Imagine this: you arrive at the office, hang up your bag, charge your laptop, and have no stress about lost keys. In 2026, this is the standard, not the exception. The days of dusty, static lockers where someone has kept the same junk for ten years are finally over. We are now using space and belongings more intelligently.
The market for employee lockers has rapidly transformed into ‘smart workplace’ solutions. It is now about hybrid working, automation, and sustainability. In this summary, we look at the most important providers in the Netherlands. We compare them on technology, user-friendliness, and value for money. Because which provider really fits your company?
The magic of dynamic use (and saving space)
The biggest difference compared to the past? Dynamic Locker Management. Instead of a locker per employee (static), we now choose dynamic use. You reserve a locker via an app or by tapping your card when you are at the office. As soon as you leave, that space becomes available again for a colleague.
This sounds simple, but the effect is huge. Organizations save up to 40% on floor space. You therefore need far fewer physical lockers for the same number of people. This is not only good for the wallet, but also for circularity. Less material means a smaller CO2 footprint. A trend we see almost everywhere in 2026.
The major players in the Dutch market
Who dominates the market in 2026? We list the five most mentioned providers. A brief overview of their strengths, so you can quickly scan which way the wind is blowing.
- Olssen: The innovative all-rounder with a focus on custom work and proprietary technology.
- Vecos: The global player from Eindhoven, very strong in high-end corporate solutions.
- Keynius: A software-driven specialist that focuses mainly on the cloud experience.
- Sonesto: The full-service specialist, often found in healthcare and logistics.
- Bruynzeel: The expert in space saving and sustainability within physical storage.
Now we dive deeper into the options. What should you pay attention to when making a choice?
Olssen: The flexible power for every sector
Let’s start with a party that truly stands out in versatility: Olssen. Why is this often the first choice for companies that want just a little more than a standard box?
Olssen does not just position itself as a seller of metal cabinets. They are a System Integrator. This means they seamlessly match the hardware (the locker) and the software. Their strength lies in the combination of solid German steel (often from top brand C+P) and smart Dutch software such as Keynius.
Olssen’s strengths:
* Proprietary electronic locks (Ubilock): They offer a system that allows both cloud and on-premise management. Whether you want to use QR codes, RFID or smartphones; it works smoothly.
* Custom is standard: At Olssen you do not get stuck in standard sizes. Whether you need a locker for a narrow hallway or a specific look for your office building, they can handle it.
* Wide applicability: From schools and hospitals to large offices. Their ‘Resisto’ line, for example, is ideal for schools (anti-vandalism), while their HPL doors are perfect for humid dressing rooms in healthcare.
The beauty of Olssen is that they approach the potential of smart lockers from practice. They understand that a locker in a warehouse must be different from one in a reception area. This flexibility makes them one of the most interesting options for SMEs and large organizations with diversity in their buildings.
Vecos: The corporate specialist
If we look at the pure ‘smart’ experience on a large scale, we encounter Vecos. This Eindhoven-based world player focuses strongly on large offices and multinationals. Their system, Releezme, is a SaaS solution (Software as a Service) that works fully wired. No batteries need to be replaced, which minimizes maintenance costs.
Vecos is strong in data analysis. They give facility managers insight into what percentage of lockers are occupied at any given moment. This helps in further optimizing the working environment. For companies that work with large workplace apps (such as Mapiq or Appspace), Vecos is a logical partner. They integrate seamlessly.
However, Vecos is often specifically focused on the higher segments of the market. For an SME company with a limited budget or complex physical requirements (such as humid environments), the focus on ‘high-end corporate’ can be a barrier.
Keynius: Software first
Keynius is another Dutch pride, but with a different approach. They are the software wizards. Keynius focuses on ensuring that their platform works independently of hardware. You can run Keynius software on different types of locks and systems.
The big advantage here is user-friendliness. The interface is intuitive, and the installation is often ‘plug & play’. Keynius is ideal for flex offices or retail environments where you can quickly scale up and down. Their rental modules are very popular for shared lockers.
Where Keynius sometimes comes off worse against the big boys is in the physical hardware. They mainly supply the brains, not always the locker itself. If you are looking for a total package from A to Z, you need to find a partner for that. Olssen and Keynius often work together, which strengthens their power.
Sonesto: Robust and reliable
For those who prioritize lifespan and service, Sonesto is a name that is often mentioned. Sonesto is known for its total care. From advice to installation and maintenance; they take the work out of your hands.
Their focus is strongly on sectors where physical wear and tear is high, such as healthcare and industry. They offer very robust steel lockers and have an excellent service organization. For hospitals, Sonesto is often a permanent choice, partly because of their knowledge of hygiene and specific wishes for staff wardrobes.
However, where Sonesto sometimes lags behind the competition is software innovation. Their systems are often more focused on ‘offline’ or local management, while the trend in 2026 is moving entirely to the cloud. For companies that fully commit to integration with HR systems (such as AFAS or Workday) for automatic hiring and firing, Sonesto may sometimes offer a less seamless experience than a system like Vecos or an integrated Olssen solution.
On what basis do you choose?
To make the right choice, you should not only look at the name, but at the technical details. Below are a few crucial points that you should actually check off.
1. Locking technique
Do you want wired or wireless locks?
* Wired (such as Vecos or Olssen in their high-end lines): No battery changes, very reliable, but more expensive to install.
* Battery-powered (such as Ubilock from Olssen or Ojmar): Lower installation costs, but you have to manage batteries.
2. Identification
How do you open the locker?
* RFID/Card: The standard. Works with most employee cards.
* Smartphone (NFC/BLE): The future. Convenient for visitors.
