As warehouse automation continues to influence global supply chains, the mezzanine structures that support this technology are becoming increasingly important. To explore how mezzanine innovation is helping businesses unlock new levels of efficiency, Heidi Scott, Partner and Journalist for Bridgeland Copyright, sat down with Matt Loveday, Managing Director at MiTek Mezzanine Systems. Their conversation delves into the rapidly evolving warehousing landscape, the growing demand for intelligent infrastructure and how MiTek’s precision-engineered solutions are enabling organisations to scale, automate and future-proof their operations.
What are your best-known products/solutions/services?
MiTek Mezzanine Systems is best known for tailored mezzanine floors to maximise the use of available space within a building and custom-engineered steel support structures. The latter form the foundation for advanced warehouse automation, allowing technology to be either mounted above or suspended below our precision-built steel frameworks.
How do you think your industry sector is performing at the moment?
Although industry analysts have reduced their projections for fixed automation in the short term, longer-term forecasts have been increased. The outlook for mobile automation has been downgraded a little, but this section of the market still shows strong growth. The fact is that high labour costs in Europe will continue to drive investment in warehouse automation, which fuels demand for mezzanines. We also are finding that many companies are sweating their assets by refurbishing their warehouses and introducing automation.
How many markets are you in and what is your biggest market?
Our solutions enhance warehouse and logistics efficiency across all industries. We are seeing steady investment in modernising warehouse operations from major retailers and third-party logistics providers, along with growing demand from the food, beverage and grocery sectors, which are among our fastest-growing markets. E-commerce remains our biggest and most resilient market.
What are your most recent product innovations?
We have evolved our solutions to seamlessly integrate with cutting-edge warehouse automation technologies, building the foundation for the future of warehousing. Our growing expertise in cube storage systems – such as AutoStore – allows us to help customers unlock the full potential of their automated storage and retrieval systems by designing tunnels, intermediate platforms, walkways, maintenance areas and emergency escape routes, as well as suspended ceilings that support fire protection or lighting installations.
Can you tell us about any recent customer contract wins or projects and how you helped the customer meet their challenges?
We’ve recently partnered with both returning and new clients across various sectors – a testament to our strong reputation and the value we deliver. Recent projects include collaborations with food & beverage manufacturers, public sector organisations, major retailers and leading system integrators. Four projects spring to mind. The first, for a major dairy products manufacturer, required the installation of a complex, seven-tier mezzanine structure within a live warehouse. Despite extremely limited space, challenging logistics and working in low temperatures, the project was completed without disrupting operations. Another recent brownfield project was for the brewery giant, Pilsner Urquell in Czechia. The client wanted to introduce pallet conveyors to its operations but, to keep routes free for forklift traffic, the automation was installed on a five-metre-tall mezzanine structure. Our experts designed the steelwork to accommodate existing infrastructure at the site and altered the column spacing to enable forklift access. The challenge of the third project lay in its vast scale and tight deadlines. Working in partnership with Witron as system integrator, we successfully delivered 30 bespoke steel platforms and other specialist solutions for Home Bargains in what is one of the most highly automated distribution centres in Europe. The fourth installation was to support an AutoStore system at a new DC in Czechia for a multinational fashion retailer. There were delays caused by third-party flooring contractors, but our team quickly reallocated resources and managed to bring the project back on track. Following the success of this solution, we’re now implementing a similar installation for the same client in Poland.
What is your strategy for growth and success in 2026?
Our strategy for 2026 focuses on sustainable growth, innovation and collaboration. We aim to expand our presence across Europe by strengthening partnerships with automation integrators and end users, investing in advanced design and digital engineering capabilities, and continuing to optimise our supply chain for speed and reliability. We also remain committed to sustainability and employee development, ensuring we deliver smarter, safer and more efficient mezzanine solutions that support the warehouses of the future.
Can you foresee autonomous mobile robots and goods-to-person systems becoming more mainstream to improve efficiency and reduce manual labour?
Definitely. The trend toward automation is accelerating across e-commerce and logistics, as more industries adopt advanced technologies to counter rising labour costs and skills shortages and provide greater operational efficiency.
Is the industry placing a greater emphasis on sustainability?
Absolutely. Having attended several exhibitions and conferences this year, we’ve observed a strong shift toward greener solutions and carbon-neutral warehouse designs. The industry is clearly prioritising sustainability, from responsible material sourcing to energy-efficient automation and structural design.
Are robust cybersecurity measures becoming a greater priority?
The rise in cyber threats has underscored the need for strong cybersecurity protocols. Being part of the global MiTek group gives us access to world-class IT expertise, robust infrastructure and economies of scale that enhance system security, training and resilience.
Are you placing greater emphasis on employee wellness, such as investing in ergonomic environments and mental health support?
Yes. MiTek has invested in Mental Health First Aid training, ensuring every site and office has a qualified MHFA-trained colleague. Our employee benefits programme also provides access to financial advice, counselling and support for physical well-being and mental health, fostering a culture of care and resilience across our organisation.
Is the industry being agile enough in adapting to shifting global trade regulations?
While some challenges remain, the industry is becoming more agile in responding to evolving trade and compliance regulations. MiTek’s global footprint and network enable us to adapt quickly to regional changes, ensuring continuity in supply, compliance with export and safety standards and alignment with international quality certifications.
What sets your company apart from others?
Having worked with 9 of the world’s top 10 system integrators, we possess a deep understanding of the automated systems that our structures support. This experience allows us to provide our customers with technically sound advice and tailored solutions. We are proud to hold ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and EN 1090 certifications, offering full CE-marking and an Execution Class 2-accredited supply chain. Additionally, our SMAS, CHAS and SafeContractor accreditations reflect our unwavering commitment to safety and quality. As part of the global MiTek network, our clients benefit from multinational resources, technical expertise and reduced commercial risk.
How future-proof and flexible are your solutions?
Every MiTek structure is custom-designed to meet the unique requirements of each client. Our designs are inherently flexible and scalable, ensuring they can evolve alongside the customer’s business needs and future technologies.
How would you sum up your company in three words?
Precision. Partnership. Performance.
