The Door Industry Journal

Friday, 17 July 2026

The Next Generation of Industrial Door Control Panels by GfA

GfA has officially launched a new range of next-generation control panels, built specifically to deliver seamless, compliant, digital connectivity, with simplicity and consistency at its core. The launch represents a strategic technological advancement that addresses the demands of modern industrial environments while retaining the familiar operation that engineers already know and trust.

GfA boasts it has trained hundreds of engineers to use the TS range of control panels, and crucially the learning they have gained is transferable to this new range.

Seamless, Compliant, Digital Connectivity with the evodo Ecosystem

At the heart of the TS-C platform is smarter connectivity, enabled by GfA's new digital ecosystem, evodo. The platform integrates secure WLAN and Bluetooth® capabilities directly into the hardware, enabling seamless communication without interrupting door operation. This ecosystem connects building operators and door service companies through three key components:

● evodo-Sync: A dedicated application that enables wireless, on-site software updates, ensuring that controllers remain current with the latest enhancements.

● evodo-Toolkit: A mobile application that connects via Bluetooth to provide local parameter access, time and date configuration, and the ability to read and upload diagnostic information directly from the panel.

● evodo-Web: A web-based platform that allows for continuous remote monitoring of installed TS-C Control Panels, displaying asset data and diagnostic information based on whether the account belongs to a building operator or a door service company.

Built-In Compliance for the Future

With long-term system evolution in mind, the TS-C range has been engineered to provide the reliability and futureproofing required to maintain high standards of safety. Compliance has been built into the heart of the development process. Crucially, the TS-C platform is designed to meet the requirements of the new EU Machinery Regulation coming into effect in January 2027, which the UK is expected to align with. This ensures specifiers and end users are investing in a system that meets not just today’s regulations, but tomorrow’s as well.

Simplicity and Consistency for Engineers

Despite introducing an advanced digital architecture, the transition to TS-C is effortless. It retains the familiar functionality and user interface of legacy TS controls, allowing service teams to apply their existing knowledge immediately.

Hardware has been carefully redesigned to provide significant installation efficiencies. The TS-C features a compact, robust enclosure equipped with integrated snap-off mounting brackets for flexible placement. Inside, engineers will find lever terminals that minimise the risk of wiring errors and reduce installation time, along with a QR code that provides convenient access to installation instructions and fault guides.

Furthermore, troubleshooting has been vastly improved. The TS-C features a revised fault code structure (F.c codes) that clearly differentiates between faults, warnings, and status messages, resulting in faster fault identification and reduced downtime. To simplify stockholding, the control units also offer extensive I/O (input/output) configurability, allowing a single panel to support a wide range of door types and complex site requirements, from EV charging integration to interlocking systems.

A Clear Upgrade Path

The rollout of the new line-up began in May this year with the TS 96.25, which replaces the previous TS 981 model. Throughout 2026, GfA is introducing a total of five new panels, each serving as an enhanced replacement for an existing model to ensure a clear upgrade path: the TS 959 transitions to the TS 91.11, the TS 970 to the TS 92.12, and the TS 971 to the TS 93.13 & TS 93.25. Importantly, the replacement range also captures customer feedback in the design process, resulting in a range of panels that are aligned to the needs of our customers.

By combining fitter-friendly design, future-ready compliance, and an innovative digital ecosystem, the TS-C platform empowers engineers, service teams, and specifiers to work more efficiently today while seamlessly preparing for the future.

To find out more, please call us on 01926 452452 or visit our product and news pages at www.gfa-elektromaten.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Low Cost and Free Publicity - Your company can easily benefit from some publicity like the posts above for a contribution towards our layout costs (£75 to £95 plus VAT), payable in advance or you can receive the service absolutely free of charge if you advertise (see below).

We post articles up to twice a day and never delete them - we only archive them each year so that they continue to remain visible to search engines.

To have your story published - just send us your news item, logo and image(s) and we will review the material, make any necessary changes to the wording / wordcount and then advise you when it will be published.

