Our business is your business.
We deliver supplies and services to businesses across the UK, providing timely, efficient and cost-effective solutions for our customers.
Welcome to Bates Digital. Our founder, George Henry Bates, began trading from a small typewriter shop in the heart of London in the 1930s. From this humble beginning our business has grown into a major national supplier of business productivity supplies and services, delivering to clients across the UK from our administrative and distribution centres in Rochester, Bridgend, Crayford, Crewe, Wrexham and Halifax.
While Bates has grown as a company, there are some things that we are careful not to change. We remain independent, providing the same friendly service and hands-on approach that has always set us apart.
We understand that no two companies are the same, that trust and reliability are paramount, and that the only way to achieve the best possible service for our customers is to listen to them. You will find our approach refreshingly different.
Thank you for this opportunity to introduce our services and please contact us if you require further information or would like to arrange an informal meeting to discuss your requirements.
With kind regards,
Michael Edmonds
Managing Director
Talk to us
Tel: 01322 550167
www.bates-digital.com
www.batesoffice.co.uk
Mobile for business.
Answering business needs
Business needs differ greatly to those of a consumer contract. Reliability and customer service is critical and we focus on this. Thanks to our nationwide distribution and infrastructure, we are able to offer a truly unique mobile service. We have partnered with Vodafone and O2 to host our connections, while we look after customer service and billing. That means that you get greatly reduced costs, a designated account manager and a customer service team that will answer your call in less than 6 seconds.
Customer experience
Our initial focus is to show where we can enhance your service levels, whether you are direct with a network or a reseller. We will provide free bill analysis to see if you are on the right plan and whether there are costs we can prevent. We can show you true, transparent pricing for plans and handsets, and an unparalleled customer service at no extra cost. Every account is assigned an account manager, regardless of size, and we have branches across the UK to service your account locally. Visit us at www.bates-digital.com and use our bill upload tool to upload your latest bill for a free analysis.
Addressing the true cost of ownership
Understanding the true cost of your business mobiles goes far beyond your monthly bundle. We report monthly on your spend, and if we notice any irregularities we will contact you with our recommendations. We also know that 25% of smartphones are damaged within their first 12 months of ownership. So we will agree repair prices in advance, so no matter what happens to that device, you know it can always be repaired or replaced at a fair price.
Upcycling for mobile handsets
If you are looking to upgrade your mobile handsets, then you may be surprised to see a value in the devices you currently own. At Bates, we can ‘upcycle’ your old fleet of mobiles to create a big reduction in your new phone purchases and it’s great for the environment. If you would like a valuation of your current fleet, just fill in the form on our website and we will get back to you within a few hours.
Voice solutions.
Voice for business
At Bates we understand business requirements. Reliability and customer service is critical and we focus on this. Thanks to our nationwide offices and infrastructure, we are able to offer a truly unique Voice service. We have partnered with the industry leaders to service your fixed line voice minutes, while we look after customer service and billing. That means that you get greatly reduced costs, a designated account manager and a customer service team that will answer your call in less than 6 seconds.
SIP trunking
SIP trunking is the standard replacement for traditional ISDN telephone systems. It connects your PBX (Private Branch Exchange) to the PSTN (known as the plain old telephone network) via your broadband, ethernet or private circuit. The system is less costly per channel and provides increased flexibility in how geographic telephone numbers can be used. It’s incredibly quick to install and delivers extremely robust business continuity.
Cloud telephone
If you don’t have a PBX in your organisation then hosted telephony over an IP connection is ideal for you. Our hosted IP telephony system is suitable for any size of business; it’s capable of serving hundreds of employees and is particularly effective if you have multiple sites working together. With only a minimal capital outlay it’s a reliable and proven service, and a jargon-free approach to telephony and communications. By switching to ‘Hosted’ you can immediately benefit from a cheaper and more flexible phone service, and it can also help you improve your organisation’s productivity and image.
Data services, WiFi and Cloud IT.
Data Services
We tailor our solutions to your individual requirements and will manage implementation with our full support.
That means great business upgrades and no downtime.
Business Broadband (ADSL 2+) Up to 24Mb Download / Up to 2.5 Mb Upload / Unlimited Data
Fibre Broadband (FTTC) Up to 80Mb Download / Up to 20Mb Upload / Unlimited Data
WiFi Next generation wireless solutions / Customer data capture; perfect for knowing whose logged in and remarketing to them / State of the art routers available
Mobile Broadband Get connected on the go / Major networks supported / Super-fast 4G available
The Cloud
Simply, the cloud allows us to create an online solution to help you increase your digital productivity.
Our solutions include:
- Collaborative working – share files across your business through all of your workplace and mobile devices.
- Back-Up – we can configure remote back-ups for devices, so you never lose data.
- Digital archiving – we can scan and digitise all of your archive boxes, and share them in your personal cloud.
- Virtual Machines, Office 365, Microsoft SharePoint, and much more.
Our robust and seamless solution helps you to manage your workflow and business documents more effectively, combining security and ease of use with flexible configuration. Collaborating with colleagues and communicating with customers couldn’t be easier with Cloud-based file sharing across all your devices; helping you to work cohesively wherever your are.
Flexible solutions
We understand that businesses have differing needs and that digital systems must be dynamic and flexible enough to grow with your business. We can offer customised configurations for functions such as document management, back-up and archiving. We provide regular scheduled reporting against usage patterns with recommendations for optimising the effectiveness and value of your services.
