With millions of people around the globe using Wi-Fi connections at homes and at offices, it’s understandable why Wi-Fi is being called the future of computer and Internet connectivity. A number of businesses in various industries, especially in hospitality and retail, are offering free Wi-Fi services to their customers to differentiate their brands.
In the backdrop of rising popularity of Wi-Fi, it comes as no surprise that Australia’s Sunshine Coast Council, a group representing businesses at this world famous tourist destination, has forged a strategic partnership with the region’s largest Wi-Fi and Wireless carrier, Big Air, to boost up the region’s businesses. As part of the partnership, the businesses in this region will be able to offer free Wi-Fi services to their customers.
Christened obviously enough “FREE Wi-Fi”, this service can be accessed through as many as 32 access points located across the Coast. Over 32,000 local residents and visitors are reportedly using the service monthly in prominent public places such as libraries, malls, galleries, parks and more.
“Already over 1,000 people are using the service each day, with 49 minutes the average time these people remain online,’ Michael Whereat, project manager at Sunshine Coast Council, said in a statement.
The council provides a map on its site to enable the locals and tourists to identify the Wi-Fi location nearest to them. However, all these spots are not free---some of them are paid or free on conditions.
However, the Council plans to expand the numbers of free Wi-Fi hotspots, and one soon to be installed at Mooloolaba Surf Club will provide both locals and tourists access to the service within 100 meters of the surf club. Businesses on the esplanade at Mooloolaba will also be able to access the service, and in doing so are expected to attract more customers during the week.
To expand FREE WI-FI across the Sunshine Coast, advertising by businesses on the service is required. A group led by Michael Molloy from Unstuck is working with the Council to promote the service and encourage businesses across the Coast to begin advertising on it.
“FREE WI-FI is a here and now opportunity for businesses across the Coast to develop new ways to attract new customers to grow their businesses,” Molloy said.
Edited by Rory J. Thompson