If you are a regular advertiser in our printed and online publications, placing series bookings for adverts or subscribing to our VIP Packages, you will qualify for a specific number of free postings on this blog while you continue to advertise with us. See our media pack for more details.

Also, if you purchase one of our Online and Print Combo packages, Featured Articles or Advertorial packages shown in our media pack, posting on this blog is included in the price.

For details and rates for all of our advertising options in print and online, download our media pack contact us or visit our website.

Door Industry Journal is a trading style of Clearview Group Limited - Company No. 06999111

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Thursday, 16 July 2026

Four styles to suit every project

Looking to enhance your customers’ outdoor living spaces? Our Kostum team designs & manufacture premium bespoke solutions that combine style, durability and functionality. Every product is designed to enhance, secure and personalise outdoor environments, helping homeowners create spaces that truly reflect their lifestyle.

COSY GATE. Warm & welcoming

The Cosy gate features soft lines and timeless designs that blend seamlessly with every architectural style. Combining contemporary elegance with understated sophistication, these gates, fences, pedestrian gates and railings create welcoming outdoor spaces designed to stand the test of time.

FRESK GATE. Make it yours

Give every project a distinctive touch with the Fresk gate. Thanks to our laser-cut decorative panels gates and fences can be fully customised to match your customers’ preferences. From the design itself to its placement on the product, every detail can be tailored to create a unique result.

TRADY GATE. Timeless elegance

Inspired by traditional wrought iron craftsmanship, the Trady gate brings character, authenticity and elegance to any property. Combining classic aesthetics with the benefits of modern aluminium, this range is available across a wide selection of Kostum products and is perfectly suited to period homes and traditional architectural styles.

ARCHY GATE. Contemporary by design

Defined by clean lines and modern architectural influences, the Archy collection brings a bold and sophisticated look to any exterior project. Available across gates, fences and pedestrian gates, this range combines minimalist aesthetics with innovative design features, including concealed automation options. Choose from slatted or solid panel configurations to create a contemporary outdoor space with a distinctive identity.

Interested in becoming a partner?

Looking to expand your product offering with Kostum? Contact us to discover our professional pricing structure and dedicated support services. Our Export Sales Manager will provide tailored advice, technical expertise and bespoke B2B solutions to help grow your business.

Corentin Legault
+44 74888 12868
clegault@maison-cadiou.fr

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Wednesday, 15 July 2026

Solar Gates becomes SG in strategic evolution of the business

Solar Gates UK, the solar safety and security company serving construction, highways, and infrastructure sectors across the UK, has officially retired - making way for SG. The change is a natural reflection of how far the business has come.

Over 25 years, SG grew well beyond its origins - evolving from a solar gate specialist, then creators of the market-leading SOSEC and INSTABOOM solar barriers, into a company delivering a wide ranging portfolio of safety and infrastructure solutions. The name Solar Gates, while an important part of the company's story, no longer captures the full picture of what the business has become.

"Solar Gates built something real - a trusted team, strong relationships, and solutions that perform in some of the toughest environments in the industry. SG is the natural next step. Over 25 years, we grew far beyond what the original name suggested. This isn't a rebrand. It's the business finally introducing itself properly,” said Anna Blake, Commercial Director – SG.

At the heart of that introduction are four values SG has always lived by: innovative, passionate, capable, and compassionate. These aren't aspirations - they are commitments, visible in every project delivered, every partnership formed, and every client relationship maintained. The name changes. Nothing else does.

As SG grows, that commitment grows with it. The refreshed website reflects the same philosophy as the change itself: cleaner, clearer, and built to help specifiers, contractors, and procurement teams understand the full scope of what SG can offer.

"The challenges facing infrastructure and construction projects are becoming more complex - from safety and sustainability to technology and operational efficiency. SG has evolved to meet those demands,” added Anna.

