Pan RF and Nextivity deployed in-building cellular coverage across more than 400 UK stores and regional distribution centres for a German discount grocer, using CEL-FI technology to restore reliable multi-operator 4G and 5G service indoors. The deployment addressed signal loss caused by energy-efficient materials such as Low-E glass, steel and concrete that can prevent shopper devices from communicating effectively with outside towers.
The programme used preconfigured, repeatable designs with overnight installation and remote optimisation to avoid trading disruption. Front-of-house antennas were installed after hours, with commissioning and testing completed before stores reopened. Performance was evaluated against commercial metrics including loyalty app engagement, digital coupon redemption and checkout transaction speed.
For retailers, stronger cellular coverage removes friction around app loading, mobile payments and banking authorisations. The project also demonstrated a business case for treating connectivity as loyalty infrastructure, with capital payback reportedly achievable within a few months.
Image Credit: Pan RF
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Connectivity-led Retail Loyalty
- Reliable indoor cellular service is becoming part of the loyalty stack as app engagement, coupon redemption, and mobile payment completion depend on uninterrupted in-store access.
- Overnight Network Deployment
- Preconfigured cellular systems with after-hours installation create new models for upgrading physical retail infrastructure without disrupting store operations.
- Energy-efficient Building Signal Gaps
- Modern materials such as Low-E glass, steel, and concrete are creating demand for indoor coverage solutions that reconcile sustainability-focused construction with digital shopping expectations.
Sectors Adopting This
- Retail Technology
- Store operators are increasingly treating cellular coverage as a measurable platform for improving checkout speed, loyalty participation, and omnichannel service reliability.
- Telecommunications
- Multi-operator 4G and 5G enhancement systems present growth potential as businesses seek carrier-agnostic indoor coverage across distributed property portfolios.
- Commercial Construction
- Building design and retrofit markets are being reshaped by the need to integrate connectivity performance alongside energy efficiency, materials selection, and tenant experience.
