Open up the space above

The solution can be seen as a cost effective alternative to mezzanine floor installations in certain applications. 

Jaap Vos, managing director, SSI Schaefer UK told HSS magazine: "It is an interesting concept and we have sold a several large projects into the market. Lots of companies who decide to go up, build three levels of mezzanine floor and put shelving on it. There is a more cost effective way - we can build 4 or 5 tier shelving systems with integrated floors.

"We've proven with previous customers that we can build it in a modular way, so it can grow as the customer grows. We have some installations where 2 or 3 levels have been built and the uprights are in place to support further levels, as and when they are needed by the customer."

The solution is said to have more flexibility than mezzanines. It is easier to go sideways and add another row of shelving than expand a mezzanine in a similar way.

"It makes for a flexible operating environment," adds Vos. "They tend to be for the eCommerce market, where rapid growth is combined with a desire for flexibility. We have found the shelving really helps retailers who have small item SKUs in their inventory. It is not exclusively for small items though, larger SKUs can easily be accommodated as well as integrated hanging solutions."

The static market - racking, shelving, platforms, plastic bins etc - is very important for SSI Schaefer, it is where the company has its origins. The company has adapted its strategy over the years as the market has evolved.

"Racking is a very mature environment and we focus on a solution driven approach," says Vos. "We emphasise our extra capabilities, our ability to design bespoke solutions that will improve warehouse processes, as well as our ability to provide a complete solution with all necessary components provided by one supplier."