“With a broader solutions offering together with Torquay Group companies, stronger partnerships, and a team focused on solving real problems for customers, this marks both where the business is today and where it's heading next."

www.solargates.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Tuesday, 14 July 2026

How the New Police-Backed Accreditation is Reinventing Mobile Safety

The modern smartphone is no longer just a communication tool; it is the remote control for contemporary life. From unlocking front doors and adjusting smart heating to managing finances and navigating dating landscapes, mobile apps hold the keys to our most sensitive data and physical spaces.

Yet, as our reliance on these digital gateways grows, so too does a silent, pervasive vulnerability. Behind the sleek interfaces of millions of apps lies a fragmented security landscape that leaves users exposed to data breaches, financial fraud, and physical stalking...

In response to this escalating digital threat, Secured by Design (SBD) - the official UK police security initiative - has expanded its pioneering 'Secure Connected Device' (SCD) framework to include standalone mobile app certification. Developed in collaboration with the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) and the National Centre for Violence Against Women & Girls and Public Protection (NCVPP), this landmark, police-endorsed standard aims to revolutionise cyber hygiene. By introducing third-party certification, the scheme provides a trusted benchmark, assuring users that accredited apps have implemented rigorous security controls to safeguard personal data.

The Invisible Threat in Our Pockets

The evolution of automated systems and the Internet of Things (IoT) has seamlessly integrated mobile apps into domestic infrastructure. White goods, lighting systems, voice assistants, and security locks are now routinely managed via mobile screens. However, this convenience has created a prime target for cybercriminals. Malicious software, including viruses, trojans, and spyware, is increasingly deployed to exploit weak app architecture, granting unauthorised access to private lives.

The scale of the vulnerability is staggering. Industry benchmarks reveal that a vast majority of mobile apps fail to meet baseline security standards. A 2023 analysis by security firm NowSecure evaluated nearly 6,500 leading mobile apps and discovered that an alarming 95% failed at least one of the seven security categories established by the Open Worldwide Application Security Project (OWASP) Mobile Application Security Verification Standard (MASVS).

In the UK alone, the digital marketplace is vast; by early 2025, the Google Play store featured more than 25,000 apps built by British developers. When the overwhelming majority of available apps fall short of internationally recognised safety standards, the collective digital attack surface becomes a national security concern. Police crime statistics increasingly reflect this reality. While data rarely isolates insecure apps as a sole variable, it consistently underscores digital platforms as the primary conduit for fraud and cybercrime. Traditional criminal activities are becoming increasingly cyber-enabled, magnified in scale and efficiency by exploiting flawed software.

The Disproportionate Toll on Women and Girls

While weak cyber hygiene poses financial and data risks to all users, the real-world consequences of insecure apps often fall heaviest on women and girls. Insecure apps are frequently weaponised to facilitate offline harm, including harassment, blackmail, and stalking.

A History of Smart Home Abuse

Smart-home abuse is no longer a hypothetical threat; it is happening right now. In 2018, the UK saw one of its first convictions for IoT-related abuse. A man stalked and harassed his former partner by compromising a wall-mounted smart home tablet. Through its connected mobile app, he manipulated the home's heating and lighting systems and routinely eavesdropped on private household conversations.

This crossover from digital vulnerability to physical terror highlights why the SCD scheme applies a universal standard, regardless of what the app does. Whether an app is a complex smart-lock controller or a basic utility tool, the underlying security risks remain identical.

Even apps explicitly designed to protect vulnerable demographics are vulnerable if their l code is weak. An international example is the U.S.-based ‘Tea Dating Advice’ app. Designed as a female-only safety forum with 1.6 million users, the platform allowed women to run background checks on prospective partners and anonymously report abusive behaviour. Despite its protective mission, a catastrophic data breach exposed 72,000 user images - some alongside official identification documents. The resulting fallout triggered widespread doxxing and targeted online harassment, proving that good intentions cannot substitute for robust encryption and rigorous testing.

