Canadian Retailer Integrates Lithium-Ion Forklifts in New Warehouse

Canadian hardware retailer Canac has integrated lithium-ion energy systems into the design of its new distribution center in Drummondville, Quebec. Instead of adding batteries to an existing facility, the company built the energy infrastructure into the expansion from the start. This approach treats the battery, charger, and software as a single, coordinated system rather than separate components.

The move is part of a broader initiative to reduce the company's carbon footprint while tracking operational efficiency over time. By designing the energy setup into the new building, Canac aims to simplify daily operations for its teams. The system reduces manual tasks and shifts fleet monitoring from reactive maintenance to continuous, cloud-based tracking.

Real-time data replaces manual checks

A key factor in this decision was the level of visibility provided by the new platform. Traditionally, fleet performance relied on manual checks or reacting only after a vehicle failed. The new system offers real-time insight into battery health and usage, turning scattered, after-the-fact information into a clear, ongoing picture of operations. This shift allows managers to make informed decisions based on live data rather than historical reports.

According to reports from GN technics/hardware (en-US), this transition from reactive troubleshooting to continuous monitoring was a decisive factor for Canac. The company views energy management not just as a utility cost, but as a strategic advantage that supports long-term growth. By having immediate access to performance data, the retailer can optimize fleet usage and reduce downtime.

Local partnership drives adoption

Sourcing locally was equally important to the retailer. Canac worked with a Quebec-based provider, UgoWork, which allowed the team to evaluate the solution in action before committing to a long-term contract. A short trial run at the site gave the company confidence in the technology's performance and reliability. This hands-on approach reduced the risk associated with adopting a new energy system.

The partnership also emphasizes transparency and clear data access. Canac’s fleet director noted that the ability to see performance metrics firsthand was crucial. The collaboration is still in its early stages, but the initial results have provided a foundation for managing energy in a more informed way. The company expects this setup to deliver value in the years ahead as it continues to grow.

Trade-offs in new infrastructure

While the benefits are clear, integrating new technology always involves trade-offs. Building energy systems into a new facility requires significant upfront investment and careful planning. Unlike retrofits, which can be phased in, this approach demands that the entire system be designed cohesively from the ground up. This means the retailer had to commit to the technology before the building was fully operational.

Additionally, relying on cloud-based monitoring introduces a dependency on digital infrastructure. If the network connection fails, the real-time insights could be disrupted. However, Canac views this as a manageable risk compared to the benefits of reduced manual labor and improved efficiency. The company is confident that the long-term gains in productivity and sustainability outweigh the initial complexities of implementation.