The logistics sector stands on the brink of a fundamental transformation. Valor Material Handling, with its groundbreaking QliqFlow system, is throwing all conventional rules overboard. In this exclusive Industrie Online podcast, Jan Hulsman, co-founder of Valor, speaks candidly about how his company is radically changing the warehouse automation market. He reveals how the modular, flexible and reusable automation concept delivers unprecedented speed and cost efficiency that traditional players can only dream of.
Why traditional logistics fails – and how Valor solves it
Jan opens with a sharp analysis of the ‘problem’ that Valor addresses: “Traditional automation in logistics warehouses is often too slow, too expensive and too rigid.” Logistics service providers working with short-term contracts in particular get trapped in systems with long payback periods and inflexible installations.
Valor’s solution? A fully modular system, QliqFlow, that can be built, adapted and reused at high speed. Jan compares it to Lego: “You first build separate modules that you can easily connect, take apart and redeploy.” This approach makes automation accessible and financially feasible for companies that demand flexibility and a fast ROI.
QliqFlow: The Lego of logistics automation
The QliqFlow system was designed ten years ago with one goal: to serve logistics service providers that need to be able to switch gears quickly. Jan explains:
- Fast implementation: Because modules are fully assembled and tested in the factory beforehand, on-site installation can be carried out in record time.
- Quality and reliability: Because everything is tested beforehand in a controlled environment, the quality is even better than with traditional systems built on site.
- Reuse model: Modules can be disconnected, relocated and reconfigured without loss of capital — an enormous saving and a gain for sustainability.
Jan emphasises that this is no small innovation: “Some systems have already been running for eight years and have undergone several major modifications, without anything having to be thrown away.”
Market position: A smart focus on short-term contracts
Valor deliberately targets logistics service providers with short-term contracts (2-3 years), a segment that traditional automation companies avoid. Jan explains:
“We adapt our approach to clients who need flexibility, with a short payback period. We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all, but always look for the optimal balance between automation and manual work, tailored to the client’s business case.”
In doing so, Valor scores highly on both flexibility and financial return. The solution is scalable and grows along with the customer.
Innovation without blindly chasing trends
In an era full of disruptive technologies, Valor deliberately chooses the right innovations. Jan talks about the collaboration with robot suppliers and the integration of AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots):
“We combine the best of both worlds: the power and speed of conveyors for long distances, and the flexibility of robots for small, quick movements. That’s how we create superior, hybrid solutions.”
AI also gets attention, especially for smart optimisation of processes such as inventory management and picking sequences. “AI won’t take over the physical work, but supports the process more efficiently and intelligently.”
Customer portfolio: Trusted by the biggest players
Valor is by no means just a newcomer. Jan proudly shares that they already work with 7 of the top 10 logistics service providers worldwide. Major names such as Bol.com, Philips, De Bijenkorf and About You also rely on Valor’s systems.
This impressive customer portfolio underlines the strength and reliability of the QliqFlow system.
The future according to Valor: Dutch innovation leadership
The Netherlands is a logistics powerhouse, thanks in part to the Port of Rotterdam and high labour costs that drive automation. With its pragmatic, flexible and sustainable solutions, Valor wants to contribute to this position.
Jan closes with a clear message:
“Stay level-headed, stay pragmatic. Choose solutions you genuinely believe in, with an eye on the business case. That’s the only way automation can move logistics forward sustainably.”
Why this interview is essential for logistics professionals
- Unique insight: How modular automation creates radically different rules of the game.
- Practical approach: A focus on fast implementation, reuse and cost efficiency.
- Strategic thinking: Balancing technology, people and the business case.
- Innovation: Smart integration of robotics and AI, without blindly chasing trends.
- Major clients: The trust of market leaders confirms the effectiveness.
Conclusion
Valor Material Handling makes short work of old logistics automation practices by introducing the QliqFlow modular system. Their focus on speed, reuse, quality and customer orientation offers a future-proof solution for logistics service providers and warehouse managers who want to stay agile in a rapidly changing market.
For anyone serious about logistics innovation and efficiency, this is a must-read — and above all, a must-do.