June Round-Up: Projects, Progress & Plenty to Celebrate
June has certainly been one to remember at Fuse Telecom.
From upgrading retail stores across the South of England to surveying new developments in London, launching new customer connections, and preparing businesses for the UK's PSTN switch off, it's been a month packed with exciting projects and milestones.
Keeping Retail Connected
The month kicked off with our Managing Director, Simon, travelling across the South to visit several Skechers stores as part of an ongoing technology upgrade programme.
Our engineers replaced legacy 4G routers with high-performance 5G solutions, upgraded managed network switches and fibre routers, and recommissioned store handsets to ensure every location benefits from faster, more resilient connectivity.
The result? Improved network performance for both customers and store teams, with infrastructure that's ready for the future.
Harrogate Preconnected Building Goes Live
Our team also headed to Harrogate to oversee another preconnected building project.
With the leased line already installed, we carried out comprehensive testing to ensure the customer's Wi-Fi Access Points were delivering the speeds expected from their dedicated connection. It's always rewarding seeing another building ready to welcome tenants with business-grade connectivity from day one.
Another Newcastle Preconnected Building Goes Live
We're delighted to have already welcomed three tenants within the building onto our dedicated leased line connectivity, with businesses taking services ranging from 100Mbps through to 500Mbps, providing the reliable, business-grade connectivity they require.
The project doesn't stop there, though.
The landlord is now looking at transforming two floors into flexible coworking and hot-desking space, with plans for occupants to benefit from a high-performance shared internet connection from day one.
This is exactly where the preconnected building model comes into its own. As buildings evolve and tenant requirements change, the connectivity can evolve with them. Whether that's introducing dedicated VLANs, expanding Wi-Fi coverage, increasing bandwidth or providing separate networks for coworking users, we're able to adapt without major infrastructure changes.
It's one of the reasons landlords continue to work with Fuse Telecom. We manage connectivity across a growing portfolio of preconnected and coworking buildings, helping property owners future-proof their assets while ensuring tenants receive the fast, reliable connectivity modern businesses expect.
A Busy Few Days in London
London kept us busy throughout June with multiple site surveys for an exciting new client that we're looking forward to telling you more about soon.
The project involves modernising several buildings ahead of the PSTN switch off, replacing legacy infrastructure with future-ready connectivity.
Alongside upgrading communications, we're designing connectivity for parks, providing reliable guest Wi-Fi for visitors and dedicated bandwidth to support card payment terminals and day-to-day operations for hospitality businesses operating within these spaces.
Watch this space...
Looking Beyond Traditional Connectivity
Innovation never stands still and neither do we.
We've also been exploring connectivity solutions for more remote locations and are incredibly excited about an upcoming enterprise satellite solution that will be launching soon.
The service will provide businesses with greater flexibility, professional support and dependable connectivity in areas where traditional fibre simply isn't available. We can't wait to share more details.
When we send our 5G routers to your site via Royal Mail, they're delivered with a smile and... an occasional pose!
More Businesses Joining the Fuse Telecom Network
Closer to home, we activated new VLANs and managed services within another preconnected building near our HQ. We are preconnecting this building with a leased line for building management facilities, providing a Guest Wi-Fi network in their new gym, break out areas and meeting rooms - the great thing about this connection, is that there's flexibility to enable prospective businesses to move in with secure, business-grade connectivity already in place.
We also welcomed another long-standing customer onto an upgraded solution at the Metrocentre, delivering business broadband, hosted telephony and a fully managed 5G backup service to ensure their busy salon stays connected no matter what.
Here's Justin, provisioning Wi-Fi Access Points for outside a shopping centre to deliver a fast, reliable internet connection for visitors entering and leaving the premises:
Preparing Businesses for the PSTN Switch Off
As the January 2027 PSTN switch off draws closer, we're continuing to help businesses replace ageing infrastructure before the deadline.
