Machine manufacturer consistently chooses the same collision protection specialist

Winning one tender is great. Being chosen again says even more. Following projects in Boxmeer and Eindhoven, machine manufacturer JBT Marel once again turned to Flexbarrier for the renovation of its logistics yard. The quality of the collision protection played an important role in this decision, but it wasn’t the only deciding factor. Above all, the personal contact and the way the preparation, coordination, and installation were handled reinforced their confidence. Ton Mickers, director of real estate at JBT Marel, explains why the partnership continues to prove its worth with every new project.

JBT Marel manufactures machinery for the food processing industry. In 2022, the company issued a request for proposals for collision protection systems for the construction of a distribution center in Boxmeer and another in Eindhoven. Flexbarrier won the bid. “The quality of their collision protection, the competitive price, and the pleasant collaboration led us to decide to work with them,” says Mickers.

According to him, that personal touch is a common thread running through the entire process. “From preparation through to implementation, the lines of communication are short. Moreover, Flexbarrier demonstrates a strong commitment. They offer practical input and ensure that agreements made are actually honored. The positive experiences with the first two projects therefore made it a logical choice to engage Flexbarrier again as a specialist for the next project.”

Comprehensive protection

At the approximately 11,500-square-meter distribution center in Boxmeer, the collision protection system safeguards columns, walls, forklift loading stations, a mechanical lift, and other equipment, among other things. At the distribution center in Eindhoven, which covers an area of approximately 15,500 square meters, the focus is on warehouse racking and workstations, among other things. Spare parts are received, processed, and shipped there. A valuable AutoStore system is also protected at this location.

The most recent project involves the renovation of the logistics yard in Boxmeer. Forklifts and trucks operate daily on the approximately 13,500-square-meter site. It’s not just the buildings that require protection there. The fencing, light poles, and technical installations—including systems for nitrogen and technical gases—are also vulnerable. “In such a busy logistics area, you want to be sure that buildings and other structures are well protected,” says Mickers.

Smart Material

The plastic impact protection absorbs the force of an impact and then springs back into place. The material is low-maintenance, chemically resistant, and suitable for environments subject to HACCP requirements. Thanks to the modular system, individual parts can be replaced as needed. As a result, the solution not only offers optimal protection but also remains practical for use in various logistics and industrial environments.

Employee Safety

JBT Marel develops and supplies automated solutions for food processing, primarily for poultry in Boxmeer. With these innovative technologies, software, and services, processors worldwide can safely, efficiently, and sustainably produce food of the highest quality. The production and testing environments involve complex machinery and advanced systems. That is why employee safety is a top priority: a safe work environment helps prevent accidents by protecting both employees and processes.

Without downtime

For JBT Marel, the installation also confirmed that Flexbarrier was the right choice. The work took place in an operational environment where any disruption could affect daily processes. Yet there was absolutely no downtime. “The installation went according to plan and, above all, was carried out in close consultation,” says Mickers. Whenever the installers needed temporary space, they coordinated this in advance with the employees involved.

For JBT Marel, the added value therefore lies in the total package: a tailored solution, a competitive price, and a partnership that remains personal and reliable from the tender process through to installation. It is precisely this combination that explains why the machine manufacturer consistently turns to the same specialist whenever new safety issues arise.