By extending SCD accreditation across all app categories, SBD aims to combat violence against women and girls (VAWG) at the source, securing the digital tools that intersect with physical environments.

Shared Responsibility

Securing the digital ecosystem cannot rely on a single entity; it requires collective accountability from developers, companies, and regulators. Developers serve as the first line of defence. They bear the responsibility of writing secure code and embedding SCD principles into the earliest stages of software architecture.

However, developers operate within corporate structures. Companies must provide the necessary infrastructure and commercial incentives to ensure that rigorous security protocols are not sacrificed in the rush to market.

Finally, regulators hold the framework together by enforcing essential legal compliance. If any single pillar fails - whether through poor coding, corporate cutting of corners, or weak regulatory oversight - safety is compromised.

Building a Self-Sustaining Ecosystem

The ultimate objective of the SCD accreditation scheme is to shift the market dynamic, creating an ecosystem where digital safety is an expected norm rather than a premium feature. Organisations can accelerate this shift by integrating SCD accreditation directly into their procurement and governance lifecycles. By mandating that only accredited apps are permitted within corporate and institutional frameworks, the business community can establish a non-negotiable standard for digital safety.

When combined with visible customer-facing branding - such as the SCD logo displayed prominently on app store downloads - the scheme leverages consumer demand. Much like the physical Secured by Design branding on windows and doors has influenced security in properties for decades, the digital SCD stamp will empower consumers to vote for privacy with their downloads, forcing unaccredited, insecure competitors to adapt or be held to account.

The Future of Digital Safety

As the lines between physical devices and digital software blur, schemes like SBD's SCD accreditation will serve as a critical bridge. The framework harmonises technical requirements from both national and international standards bodies, translating complex cyber concepts into clear, actionable guidelines. Crucially, the scheme acts as a direct conduit for UK police data, meaning that its security benchmarks are continuously updated to counter real-world crime trends.

As traditional security hardware evolves into IoT-enabled devices, the SCD accreditation provides the definitive stamp of approval, ensuring that an app's digital defences are just as impenetrable as a physical lock. Furthermore, the framework recognises that cyber threats are dynamic. To maintain accreditation, apps must undergo annual testing and face mandatory re-evaluation whenever significant updates are made to their code.

Ultimately, the SCD accreditation will become a fundamental tool for frontline policing. By embedding these standards into police training and victim support protocols, officers will be equipped to confidently guide the public toward certified, secure apps. In doing so, the initiative will systematically shrink the digital attack surface, offering a safer, more resilient connected world for everyone.

www.securedbydesign.com

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Monday, 13 July 2026

Ellard and MDS Showcase the Strength of Partnership at The Fire Safety Event 2026

The Fire Safety Event 2026 provided the perfect platform for Ellard to showcase not only its latest fire safety motors & controls, but also the strength of its long-standing relationship with MDS Industries.

Exhibiting together at the NEC Birmingham, the two companies welcomed visitors from across the fire safety sector to discuss the technologies, products and partnerships helping to shape the future of fire door and fire shutter systems.

As one of the industry's leading exhibitions, The Fire Safety Event brings together manufacturers, installers, specifiers and fire safety professionals to explore the latest developments in compliance, life safety and fire protection. For Ellard, the event offered an opportunity to demonstrate how strong partnerships play a vital role in delivering dependable solutions to the market.

The collaboration between Ellard and MDS Industries continues to be built on a shared commitment to quality, technical expertise and customer support. By working closely together, both businesses are able to provide customers with solutions that combine reliable automation, fire safety compliance and quality industrial fire shutters.

Throughout the event, the joint stand attracted visitors looking to discuss current projects, emerging industry challenges and future opportunities. Conversations highlighted the growing importance of collaboration across the supply chain, particularly as regulations evolve and customers seek increasingly integrated fire safety solutions.