This month we delivered a lift emergency SIM solution for an estate agency client in London, ensuring emergency lift communications remain fully operational once traditional analogue lines are retired.
It's another example of how businesses are taking proactive steps now to avoid disruption later.
Solving Real-World Connectivity Challenges
Sometimes improving connectivity isn't about increasing bandwidth - it's about understanding how people actually use a building.
One of our existing clients recently reconfigured their office layout, introducing new partition walls that unexpectedly reduced Wi-Fi coverage across several meeting rooms.
Following a site survey, we installed an additional Wi-Fi 6 Access Point to eliminate the dead spots, restoring seamless wireless coverage throughout the workspace and helping keep meetings, collaboration and day-to-day operations running smoothly.
Here's Adelle carrying out the final checks inside the comms cabinet, ensuring the floor ports for a new business moving into one of our preconnected buildings are correctly patched and ready for their new fibre leased line service:
Ending June the Right Way
After a month spent travelling the country, commissioning new services, upgrading networks and welcoming new customers, it was finally time to pause for an evening together.
The team headed into Newcastle for a fantastic meal at Pani's Italian restaurant, followed by a few well-earned drinks to celebrate what has been an incredibly busy - but equally exciting month for Fuse Telecom.
A huge thank you to all of our customers, partners and colleagues who have been part of our journey throughout June.
We're looking forward to seeing what July has in store!
Fuse Telecom Strengthens Senior Leadership Team
North East-based connectivity provider Fuse Telecom has strengthened its senior leadership team with two key appointments as the business continues to expand across its connectivity, cloud communications and connected building divisions.
The company has appointed Justin Smith as director of operations and Alicia Todd as associate marketing director, reinforcing its commitment to investing in both commercial growth and operational excellence as demand for its services continues to increase across the UK.
Established in 1998, Fuse Telecom provides managed business connectivity, cloud communications and connected building solutions to organisations nationwide. The company supports a diverse client base ranging from independent businesses and commercial landlords to national retailers, luxury brands, asset managers and multi-site organisations, with a growing footprint across the commercial property sector.
Fuse Telecom’s growth has been underpinned by its approach to connected buildings, where the company works closely to deliver commercially realistic connectivity solutions.
By understanding both landlord overheads and tenant expectations, the business has moved away from legacy connectivity models that can often drive occupiers towards alternative providers. This approach has resulted in tenant utilisation rates of more than 90 per cent across many connected buildings, creating greater value for property owners while improving the occupier experience.
Alicia rejoined the business in March 2026 after spending 12 months away from the company. Having previously worked with Fusion Connected, which has since merged fully into Fuse Telecom, Alicia returned to join the senior leadership team at Fuse Telecom under the direction of founder and managing director Simon Dronfield.
As associate marketing director, Alicia leads the company's marketing strategy, communications and client relationship activities, helping to strengthen the Fuse Telecom brand while supporting customer engagement, partner development and business growth.
Her role spans strategic marketing, public relations, client communications and commercial relationship management, ensuring customers and partners remain at the heart of the business as it continues to expand.
Justin was appointed director of operations this month, marking a return to the business following a successful period in consultancy. Having previously played a pivotal role within the organisation, he brings back a wealth of experience and a refreshed perspective gained from working across a variety of complex projects.
In his new role, Justin is responsible for overseeing service delivery and project management, where his expertise in managing multi-connectivity solutions and diverse project environments will further strengthen operational excellence and support the company’s continued growth.
Simon Dronfield, founder and managing director of Fuse Telecom, said:
“As the business continues to grow, it’s important that we strengthen our leadership team with people who understand both our culture and our long-term vision. Alicia and Justin have both played important roles within the wider business over the years and we’re delighted to welcome them back.”
He added:
“Their experience, knowledge and commitment to our customers make them the ideal people to help drive the next stage of Fuse Telecom’s growth.
“We’re seeing increasing demand across all areas of the business and these appointments ensure we have the leadership structure in place to support that growth, while maintaining the high standards of service our customers expect.”
