SEGRO is testing sensor technology at 20 of its warehouses.
The project involves around 12 occupiers across the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Poland.
Technology will be installed in a range of buildings: small and large; light industrial and big box; vacant and occupied.
Initial findings are expected mid-year, once sufficient data has been analysed and customer reviews completed, with detailed results available at the end of 2020.
James Power, director of digital and technology at SEGRO, said: “Smart building technology has the potential to deliver significant benefits for our customers.
“If sensors can tell them what is going on within and around the building, they can take quick and effective decisions to respond – leading to lower costs, lower energy use, increased efficiency, and a better working environment for employees in the building.
“Industrial buildings present several unique challenges for smart technology, which is why it’s still in its infancy in the industrial sector. However, we are convinced that these challenges are worth overcoming, and this pilot programme is designed to help us fully understand both the challenges and the benefits.”
Power added that SEGRO is building up its data and analytics capabilities to support decision-making and operations across the group.
The smart building pilot programme is one of the first initiatives delivered through SEGRO’s new strategy, investment and innovation function. It will undertake “horizon scanning” as well as the development, prioritisation and implementation of the company’s long-term digital and technology-related strategies.
The locations included in the pilot programme are:
UK
- Bracknell
- Enfield
- East Midlands Gateway
- Greenford
- Rainham
- Rugby
- Slough
FRANCE
- Marly
- St Witz
- Lyon
GERMANY
- Düsseldorf
- Leipzig
ITALY
- Bologna
- Milan
- Rome
POLAND
- Poznań
To send feedback, e-mail pui-guan.man@egi.co.uk or tweet @PuiGuanM or @estatesgazette
