[May 16, 2008] Whitehall Jewelers Signs Network Deal with New Edge Tweet (Wireless News Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) New Edge Networks, a business communications unit of EarthLink, said Whitehall Jewelers has expanded and renewed a multi-year agreement for managing and maintaining a private network linking the jewelry chain's 375 stores in regional and super-regional shopping malls and power centers in 39 states. New Edge said the contract is valued at $1.6 million. New Edge will manage and maintain Whitehall's existing private IP network based on DSL technology. The agreement also expands Whitehall's network to 78 recently acquired jewelry stores. Installation work at the acquired locations is underway. "Our business relationship with Whitehall Jewelers has led to our mutual growth and success," said Greg Griffiths, vice president of marketing for New Edge. "Both companies have benefited from trying new service approaches for optimizing the value of a private network after discussions in quarterly account review meetings. "Our private network is an important component of our business growth plans and strategies," said Mark Funasaki, executive vice president and chief administrative officer for Chicago-based Whitehall Jewelers. "We want to use our network to favorably transform the shopping experience for our customers," Funasaki said. "Network flexibility, uptime and stability are paramount for smooth and efficient store operations." Whitehall Jewelers is a national specialty retailer of fine jewelry in diamonds, gold, precious and semi-precious jewelry and watches. ((Comments on this story may be sent to [email protected])) ((Distributed on behalf of 10Meters via M2 Communications Ltd - http://www.m2.com)) ((10Meters - http://www.10meters.com)) Copyright ? 2008 Wireless News [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]