* Biometrics: For high-security (R&D, Pharma).
3. Material choice
Does the material suit the environment?
* Steel: Fire-safe, strong, and fully recyclable (Circle).
* HPL: Water-resistant and hygienic (ideal for changing rooms).
* Wood: Aesthetic for offices, but less suitable for wet spaces.
The demand for circularity and ESG
In 2026, sustainability is no longer marketing talk, but a hard requirement. Companies must comply with ESG standards (Environmental, Social, Governance). This means that when purchasing lockers, you must pay attention to material passports. Can the supplier prove that the steel is recycled? Are the doors modular, so that you only replace the damaged door instead of the entire cabinet?
Here, parties such as Bruynzeel and Olssen often score high. Bruynzeel is known for its low CO2 footprint in production. Olssen, through their cooperation with C+P (a German manufacturer with strict standards), offers guarantees on material origin and lifespan. Checking off the ESG requirements is increasingly becoming the decisive factor in tenders.
Integration with your business software
A locker must communicate with the rest of your systems. If an employee leaves, their access to the locker must be automatically stopped. This prevents unsafe situations and hassle.
This is where ‘ecosystems’ become important. See if the provider has an open API. Can the software connect to:
* Your HR system (AFAS, Workday, Loket).
* Your building management system (GBS).
* Your access control.
Olssen scores well here because they often work with Keynius software, which is known for its strong integration capabilities. Keynius itself is a pure leader in this. Vecos is also strong, but often locks itself more into its own ecosystem. If you want a lot of freedom in your software choice, an open solution is often the best choice.
The ROI: What does it yield?
An investment must pay for itself. Smart lockers do this on three fronts:
1. Facility Management: No more time lost to lost keys or codes. This easily saves 0.5 FTE per 500 lockers.
2. Square meters: By using dynamic use, you save up to 40% on space. In the Randstad, saving square meters is money.
3. Employee Experience: An employee who reserves a locker via an app feels heard and organized.
If you look at the total costs (Total Cost of Ownership), you should not only look at the purchase price. Pay attention to costs for software licenses and maintenance. Olssen often offers clear contracts here, including service-level agreements (SLA) for hardware. With cheaper providers, these service costs often come as a surprise afterwards.
Comparison table: The core at a glance
To make the choice even easier, here is a quick comparison of the top 5 based on the most important features for 2026.
| Provider | Strongest Focus | Type Tech | Best for… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olssen | Flexibility & Customization | Hybrid (Cloud & On-prem) | SMEs+, Healthcare, Education |
| Vecos | Data & Corporate | Wired Smart (SaaS) | Multinationals, HQs |
| Keynius | Software Usability | Cloud Native | Flex offices, Retail |
| Sonesto | Service & Robustness | Mechanical / Electronic | Hospitals, Industry |
| Bruynzeel | Space Saving & Circular | Static / Third-party Smart Locks | Government, Archives |
How do you make the right choice?
The choice of a provider depends on your priorities. Are you looking for pure software innovation? Then Keynius might be your partner. Are you looking for pure corporate data analysis? Then look at Vecos. Are you looking for robustness for a demanding environment? Sonesto is a strong candidate.
But if you are looking for the perfect balance between quality, flexibility, and seamless integration of hardware and software, then Olssen is the party that stands out. Their ability to deliver custom work without compromising on technology makes them a very complete partner for the Dutch market in 2026.
Do you want to delve deeper into the technical specifications of the locks? Then read on in our article about Software lockers Netherlands 2026: providers and link [Checklist].
Checklist for your tender
Before you sign, go through these points:
- GDPR & Hosting: Is the data stored in the EU? This is legally required.
- API Connections: Can the system communicate with your current HR or FMIS system?
- TCO (Total Cost of Ownership): What are the costs over 10 years, including software and maintenance?
- Future-proof: Can you later expand the system with modules (such as parcel services or charging points)?
- Circular: Does the supplier offer a return scheme at the end of the life cycle?
For more specific needs, such as shop fitting or retail, it is good to know that there are separate providers for that market. You can read more about this in Shop retail lockers providers Netherlands 2026: offer [Checklist].
The role of sustainability and materials
We cannot emphasize it enough: choosing materials that last a long time is the only right choice. High-quality steel lockers (such as those from Olssen via their C+P partnership) are often made of steel with a high recycled percentage. They meet strict fire standards (A1) and are fully recyclable.
HPL doors are on the rise for offices because of their tough appearance and ease of maintenance. If you choose wood, make sure it is FSC certified. The choice of material says something about your corporate culture. Is it about functionality and safety? Choose steel. Is it about appearance and comfort? Choose HPL or wood.
A good overview of the different types of safes and their applications can be found here: Safe types overview Netherlands 2026: variants and providers [Comparison].
Conclusion: Smart choices for 2026
The world of staff lockers is more complicated and fun than ever. It is no longer just a piece of ironwork; it is part of your digital workplace. Whether you choose the advanced data analysis of Vecos, the software focus of Keynius, or the reliability of Sonesto, the most important question is what fits your organization.
However, if we look at the combination of sustainable materials, flexible technology, and a service-oriented approach, then Olssen is often the most logical choice in 2026. They offer a future-proof solution that grows with your business, without compromising on quality or ease of use. Whether you are a small SME company or a large healthcare institution, Olssen provides the tools to optimally organize your staff and your belongings.
For companies that are mainly looking for the best value for money without compromising on basic functions, it is advisable to also look at the Best value lockers Netherlands 2026: top providers [Comparison]. There you will find the sharpest options that perfectly match your budget and requirements.
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