As 2026 approaches, warehouse operators across the UK are facing a familiar but increasingly urgent challenge; rapid growth without the physical space to support it. Inventory levels are rising, order volumes are increasing, and operational demands continue to intensify. Yet relocating or extending a facility remains costly, disruptive, and in many cases, simply impractical.
Instead, businesses are turning to a much smarter approach; one that allows them to increase capacity inside their existing footprint. The answer is increasingly found above their heads; custom-designed mezzanine floors from John Scott Works.
Why space is becoming a strategic issue in 2026
The warehousing landscape is evolving quickly. The continuing rise of e-commerce, expanding product variety, labour shortages, and the rapid adaptation of automation all create pressure on every available square metre. Many warehouses that were once comfortably sized, are now operating at or beyond capacity.
While a larger building might seem like the obvious next step, the barriers are substantial:
- Soaring real-estate costs;
- Limited availability of suitable warehouse sites;
- Extended planning and construction timelines;
- Operational downtime during a move;
- The environmental impact of new-build facilities.
As a result, more companies are asking the same question: “How do we grow without moving?”.
Making smarter use of the space you already own
This is where mezzanine solutions come into focus. A well-engineered mezzanine can quickly and efficiently unlock new capacity. You can double, triple or even quadruple the available space, without extending the building footprint or interrupting daily operations.
John Scott Works, a leading UK manufacturer of custom mezzanines and part of the Profielnorm Group, continues to see demand rising sharply. John Scott Works specialises in designing, manufacturing, and installing tailored, engineered cold-formed mezzanine structures. Structures built to match the exact workflow and load requirements of each customer.
“Most warehouses have more space available than they think,” Jon Lewis, Managing Director, explains. “They haven’t gone vertical yet. A mezzanine is one of the quickest and smartest ways to create space for growth.”
Custom-made solutions for real operational challenges
No two mezzanines are the same, and that’s what makes the approach so effective. Each cold-formed structure is engineered to serve a specific purpose, whether that’s additional storage, production space, picking zones, packing lines, offices, or automated handling equipment.
By controlling design and manufacturing in-house, John Scott Works delivers solutions that are:
- Structurally robust and compliant with UK regulations;
- Tailored to workflow, ensuring optimal efficiency;
- Quick to install, with minimal operational disruption;
- Designed for the future, including compatibility with conveyors, autonomous mobile robots, and automation systems.
For industries such as third-party logistics, manufacturing, retail, and hygiene or chemical production, a custom mezzanine can provide a critical competitive edge.
Preparing for automation and expansion
As automation becomes a larger part of warehouse strategy, mezzanines increasingly serve as a foundation for growth. They can support conveyors, robotics, shuttle systems, sortation equipment, and elevated walkways. This makes them an ideal platform for fulfilment operations preparing for the next stage of expansion.
By creating space for these technologies inside the existing building, businesses can innovate without the financial strain of new construction.
Our colleagues are ready to help
The John Scott Works team is happy to visit your facility, assess your space and workflow, and recommend a custom-made mezzanine solution tailored to your business needs. Whether you’re looking to increase storage, improve efficiency, or prepare for automation, our experts are ready to guide you through every step, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum results.
Call: +44(0) 121 306 0600
Email: sales@johnscottworks.co.uk
Visit: www.johnscottworks.co.uk
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