McAlister’s Deli Partners with SecureConnect to Encourage PCI Compliance among Franchise Community

PRLog (Press Release) - Jun. 1, 2010 - MINNEAPOLIS, MN (June 1, 2010) – Until recently, many brands have seen PCI compliance as just a buzzword.  However, with the influx of security breaches within the restaurant and hospitality industries, hesitation among corporate brands has been replaced with a sense of urgency to protect franchisees and their customers. “PCI compliance has really come to the forefront,” said Kerry Newell, Senior Manager of POS at McAlister’s Corporation.

Originally using BHI SecureConnect® for firewall and Wi-Fi Hotspot services only, McAlister’s has reevaluated its needs and is implementing a customized PCI compliance solution from BHI SecureConnect® in both its corporate and franchise restaurants.  “In the past, we set up our own Wi-Fi and firewall in the restaurants but it has become too much to manage,” Newell said.  By setting an example and getting corporate stores compliant first, the brand feels they will be better prepared to point franchisees in the right direction. “SecureConnect® has been great for us.  Going forward, we expect it will be just as good for our PCI compliance needs as well,” Newell added.

Despite the usually negative connotation surrounding PCI compliance, franchise owners have been very positive about actions to improve security across the brand.  “As a franchisor, we thought we needed to help educate franchisees as much as possible,” Newell said.    Having kicked off efforts in April with a PCI Awareness Month, McAlister’s Deli hopes to continue momentum through the summer to educate and inform franchisees about PCI compliance.  Recent communications include an email campaign highlighting PCI information and promoting a PCI webinar hosted by BHI SecureConnect®.  Newell is pleased with the feedback he has received from franchisees.  “I’ve gotten a lot of very positive feedback over the phone.  The webinar was very informative and kept people’s attention,” Newell said, applauding BHI SecureConnect®.

Despite these strides, misinformation surrounding the PCI Data Security Standard will be one of the biggest struggles for the brand.  “Some franchisees truly believe that if their POS software is updated to the current version they are compliant” Newell said.  The PCI DSS is much more involved, however, and includes 216 requirements that must be achieved by owners. Although daunting by number, franchisees can take advantage of the McAlister’s Deli National Account with BHI SecureConnect®, and achieve compliance at an affordable monthly price.  
As the foundation of their PCI compliance and security solution, the SecureConnect® managed firewall provides multi-layered security for network protection.  Now, with a customized easyPCI package for the McAlister’s franchise system, owner/operators are able to address the comprehensive PCI requirements.  With the help of BHI SecureConnect®, Newell hopes efforts throughout the year will raise awareness among franchisees about the importance of information security and motivate them to take action.


About BHI Advanced Internet, Inc. provider of SecureConnect®:
BHI Advanced Internet is a leading Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP), offering a wide-range of Internet security, managed network, and PCI compliance services to the multi-site retail industry.  Ranked the #18 MSSP worldwide by MSPmentor magazine in 2009, the company has experienced double digit revenue growth each of the past five years. SecureConnect®, BHI’s innovative flagship service, provides reliable, secure and PCI compliant networks at thousands of locations for leading retail brands across the U.S. and Canada.
About McAlister’s Deli

McAlister’s Corporation, headquartered in Ridgeland, Miss., is a quick-casual restaurant featuring efficient counter ordering, attentive table service, over 100 different high-quality, deli-style foods and great value. McAlister’s was recently named one of the Best 10 restaurants for families by Parents Magazine for their commitment to healthfulness and choice on the menu. Currently, McAlister’s Deli has over 290 restaurants operating in 23 states.

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BHI provides innovative, tailored Internet technology solutions while ensuring customers' total peace-of-mind. Offering a wide range of services, BHI makes it easy & affordable to bring enterprise-level security & PCI compliance solutions to your stores.