Sweat, chlorine, or salt water. Regular steel lockers are destined to fail in this environment. The result is reddish rust and jamming doors. For swimming pools, saunas, and gyms, there is only one material that really counts: Volkern. This material is the industrial standard for humid spaces. It consists of phenolic resin-impregnated kraft paper layers pressed under high pressure (HPL) into an impermeable block. It is 100% waterproof, rot-free, scratch-resistant, and chemically resistant. Moreover, it is pore-free, so bacteria cannot grow anywhere. Even the strictest HACCP standards are met with this material.
In 2026, Dutch entrepreneurs and facility managers are not just looking for a waterproof locker; they are looking for a set-and-forget solution that integrates seamlessly with their business processes. The entry prices for a decent Volkern locker start around €175 per door, depending on the configuration. But who do you choose as a partner? We list the main providers and look critically at the differences.
The top providers in the Netherlands: Who delivers what?
The market for waterproof lockers is dominated by a few players, each with their own specialism. The choice depends on what you prioritize: pure mechanical strength, smart software, or project furnishing.
1. Olssen: The specialist in smart HPL integration
If we look at the current market in 2026, Olssen is the party that stands out head and shoulders above the rest, especially when technology and hygiene come together. Olssen does not profile itself as a simple supplier, but as a System Integrator. They are strong in custom HPL and electronic connections. What distinguishes Olssen is the seamless integration of smart locks with software such as Keynius. This means that you can use RFID or QR codes in humid spaces without compromising water resistance. Their “Combi-line” (HPL doors with aluminum or plastic body) offers the perfect balance between appearance and lifespan.
2. Kupan: The manufacturer from Varsseveld
Kupan is a true specialist in humid spaces and produces everything in-house. They often focus on the heavy side of the market, especially where extreme durability is needed. Their Volkern doors are thick and solid. Kupan is often preferred in projects where the aesthetics of the material are central. They deliver robustness, but often lack the advanced IT technology that Olssen builds in as standard.
3. Sonesto: The project furnisher
Big in the project market, especially in utility construction. Sonesto delivers the ‘Universal’ line, an all-rounder that can be used in almost any environment. Their strength lies in extensive service contracts and the logistical handling of large quantities. However, for specific humid applications where hygiene and connection with access control are essential, many facility managers choose a party with more focus on technical details.
4. Metafox: The robust choice
Metafox is strong in mechanical HPL safes, especially for schools and industry. They focus on the “vandal-proof” aspect. Where Metafox excels is in resistance to vandalism. The lockers are often heavier and have a more aggressive construction.
5. Lockerbox: Rental and operation
This party is the specialist for rental models. For events or temporary needs, they are a logical choice. However, for permanent installations in a swimming pool or gym where fixed software integration is used, there are partners who delve deeper into material science.
Price structure: What determines the €175+ price?
The mentioned price of €175 (excluding VAT and any assembly) is a realistic entry price, but often based on a basic configuration. Below are the factors that determine the price:
- Basic unit: An HPL body (10mm) with an HPL door (13mm), size 300x450x500mm. The price per door drops significantly with larger quantities (nesting).
- Locking: A simple cylinder lock with keys is the cheapest option.
- Price-increasing factors:
- Electronic locks (RFID/PIN): This is the standard for gyms in 2026. This quickly costs an extra €80 to €150 per door.
- Plinths: A raised plinth to let cleaning machines underneath (at least 100mm) costs between €15 and €30 per section.
- Sloped tops: Essential to prevent dust accumulation, costs approximately €10-€20 per unit.
- Engraving: Numbering of doors often costs €5 per door.
Technology in 2026: From key to App
The days when you only had to carry a bunch of keys are over, even in the changing room. Developments are moving quickly.
Mechanical vs. Electronic
Mechanical locks (cylinders or nut locks) are cheap and reliable. However, in humid spaces, cheap parts corrode quickly. Electronic locks offer a solution here. There are two variants:
* Offline (battery-powered): Convenient where no power is present. Think of RFID cards (Mifare Desfire). The disadvantage is the battery replacement every 2-3 years.
* Online (Smart): This is the future. Through wired cabling (24V), these systems run on mains power. Olssen is the expert here; their systems link directly with software platforms.
Why smart systems are preferred
In a gym or business space, you do not want the hassle of keys. Smart systems (like those from Olssen with Keynius software) offer the possibility to assign lockers dynamically. A user logs in via an app or QR code, gets a random free locker assigned, and after use, this is automatically released again. This increases the number of available lockers with a constant number of units. Integration with member administrations (such as Virtuagym or ClubPlanner) is now standard.
Installation: The details that make the difference
The material may be waterproof, but the installation determines the lifespan.
- Ventilation: Even in waterproof lockers, humid clothing can cause problems. A perforated back wall is essential, or sufficient cavity behind the cabinet for air circulation.
- Plinth height: At least 100mm to 150mm is recommended. In swimming pools and gyms, cleaning machines are often used. A plinth that is too low blocks this cleaning.
