Orchid joins wi fi crowd

The deal will see every venue in the Orchid portfolio connected via The Cloud. It will also allow customers of Sky’s Broadband Unlimited and Connect services to connect automatically at Orchid’s pubs and bars without the need to register, using a ‘hotspot’ app that has been developed for iPhone, iPad and Android devices.

Orchid was among the first wave of operators to provide wi fi access five years ago, but purchasing director Arnaud Unvois said the new contract with The Cloud would improve its service further. “We know that customers expect free wi fi in all sorts of places these days, so by bringing them wi fi from The Cloud we will ensure they can get online quicker and easier when they’re with us.”

Bruce Cuthbert, director of group sales at The Cloud, said: “Wi fi from The Cloud makes getting online while you’re out and about really quick and easy. Over the past few years we have been seeing more and more people expecting wi fi when they’re away from their homes.”

Peach Report has reported on a string of operators signing deals with The Cloud to offer wi fi access, including Greene King and Wagamama, while other businesses have signed with alternative providers. Access has become a pivotal part of the offer for pubs and restaurants, and they in turn have become very important to wi fi providers. The Cloud says 73% of smartphone users use wi fi while out and about to check prices or look for offers—but 31% say they get frustrated that they can’t get online. Cuthbert added: “Wi fi availability can make a huge difference to where consumers choose to go, particularly when it comes to pubs and bars, so we are delighted that Orchid Group is becoming part of our network.”