From innovation to installation with Piping Logistics
Iain Hoey
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Jeroen De Smedt, CEO of Piping Logistics, discusses the company’s R&D initiatives, expansion into HVAC, and its sustainable production facility in Romania
In a relatively short time, the specialised manufacturer Piping Logistics has established itself as an innovative, client-focused leader in the fire protection sector.
With a new production facility in Romania, the development of new components, and expansion into the HVAC market, the Belgian company clearly proves its commitment to fire safety.
Profit, an aggregation of ‘Professional’ and ‘Fittings’, is the brand name of the Piping Logistics group, specialising in producing and supplying high-quality components for fire protection systems and HVAC installations.
For almost 20 years, the family business has operated from Aalst, where its central location ensures efficient delivery to customers throughout Europe.
Impressive but organic growth trajectory
Contractors and installers recognise in Piping Logistics a reliable partner for a wide range of products, such as pipes, fittings, couplings and accessories, essential for the installation of sprinkler and HVAC systems.
The components are designed for maximum safety and efficiency.
‘We invest extensively in modern production technologies and strict quality controls,’ says CEO Jeroen De Smedt.
The company’s growth has been impressive and, above all, organic.
“In the beginning, the company primarily distributed components sourced from China, an opportunity that founder André Saelens realised while running AquaSecurity, a fire protection installation company.
“Over the years, Piping Logistics expanded by establishing an in-house R&D department, a dedicated marketing team, and a production facility for our own components.”, says De Smedt.
AquaSecurity is still active, allowing it to act as a test lab for Piping Logistics’ innovations.
The CEO adds: “Without a doubt, a strong USP for our product development.
Yet another unique selling point is that Piping Logistics is committed to being on site within 24 hours in case of any issues, anywhere in the world.”
But the engineers are doing more and are also bending over the components coming from China, ensuring they meet the strict European standards.
“It’s about improving the usability, conforming to customer expectations, but also aligning the products to legal requirements. It is an important part of our strive for quality,’ De Smedt says.
Prefab systems as a new addition
Thanks to an ultra-wide range, Piping Logistics can position itself as a one-stop shop.
“We started as a supplier of couplings and fittings but have since developed a full product range. We can offer installers practically the complete package for a sprinkler installation.
“Only the sprinkler head is not yet in our range. We are actively working on it,” says the CEO.
Expansion into HVAC
It’s only a small step from sprinkler systems to accessories for HVAC.
Because the same couplings and fittings fit both water pipe systems.
“The main difference is water temperature and working pressure, but we have undertaken all the necessary tests and approvals to take our products to the huge potential of the HVAC market,” says Jeroen De Smedt.
Furthermore, Piping Logistics counts on its large stock for providing optimal customer service.
De Smedt said: “In Belgium, we have a 6.000 m² warehouse. Such a large stock is necessary for impeccable service.
“If a customer orders before noon, delivery takes place the next day. We can move faster than the competition.”
But even an SME has to grow if it wants to stay healthy.
That is why Piping Logistics has just opened a brand new factory in Romania.
“Within the context of the European Green Deal and the impending CO2 tax, it’s important to produce closer to home. Customers are also starting to wake up to this,” the CEO outlines.
In Romania, Piping Logistics produces prefab sprinkler pipes.
“That new product aims to save time, with outlets for the sprinkler heads pre-welded in the right place. On site, the installer just has to screw in the sprinkler head,” De Smedt concludes.
Exclusive interview with CEO Piping Logistics CEO Jeroen De Smedt
How does your R&D centre in Belgium and drive innovation in your product offerings?
The R&D center in Belgium serves as an innovation hub where new technologies and processes are developed to continually enhance our product line.
We do a lot of quality testing, trainings, product reviews etc in house.
One of our priorities is also to make existing products better and suitable for the future.
How does your relationship with AquaSecurity influence the development cycle of your components?
AquaSecurity is a crucial partner in our development process.
It is one of the biggest sprinkler installations companies in the Benelux.
The use of our (new) products in their installations enable us to identify and address potential weaknesses early in the development cycle.
This partnership ensures that our products meet the most stringent standards, allowing us to provide quality assurance to customers and accelerate our innovation process.
How has the introduction of prefabricated sprinkler pipes been received by installers?
Prefabricated sprinkler pipes have been positively received, primarily due to the time savings during installation.
Installers appreciate the reduced on-site work, which minimizes the likelihood of errors.
Feedback from the field has helped us to make adjustments, such as improved connection options and logistical support for quick deliveries to construction sites.
What prompted your expansion into the HVAC market?
Our expansion into the HVAC market was driven by the growing demand for integrated heating and cooling system solutions.
By combining our existing expertise in piping systems with HVAC-specific innovations, we’ve developed products tailored to the unique requirements of this sector.
How does the Romanian production facility factor in to your sustainability strategy?
The production facility in Romania is a cornerstone of our sustainability strategy.
By producing locally, we reduce transportation emissions and meet the high environmental standards set by the European Green Deal.
The facility leverages green energy and advanced techniques to minimise waste.
As you expand, how will you maintain your commitment to rapid customer service?
To maintain our service levels while expanding into new markets, we’ve invested in local distribution centers and an extensive network of technicians.
Our digital tools, such as order tracking and direct communication channels, ensure a rapid response.
