METRO | MAKRO
New Way of Working (NWOW) embracing “the new normal”.
Solutions - Capabilities //
Process Innovation, Cost Optimization, Problem-Solving, Innovation Workshops, Validation & Design.
Industry //
Consumer goods.
Within just six months, the MAKRO team successfully brought their vision to life despite facing one of the biggest crises in history. They updated their work processes and logistics and also redesigned a space that aligned perfectly with their needs.
MAKRO Antwerp has adapted to the "new normal" by restructuring its work processes and redesigning the entire work environment. Learn about their transformative journey.
“If I had to do it again, I would again do it with Accelerated Design Thinking.”
Caroline Rombaut // Head of People and Organizational Development
MAKRO Antwerp embraces a complete update of not only their working environment but their whole work logistics.
// THE CHALLENGE
Due to the impact of the coronavirus crisis, MAKRO Antwerp made the decision to embrace the "new normal" by downsizing their headquarters from two floors to one. The main objective of this restructuring was not just to revamp their workspace, but to also rethink their work procedures and business operations. As a result, there were several queries and hurdles that needed to be addressed.
// What are the best ways to support individuals in performing their jobs effectively?
// How can the needs and expectations of management, departments, and individuals be aligned?
// How can privacy be maintained at an appropriate level?
// How can the transfer and storage of goods and documents be made seamless?
// How can regulatory compliance be ensured?
// How can a new collaborative team approach be fostered?
More than just a cubicle
A complete update on MAKRO’s work process logistics meant reimagining their workspace as a whole. The result: A clear concept of how their space can be used most efficiently.
// THE APPROACH
Caroline and her team utilized Accelerated Design Thinking (ADT) as a systematic tool, involving all relevant parties and stakeholders in the co-development process. Through a restructuring of their work methods, they were able to create a new workspace that met their evolving needs.
// The aim was to involve and align the expectations of all relevant stakeholders, such as teams, functions, departments, management, unions, and regulatory bodies.
// The goal was to quickly generate targeted ideas to maximize the utilization of significantly reduced space.
// Carefully selected and integrated promising ideas into three alternative concepts that were desirable, viable, and feasible.
// The purpose was to inspire and persuade the larger organization by effectively visualizing and validating assumptions at the appropriate level.
Less space, more freedom
Updating their processes led to minimizing their workspace, but gaining a new, more efficient workflow.
// THE OUTCOME
MAKRO Antwerp reduced its office space by consolidating from two floors to one. As a result, the seating capacity was significantly reduced from 480 seats to 120 seats.
To be resource-efficient, they repurposed existing furniture, equipment, and installations. They also created a booking tool that includes all the requirements, such as available seats, type of work, and task prioritization.
Furthermore, they incorporated valuable elements like silent spaces, a versatile kitchen, and an Amphitheatre to enhance the workplace. By integrating stores and other existing facilities, they established satellite offices.
The company facilitated a balanced work environment that allows for seamless transitions between working from home and the office through booking tools and document sharing/storage solutions. Ultimately, these changes fostered co-creation, greater freedom, increased choice, and a fresh collaborative approach to work.
Think it, do it
Reimagining the way MAKRO’s processes will look, led to logical adjustments in their workspace.
More Featured Work
-
![]()
ABInBev // STELLA ARTOIS
Self-Disruption: Maximizing potential through reimagining the status quo of beverage packaging.
-
![]()
ABInBev // CORONA EXTRA
Sustainable circular packaging disrupting the beverage industry.
