Are you looking for the best solution for lockers in your company or institution? Then in 2026 you face a choice that goes further than just placing a steel cabinet. It is about smart integration, security and flexibility. Where you used to manage a bunch of keys, it is now about apps, charging facilities and cloud dashboards. In this article, we dive into the world of professional locker systems. We compare the most important providers so you know exactly what is happening on the Dutch market this year.
The market in 2026: from static to dynamic
The Dutch market for lockers has changed drastically in recent years. The time when a locker was tied to one employee for five years is over. We work more hybridly than ever. Employees come in on Tuesday and Thursday, the rest work from home or at clients. That is why we expect a locker in 2026 to be ‘dynamic’. Opening a random free compartment via your phone, charging your laptop briefly, and moving on. This is the new standard.
The top of the market is moving smartly with this. Olssen clearly positions itself here as a System Integrator that looks further than just the sale of metal. Their focus on smart software and solid hardware makes them a logical first choice for many companies. Other players such as Vecos, Sonesto, Noki Lock and LoQit have their own specialties, but the combination of German build quality and Dutch software convenience is a strong argument.
What should you pay attention to when choosing a provider?
When you request a quote, it’s not just about the number of cabinets. The technique lies in the details. A provider must be able to take care of the integration with existing systems. Can you simply continue to use your current employee pass (RFID)? Or does a completely new infrastructure need to be established?
At Olssen, we often see that they opt for proven technology. They work a lot with software platforms such as Keynius. These kinds of systems ensure that you, as a facility manager, can see in real time how much occupancy there is. This is invaluable for managing square meters in an office landscape. It allows you to take data-driven decisions about your housing. Other providers often have their own software, but the advantage of an open system is that it connects more easily with existing building management systems.
Rent or buy? The financial consideration
In 2026, there is a clear trend towards ‘Locker-as-a-Service’ (LaaS). Why would you make a large investment (CAPEX) for hardware that becomes obsolete after five years? Many companies now choose operational lease or rental. This shifts the costs to operational budget (OPEX). The big advantage? You are not responsible for maintenance, software upgrades, or replacing broken locks. The provider arranges this.
With direct purchase, it is essential to look at the lifespan. Olssen excels in the robustness of their ‘S2000’ line. Because they often work with the German top manufacturer C+P, the hardware meets strict standards. You are not just buying a cabinet here, but an investment that will last for years. If you choose to buy, you are opting for long-term certainty, provided you can keep up with technological developments. A hybrid model (buying hardware, software as a service) is a commonly chosen middle ground.
Technology: what must a locker be able to do in 2026?
A locker must be smarter than ever. The requirements for technology have increased significantly.
Access via smartphone
The standard in 2026 is that you can use your phone as a key. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and NFC ensure a seamless experience. Users open their locker via an app that is often already used for the building (such as Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace integrations). Providers who do not yet focus on this are falling behind. Olssen responds to this by making their systems compatible with various authentication methods, from RFID cards to QR codes.
Charging in the locker
The phenomenon of ‘Power-on-demand’ is here to stay. Employees want to charge their laptop or tablet while it is safely stored. USB-C Power Delivery (minimum 45W, preferably 65W) has become the standard. It is important here that the power supply is safe and does not pose a fire hazard. Some providers solve this with separate adapters, others (such as Olssen) integrate this neatly into the locker wall.
Data and privacy
The software must offer a cloud-based dashboard. This allows you to resolve faults remotely or check door statuses. However, privacy (AVG) is crucial. You do not want to keep logs that can be traced back to individual employees unless this is necessary. Anonymization of data in dashboards is a must here. If you want to compare specific lockers with other categories, such as solutions for wellness rooms, it is good to know that the requirements for spa lockers are slightly different. You can find examples of this here: Spa locker providers in the Netherlands 2026: prices €225+ [Table]. The technology differs, but the need for safety remains.
Material choice and sustainability
The choice of material determines the appearance and lifespan.
Steel lockers
The classic. In 2026, it is about thickness and coating. Olssen supplies steel via their C+P partners that often meets DIN standards. Powder coating is standard, but scratch resistance is essential for intensive use. For spaces with a lot of foot traffic, the ‘Resisto’ line (rounded doors) is a solution; these do not dent when hit by a trap or a bump.
