Challenge.

Coop aimed to replace its outdated fax server infrastructure, which relied on five Windows servers. This hardware-bound solution was maintenance-intensive, error-prone, and increasingly costly to operate. A significant challenge lay in the complexity of the existing on-premise infrastructure, which required considerable personnel and technical resources for maintenance. Additionally, integration with 14 existing SAP systems without disrupting ongoing processes was a critical requirement.

While the use of fax services has been declining for years, it remains business-critical in certain areas such as supplier communication or time-sensitive product recalls. In this context, the existing infrastructure was outdated and economically unsustainable.

Solution.

Coop decided to fully modernize its fax infrastructure with Retarus' cloud-based solution, focusing on efficiency and security.

  • Cloud Communication Solution: Retarus Cloud Fax ersetzt die bestehende Infrastruktur und gewährleistet eine nahtlose Anbindung an die bestehenden SAP-Prozesse sowie Microsoft 365.
  • Efficiency Through Flexibility: The solution completely eliminated transmission errors and repeated fax attempts. Nearly all support requests were resolved thanks to flawless delivery.
  • Centralized Management Portal: Retarus offers a transparent overview of all fax transactions, including automatic delivery confirmations and detailed reports.
  • High Availability: With reliable failover management, the cloud fax solution is virtually fail-safe, marking a significant improvement over the previous on-premise solution.
  • Location and Data Privacy: While there was no formal requirement for data storage within Switzerland, Retarus provided a solution that met the highest data protection standards and offered local data processing when necessary.

The implementation process ran smoothly from the start, characterized by close collaboration between Coop, Bechtle, and Retarus. After a successful proof of concept, the cloud-based solution stood out for its technical stability, transparent cost structure, and ability to meet stringent data protection standards.

A key factor for success was the seamless integration of the new fax infrastructure with the existing SAP landscape and Microsoft 365. This was done gradually, ensuring no disruption to ongoing business processes. The migration itself was executed smoothly, thanks to meticulous planning, with no interruptions to daily operations. The trustworthy partnerships between all parties proved instrumental in the project's success and high customer satisfaction.

A standout feature is the solution's exceptional stability: Since implementation, there have been no significant transmission errors or repeated attempts, representing a milestone in efficiency for workflow processes.

We are absolutely happy with the solution provided by Bechtle and Retarus. Our outdated digital infrastructure was replaced with a modern solution, increasing reliability while significantly reducing operational costs.

Christoph Egloff, Head of M365 Competence Center, Coop

Business benefits.

  • Error-Free Transmission: No significant transmission errors or retries. The solution has been operating flawlessly and without issues since its introduction.
  • Fixed, Predictable Operating Costs: No more hardware investment, reduced maintenance needs, and significant savings in personnel resources.
  • Efficiency Gains: Support efforts have been eliminated, allowing those resources to be reallocated to other critical tasks.
  • Enhanced Data Security: Data processing takes place exclusively in Swiss data centers, adhering to strict data privacy and compliance standards.
  • Transparency and Reporting: The centralized administration portal provides clear insights into processes, including delivery tracking and reporting capabilities.
  • High Availability: The solution runs stably and reliably, ensuring critical fax communication, e.g., in product recalls, is secure.

Partner.

 

About our customer Coop.

Founded in 1864, Coop Genossenschaft is one of Switzerland's largest retail and production enterprises. In addition to a dense network of supermarkets and specialty stores, coupled with a comprehensive online presence, Coop offers a wide range of services. coop.ch