Optimising expensive floor space is APC’s forte

ALAN PEAT GAUTENG IS developing so fast that the demand for space is now becoming critical, according to Fred Albrecht, MD of APC Storage Solutions – sole distributors for Mecalux, the world’s largest manufacturers of racking and stacking. “Space is extremely expensive,” he told FTW, “and optimising this floor space is essential.” That’s where APC is the solution-finder. “We optimise storage facilities,” said Albrecht. “Any type of warehouse or distribution centre, or office storage facilities. “In this we do a full analysis and technical study if required, interpret the customer’s needs, and present a blueprint of how to optimise the space in the best possible manner.” APC supplies product as well, supplying the world market with 2 500-tons of product daily – and aims to capture 37% of this global market this year. Finding the optimum solution requires innovative thinking, according to Albrecht. Achieving this, he added, has led to the development of a number of highly-specialised and fully-automated storage centres. “In France and inland China, for example,” Albrecht said, “we have constructed storage units that go 48-metres deep underground, and 48-m into the air to optimise the available space to best advantage.” And, in supplying the automation, last year’s take-over of the Knyssen Krupp equipment manufacturers has proven vital. New on the market is another piece of innovative design. “This,” said Albrecht, “is the Rackclad building, where – instead of a frame supporting the structure, with the racking fitted to the walls – the whole building is actually supported by the racking. “That’s a saving of about 35% on the cost of a standard warehouse.” There are already two in South Africa, with others now in the planning stage, Albrecht told FTW. “These fully-fitted automated structures and the Rackclad buildings are our two major products,” he added, “although we mustn’t forget that we also supply the necessary software as well. “We are the logistical planners, providing the blueprint to optimise available space, and the equipment to carry it out in the most cost-efficient manner possible.”