Asda has signed a multi-year partnership with technology firm Evolve to upgrade internet connectivity across its 500 Express stores.
The retailer said the faster and more resilient connections will support payment, IT and security systems, with more than 450 stores due to be upgraded this year.
The investment comes as retailers become increasingly reliant on digital systems, with Asda’s Express stores using technology to support payments, digital media and food-to-go operations.
Evolve said the average internet outage for UK retailers lasts 84 minutes, disrupting payment systems and other in-store services at a time when fewer than 30 per cent of payments are made in cash.
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Asda head of technology portfolio Ashley Cowley said: “Our Express store expansion is a key part of our growth strategy, and we’re committed to ensuring every location delivers the convenient, reliable service our customers depend on.
“Investing in a new, resilient connectivity infrastructure means our teams can focus on serving customers confidently, knowing the technology behind the scenes is working as it should.”
Evolve CEO Alan Stephenson-Brown added: “Convenience retail depends on technology that works without compromise. When payment systems fail or security systems go offline, the impact on revenue and customer trust is immediate.”
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