Alicia Todd, associate marketing director at Fuse Telecom, added:
“Having worked alongside Simon previously, returning to the business felt like a natural decision.
“The vision is clear, the business is performing exceptionally well and there are lots of exciting projects happening that we look forward to sharing in due course.
“What stands out most to me about Fuse Telecom is not just the legacy and trust behind the brand, but the way we operate.
“We’re transparent, consultative and genuinely focused on doing what’s right for our customers.
“Whether it’s supporting a new prospect, advising an existing client or investing in the latest technologies and infrastructure, our focus is always on ensuring businesses have connectivity solutions that support them both today and for years to come.”
Justin Smith, director of operations at Fuse Telecom, added:
“It’s great to be back working alongside Simon and the team.
“Having spent time consulting across the industry, it has given me a fresh perspective on what makes Fuse Telecom different.
“The business has strong foundations, a loyal customer base, and a clear vision for the future.
“Through my experience managing multi-connectivity projects and working across a wide range of different implementations, I’ve built strong expertise that I’m now bringing back into the business.
“This experience enables us to deliver well-rounded, reliable solutions backed by proven knowledge and practical understanding.
“We’re focused on delivering the right solutions for our customers, not simply selling products.
“As we continue to grow, maintaining service quality and ensuring every customer receives the support, expertise, and experience they need will remain our top priority.”
Fuse Telecom is currently supporting a number of connected building and digital infrastructure projects across the UK, reflecting growing demand for future-ready connectivity and reinforcing the company’s position as a trusted technology partner for businesses, property owners and asset managers alike.
With a strengthened leadership team, a growing project pipeline and several major initiatives underway, the business is well-positioned to build on its recent success and continue supporting organisations across the UK.
Whether you're planning an office move, upgrading your existing services, or exploring connectivity options, our team is here to help.
Get in touch for a complimentary consultation:
Justin Smith Returns to Fuse Telecom as Director of Operations
Fuse Telecom is pleased to announce the appointment of Justin Smith as Director of Operations, strengthening the company's senior leadership team as it continues to expand its connectivity, cloud communications and connected building services across the UK.
Justin returns to the business following a successful period working in consultancy, bringing with him extensive experience delivering complex connectivity projects and supporting organisations across a wide range of sectors.
Having previously been an integral part of the Fuse Telecom team, Justin's return reflects the company's ongoing investment in operational excellence and its commitment to delivering exceptional service as demand for its solutions continues to grow.
In his role as Director of Operations, Justin will oversee service delivery, project management and operational performance across the business. Working closely with customers, partners and the wider Fuse Telecom team, he will help ensure projects are delivered efficiently while maintaining the high standards of support and customer service the company is known for.
Justin's experience spans a broad range of connectivity environments, from multi-site business networks and cloud communications to complex connected building deployments. This practical expertise enables Fuse Telecom to continue delivering commercially realistic, future-ready solutions tailored to the needs of businesses, landlords and property professionals alike.
Simon Dronfield, Founder and Managing Director of Fuse Telecom, said:
"Justin's return is fantastic news for the business. He understands our culture, our customers and the standards we set ourselves. His operational experience and technical knowledge make him a valuable addition to the senior leadership team as we continue to grow. As we take on more projects across the UK, having strong leadership in place is essential. Justin's expertise will help ensure we continue delivering the level of service, reliability and customer experience that our clients have come to expect from Fuse Telecom."
Speaking about his appointment, Justin said:
"It's great to be back at Fuse Telecom and working alongside Simon and the wider team once again. Having spent time consulting across a variety of projects and environments, I've gained valuable experience and insight that I'm excited to bring back into the business. Fuse Telecom has always stood out because of its customer-first approach, technical expertise and commitment to doing what's right for clients.
As the business continues to grow, my focus will be on maintaining operational excellence, supporting our customers and ensuring we continue delivering reliable, high-quality solutions that businesses can depend on."