For Ellard, exhibiting alongside MDS Industries was a reflection of a partnership that extends far beyond a single event. It demonstrated the value of combining complementary expertise to better support customers and help deliver safe, reliable fire door and shutter systems across the industry.

www.ellard.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Sunday, 12 July 2026

Best-of-Category Cars Across All Segments to First Edition of The Quail Auction

Broad Arrow Auctions, driven by Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY), is looking forward to its inaugural sale as the official auction partner of The Quail by The Peninsula, A Motorsports Gathering. The Quail Auction, set for August 13-14 during the world renowned motorsports and luxury lifestyle event, will feature approximately 175 exceptional collector cars, curated by Broad Arrow’s global team of veteran and expert car specialists.

Early featured highlights for the two-day auction are led by highly sought-after cars across all categories of collecting, from Classic Era elegance through to modern performance icons.

“Our team has already put together an exciting group of cars for our first sale at The Quail, and we’re adding consignments daily at broadarrowauctions.com,” says Barney Ruprecht, VP of Auctions for Broad Arrow.

“Highlights to date include a fantastic mix of millennium-era and modern performance hot topics combined with exceptional and distinguished examples of collector car market icons. With eight new auction world records set at our 2025 Monterey Car Week auction, we’re looking forward to bringing more fascinating cars to the podium as we begin a new chapter with The Quail.”

Highlights for Broad Arrow’s The Quail Auction to date include:

An eye-catching group of uniquely specified modern performance icons

• A single-owner 2020 Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 (Estimate: $2,500,000 - $3,000,000), a 284 mile, one-of-63 example of the very first Lamborghini equipped with hybrid technology. Powered by a 6.5-liter hybrid V12 producing a combined 808 horsepower, this stunning example is specified in Bianco Asopo and Grigio Liqueo fading with Verde Lampros accents over Nero Cosmus leather and features a host of options and Ad Personam exterior appointments.

• A 1990 Porsche 911 Coupe Reimagined by Singer known as the “Los Angeles Commission” (Estimate: $1,100,000 - $1,300,000), a gorgeous example of the now retired Singer Classic Study. Emerging from Singer in 2016, it is powered by an Ed Pink Racing-built 4.0-liter air-cooled flat-six and a six-speed manual transmission with limited-slip differential and finished in Paint to Sample Namib Yellow with subtle Ghosted Light racing side stripes and Bone White lettering over a White leather woven interior with Black leather contrast trim.

• A 2023 Ford Bronco DR (Estimate: $225,000 - $275,000 | Offered Without Reserve), one of only 50 Desert Racer examples produced and offered with just 19 miles from new. This is a turn-key off-road Baja truck developed by Ford Performance and built by Multimatic Motorsports, finished in a gold, white, and blue livery inspired by the legendary Baja-winning “Big Oly” Bronco.

• A two-owner 2016 Dodge Viper GTC (Estimate: $200,000 - $250,000 | Offered Without Reserve), offered with less than 10,000 miles from new. Finished in Viper White over a Demonic Red/Black leather interior, it is powered by a monstrous 8.4-liter V10 producing 645 horsepower through a TREMEC six-speed manual transmission, remaining one of the largest displacement motors fitted to a contemporary production car.

A sought-after lineup of wild millennium-era marvels

• A 1996 Nissan NISMO 400R (Estimate: $800,000 - $950,000), the 20th of just 44 limited edition 400Rs built to celebrate the R33 GT-R’s 24 Hours of Le Mans racing accomplishments. Powered by the Le Mans-derived RBX-GT2 twin-turbo straight-six producing 400 horsepower, this Sonic Silver example, recently imported to the U.S. after nearly three decades of Japanese ownership, is among the most collectible JDM cars ever to reach America.

• A wild 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo (Estimate: $400,000 - $450,000 | Offered Without Reserve), among the most dramatic and custom-ordered 993-generation 911 Turbos. Finished in PTS Violet Blue Metallic over a Leather to Sample interior, this powerful Rest of World (RoW) example boasts P408 S and four-wheel drive derived from the 959 supercar. Featuring extensive Exclusive options, the 911 Turbo benefits from thorough and comprehensive recommissioning at RUF Pfaffenhausen in 2023.

