FinishMaster Awards $2.1 Million Network Contract to New Edge Networks
VANCOUVER, Wash.--New Edge Networks said it received a $2.1 million contract to build and manage a private network for FinishMaster Inc. (Pink Sheets:FMST), one of the largest national independent distributor of automotive paints. Installation is underway.
Building on an existing business relationship, New Edge Networks will provide and manage a network that links almost 170 FinishMaster remote service locations and distribution centers in 28 states. The high-speed network will provide real-time access to centralized latency-sensitive business applications. It uses a blend of MPLS and digital subscriber line technologies and does not traverse the public Internet.
“New Edge customized a private network that future proofs our ongoing communications needs,” said Tom Smith, director of information technology for FinishMaster. “Our new network will enable our branch locations to more quickly complete transactions with customers. It also gives us flexibility for migrating to new applications, such as VoIP, that can help us improve service to customers and reduce ongoing communications costs.”
With its private network, FinishMaster will connect all its remote service locations and distribution centers with data centers in Indianapolis and Seattle. New Edge will be tagging and providing end-to-end traffic prioritization based upon FinishMaster application requirements.
“Upgrading an existing network and adding new sites to a new network is the ultimate vote of confidence that a customer can provide its service provider,” said Greg Griffiths, vice president of marketing for New Edge Networks. “Today’s business requirements for wide area networks are becoming increasingly complex so it becomes critical for customers and service providers to work together in strategic partnership for creating win-win situations.”
About FinishMaster Inc.
FinishMaster (Pink Sheets:FMST) is the leading national independent distributor of automotive paints, coatings, and related accessories to the automotive collision repair industry. The Company is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and operates three major distribution centers and 166 branches in 39 of the 50 largest metropolitan areas in the country. For more information on FinishMaster via the Internet, visit FinishMaster's website at www.finishmaster.com.
About New Edge Networks
New Edge Networks, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a wholly owned subsidiary of EarthLink Inc. . New Edge Networks builds and manages private networks for businesses and communications providers. Through its nationwide backbone network with almost 900 switches and Internet routers, New Edge Networks uses any blend of network and access technologies (MPLS, frame relay, ATM, xDSL, cable, wireless, and satellite) for providing high-speed connections at any business address in the United States. Network options include any combination of access, network management functions, and on-site installation services. For more information visit www.newedgenetworks.com or call 1-360-693-9009.