The Transport and Storage sector has seen extraordinary growth, expanding by 88% between 2011 and 2021. According to the latest ONS data on business investment, warehousing continues to experience significant expansion since 2021.
As we adapt to an evolving economic climate which has been shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic, post-Brexit challenges, and shifting consumer behaviour, it’s clear that warehousing needs to evolve with it to meet new demands. The changes in social behaviour, the push toward sustainable operations, and an increase in flexible working are all redefining how the UK operates.
Amid these shifts, the demand for modern, future-ready warehouses has never been greater. A recent Savills report highlights how global events are influencing warehousing trends, with many businesses reshaping supply chains to prioritise resilience and proximity to consumer markets. UKWA notes that businesses investing in efficient supply chain management will see tangible benefits, including reduced costs, faster response times, and enhanced customer service.
This evolving landscape is leading to a surge in UK-based warehouses and the development of co-located and clustered facilities. However, to be truly future-proof, warehouse infrastructure must maximise land use, embrace automation, and meet sustainability targets.
We’re seeing a transition toward taller warehouse builds that can support higher racking systems and maximise cubic space. New expectations also include fitting solar panels to once-unused roof space and introducing automated systems like crane-operated ASRS in previously overlooked areas, such as underground zones.
Another significant evolution lies in warehouse automation. While only 10–15% of warehouses globally currently use robotics, this is expected to increase dramatically. Robotics are particularly effective in predictable environments with consistent product size and handling, making them an ideal fit for many warehousing operations.
How Whittan Can Help Drive This Change
As the warehousing industry evolves, so too must the systems that support it. Whittan recognises that adaptability, innovation, and close collaboration with our customers are key to delivering long-term operational success.
With over 70 years of experience in designing and delivering cutting-edge storage solutions, Whittan has developed deep expertise in optimising warehouse space and performance.
Future-Ready, Flexible Solutions
We specialise in creating storage systems tailored to the unique needs of each warehouse. From concept to installation, we continuously evolve our approach to ensure compliance with the latest safety and industry standards, all while integrating modern technologies into our solutions.
Our extensive product portfolio includes our latest pallet racking range, Link SKMX, offering adaptable configurations to meet a wide variety of storage challenges. Whether it’s push back, double deep, narrow aisle, drive in, cantilever, dynamic, or fully/semi-automated systems, we can deliver the right solution to suit your operation.
And with growing attention on localisation and shorter supply chains, Whittan’s presence across both the UK and mainland Europe allows us to manufacture and supply from the most strategic locations, ensuring maximum efficiency and convenience for your business.
Ready to future-proof your warehouse? We’re attending IMHX from 9-11th September, where our experts will be ready to talk to you about all your warehouse storage solutions. We’re excited to be showcasing our new Link SKMX offering and demonstrating the expanded capabilities it offers you and your business, designed and manufactured right here in the UK.
We’re excited to see you at IMHX, so come and see us at Stand F110!
Stand Number: F110
Comments are closed.