• A 2005 Acura NSX (Estimate: $200,000 - $225,000 | Offered Without Reserve), equipped with the desirable six-speed manual transmission and one of just 20 examples finished in New Formula Red over Onyx leather. Meticulously maintained from new and with under 27,000 miles at cataloging, this is a fantastic example of the most refined year of the revered first generation Acura NSX.

Highly important sports and racing greats

• A historically significant 1951 Porsche-Sauter 356 Pre-A Sportwagen Roadster by Klenk (Estimate: $1,800,000 - $2,200,000), the evolutionary link between Porsche No. 1, the America Roadster, and the 356 Speedster. The Porsche-Sauter was built by Hans Klenk Karosserie, the man who would go on to win the Carrera Panamericana in a 300 SL. Following period competition at the Nürburgring, Monaco, Liège-Rome-Liège rally, Montlhéry, Riverside, and Pebble Beach, the Porsche-Sauter was reacquired by the Porsche factory to develop the 1,500-cc Type 528 Super engine later used in the America Roadster. Returning to the Monterey Peninsula, the car remains eligible for premier historic events worldwide, representing an irreproducible link to the company's earliest competition era.

• A 1954 Maserati A6GCS by Fiandri & Malagoli (Estimate: $2,400,000 - $2,900,000), chassis no. 2078, the 25th of 52 Maserati A6GCS examples built, and retained by the factory for Works competition during the 1954 season. The car is credited with a remarkable period racing record, including 1st in Class at the Giro delle Calabrie, Circuito di Senigallia, and RAC Tourist Trophy, among other prominent results. It was piloted by legendary Works driver Luigi Musso, whose success with the A6GCS helped secure the 1954 Italian championship in the International Sports Class. It has been cherished in its current, devoted enthusiast ownership for nearly three decades, during which it has been actively campaigned at the Mille Miglia Storica, Monterey Historics, and Colorado Grand. The award-winning Maserati comes to auction extensively researched by leading Maserati authorities, including Ermanno Cozza and Adolfo Orsi, documenting its significance as an important Works Maserati sports racer from an exciting era of motor racing.

• A 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTR Brumos (Estimate: $600,000 - $800,000), the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans IMSA GTO Class winner in BF Goodrich colors. One of only 17 factory-built 924 Carrera GTRs, this was the ultimate customer racing transaxle Porsche to emerge from Weissach. Campaigned in period by Brumos Racing with Porsche factory support, the 924 was a three-time competitor at both the Daytona 24 Hours and Sebring 12 Hours and was piloted by Doc Bundy, Jim Busby, Manfred Schurti, John O'Steen, Elliott Forbes-Robinson, and actor James Brolin among others. The car has been exceptionally restored and remains eligible for both European and United States-based historic racing classics.

• A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing Coupe (Estimate: $1,850,000 - $2,200,000), a striking example of one of the most significant sports cars of the post-war era. Presented in Black over Green leather with seldom seen matching plaid cloth seat inserts, the unmistakable car retains its original matching-numbers chassis, body, engine, transmission, steering box, spindles, and rear axle and is eligible for the most exclusive driving and concours events worldwide.

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Saturday, 11 July 2026

A LETTER TO THE INDUSTRY FROM ANDY COLLETT, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GfA UK

The industrial door industry is entering a defining period of change. Across the UK and Europe, businesses are facing a growing shortage of skilled installation and service engineers. Experienced professionals are retiring, fewer apprentices are entering the trade, and companies are under increasing pressure to do more with less.

For manufacturers, installers and service providers alike, this presents a serious operational challenge. Margins are already under pressure. Time on-site is costly. Training new engineers takes time and investment. And as systems become more advanced, there is a growing risk that technology itself becomes viewed as another obstacle.

But this is precisely the moment when the industry must avoid paralysis through resistance.