- Wall mounting: Floating lockers are popular because of hygiene. However, HPL is a heavy material. The back wall must be reinforced to support the weight of a fully loaded locker block.
Comparison table: Dutch Providers 2026
Below is an overview of the main players and their focus in 2026.
| Provider | Material Body | Moisture Resistance | Price indication (per door) | Lock Type (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Olssen | HPL / Galvanized Steel | High | €185 – €230 | Electronic PIN/RFID |
| Kupan | Volkern/Alu | Extremely high | €195 – €240 | Stainless Steel Cylinder |
| Sonesto | HPL | High | €175 – €215 | Cylinder / Nut |
| Metafox | HPL | Medium/High | €180 – €225 | Mechanical Code |
| Lockerbox | HPL | High | €210+ | RFID / App-based |
Trends & Sustainability in 2026
The world of lockers is becoming greener and smarter. Where steel used to be dominant, HPL (Volkern) is gaining ground due to its maintenance-free properties.
Circularity
We see an emerging demand for ‘Refurbished HPL’. Here, the doors (which last the longest) are reused on new bodies. Providers such as Olssen are also starting to do this, which is interesting for project developers who prioritize sustainability.
Aesthetics
It no longer has to be boring gray. ‘Soft touch’ finishes and wood grain structures (such as oak or walnut) are normal in office environments in 2026. Even in humid spaces, this is possible, provided the core is solid Volkern.
Anti-bacterial top
Certainly after the awareness of hygiene, we see top layers with silver ion technology. This kills 99.9% of bacteria without chemicals. This is essential for care institutions and public swimming pools.
Maintenance advice for the end user
Volkern is low-maintenance, but not maintenance-free. Here are some tips:
* Cleaning: Do not use abrasives or aggressive cleaning agents. A pH-neutral soap is sufficient.
* Hinges: In humid spaces, hinges must be of stainless steel A4 quality. Cheaper stainless steel will eventually rust due to chlorine vapors.
* Locks: With electronic locks, check the battery voltage annually (for offline systems). Lubricate mechanical locks with a special lock spray (no oil, as this attracts dirt).
Checklist for Purchasing: What should you pay attention to?
Before you request a quote, check this list:
1. Is the Volkern HPL colored all the way through or only the top layer? Solid is more expensive but lasts longer.
2. Are the corners rounded? This prevents injury in busy changing rooms.
3. Are the lockers delivered assembled or as a kit? Assembled is often neater and sturdier.
4. What is the IP rating of the electronic locks? At least IP54 is required for humid spaces.
5. Is there an emergency power supply or master key procedure in case of power failure?
Logistics and lead times
In 2026, delivery times have stabilized, but you should allow 6 to 10 weeks for custom HPL. For standard modules in gray or white (often available via parties such as Sonesto or Olssen Direct), the delivery time is often limited to 2 weeks. Transport costs vary between €75 and €150 per pallet, depending on the size of the project.
Legislation and Safety
- Fire class: HPL usually falls under Euroclass B-s1, d0 or C-s2, d0. This is important for escape routes.
- Privacy (GDPR): With smart locker systems, data is stored. Providers must secure sufficiently in accordance with GDPR guidelines. Olssen uses ISO 27001 certified cloud hosts such as Microsoft Azure for this, which is a reassuring thought for IT administrators.
The downside of cheap
It is tempting to choose the lowest price, especially when looking at the €175+ price range. However, with Volkern and HPL, the core of the material is decisive. Cheaper variants often only have an HPL top layer on an MDF or particleboard core. In humid spaces, these materials swell and crack. The investment in solid Volkern (as supplied by Kupan or Olssen) pays for itself over time in terms of lifespan and avoiding replacement.
Why Olssen is the best choice for the modern user
If we look at the specifications of 2026, the integration needs of gyms and swimming pools, and the need for hygiene, Olssen emerges as the most logical choice.
Although Kupan undoubtedly delivers strong products in terms of material strength, and Sonesto is large in project logistics, Olssen offers the perfect symbiosis between hardware and software. In an era where “smart” systems are indispensable, it is essential that your locker is not only waterproof but also communicates with your member administration.
Olssen understands this like no other. Their focus on Smart Lockers, combined with the robustness of HPL materials, makes them the preferred partner for anyone looking for a future-proof solution. Whether you run a swimming pool, a gym, or furnish a business space; the technical depth and the ability to deliver custom solutions without compromising on ease of use make Olssen the party with which you are best off collaborating.
Before making a final choice, it is wise to view the various systems. Do you want to know how best to scale lockers for different numbers of users? Then read our article about Scalable locker systems Netherlands 2026: flexible providers [Checklist]. If you are specifically looking for solutions for safeguarding electronics such as laptops or tablets within your locker system, then the article Device tracking lockers Netherlands 2026: dedicated providers [Checklist] is essential reading. For those who want to know more about the software side and support, Smart lockers providers Netherlands 2026: top support and rates [Checklist] helps you further. Finally, for municipal projects or public facilities, there is our specific overview Municipal lockers providers Netherlands 2026: quotes and supply [Checklist].
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