Smurfit Kappa is a FTSE 100 company and a world leader in paper-based packaging. Smart-Space’s customer Smurfit Kappa Diss, supplies large-format corrugated packaging to trade customers from its site in Norfolk.
With a brief to make sure the site was completely clear, empty some unsightly shipping containers and with a need to reorganise internal workflow processes, Glenn Kerry, Project Manager at Smurfit Kappa, worked with Smart-Space’s Sales Director Jason Lynock to arrive at the solution of two buildings – one specifically for corrugated packaging and one for general storage.
By increasing the capacity of their finished goods warehouse, space could become available within the despatch area. The expansion and reorganisation also formed part of a significant investment programme in the site’s manufacturing operations to support strategic growth plans.
For the packaging storage unit, Smurfit Kappa opted for a vast, open-plan Maxi-Space building with a composite roof. Having visited a Smart-Space reference site in neighbouring Kings Lynn Glenn was convinced the Smart-Space building would offer everything he required. One of the key prerequisites was the ability to store paper-based products at a consistent temperature. The thermal performance and SBEN calculation of the building needed to be compatible with storing corrugated packaging as any exposure to cold, damp or fluctuating temperatures has the potential to ruin the stock. Factoring this in, a composite roof was also chosen.
Another design feature of the installation included a short canopy to allow deliveries to be made under cover. Although the canopy extrudes by just a few metres it is enough to keep the rear of vehicles, people and product all protected from bad weather conditions, specifically keeping everything dry.
The second, smaller steel building was installed as a tool room to store a variety of items including plant vehicles and the contents of previously used shipping containers. The external finish was selected in dark green to blend in with its surroundings.
The focus on health and safety is very much in evidence throughout the Smurfit Kappa site. They take care of their own effluent waste and are audited for BRC accreditation every year to maintain standards. There is a consistently high level of expectation that the correct workwear is worn, access points and pedestrian areas are restricted and signage and notices are at every turn as reminders of the importance of staying safe on-site. Smart-Space has its own set of stringent health and safety standards but also incorporates that of customer sites, which can vary depending on the sector, resulting in all-round care and attention.
“Ultimately it came down to the people” explained Glenn. “My research produced a mix of building types and costs as we looked at all aspects but when we added in the attention, expertise and knowledge of the Smart-Space team I chose them.”
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