Digital storage and archiving.
Secure, reliable storage
Our online archiving facility allows you to access your files anywhere in the world, through our web portal. We offer a flexible choice of storage options allowing you to choose online only, physical storage or a hybrid solution of the two; and with our ISO/IEC 27001 standard you can trust your information is secure.
We recognise that all businesses generate data that is subject to access privileges, and for many, there is a legal obligation to comply with legislation. The requirements for data protection are more complex and robust than ever, with the systems required to meet them – and the penalties for failing to do so – becoming ever more daunting. Our data management services offer a straightforward and cost-effective solution, helping you to achieve the standards necessary for compliance and complete peace of mind.
All our staff are enhanced DBS screened and receive stringent, on-going training to ensure that exemplary standards of security are maintained. We recognise that data management can pose a range of unique challenges to different businesses across all industry sectors, and we have the expertise to advise and deliver effective, flexible solutions to satisfy the most demanding requirements.
Seamless document management
We have designed our archiving module and back office system with our customers in mind; ease of use, security and efficient retrieval are at the core of this service. Using the latest technology supported by rigorous testing, we offer a robust online portal with seamless functionality and ease of use.
Unifying your communications.
Converged telecoms
Converged, or unified, telecoms align your business mobile, broadband and fixed line into one seamless instrument, and consequently one invoice. Meaning better business connectivity, and simple invoicing. We work with you to align your business mobile, broadband, fixed line, cloud telephone and even home office into one monthly solution. With the addition of our other business services for office supplies, MPS, print and furniture, you will only have to remember one telephone number and pay one invoice.
Enhanced collaboration
The way people work, communicate and collaborate is changing. However, the shared goal of every business still remains the same; increase productivity and reduce operational and IT costs. At the core of this digital movement is unified communications; the convergence of voice, video and data communication services onto a shared (internet based) infrastructure. The result is faster communication with customers, staff, suppliers and partners.
Improved efficiency and security
No matter the size of your business, the underlying goal is to execute a strategy that lets users communicate more efficiently and securely. Unified or ‘converged’ telecommunications has benefits for the smallest of SMEs to the largest multi-site businesses.
Digital for new and growing businesses.
Supporting your business as it grows
98% of businesses in the UK have less than 10 members of staff. Yet, you are by far the most under-served business sector by the major UK telecoms companies. At Bates we understand the specific needs of smaller businesses and that your digital contracts should be affordable, reliable and simple to maintain. That means you can get access to all of your bills online and call in to our customer service team for any tariff modifications. You can get through to our team in less than 6 seconds for dedicated advice and support – and the reassurance of knowing that we will always offer you the best possible solution for your needs.
Customer experience
Our initial focus is to show where we can enhance your service levels, whether you are direct with a network or a reseller. We will provide free bill analysis to see if you are on the right plan and whether there are costs we can prevent. We can show you true, transparent pricing for plans and handsets, and an unparalleled customer service at no extra cost. Every account is assigned an account manager, regardless of size, and we have branches across the UK to service your account locally. Visit us at www.bates-digital.com and use our bill upload tool to upload your latest bill for a free analysis.
Procurement and project management.
Procurement for digital hardware
We reduce your costs by addressing the way you buy. We offer end to end procurement solutions, from pre-sales planning and expertise to the logistics of delivering to multiple sites. Our ability to procure almost anything in the market is testament to our team, and we can pre-configure devices prior to delivery for added value.
Project management for your office
At Bates we focus expertise in multiple business sectors, meaning we can provide a full ‘turn-key’ solution for your new office. We plan your digital solution in advance, alongside our Building and Interiors teams, meaning your project is seamless and effective. With our added digital and IT procurement you can expect a fully furnished and fitted office, down to the last cable and monitor. If you are planning an office move, please contact us to discover more about our full range of services.
Support services.
Peace of mind
We know that around 25% of smartphones are damaged within their first 12 months of ownership. As part of our service, we will agree repair prices in advance, so no matter what happens to your device, you know it can be repaired or replaced quickly and at a fair price.
Repairs
Repairs can be booked online using our repair submission tool. We will collect your device from your office on your selected date and leave a loan phone if requested. We will diagnose and repair your device at our centre in Rochester, Kent. We will return your device on one of our own vehicles, safely and securely.
Nationwide coverage
As one of the UK’s largest independent business supplies companies, we have a fleet of our own vehicles serviced from our distribution centres in Rochester, Crayford, Crewe, Wrexham and Halifax. We offer next day on-demand delivery, providing fast and efficient repairs and replacements for workplace and mobile devices to minimise the disruption of any breakages.
Customer support
We make it as easy as possible for you to contact us when you need support and advice. Our dedicated support team can be contacted via our online services or by telephone whereby you can be speaking to an adviser within 6 seconds.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about our business services. If you would like to know more, please talk to us.
Rochester
A1-A4 Knights Park Industrial Estate
Knight Road
Rochester
Kent
ME2 2LS
Phone: 01322 550167
Fax: 01322 525227
Bridgend
Unit 5
Vale Business Park
Cowbridge
Vale of Glamorgan
CF71 7PF
Phone: 01978 358613
Fax: 01978 362509
Stoke-on-Trent Environmental House
Oldfield Business Park
Galveston Grove
Fenton
Stoke on Trent
ST4 3PE
Phone: 01270 256891
Fax: 01270 505029