Optimization in challenging times: trends in warehouse design

In challenging economic conditions, Begra Warehouse Equipment is ready to help companies with innovative and cost-efficient warehouse solutions. Under the leadership of CEO Lars de Kock, Begra works daily to improve warehouse equipment for the SME sector in particular. From his expertise, De Kock shares the important topics in the world of warehouse equipment. 

Begra is the largest specialized wholesaler of warehouse solutions in the Benelux. The company has a wide range of products and services: from racking and mezzanine floors to warehouse inspections. De Kock explains: "We assist companies from advice and design to assembly and delivery." This means that Begra focuses not only on selling products, but also on custom solutions that meet the unique needs of each warehouse. What makes Begra unique? Its customer approach: "We always visit our customers personally and without obligation to see the situation. Because when you really see the situation, you find many more opportunities for improvement than you do from a distance. Often these are things that customers themselves have not yet thought of. Warehouse optimization really is a specialism."

Changes in warehouse management

Current economic conditions often make relocations expensive and complex, forcing companies to make better use of their existing spaces. In addition, the demand for used racking is growing and the importance of safety in warehouses is increasing. These three issues - space optimization, sustainability through reuse, and safety - are important themes in today's market, according to Begra. Begra responds to this with targeted solutions.

Making better use of existing space

During the corona period, many companies invested in additional warehouse space. In recent years, however, expanding warehouse space has become a lot more difficult. "Logistics real estate has almost doubled in price in recent years, financing has become more expensive, permit processes longer and more complex, power grids are full, and macroeconomic confidence is still low," De Kock said. That makes it more important to make better use of existing space. 

According to De Kock, those opportunities are often there. "In most warehouses there is still a lot of unused 'air'. We see particularly in the SME segment that often up to 50 percent more storage capacity can be created. For example, by using mezzanine floors consisting of one or more floors, with racking material sometimes serving as the supporting structure. Or with mobile racking or drive-in racks. And sometimes simply by smarter layouts." 

Demand for such solutions has increased in recent years, which is why Begra has invested in more on-site consulting in recent years. "We have become much more approachable to customers in recent years for no-obligation advice. We used to do this only if we thought it was really necessary, now we visit anyone who asks for it. Because we know: when we visit, we always find opportunities for improvement," De Kock said. 

Moreover, by working with many different manufacturers as an independent provider, Begra can often match needs more precisely. "We still too often see in our market that wholesalers or manufacturers have a limited range of solutions and try to sell that as one-size-fits-all. Because of our volume as a market leader and our independence, we have the widest range and can often be much more creative in finding the best solution. Better in functionality and at a lower cost." 

Growing demand for used scaffolding

Another important trend is the increased demand for used racking. "We see more and more companies consciously choosing used warehouse racking," says De Kock. "Used racking is up to 40 percent cheaper than new, and often still offers years of quality." This option not only offers cost advantages, but also contributes to sustainability. De Kock emphasizes the importance of this solution: "It is a green choice, because it avoids new production processes and therefore emissions. A rare case, where the greenest solution is also the most economical solution. Win-win. "  

Begra responds to this by holding what it claims is the largest stock of used racking and mezzanine floors in the Benelux. With its own team of certified warehouse inspectors, quality is monitored. "Our people sit on standards committees and are therefore aware in great detail of the quality and safety requirements."

Safety: an essential requirement

The third theme is safety. Although companies often invest in quality warehouse equipment, there is still little awareness of the need for regular testing and inspection. "It is surprising how many companies do not know that warehouse racking should be inspected annually," De Kock said. These inspections are essential to prevent accidents and liability problems. In the Netherlands and Belgium, Begra has set up its own inspection company for this purpose: Safety Support, with eight certified inspectors.

"An annual inspection often costs only a few hundred euros, but can save companies a lot of money by minimizing security risks. You don't want a small problem to grow into a disaster because no inspection has taken place," De Kock emphasizes. Moreover, Begra sees an increase in enforcement by the Labor Inspectorate, where poor maintenance can lead to high fines. "In the event of an accident, insurance will not pay out if you have not had your warehouse racking inspected periodically, or if necessary repairs have not been made. In case of negligence, you can even be held personally liable. It's a totally irresponsible risk. If you don't drive a car without an MOT inspection, why wouldn't you inspect your warehouse racking?"

Getting the most out of your warehouse

With a focus on space utilization, sustainability and safety, Begra offers a total solution that helps companies get the most out of their warehouse within today's challenges. De Kock concludes, "Our goal is not only to unburden companies, but also to inspire and support them in the transition to more sustainable and safer warehouse management.