ACR's Strategic Growth Enhanced by Ontinue's AI-Driven Cybersecurity Solutions

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring robust cybersecurity is crucial for businesses, especially for those undergoing aggressive growth strategies. ACR, a prominent player in the food service and hospitality sectors, has successfully navigated this challenge by partnering with Ontinue, a pioneer in AI-powered managed extended detection and response (MXDR) services. This alliance has enabled ACR to maintain security while integrating multiple acquisitions seamlessly.

A Transformative Partnership

Established in 2016, ACR has completed ten acquisitions while bolstering its operations with advanced technology to enhance security, agility, and efficiency. Ontinue, awarded the Microsoft Security Services Innovator of the Year in 2023, has served as ACR's trusted MXDR provider over the last five years. This long-term relationship underscores the value and continuous support Ontinue offers, which is vital for ACR as it scales operations and integrates diverse systems with differing risk profiles.

Thai Vong, the Vice President of Technology at ACR, highlights the crucial role Ontinue plays in protecting their operating environment. With Ontinue’s 24/7 managed security operations, the ACR team can concentrate on broader business initiatives rather than day-to-day security concerns. According to Vong, “Ontinue has helped us build a secure foundation that protects our environment around the clock.” This proactive and embedded relationship allows ACR to focus on integrating acquisitions and optimizing supply chain operations.

Elevating Cybersecurity to Support Core Business Functions

For ACR, a reliable supply chain is essential. As they continue to absorb new companies, the challenges associated with integrating various systems and risk profiles become increasingly pronounced. In response, ACR has prioritized cybersecurity as a critical business enabler, integrating it not only into acquisition processes but also throughout their operational framework. Vong emphasizes that “cybersecurity is not a bolt-on but an inherent part of our business model.”

The collaboration between ACR and Ontinue goes beyond mere technological integration. ACR’s infrastructure and security leader, Tom Boyles Jr., expresses how Ontinue’s AI-driven capabilities and integration with Microsoft tools like Defender and Sentinel have been instrumental in maintaining security without hindering growth. This synergy not only improves operational efficiency but also allows ACR to redirect internal resources toward high-impact projects.

The introduction of ION MXDR service by Ontinue has set a new benchmark for managed detection and response. This service automates incident investigation and resolution, enabling security teams to concentrate on strategic initiatives rather than getting bogged down by everyday tasks. Moreover, Ontinue’s seamless collaboration via Microsoft Teams enhances communication during crises, enabling swift decision-making and incident management.

Demonstrated Success and Future Ambitions

Recent results exemplify the success of this partnership. ACR has reported a 50% reduction in the mean time to investigation (MTTI) for security incidents, alongside significant improvements in its Microsoft Secure Score, which now stands at 68, well above the industry average. Moreover, ACR has experienced zero security breaches in 2024, a testament to the proactive measures facilitated through their collaboration with Ontinue.

As ACR continues to grow through acquisitions and digital transformation, the need for a robust, unified security architecture has never been more pressing. Vong notes that integrating Ontinue's Managed SOC services allows ACR to extend its protective measures across hybrid infrastructures, ensuring comprehensive visibility and effective incident response. “Our mission is to deliver nonstop security that enables our customers to stay focused on what matters most to their business,” states Geoff Haydon, CEO of Ontinue.

As the cyber threat landscape evolves, ACR remains steadfast in enhancing its cybersecurity framework. The trust and transparency fostered through Ontinue’s collaborative approach empower ACR to innovate continuously while maintaining operational resilience. The partnership has not just amplified ACR's security readiness; it has also ingrained a culture of proactive risk management that is vital for sustained growth.

In conclusion, ACR's collaboration with Ontinue exemplifies how businesses can intertwine cybersecurity with strategic growth. The integration of AI-powered managed services is shaping ACR's approach to risk management, unequivocally illustrating that cybersecurity is not merely a defensive posture but a central pillar of modern business strategy. As both companies advance into the future, their alliance will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of cybersecurity and business growth in tandem.