The appointment comes during a period of continued growth for Fuse Telecom, with the business supporting an increasing number of connected building, cloud communications and digital infrastructure projects nationwide.
By continuing to invest in experienced leadership and operational expertise, Fuse Telecom remains focused on helping organisations access reliable, scalable connectivity solutions backed by responsive support and industry-leading service.
Why Softphone Applications Are Becoming Essential for Modern Businesses
For years, businesses relied on desk phones as the primary way to communicate with customers, suppliers and colleagues. While traditional phone systems served their purpose, the way we work has changed dramatically.
Today, employees move between offices, meeting rooms, client sites, home working environments and mobile devices throughout the day. The expectation from customers, however, remains the same - when they call, they expect someone to answer.
This is where softphone applications are changing the way businesses communicate.
What Is a Softphone?
A softphone is a business telephone system that operates through an application on your desktop, laptop, tablet or mobile device rather than a traditional desk phone.
Users can make and receive calls using their business number from virtually anywhere with an internet connection, while retaining all the functionality of a modern phone system including:
- Call transfer
- Voicemail
- Presence status
- Call recording
- Team messaging
- Video meetings
- Contact directories
The result is a more flexible and accessible communication platform that works around your business rather than restricting employees to a physical desk.
Why Businesses Are Moving Away From Traditional Desk Phones
One of the biggest challenges businesses face is missed calls.
A missed call could be:
- A new sales enquiry
- An urgent support request
- A customer requiring assistance
- A supplier trying to resolve an issue
In many cases, that call represents revenue, customer satisfaction or operational efficiency.
With traditional desk phones, if an employee steps away from their desk, that opportunity can easily be missed.
Softphone applications ensure calls follow the user wherever they are working, whether that's:
- At home
- In a meeting room
- Visiting a customer
- Working from another office
- Simply grabbing a coffee
The business remains reachable and responsive without employees needing to be physically present at their desk.
The Benefits of 8x8 Softphone Applications
At Fuse Telecom, we deploy the 8x8 cloud communications platform for businesses looking to modernise their communications.
We've found 8x8 to be one of the most reliable and user-friendly platforms available, combining business telephony, collaboration and mobility into a single solution.
Key benefits include:
Work From Anywhere
Users can access their business number from desktop and mobile applications, ensuring they remain connected wherever they work.
Improved Customer Experience
Calls can be answered faster, transferred seamlessly and routed intelligently to ensure customers reach the right person first time.
Business Continuity
Because the platform operates in the cloud, communication isn't reliant on a single office location or piece of hardware.
Reduced Hardware Costs
Many businesses can significantly reduce their reliance on physical handsets while still maintaining professional business communications.
Greater Visibility
Managers gain access to reporting, call analytics and performance insights that are difficult to achieve with traditional phone systems.
The Future of Business Telephony
As businesses continue to adopt flexible working practices, cloud-based communication platforms are rapidly becoming the standard.
The ability to answer calls from any device, in any location, means businesses can remain responsive, professional and accessible at all times.
The reality is simple: customers don't care where you're working from. They simply expect someone to answer when they call.
Softphone applications help make sure that happens.
If you're exploring alternatives to traditional phone systems or want to understand how cloud telephony could support your business, our team can help assess your requirements and recommend the right solution for your business.
Get in touch below:
Temporary Event Wi-Fi: Reliable Connectivity for Pop-Ups, Festivals and Outdoor Events
When planning a successful event, connectivity is often overlooked until something goes wrong.
Whether you're operating a pop-up bar, food festival, corporate summer social, outdoor cinema, sporting event or temporary retail space, reliable internet connectivity is critical to keeping your event running smoothly.
From contactless payments and ticket scanning to guest Wi-Fi and operational systems, today's events rely heavily on stable, high-speed internet.
