Overview
Avara Foods, one of the UK’s leading food producers, partnered with OLS to modernise its access control infrastructure across nine UK sites.
With just over 6,000 employees and more than 300 access-controlled doors, the organisation required a unified, cloud-based platform to strengthen security, simplify administration, and support long-term innovation.
OLS delivered this transformation using the BioStar Air cloud access control solution, creating a scalable foundation for future capabilities.
Challenge
Avara Foods operated across multiple sites using disparate legacy systems, including Mitrefinch and Tensor, which limited visibility and introduced operational inefficiencies. User provisioning was largely manual, and there was no centralised control of access or reporting.
In addition, the business required a platform capable of supporting future enhancements such as biometric authentication, improved compliance reporting, and broader system integration—while maintaining operational continuity during transition.
The Solution
BioStar Air
OLS implemented a cloud-native access control platform designed to unify and future-proof Avara’s estate.
The deployment included Suprema XPass2 readers across more than 300 doors, alongside XStation terminals configured for Time & Attendance. At present, this remains card-based, with infrastructure now in place to support a future transition to biometrics.
The BioStar Air platform provides centralised system management, intuitive dashboards, and real-time visibility across all locations. The solution has also been designed to support future capabilities, including mobile authentication and fire mustering, as part of Avara’s longer-term roadmap.
Key Features
The solution is underpinned by OLS’s certified partnerships with Suprema and MHR, ensuring robust integration and reliable performance.
It delivers a fully cloud-based architecture, enabling scalable management across UK operations, supported by a responsive service model and structured on-site training for engineering teams.
Importantly, the platform introduces a clear pathway toward mobile credentials and biometrics, while maintaining stability through existing card-based processes.
Results
OLS successfully migrated over 6,000 users across nine UK sites, establishing a centralised and highly visible access control environment.
• Operational efficiency improved through simplified administration
• Security strengthened with consistent, standardised technology
• Visibility enhanced via centralised dashboards and reporting
• Scalability achieved to support ongoing system development
The phased introduction of mobile authentication ensures Avara Foods can adopt new technologies seamlessly, without disruption to day-to-day operations.
Summary
This project demonstrates OLS’s strength in delivering scalable, cloud-driven security solutions that balance immediate operational needs with future ambition.
By establishing a robust and flexible platform, OLS has enabled Avara Foods to move forward with confidence, supporting ongoing innovation without compromising reliability or control.
