies a necessity for an ‘always on’, secure internet connectivity. Recognising this critical need, MHDL partnered with their long-standing IT collaborator, Advantex, to design and deploy a robust technological foundation that guarantees uninterrupted service.
This scalable platform, now implemented across all MHDL properties, not only ensures consistent, high-performance connectivity but also delivers substantial cost efficiencies.
Advantex’s comprehensive solution, initially deployed at the Manchester location and recently replicated in Leeds, encompasses a high-capacity WiFi network, dedicated cabled connections for gaming and entertainment systems, and redundant internet transit for ‘always-on’ reliability.
This multifaceted approach ensures that patrons of the Black Cat Club experience seamless connectivity throughout their visit, enhancing their overall enjoyment of the venue’s diverse offerings.
Tony Easingwood, senior account manager at Advantex, reflected on the partnership: “Our decade-long collaboration with MHDL has seen fascinating evolution. From initial cabling projects to Voice over IP (VoIP) systems, and now to advanced connectivity and cybersecurity solutions, we take pride in fuelling MHDL’s innovation and expansion.”
To fortify security and enhance resilience, Advantex implemented a centralised security model leveraging Cisco’s industry-leading security appliances, alongside Advantex’s proprietary Security as a Service (SECaaS) offering.
The infrastructure also features Diverse Plus connectivity, with dual circuits in each location to minimise service disruption risks. This comprehensive security approach safeguards both MHDL’s operations and their customers’ data, providing peace of mind in an increasingly digital landscape.
Mike Smith, HR manager at MHDL, said about the collaboration: “The Black Cat Clubs’ success hinges on superior internet connectivity and ironclad security. Advantex delivered this whilst consistently exceeded expectations, maintaining transparent communication throughout the project.
With the successful launch of Black Cat Clubs in Manchester and Leeds, MHDL is strategically positioned to expand this innovative concept, backed by the robust and secure IT infrastructure provided by Advantex. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, MHDL stands at the forefront, ready to meet the technological demands of tomorrow’s discerning customers.
Advantex, an accredited ISO9001 and Cyber Essentials Plus company with Cisco Premier, HPe Silver and Microsoft Gold partnerships, is the North East’s only single-source integrator and a trusted Internet Service Provider (ISP), delivering high-performance, flexible, and value-added technology solutions that meet client needs.