At Fuse Telecom, we provide temporary event connectivity solutions across the UK, with flexible contract terms from as little as one month and deployment available in as little as 10 days.
📍 CASE STUDY: GOSFORTH CENTRAL OUTDOOR CINEMA
Supporting one of Newcastle's most popular outdoor community events.
As the connectivity provider for Gosforth Central, Fuse Telecom supports the venue's ongoing connectivity requirements throughout the year.
One of the highlights of the summer calendar is the Royalty Cinema, an outdoor cinema experience that attracts hundreds of visitors across multiple screenings.
Reliable connectivity helps support venue operations, staff communications and visitor services, ensuring organisers can focus on delivering a fantastic experience for attendees.
Event Type: Outdoor Cinema
Location: Gosforth Central, Newcastle
Connectivity: Venue-wide business connectivity and support
Audience: Hundreds of attendees throughout the weekend
Why Event Connectivity Matters
The modern event experience depends on internet access more than ever before.
Without reliable connectivity, organisers risk:
- Card payment failures
- Delays at ticket entry points
- Vendor downtime
- Poor customer experience
- Lost revenue
- Communication issues between staff and suppliers
Whether you're hosting 50 guests or 5,000 attendees, connectivity should be considered a core part of your event infrastructure.
Temporary Internet Solutions for Any Event
Our temporary connectivity solutions are designed to support events of all sizes.
Pop-Up Bars & Hospitality Venues
Temporary outdoor bars, beer gardens and hospitality spaces require reliable internet for:
- Contactless payments
- EPOS systems
- Staff communications
- Guest Wi-Fi
Our rapid deployment solutions provide secure internet access without requiring long-term contracts.
Festivals & Outdoor Events
Outdoor environments often present unique connectivity challenges.
We can provide:
- 5G connectivity
- Fixed wireless solutions
- Dedicated leased line connectivity where available
- Managed Wi-Fi networks
- Separate networks for vendors, staff and guests
Corporate Events & Summer Socials
Corporate events increasingly rely on connectivity for:
- Event registration
- Live presentations
- Streaming
- Hybrid events
- Guest internet access
Our solutions ensure attendees remain connected throughout the event.
Temporary Retail & Brand Activations
Pop-up shops and experiential marketing events require robust internet connectivity for:
- Point-of-sale systems
- Stock management
- Product demonstrations
- Customer engagement activities
Our temporary services can be deployed quickly, allowing brands to focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences.
What's Included?
Our temporary event connectivity solutions can include:
✓ High-speed internet access
✓ Guest Wi-Fi
✓ Contactless payment connectivity
✓ Managed networking equipment
✓ Secure staff networks
✓ Temporary 5G connectivity
✓ Remote monitoring and support
✓ Flexible contract terms
Why Choose Fuse Telecom?
Established in 1998, Fuse Telecom has been delivering business-critical connectivity solutions for over 25 years.
Today, we're trusted to manage connectivity for:
- National retail brands including Skechers
- Flagship retail locations on Bond Street
- Multi-tenanted commercial buildings across the UK
- Property owners and managing agents
- Professional services organisations
Unlike many temporary event providers, we're not simply an equipment rental company. We're a telecoms provider with extensive experience designing, deploying and managing connectivity solutions where uptime matters.
That means the same expertise trusted by retailers, landlords and commercial occupiers can be applied to your event.
Flexible Terms, Fast Deployment
Events don't fit into traditional telecom contracts.
That's why we offer:
- Terms from just one month
- Rapid deployment
- UK-based support
- Scalable solutions for events of any size
Whether you're running a weekend food festival, a month-long pop-up venue or a seasonal outdoor hospitality space, we can provide a connectivity solution tailored to your requirements.
Planning an Event?
If you're organising a pop-up venue, festival, outdoor event, brand activation or corporate gathering and require temporary internet connectivity, our team can help.
Speak to Fuse Telecom today to discuss your event requirements and receive a tailored quote.