Food & Beverage Factory & Warehouse Fit‑Out Partner

51 Years' Experience
5,000+ Completed Projects
3.5 Million Sqft. Since 2023
CDM Principal Contractor

Bespoke automation and racking systems for food and beverage factories and warehouses

Automated Storage Systems
Cold and Frozen Storage
Food-Safe Pallet Racking
Turnkey Warehouse Fit-Outs

Within the food and beverage industry, storage systems are required at many different stages of your production process, each requiring different temperatures or storing products in different states. At Oakway, we understand these unique requirements and deliver static pallet racking or automated storage systems to suit your food and beverage warehouse storage needs.

As with all projects we deliver, ensuring the right solution is designed and delivered for your operation from the earliest stage is critical. Working with Oakway gives you confidence in your investment through our unique consult, design and deliver process, from the initial feasibility study through to commissioning, with a clear focus on delivering a positive ROI.

We deliver bespoke solutions for your environment, including cold storage racking and other static systems for temperatures ranging from -55°C to +40°C, alongside automated solutions operating from -40°C to standard ambient temperatures.

Static solutions can include double-deep, narrow-aisle and drive-in systems, whilst your automated pallet storage systems can range from standard 2-way semi-automated shuttles to fully automated 4-way systems for distribution warehouses, designed and manufactured around your SKU profile, throughput and operating procedures.

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Automated storage systems for food and beverage operations

Whether you require standard pallet storage or a more complex application, your automated system can be designed around the products you handle.

Oakway’s 2-way and 4-way pallet shuttle systems can accommodate oversized pallets, casks and barrels, plastic crates and wooden field-crop crates. This gives you a solution that fits your loads and processes rather than forcing them into a standard format.

Two-way and four-way pallet shuttle systems

Two-way shuttle

A two-way pallet shuttle is a high-density, semi-automated storage solution suitable for both FIFO and LIFO operations. A forklift places a pallet at the entrance to the storage lane, where the shuttle collects it, transports it to the next available location and returns ready for the following pallet.

The system provides storage density comparable with drive-in racking while offering greater product selectivity. This makes it particularly effective for operations that manage multiple SKUs but continue to manufacture, store or despatch products in batches.

Key benefits include:

– Up to 40% additional storage capacity, subject to the building, layout and stock profile
– Reduced forklift movements and pallet-handling cycles
– No requirement for forklift operators to enter the racking lanes
– Support for both FIFO and LIFO stock rotation
– Operation in temperature-controlled environments down to -40°C

Keeping forklift operators outside the storage lanes can support safer working practices and reduce the risk of impact damage.

As stock profiles and volumes change, the system provides a scalable platform that can be adapted without requiring the entire warehouse to be reconfigured. This makes it particularly suitable for chilled and frozen facilities where space is costly and dependable throughput is essential.

Four-way shuttle

A four-way pallet shuttle is a fully automated warehouse storage system that moves pallets throughout the storage structure in multiple directions.

Key benefits include:

– Less routine forklift activity within the racking
– Higher storage density through better space use
– Flexible balance of capacity, stock access and throughput
– Modular expansion for growing volumes and performance needs
– Consistent, controlled pallet movement
– Suits multi-SKU distribution, cold and temperature-controlled stores
– Makes better use of limited space and costly refrigerated storage

Within food and beverage factories, Oakway can integrate the shuttle system with conveyors serving the production area. Finished pallets can enter the automated storage block directly from production before being stored, retrieved and sequenced into despatch lanes close to the relevant loading dock.

This reduces manual handling, improves product flow and helps maintain reliable throughput from production to despatch.

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Storage solutions that are compliant, suitable for your operation and allow for future growth

Static storage systems should do more than hold pallets. By considering stock rotation, SKU profile, pallet type, handling equipment and product flow, Oakway can identify the most effective combination of double-deep, drive-in, narrow-aisle, wide-aisle or high-density storage systems for your operation.

Food and beverage facilities can introduce demanding conditions, including low temperatures, condensation, humidity, intensive cleaning regimes and strict hygiene controls. These factors are considered when specifying materials, finishes, protection and layouts, helping to create a robust system that supports safe operation and applicable food-safety requirements.

Each solution is developed around your current needs while allowing for changing volumes, new product lines and future expansion, helping your investment continue to support the business as it grows.

Your trusted food and beverage fit-out partner

DJL Petfoods – Pallet Shuttle Racking

Oakway delivered a bespoke pallet shuttle and safer storage system, improving capacity, efficiency and load handling for DJL Petfoods.

DJL Petfoods – Pallet Shuttle Racking - Find out more

Jones Food Company – Vertical Farm Racking

Oakway delivers precision-engineered racking system for Jones Food Company’s vertical farm.

Jones Food Company – Vertical Farm Racking - Find out more

Morrisons – Pallet Live Racking

Morrisons approached Oakway Storage as they needed a modern, efficient storage solution that would last for years to come.

Morrisons – Pallet Live Racking - Find out more

The Single Cask – Cask Storage Racking

Efficient and tailored storage solutions: Oakway Storage transforms The Single Cask’s warehouse

The Single Cask – Cask Storage Racking - Find out more

Working with Oakway Storage on the repurposing of elements of our warehouse has been a very straightforward experience. The Oakway team supported us throughout and made the project to improve our shelving and racking easy to achieve. I’d recommend them to any business looking to undertake a similar project.

