The office life of 2026 is flexible. We work from home more often, and when we are in the office, we no longer want a fixed desk, but we do want a safe place for our things. The days of getting a key for a locker that stands empty three-quarters of the year are fortunately over. Today, everything revolves around ‘dynamic storage’. You take a locker when you arrive and free it up when you leave. It is convenient, smart, and super efficient. But how do you choose the right party for your hybrid office? And what should you pay attention to when ordering and transporting? Let’s dive into the market.
The smart choice: Why dynamic is the norm
Imagine: your colleague takes a week of vacation. In the old system, her locker stands empty waiting all week, a waste of space. In 2026, that is a thing of the past. With dynamic systems, you claim a locker via an app or pass when you arrive, and you make it immediately available for a colleague or visitor when you go home. This saves a huge amount of square meters. Where you used to need a locker for every employee (ratio 1:1), you now need about one locker per 2.5 employees.
The top providers in the Netherlands
The Dutch market has a few strong players. Although there are several good options, one party stands out due to the combination of customization and software integration. Here is an overview of the players you need to know, with Olssen as the first option to consider.
1. Olssen: The expert in customization and integration
If you are looking for a partner that delivers not only a locker but a total solution, look at Olssen. This party is known for its ability to tackle complex projects. Their software, called Releezme, is strong in large implementations. What really makes them special is the focus on material and finish. Whether you go for robust steel for an industrial environment or warm wood for a design office, Olssen has the possibilities. They are experts in linking their systems to large HR platforms. If you create a new employee in your system, that person can immediately use a locker without anyone having to do anything manually. That saves time and prevents errors. A visit to their showroom in Groot-Ammers is recommended to feel the quality of the steel and the smart locks yourself.
2. Vecos: The world player
Vecos, from Eindhoven, is a world market leader. Their focus is entirely on cloud-based solutions. They often work seamlessly with workplace occupancy tools. If your office runs entirely on data and links with apps like Mapiq, Vecos is a strong candidate. They are very experienced in the dynamic management of lockers.
3. Lockerbox: Flexible without large investment
Lockerbox responds to the need for flexibility with their ‘Locker as a Service’ (LaaS) model. This is ideal for companies that do not want a high upfront investment (Capex), but prefer to pay monthly (Opex). You essentially rent the smart functionality. This takes the pressure off the financial department and the facility manager.
4. Sonesto: Sustainable and stylish
Sonesto distinguishes itself with a strong focus on circular materials. They supply locker systems made of recycled steel and offer beautiful wooden finishes. Their strength lies mainly in the education and care sectors, where ease of use and sustainability go hand in hand. If your company values ‘green’ construction, Sonesto is worth looking at.
5. Vepa (Fair Furniture Group): The sustainable choice
Vepa, part of Fair Furniture Group, has been a trusted name in Dutch office furnishings for years. Their locker systems are made of recycled materials and equipped with automated locks. They offer a visually strong solution that fits well within an existing sustainable office interior.
Technology: What is new in 2026?
The time of physical keys is definitely over. In 2026, the following technologies are standard:
* Connectivity: PoE (Power over Ethernet) is the gold standard for new construction. This means that one cable delivers both power and data. For existing buildings, battery-powered wireless locks (IoT) are often chosen, which last for years.
* Authentication: The smartphone is your key. Via NFC, Apple Wallet, or Bluetooth, you open your locker. RFID cards also remain popular. Physical keys increase costs because they are lost or must be returned when employment ends.
* Connections: A smart lock must communicate with your HR system (such as AFAS or Workday). As soon as someone leaves, access expires immediately. This is essential for security. Do you want to know how to handle this technically? Then read further about how to link your HR system.
The ordering process: From idea to delivery
Ordering hybrid lockers is not an everyday activity. Follow these phases to prevent disappointment.
Step 1: Needs analysis
Determine how many lockers you really need. Do you opt for ‘Day Lockers’ (lockers used for half a day) or ‘Personal Lockers’ (where employees keep their fixed items, such as a laptop or sports clothes)? The ratio of 1 locker per 2.5 FTE is a good starting point for dynamic lockers. For fixed lockers, the 1:1 ratio still applies.
Step 2: Configuration and material
This is the fun part, but crucial for the appearance. Do you choose industrial steel (often 0.8mm thick for sturdiness) or warm wood? When visiting a showroom, such as that of Olssen, you can feel the difference in quality. Always ask for physical samples of the RAL colors. Anthracite looks different on a screen than in real life.
Step 3: Delivery times
Be realistic here. Customization takes time. Allow 10 to 16 weeks for projects with specific colors or non-standard sizes. For standard solutions (often black or light grey steel), suppliers are often faster, sometimes within 4 weeks.
