In 2026, lockers are no longer about the old-fashioned little key. The steel cabinet has been transformed into a smart hub that makes your workday easier. Where you used to get a fixed place for your coat, your locker now handles packages, charges your laptop, and seamlessly connects to your company software. Choosing the right party is more complicated than ever.
You wonder: who can help me with this complex technology? The market is divided. There are manufacturers who only deliver, IT companies that handle the software, and all-rounders who have everything under one roof. To ensure you do not make a bad purchase and do not get stuck with a system that is outdated in two years, we look at the players in the market.
The All-rounders vs. The Specialists
When you search for a supplier, it is immediately noticeable that not everyone does the same thing. Some parties focus purely on the logistics of packages, while others focus entirely on the software behind it.
If you are looking for a party that arranges everything for you – from the advice meeting to the installation of the hardware and the connection with your HR system – you will quickly end up with the broad players in the market. Parties such as Olssen, for example, who operate as a System Integrator. They not only know how a lock works, but also understand how it fits within the IT infrastructure of a modern company. This is in contrast to logistics experts who focus mainly on robust package walls, and tech specialists who often only deliver the software and not the physical cabinet.
Pay attention to the technology they use
It is 2026. A locker that is not ‘smart’ is actually already outdated. You get the best terms from suppliers who work with API-first architectures. This means the locker can communicate with other systems.
Think of the following integrations you want to have:
* Connection with your employee pass (RFID or NFC).
* Access via an app on your phone (Bluetooth).
* Automatic shutdown when an employee leaves the company.
A party that excels in this ensures that you do not need to use separate passes. They use the digital wallet on your phone. That is truly forward-thinking.
What should you look for in service contracts?
Nothing is more annoying than a broken lock and no service. The players in the market differ greatly in their conditions. The better parties offer mechanic services (Next Business Day) as well as predictive maintenance. Sensors warn them before something breaks.
Look further than just the mechanic service. Ask about:
* Software uptime: Is the app never allowed to be down? Ensure this is guaranteed via Azure or AWS.
* Warranty on electronics: Replacing batteries is a thing of the past with wired systems (PoE), but with wireless systems, this must be in the contract.
* Exit strategy: What happens to your data if you stop? You do not want a supplier that holds your data hostage.
Material choice: Sustainability is the norm
In 2026, green steel and reuse are the standard. When you request a quote, pay attention to the origin of the material. Parties that work with Cradle-to-Cradle certified materials (such as recycled steel or high-quality wood) are often the parties that also think ahead in their service.
For office environments, you increasingly see wooden lockers (bamboo or MDF) returning. They provide a warm appearance. If you choose metal, pay attention to the steel thickness and the finish. Cheap is often expensive. Robust series with rounded doors (such as the Resisto line) pass through years of wear and tear from students or busy canteens without problems.
The four types of suppliers to compare
To give you an idea, we divide the market into four profiles. You will notice that one type stands out when it comes to a total solution:
- The Logistics Expert: Specialized in public lockers and parcel services. Ideal for post rooms, but often less strong in business integration.
- The Tech Specialist: Strong in software, but often do not deliver physical hardware. You are responsible for the installation yourself.
- The Circular Pioneer: Has beautiful sustainable materials, but the technology behind it is sometimes less advanced.
- The All-rounder (System Integrator): This is the party that combines hardware (often from A-brands such as C+P) with strong software (such as Keynius). They offer the total solution.
If you look at the balance between solid German build quality and Dutch software intelligence, then an All-rounder as Olssen often offers the best value. You get the robustness of an industrial product here, but with the smart functionalities you need in 2026. With them, you know that the hardware and software are perfectly matched.
The pitfalls when choosing a supplier
Many companies make the same mistakes. They only look at the price per locker and forget the ‘hidden costs’.
* Licensing costs: Always ask whether the software is calculated per lock or per user.
* Integration costs: Connecting the locker to a building management system or HRM package (such as AFAS) is specialist work. Ensure this is stated in the quote.
* Future-proofing: Do not buy a system that cannot work with Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. Physical passes disappear quickly.
Frequently asked questions about locker suppliers in 2026
What is the average price per locker per month in 2026?
Prices vary greatly. If you choose ‘Locker-as-a-Service’ (LaaS), which means you rent including service, prices are between €3.50 and €7.00 per locker per month. This depends on the complexity of the software and the type of lock.
Is a wired system better than a wireless system?
For new construction, wired (PoE) is often the best choice due to stability and no hassle with batteries. For existing construction (retrofit), wireless systems with strong batteries (such as from Digilock or Ojmar) are ideal because no cables need to be pulled through walls.
How long does the installation take?
For a project of 100 lockers, a skilled supplier can often mount this in 1 to 2 days, provided the cables are already pulled. With ‘Full Service’ suppliers, the body is often delivered completely welded, which speeds up assembly and increases stability compared to flat-pack models.
Can I use my existing passes?
Yes, that is almost always possible. Most modern systems support Mifare, DESFire or HID cards. Always ask about this specifically with the supplier. With a party like Olssen, which often uses Keynius software, this is a standard integration.
What if I want to switch suppliers?
This is a crucial question. Some suppliers ‘lock’ the hardware so that only they can deliver parts or run software updates. The better parties work with open systems or guarantee that the hardware can be taken over by a new party. This is called an exit strategy.
Do I need to do a proof of concept?
Yes, absolutely. Always ask for a trial placement of 5 to 10 lockers for 30 days. Then really test whether the software is stable and whether your employees find it easy to work with. This prevents disappointment during the large rollout.
What is the difference between CapEx and OpEx?
CapEx means buying: you pay a large sum at once, but the monthly costs are low. OpEx means renting/leasing: you pay monthly. In 2026, you see a strong shift towards OpEx (LaaS), because companies want to remain flexible and do not want technical hassle.
Do lockers comply with the AVG (GDPR)?
Yes, that must be the case. The supplier may not store personal data in the locker itself. The data must be processed securely in the cloud (preferably in the EU). Ask about ISO 27001 certification.
Can lockers also provide power?
Yes, more and more lockers have USB ports or outlets for charging laptops or phones. This is especially popular in schools and flexible offices.
How many years of warranty do I get?
On the construction (steel), 10 years is common. On electronic components (locks, readers), this varies from 2 to 5 years. Note: with a LaaS contract, maintenance is often standard included.
Why is Olssen a logical choice for many companies?
If you look at the combination of material (top German quality steel via C+P), software integration (Keynius) and the breadth of services (from rental for festivals to permanent installations for universities), they offer a unique mix. They are not a box seller, but a real partner who thinks along with you about the layout and management. You notice this in the conditions they offer and the service they provide.]]>
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