Capita Managed IT Solutions has been awarded a multi-million pound contract by Wolseley UK.

The 18 month contract, which follows a successful pilot project, will see Capita implement and manage a network infrastructure and call handling solution across Wolseley UK’s 664-strong UK branch network.

A key investment priority for Wolseley UK was to enhance the customer experience at branch level and drive long-term customer loyalty.

Capita will use its ‘Office Connect’ service, which incorporates VoIP and LAN technologies, to centralise voice services, ensuring the delivery of highly secure data, voice, video and application solutions. This will significantly improve inter-branch communications across the entire Wolseley UK estate.

Traditional desktops will be replaced with thin client devices which reduce maintenance and upgrade costs, along with reducing energy consumption. Employee productivity will also be enhanced through thin client devices.

According to Chris Cottington, head of business infrastructure, Wolseley UK, increased business efficiencies and improved customer relationships will be the key benefits delivered by the ICT investment. He said: “Having worked in partnership with Capita for over 15 years, the team fully understands the challenges and needs of our business and our ever expanding customer base.

“Thanks to Capita’s expertise, insight and experience we have every confidence this new ICT solution will help us maximise efficiencies across our organisation and further consolidate and build our relationship with our customers, which will support business development.”

John Chambers, director, Capita Managed IT Solutions, added: “Wolseley UK’s extensive branch and distribution network relies on a robust, highly efficient communications system which empowers its managers at a local level and enhances the experience for its customers. We’re delighted to be rolling out this important new solution which, thanks to the success of the pilot project, is already delivering significant time and cost savings through employee productivity and improved customer service.”