Sustainable Steel Meets Smart Logistics as San Sac and Catena Achieve Ambitious Climate Goals

The facility is constructed on the property Mappen 4, strategically located just east of Linköping with direct access to the E4 motorway. Covering nearly 10,000 square metres, this efficient and flexible logistics hub meets San Sac’s growing needs for both warehouse and office space. The long-term lease agreement, spanning ten years, underscores the project’s significance for both parties, with the inauguration taking place in May 2026.

San Sac, owned by the international group Sulo, is currently in a strong phase of expansion. The new facility in Linköping will serve as a vital platform for continued growth, enabling more efficient logistics and an improved working environment. This project is also distinguished by close collaboration among several specialised actors. EAB has played a central role, both in supplying the building’s steel frame and in equipping the facility with storage equipment tailored to San Sac’s operations. By integrating the building and logistics solutions, a comprehensive approach has been developed that optimises flows, storage capacity, and the working environment.

“I believe we have had an excellent dialogue throughout the project. All contractors have been engaged, which has contributed to our ability to highlight effective solutions at every stage,” says Johan Carlsson, Project Manager at Catena.

Recycled and Fossil-Free Steel

This initiative is not solely about capacity; it is also a clear example of the sustainable construction of the future. The property will be certified according to BREEAM Excellent and will meet the requirements for Net Zero CO₂, with a particular focus on climate-smart material choices where steel plays a crucial role.

 

“We have employed climate-friendly concrete in the foundations and improved standards in roofing and load-bearing structures. We have also used recycled steel in the panels, which has yielded excellent results given the large quantities involved. It’s impressive to see how such choices can genuinely make a difference. The reused columns in the warehouse also have a strong backstory, having previously been part of a prestigious project. Being able to use them again, in a new function and with a fresh colour, feels great,” explains Johan.

By combining reused components with innovative material choices, the construction project has significantly reduced its climate footprint. Five of the building’s load-bearing columns are reused and have been meticulously quality assured before being integrated into the new structure. They have been painted in a bright green colour that stands out in the facility— a deliberate choice reflecting the company’s sustainability profile.

“When we began discussing the possibility of painting the reused columns green, it felt like both a strategic and enjoyable idea. We operate in the recycling industry and have a strong focus on environmental certification, so when we had the opportunity to physically showcase this in the building, it felt like a natural choice. During customer visits, it becomes a focal point for discussion,” says Jonas Rambin-Stigsson, Property Manager and Technical Project Leader at San Sac.

The remaining parts of the frame mostly consist of scrap-based steel, which significantly reduces climate impact compared to traditionally produced steel. For the roof and façade, SSAB Zero™ is used, made from recycled materials in a process completely free from fossil fuels. The result is the same high technical performance, but with over 70 percent lower climate impact.

Reduced Emissions: 850,000 Kilograms of CO₂ Equivalent

Overall, these measures are estimated to reduce the building’s emissions by approximately 850,000 kilograms of CO₂ equivalent— a concrete testament to how thoughtful material choices can make a substantial difference. Alongside complementary solutions such as climate-enhanced concrete, CLT, and further reuse, the project contributes to meeting ambitious climate goals.

“It has been exciting to deliver a project with such a strong environmental focus. We have had close collaboration with Catena to develop a sustainable solution, both economically and environmentally. The cooperation has worked exceptionally well, from product development to on-site execution. This is a project we are very proud of,” says Martin Mårtensson, Sales Manager at EAB Steel Buildings.

The pride in this project is echoed by Johan from Catena:

“It is evident that everyone involved in this project is proud of the outcome. The sustainability aspect is central, but so is the overall feel of the building and how it is experienced. We have received very positive feedback from the tenant, which means a lot. Working with EAB feels secure— we know each other well by now, and our long relationship operates like a well-oiled machine. There is a strong mutual trust and respect for each other’s businesses.”

Storage equipment and Move-In

With nearly 5,000 pallet spaces of Pallställ Omega, San Sac’s facilities have just been inaugurated. In addition to racking, EAB has also supplied impact protection, penetration protection, and industrial safety measures for both the shelving and the facility. The racking is installed up to the ceiling height with integrated forklift aisles, and as a complement to the ceiling sprinklers, level sprinkling is included in all racking.

“We came on board early in the project, and with such excellent planning from the client, we had the best opportunities to deliver a truly effective overall solution. Being one of the few suppliers in the market with Swedish manufacturing was an important factor for San Sac, and I see it as one of our biggest strengths. Since we have production and project management in the same facility, we have short pathways for any changes or special orders,” says David Feldt, Salesman and Project Manager at EAB Storage Equipment.

The new logistics facility in Linköping is thus more than just a building. It exemplifies how collaboration among multiple stakeholders, innovative material choices, and integrated logistics solutions can create both business benefits and contribute to more sustainable societal development.

“The contracting and assembly have worked incredibly well. The final result exceeded our expectations, and the facility was completed ahead of schedule. It is a striking and very well-executed building that we are proud to be tenants in. I would also like to acknowledge my colleague Håkan Gustafsson, who did a tremendous job on the project before I came in. Without his systematic preparations, we would not have had such a well-prepared project,” concludes Jonas Rambin-Stigsson.