Follow-up housing study for social logistics company Manufast
Manufast, a social logistics company, operates out of the Partena Promeris buildings in Sint-Agatha-Berchem. The company is thriving and actively considering expansion, but to do so, it requires additional space. Meanwhile, the building owner is reorganising its operations, other tenants are also present, and the property needs renovation. Is staying at this site the best option? Meliopus was happy to explore this question for Manufast.
The client:
Manufast is a Brussels-based social logistics company that has been providing sustainable employment for more than 55 years to over 350 people, including 270 individuals with disabilities. The company offers comprehensive solutions for printing, scanning, data management, packaging, and logistics, making it an ideal partner for businesses and organisations seeking to simplify and improve their administrative, marketing, and communication projects.
The assignment
Meliopus first got to know Manufast during a strategic study for Partena Promeris, a sister company of the social logistics firm and owner of the building. That study revealed that the current site offers significant potential for expanding Manufast’s operations but also comes with considerable risks. The strategic study proposed several scenarios for Manufast. Meliopus pursued two of these scenarios to assess the desirability and feasibility of a potential relocation.
Our approach
1/ Mobility study
The first priority was identifying the best location for the custom employment company—considering employees, clients, and suppliers. Accessibility by bike, car, and public transport, as well as the overall accessibility of the building, were critical parameters for Manufast. The current site is extremely well located, so if the company were to move, where would the ideal new site be? Meliopus sought out the best alternatives.
2/ Market analysis
Based on the mobility analysis, Meliopus supported Manufast in its search for suitable buildings that met all its needs and requirements. We compiled a list of possibilities and proceeded with these findings.
3/ Financial study
For each potential new location, Meliopus analysed the feasibility of the investment. We compared known and expected OPEX and CAPEX, creating a detailed financial plan. Sustainability and the condition of the buildings were important factors in these considerations. Meliopus handled the complex calculations, allowing Manufast to make an informed decision.
4/ Timeline and phasing
Another key requirement from Manufast was ensuring that any potential relocation would not disrupt its current operations. The business had to continue running smoothly. To address this, we included a transparent and realistic timeline for each scenario. We developed a phased relocation proposal and outlined both the minimum and maximum completion times.
5/ Qualitative analysis
Finally, we conducted an objective assessment of all the shortlisted locations. We evaluated them based on optimal operational efficiency, financial and logistical aspects, accessibility, task differentiation potential, opportunities for business expansion, and the quality of the work environment for employees.
The result:
Using this objective and qualitative analysis, we created a shortlist of the best proposals. We presented this list and explained the motivations and results in clear, concise language. One proposal stood out above the rest. It is now up to Manufast to take the lead, though we remain available to guide them through this process.
