WH SMITH SWINDON
(PALLET ENCLOSURE)
Client Overview
WHSmith PLC is a leading global travel retailer specialising in news, books, and convenience products. Through innovation, global expansion, and operational excellence, WHSmith continues to enhance efficiency, profitability, and sustainability across all areas of its business, including logistics and warehousing.
At one of WHSmith’s distribution centres, a new anti-topple pallet enclosure was required to safely contain a 7m-high block stack storage area.
The system needed to ensure the stability and security of stored goods while allowing for safe pedestrian walkways around the perimeter, all without any structural connection to the building’s roof.
Project Brief
No connection permitted to the existing roof structure
Pallets weighing up to 500kg, stacked four high
Need for safe, clearly defined pedestrian walkways around the enclosure
These requirements demanded a robust, self-supporting system capable of withstanding the potential forces of a falling pallet load, while ensuring compliance with warehouse safety standards.
The Challenge
Working in partnership with NEDCON engineers, The Storage Centre developed a hybrid structural solution built around a heavy-duty pallet racking framework engineered for stability and load resistance.
The Solution
Following approval, The Storage Centre completed the installation within a two-week on-site programme, ensuring minimal disruption to WHSmith’s daily operations.
The result was a fully independent, secure, and durable anti-topple structure designed to protect both personnel and goods within the warehouse environment.
Implementation
Heavy-duty pallet racking system with reinforced baseplates and large floor fixings, designed to contain stacked pallets in the event of toppling
Hot-rolled steel cross members engineered to support the weight of falling pallets
Anti-collapse steel mesh panels to prevent debris or products from escaping the enclosure
Comprehensive bracing system to transfer loads safely throughout the structure
Integration of safe pedestrian cross-walkways, maintaining efficient and secure site movement
Key Elements Included:
Project Outcome
The completed system provided WHSmith with a robust and compliant safety enclosure, mitigating the risk of falling goods in high-stack areas while maintaining warehouse efficiency and accessibility.
This project demonstrates The Storage Centre’s expertise in custom safety engineering, combining innovation, precision design, and rapid implementation.
About The Storage Centre
The Storage Centre is a UK-based leader in warehouse storage and safety solutions. With expertise spanning racking systems, mezzanine floors, and full warehouse fit-outs, The Storage Centre partners with clients to design and deliver secure, efficient, and compliant storage environments across a wide range of industries.