Duane Luke – Production Coordinator, STS Ltd

Oakway have been brilliant in supporting our business with a flexible cask racking solution that has supported our business through a period of rapid growth

Jan Damen – General Manager, The Single Cask

I like the family business feel to the company and how flexible the consultation phases have been each time. Top company!

Will Jansen – Chief Operating Officer, Human Forest

It's been a pleasure working with Oakway. They designed a system that suited our budget and timescales, delivering a turn-key solution that met all our needs.

Stuart McMillan – Operations Manager, Auld Bond Bottlers

The extra warehouse capacity enables us to continue to offer expansive choice and unrivalled customer service. It was simple to work with Oakway Storage, from initial conversations right through to installation everything happened when expected with the minimum of interruption to business.

Ross Duncanson – Director, E. Tupling

From quote to installation, Oakway Storage provided attention to detail that made them stand out against all other suppliers. The personal touch coupled with their keenness to get on site really made the decision to work with Oakway a simple one.

David Hunter – Supply Chain Project Manager, Bergen Logistics

During the last 3 months, since taking the lease of a 103,000 sq.ft. site in Chester, we have been working with Oakway Storage who have designed, supplied and installed approximately 13,000 pallet positions of Apex pallet racking in a VNA configuration to a height of around 11.5m. We are delighted at the professionalism and dedication of our sales and design contact and the efficiency of the installation crew and would not hesitate to recommend them for similar projects.

Peter Gates – Managing Director, PW Gates

In partnering with Oakway Storage, our transformation went beyond a project; it became a collaborative journey. Facing the challenge of an empty warehouse, Oakway's pragmatic and thoughtful planning stood out. Their seamless coordination, from mezzanine installation to the developing glass laboratory space, showcased expertise and a true partnership. The future-ready flexibility ensures adaptability as we grow, emphasising a strategic approach that fosters innovation and sets the stage for sustained success.

Dominic Nott – Director, March May Ltd

Great execution of the project from end-to-end. We run a very busy 3PL warehouse and were delighted the the Oakway Storage team were able to work around us. From the first project scope visits to the VNA racking install the team were professional, polite and knowledgeable. Thanks guys!

Andrew Fell – Site Manager, Dependall

Why choose Oakway as your food and beverage fit-out partner?

One Point of Contact
Full Turnkey Delivery
Ambient to Frozen
Built Around Production

Oakway follows a proven methodology designed around the specific demands of food and beverage operations. From ambient storage and production areas to chilled and frozen environments, we coordinate each stage of the project to deliver a seamless warehouse fit out tailored to your products, processes and plans for growth.

Engaging a single contractor simplifies communication, streamlines project management and provides clear accountability throughout the project. Oakway can coordinate racking, storage automation and wider fit-out requirements, giving food and beverage businesses one experienced partner for facility relocation, expansion or refurbishment.

Where specialist refrigeration, processing or infrastructure contractors are preferred – or your company policy requires three quotations – we can provide bespoke procurement packages that meet these requirements while retaining the coordination and accountability of a turnkey solution.

Products for your food and beverage facility

Drive In Racking

Drive in racking designed for high-density pallet storage. Reduce aisle space, maximise capacity and improve bulk storage efficiency with ex

Drive In Racking - Learn how

Conveyor Systems

Conveyor systems designed to improve warehouse flow, speed and efficiency.

Conveyor Systems - Learn how

Fully Automated Solutions

A fully automated warehouse system combines physical automation with intelligent software to manage the complete operation.

Fully Automated Solutions - Learn how

Cask Racking

Maximise cask count, reduce 'cost per cask' storage costs and keep your casks safe.

Cask Racking - Learn how

Pallet Shuttle

Maximise storage density. Improve pallet flow. Future-proof your warehouse.

Pallet Shuttle - Learn how

Pallet Racking Systems

Our pallet racking solutions are perfect for heavy duty, industrial storage.

Pallet Racking Systems - Learn how

Rack & Warehouse Barriers

Protect your people, plant & property with flexible rack & warehouse barriers.

Rack & Warehouse Barriers - Learn how

Warehouse Lighting

Enhance safety, productivity and overall operational effectiveness with effective lighting.

Warehouse Lighting - Learn how

FAQs

What types of food and beverage facilities can Oakway fit out?

Oakway works across production facilities, ambient warehouses, cold stores, freezer warehouses and distribution centres.

Can your storage systems operate in cold stores and freezers?

Yes. Racking can be designed for environments down to -55°C, while two-way shuttle systems can operate at temperatures down to -40°C.

What is the difference between a two-way and four-way pallet shuttle?

A two-way shuttle moves within an individual storage lane and works with forklifts. A four-way shuttle travels throughout the storage structure as part of a fully automated system.

Can a pallet shuttle system support FIFO stock rotation?

Yes. Both systems can support FIFO stock rotation, while two-way shuttles can also be configured for LIFO operation.

Can Oakway accommodate non-standard pallets and containers?

Yes. Systems can accommodate oversized pallets, casks, barrels, plastic crates and wooden field-crop crates.

Can Oakway manage the complete warehouse fit-out?

Yes. Oakway can coordinate racking, storage automation and wider fit-out packages from planning through to installation.

At Oakway Storage, we are always ready to talk about your storage requirements. Our specialist team can provide expert advice for your specific needs – give us a call today or fill in the form for a no-obligation chat

Call us on 01604 792255

or request a callback using the form.
You can also email us on: info@oakwaystorage.co.uk

Business Hours: 8am-5pm