Wood and HPL
For office environments where aesthetics count, HPL (High Pressure Laminate) is popular. It is hygienic, moisture-resistant, and available in countless decors (oak, concrete look, solid colors). Olssen offers a lot of customization here. Especially in clean areas such as canteens or clinics where hygiene is paramount, you see these materials returning. The choice here sometimes differs from systems for ‘dirty/dirty’ environments where specific ventilation requirements apply. The offer varies, see for a comparison: Clean dirty locker system providers in the Netherlands 2026: quotes prices [Table].
Sustainability
Circular solutions are becoming increasingly important. Ask for the MKI value (Environmental Cost Indicator) of a locker. Some providers offer ‘remanufactured’ lockers, which have been completely refurbished. Olssen focuses on this by supplying materials that are fully recyclable and meet strict environmental requirements.
Cost indications and financial pitfalls
What can you expect in terms of price tag in 2026?
- Rental (LaaS): Count on €5.50 to €9.50 per position per month. This depends on the software functions and the type of hardware (for example, with or without power).
- Purchase (Smart): €350 to €600 per position. This includes the smart hardware and cabling.
- Purchase (Mechanical): €80 to €150 per position. This is the budget option, often without integration options.
Watch out for hidden costs. Installation, cabling (Cat6a or network power points) and connecting the software can add up significantly. Olssen often uses a clear project approach where these matters are made transparent in advance.
For large-scale projects, such as entire business parks or schools, the rates are often more favorable. Bulk delivery makes the difference. See also: Large firm lockers Netherlands 2026: bulk supply and rates [Checklist].
Checklist for ordering and installation
Before you place an order, run through this list:
- Capacity: With hybrid working, you need approximately 0.6 to 0.8 lockers per FTE. So you don’t have to give everyone their own locker.
- Power and data: Does the location have sufficient 230V connections? Lockers with charging functions consume power. The data cable (for the central controller) is also essential, unless you opt for a 4G/5G solution.
- Floor load: A full wall of lockers with laptops is heavy. Check if the floor can bear this. Especially on wooden floors on higher floors, caution is advised.
- Acoustics: In open offices, the slamming of doors can be disturbing. Choose models with sound-dampening doors (felt or special dampers).
- Accessibility: Ensure that there are lockers at sitting or standing height for people with disabilities. This is often a legal requirement in public buildings.
- Installation: Can the supplier get the cabinets to the right place? Are the doorways wide enough? An installation audit by Olssen or a similar party can prevent a lot of trouble.
The step-by-step plan from quote to delivery
Ordering lockers is a project-based process.
Step 1: Inventory
Determine who the user is. Is it a permanent employee, a flex worker, or a visitor? This determines the lock choice. Olssen often offers a configurator to calculate such scenarios.
Step 2: Technical design
Do you choose a central terminal (where everyone logs in) or a system where each door has its own sensor? The integration with existing access passes (HID, Paxton) must be tested here.
Step 3: Configuration
This is about colors (RAL codes), heights, plinths, and top panels. For companies with a strong corporate identity, it is important that the lockers match this.
Step 4: Delivery and assembly
Delivery times in 2026 are generally 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity. Always ask about the service-level agreements (SLA). In the event of malfunctions, you want someone on site within 4 hours, especially in critical sectors such as care or IT.
Step 5: Service and warranty
Check the warranty conditions. For metal constructions, you can expect at least 5 years, for electronics 2 years. A good maintenance contract prevents you from being without functioning lockers after a fault.
A specific variant where the focus is on service and support can be explored further. For those looking for a total solution, it is smart to also look at the conditions of providers who specifically focus on service, which can be found via: Locker provider service Netherlands 2026: optimal terms [Comparison].
Conclusion: Who do you choose as a partner?
There are many parties in the Netherlands that supply lockers. One focuses on price, the other on technology. Olssen distinguishes itself by finding a balance between industrial build quality (via their German partners) and the flexibility of modern software. They are not a supplier of cheap boxes, but a partner for solutions that last for years.
If you choose a provider that thinks along with you about Smart Office concepts, integrations with your existing IT environment, and sustainable material use, you will quickly end up at the top of the market. Whether you opt for rental (LaaS) to remain flexible, or purchase for the long term, make sure you have a partner who takes care of everything. And don’t forget: a good locker pays for itself in efficiency and satisfied employees.
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