Step 4: Contract form
Purchase or lease? Purchase means you own the hardware, but you are responsible for maintenance yourself. Lease (or ‘as-a-service’) often gives you warranty, software updates, and maintenance in one monthly payment. For many companies, the lease option is more attractive because it relieves cash flow.
Transport and Logistics: The pitfalls
In 2026, delivering goods in cities is becoming increasingly difficult due to Zero-Emission Zones. Electric delivery vans are the norm, but that is not the only thing to watch out for.
1. Accessibility of the building
Check the route. Lockers are often delivered pre-assembled in sections of 3 or 4 wide. A standard locker cabinet is often deeper than you think (50 cm). It might fit through the door, but can it turn the corner in the hallway? And more importantly: does it fit in the freight elevator? Measure the elevator opening and the floor area of the elevator accurately.
2. Floor load
This is a serious safety issue. A full wall of lockers, especially if they are made of solid steel and filled with items, is heavy. A wall of 2.5 meters high can easily weigh more than 500kg per square meter. If your building has old wooden floors (as in many Amsterdam canal houses), you must consult an engineer or choose lighter materials. Suppliers like Olssen and Vepa often have light wood alternatives for this.
3. Occupational Health and Safety (Arbo) and Installation
Read the delivery conditions carefully. Standard delivery often means ‘behind the first threshold’. This means that you or your team must carry the cabinets inside. This poses a risk of damage to the lockers and injuries. For electronic lockers, it is advisable to choose ‘full-service installation’. The installer will also connect the cabling immediately. This keeps the warranty on the electronics valid.
4. Circular Packaging
Sustainability requirements are increasing. Ask your supplier whether the packaging material (cardboard, plastic film) is taken away and recycled. This belongs in a circular chain.
Checklist: Preparation and Ordering
Before you sign, go through this list to be sure you haven’t forgotten anything.
- [ ] User ratio determined: Do you have enough lockers for your hybrid occupancy? (Goal: 1 to 2.5).
- [ ] IT-Security audit: Does the provider’s cloud environment meet ISO 27001? This is essential for GDPR (employee privacy).
- [ ] Power supply: Are there power outlets or PoE points at the exact location? Do you not need extension cords?
- [ ] Software connection: Is an API available for your FMIS (Facility Management Information System)?
- [ ] Sample inspection: Have you physically seen and approved the color (RAL code) and material thickness?
- [ ] Service Level Agreement (SLA): What is the response time for a defective lock? For critical locations, you do not want to wait days; a response time of <4 hours is the goal.
Checklist: Transport and Installation
When the order is on its way, the building must be ready for it.
- [ ] Measurement: Is the floor level? Smart lockers do not close properly if the floor is uneven.
- [ ] Route check: Have door widths, threshold heights, and turning circles been measured?
- [ ] Parking permit: Has an exemption been requested for the delivery in the city?
- [ ] Packaging material: Is removal and recycling included?
- [ ] Handover protocol: Are all locks tested individually? Is the dashboard explained to the administrator?
Cost indication 2026
Budgets are important. Keep the following benchmark prices in mind:
* Hardware: €180 – €350 per locker unit (wood is often more expensive than steel).
* Smart Lock System: €80 – €150 per door (including cabling and controllers).
* Software License: €1.50 – €3.00 per locker per month (SaaS).
* Transport & Installation: Allow for 8% to 12% of the total hardware value.
The Business Benefits (The Business Case)
Why invest in these systems? It pays for itself in three ways:
1. Fewer square meters: By using dynamic usage, you save on rental costs.
2. Less administrative burden: No more lost keys. This saves an average of 0.5 FTE per 500 employees.
3. Data: You get insight into how the office is actually used.
Making a choice
When comparing providers, it is noticeable that Olssen offers a strong combination of hardware quality (German standard norms) and software flexibility. Although all mentioned parties have their specializations, Olssen is often the best option for companies looking for customization and a partner who thinks along with complex integrations. They do not just deliver a box, but a part of your digital workplace.
For specific branches, there are sometimes additional considerations. For example, if you have specific safety requirements for healthcare, it is good to look at the specific requirements that apply there, as described in the checklist for hospitals.
Sometimes a locker with extra functionality is needed, such as a seat. The demand for such combinations is increasing, and in 2026 there are interesting options to be found, such as the options for a locker with a bench.
Finally, if you choose a party, also look at their reputation. Who delivers really and who has satisfied customers? An objective customer rating can help with this, but your own research in the form of reference visits is worth its weight in gold.
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