'You don't buy an automated warehouse from a catalog'

Körber Supply Chain is expanding its operations in the Netherlands. The technology company, known for its innovative logistics automation solutions, has established a special systems integration team that operates locally. The goal: to be closer to the Dutch market, switch faster and offer customized solutions. At the helm of this expansion is Marcel Spruijt, the new sales manager for the Netherlands since September last year.

Spruijt has more than 18 years of experience in logistics automation sales and previously worked at Dematic, among other companies. "The Netherlands remains an important market for logistics automation, with significant growth opportunities in the near future," he says. "The establishment of a local systems integration team enables us to deliver solutions that are better tailored to the specific needs of Dutch customers."

Körber Supply Chain was already active in the Netherlands, including through major projects such as JYSK's new distribution center in Lelystad. This ultra-modern complex covers 147,000 square meters, has two high-rise warehouses with a total of 166,000 pallet spaces and is served by 21 cranes. There are 32 inbound and 105 outbound docks - impressive figures that match the ambitions of both JYSK and Körber.

Local approach, global clout

According to Spruijt, the choice for a local sales organization is strategic. "We notice that many parties in the Netherlands do not yet know us well, while we are a mature organization worldwide with a broad portfolio and strong references," he explains. "To be successful, you have to be visible locally, be able to respond quickly and supervise projects closely."

This local guidance is crucial in a market that Spruijt says increasingly demands "customization. "You don't buy an automated warehouse from a catalog," he says. "You need a partner with experience, technical knowledge and creativity. Körber has everything we need to arrive at a suitable solution in co-creation with customers."

From WMS to AMR: broad technology portfolio

Körber's portfolio includes automated pallet storage systems, layer picking solutions, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), sortation systems, palletizers, warehouse management software (WMS) and AI solutions. "Through strategic acquisitions, we have built a complete product range. This enables us to realize projects end-to-end," Spruijt said.

A notable strength of Körber, he says, lies in the area of software. "We have a wide range of WMS packages and are able to integrate different automation technologies. That makes us flexible and scalable - important in a market where companies often want to grow step by step."

Growth is in smart expansion

Although there is now less investment in completely new distribution centers, Spruijt sees plenty of opportunity. "Most of the growth is now in the expansion of existing warehouses. We see a lot of demand for compact, modular systems that can be easily scaled up." The need for automation remains high, especially in sectors such as food, e-commerce, 3PL and frozen foods - where labor is tight and continuity is crucial.

He notes that logistics processes are still under pressure. Mechanization is not only a cost issue, but also a necessity to ensure security of supply."

Project approach: from design to aftersales

Körber accompanies customers from concept to completion. Spruijt: "After the sale, we start working with a project team on the detailed engineering. We do this in close cooperation with the customer. This is followed by installation, software integration and acceptance testing. After that, we hand the project over to our service teams."

Körber also offers flexibility when it comes to aftercare. Customers can choose simple third-party service contracts or comprehensive all-risk options. "We are transparent and happy to share information so that customers - if they wish - are also able to maintain their systems themselves."

Ambitious, but realistic

Although Spruijt characterizes the market as cautious at the moment, he is optimistic about the future. "The demand for logistics continues to grow and companies are looking for more efficient and future-proof solutions. Körber is ready to facilitate that growth - not only with technology, but especially with knowledge, experience and a strong local presence."