With 26 locations in 17 countries and a team of 4,300 colleagues, Weener Plastics has grown into a true global player. But let’s be honest: you can’t conquer the world with an IT infrastructure that still has a nostalgic hint of Windows 7. Three years ago, they called Elite Networks. The mission? Future-proof our network and enable seamless global collaboration.
From outdated to outstanding
When Group IT Manager Corné van Kuijck assessed the situation, the challenges were clear. Dispersed IT teams, each with their own methods, time zones causing delays, and systems screaming for modernization. “It was 2021, and we still had Windows 7 in use,” Corné says with a laugh. What followed was a comprehensive refresh: tackling cybersecurity, data privacy, and improving international team collaboration. Weener Plastics aimed for greater independence and was looking for a partner that not only understood the technology but was truly invested in their success.A refreshing approach with no middlemen
Elite Networks dove in headfirst. After a successful first project in Germany, it was clear they meant business. “They’re smaller than our other partners, but their flexibility and expertise are impressive,” says Corné.“No middle layers or endless back-and-forth. With Elite, you call, and you’re instantly connected to someone who knows their stuff. That’s incredibly helpful, especially when something happens on the other side of the world.”
And things did happen. Local IT teams in Mexico and Argentina occasionally needed ultra-fast support. Thanks to Elite’s 24/7 availability and direct communication, incidents were handled like clockwork.
Results that count
Fast forward to today: most locations now feature Fortigate devices. These not only enable quicker incident responses but also provide clear insights into what’s happening globally. And this is just the beginning. The next step? A large-scale upgrade of local network infrastructures and the transition to SD-WAN, the network of the future. This will give Weener Plastics even more visibility, speed, and flexibility in their global operations.“What sets Elite Networks apart is their deep expertise and personal commitment. They understand our needs and truly think along with us. That’s invaluable.”
With this approach, Elite Networks has proven they’re not just another vendor but a true partner ready to tackle any challenge.