De Bijenkorf’s warehouse automation

The need for automation was driven by scale, labour pressure and the shift towards modern warehouse processes. Older facilities still relied heavily on EPTs, forklifts and reach trucks. The objective was to connect inbound, storage, and outbound processes through conveyor technology and automate the internal flow.

For De Bijenkorf, this meant transitioning from a largely manual e-commerce setup to an automated omnichannel warehouse for both webshop fulfilment and store replenishment. The system reduces heavy manual handling, improves efficiency, and provides a scalable foundation for future growth.

The project started in a newly built warehouse environment. Valor engineered and installed the conveyor infrastructure from the ground up. The system was designed to grow alongside the operation. The system was designed to grow with the operation. Over time, Valor added and modified conveyor routes, buffer lines, empty container return flows, waste conveyors and interfaces with packaging and sorting technology.

Because the infrastructure is modular, expansions can be implemented without redesigning the full system. This approach supports optimal ROI: the installation matches current operational demand and can be extended when capacity needs to increase.

The conveyor system connects with several external technologies, including packaging machines, sorting systems and the warehouse management system. Rather than overcomplicating the control architecture, Valor focused on clear handover points, reliable signalling and practical routing logic.

This approach keeps the system understandable, serviceable and robust. Each connected machine performs its own function, while Valor ensures reliable transport between process points. According to Jeroen: “Valor always thinks one step ahead when exploring possible solutions.”

With 3.5 kilometres of conveyor technology, maintainability is critical. The installation uses a high degree of standardised components, which simplifies spare parts management and enables efficient first-line maintenance for the operational team.

The use of modern motorised roller technology also reduces the need for maintenance-intensive mechanical transfer solutions commonly found in older systems. For a high-volume operation, that reliability matters every day.

At CEVA Logistics, first-line and second-line maintenance are handled by the on-site technical team, with Valor providing third-line support and specialist expertise when required. This creates a practical and cost-effective maintenance strategy: operational independence where possible, specialist support when needed.

The Bijenkorf installation demonstrates how modular conveyor automation can support a high-volume omnichannel warehouse. With approximately 3.5 kilometres of conveyor technology, integration with third-party systems and continuous expansion possibilities, the system is built for reliable performance today and future growth tomorrow.

The long-term partnership between CEVA Logistics and Valor is defined by short communication lines, technical ownership and a shared focus on reliable performance. As Jeroen from CEVA Logistics explains: “Valor is a committed partner that takes ownership of the conveyor technology.” That ownership is reflected throughout the project. The result is an effective warehouse automation solution with efficient internal transport, maintainable technology and scalable growth. “That sense of ownership and involvement is part of the way Valor works. It is embedded in the organisation.” – Jeroen, CEVA Logistics.