Retailer Next invests in loading solution for online fulfilment
Hörmann Transdek has supplied and installed a Vehicle-to-Ground (V2G) lift at Next’s South Elmsall distribution centre, near Wakefield.
THE LIFT supports a newly built warehouse extension designed to meet the retailer’s growing demand for online fulfilment.
The V2G lift provides level-access loading and unloading for a range of vehicles, from small vans to single and double-deck trailers. Its modular, free-standing design makes it suitable for both internal and external use, and its surface-mounted construction eliminates the need for pits or major groundworks, significantly reducing installation time and cost.
Next project manager Tristan Robbins, says: “The V2G lift from Hörmann Transdek has provided an efficient, flexible solution for a challenging area of the warehouse. The team delivered quickly, and the installation allowed us to maintain our timelines with minimal disruption. The result is a lift that has integrated seamlessly into our operation.”
The implementation
Next faced the challenge of installing a loading solution in part of the distribution centre that had a completely flat floor and no existing doors or loading bays. Hörmann Transdek’s V2G lift was the ideal answer, with its rapid delivery and flexible design allowing for installation within weeks. To accommodate the lift, a new opening was created in the warehouse’s external façade, and the lift was installed directly onto the internal floor slab, avoiding disruptive civil works.
The installed V2G lift has a 12-pallet, 5.3 tonne capacity and was supplied without cladding to make use of natural light within the warehouse. Its space-efficient design delivers a sealed, secure loading environment, aligning with Next’s operational and safety requirements.
Key features
- LED traffic light system for safe coordination between vehicle and operator.
- Low-gradient loading ramp for safe equipment movement.
- Dedicated pedestrian walkway to separate personnel from vehicle movement.
- Safety curtain and light beam system to restrict access under the platform.
- Interlocked safety gates, fully compliant with UK/EU legislation.
- Suitable for ambient, chilled and freezer applications.
V2G lifts are available in capacities from 4 to 14 pallets (4 to 12.5 tonnes) and include an MHE-compatible hydraulic bridge plate. For smaller commercial vehicles and vans, the optional ‘Vandango’ bridge plate is available.
