It is clear that there are and will be lasting effects of COVID for a very long time, making sure you invest in the right mezzanine floor can future proof any warehousing operation, allowing businesses to cope with increased levels of automation.
We have all seen significant changes in UK distribution over the last two years. These changes have highlighted the importance of the role that technology and automation have played in responding to demand during the crisis. This has led many companies to invest in automation in the post-pandemic world. This, in turn will affect the logistical flow of many fulfilment and distribution centres, increased stock requires increased storage space and a mezzanine floor is a perfect solution.
E-commerce.
E-commerce growth and labour shortages have increased demand for warehouse automation and although labour shortages are easing in the wake of COVID-19, e-commerce is still on the rise and booming, now more than ever. This is thanks to the closure of non-food shops during the lockdown. The spike in e-commerce volumes meant that many businesses and warehouse operators struggled to meet demand, it is thought that volumes will not return to pre-COVID levels for some time as people’s shopping habits have significantly changed during this time. Many prefer online shopping to physical visits to stores, and there are still ongoing COVID cases that require self-isolation. According to statistic.com total retail sales made online in Great Britain in September 2021 was 28.1% almost 10% higher than statistics released in February 2020.
So why is this important for the mezzanine floor industry? The increase in demand for mezzanines is principally fuelled by the requirement for greater fulfilment to handle e-commerce orders as well as the higher levels of returns that accompany them. The UK generally has low warehousing vacancy rates, meaning e-tailers who rely on e-commerce business have relied on mezzanine floor suppliers to maximise utilisation of their existing warehouses. All of this means the mezzanine floor industry is set for increased demand.
Mezzanine Floor Stability.
When it comes to investing in a mezzanine floor whether it be single, two or three-tier it is important to make sure it is fit for the future. As the above has highlighted, we do not know what the future holds, so it is important to factor in many considerations when designing your mezzanine floor. A big consideration is that your mezzanine must be designed to accommodate automated handling equipment.
E-commerce requires single item picking and efficient returns handling meaning automated systems are practically indispensable in a warehouse environment. Shuttle storage, robotic picking machines and fully laden automated mobile robots require extremely strong floors – so make sure this is taken into consideration when discussing your mezzanine floor requirements.
Another point to discuss is the stability and deflection/vibration resistance of your mezzanine – as automated systems can be highly sensitive, so your mezzanine vibration levels need to be kept to a minimum.
You may also need to specify reduced electrostatic resistance for your mezzanine to ensure the optimal operation of automated systems.
Flexibility
When designing your mezzanine you should also include flexibility, sustainability and longevity.
Flexibility can be increased through the modular design of the floor, as well as adding supports for suspended conveyors, machinery or utilities. Some lightweight options avoid the need for steel beams that are costly and heavy, reducing the load tolerance of the floor above. The addition of reversible deck plates can double the life of your mezzanine and should not cost the earth! Make sure you enquire about warranties and when it comes to sustainability a mezzanine that offers increased light reflection can lower your energy consumption and improve your working environment.
As per the previous blog we highly recommend collaborating with your mezzanine supplier as early as possible to maximise the benefits of your project. If you have a project in mind and would like to discuss we’d be happy to hear from you.