The future of industrial doors will not be secured by avoiding change. It will be secured by helping engineers and businesses adapt to it confidently.

At GfA, this has long shaped our philosophy toward product development and training.

The Industry Cannot Afford Resistance to Innovation

There is often a natural hesitation whenever new control technology enters the market. Engineers who have spent years mastering familiar systems can understandably worry that “next-generation” products will mean complexity, disruption, or extensive retraining.

That concern is not unique to industrial doors. Every technical industry faces the same challenge: how to modernise without alienating the very people responsible for installation and service.

The danger comes when resistance slows progress.

Modern industrial doors are increasingly expected to deliver more than simply opening and closing reliably. Customers now expect smarter diagnostics, better compliance visibility, remote support capability, faster commissioning and more efficient maintenance processes. Regulations are evolving. Digitalisation is becoming unavoidable. Service expectations are rising.

If the industry resists these developments, the burden on already-stretched engineering teams only becomes greater.

Technology should reduce pressure on engineers — not create more of it.

That principle has guided the development of GfA’s new TS-C platform.

Familiarity Matters

One of the biggest mistakes manufacturers can make when introducing new systems is forcing installers and service engineers to completely relearn how they work.

That creates downtime, uncertainty and frustration.

The TS-C range was designed differently.

While the platform introduces major technological advancements, the operational logic remains intentionally familiar. Engineers already experienced with the TS Control Panel range will immediately recognise the structure, functionality and workflow of the new TS-C Control Panels.

This matters enormously in today’s labour environment.

Businesses do not have the luxury of removing engineers from site for lengthy retraining programmes. They need continuity. They need confidence. They need products that allow experienced engineers to transfer their existing knowledge directly into newer systems.

The TS-C platform delivers exactly that.

Instead of creating barriers to adoption, it creates a bridge between traditional engineering expertise and future-ready digital functionality.

Technology Should Support Engineers, not Replace Them

There is sometimes concern that increasing digitalisation removes control from engineers in the field. In reality, the opposite should be true.

Done properly, smarter systems empower engineers.

The introduction of GfA’s new digital ecosystem evodo, alongside the TS-C range, has been designed specifically to simplify commissioning, diagnostics and ongoing service support.

With tools such as:

● evodo-Sync for on-site software updates

● evodo-Toolkit for Bluetooth parameter access and diagnostics

● evodo-Web for remote monitoring and fault analysis

engineers can work more efficiently, identify issues earlier and reduce unnecessary return visits.

Importantly, these systems are designed to enhance field expertise — not replace it.

A skilled engineer remains central to the process. The technology simply removes inefficiencies that waste time and reduce profitability.

In a market suffering from labour shortages, this becomes critically important.

Faster Onboarding for the Next Generation

The industry also needs to think carefully about the next wave of engineers entering the sector.

If apprenticeship numbers remain lower than required, businesses must focus on reducing the time it takes for new engineers to become productive and confident on-site.

This is where intuitive product design becomes commercially valuable.

Features such as:

● integrated QR-code access to instructions and fault guides

● simplified wiring layouts

● lever terminals

● modular plug-and-play expansion

● USB-C parameter backup functionality

helps reduce avoidable installation errors and speed up familiarisation for newer engineers.

These are not simply “technical features.” They are tools that support workforce development.

The easier it is for engineers to commission, diagnose and maintain systems confidently, the stronger the industry becomes overall.

Compliance is Coming — the Industry Needs to be Ready

Another major driver of change is regulation.

The new EU Machinery Regulation coming into effect in January 2027 — with the UK expected to align closely — means businesses must prepare now for future compliance expectations.

This is not something the market can ignore or postpone.

The TS-C platform has been designed with future compliance already built in, helping manufacturers and installers protect both their stockholding and long-term product strategy.

Again, preparation matters.

Businesses that embrace change early will place themselves in a far stronger competitive position than those forced into rushed reactive transitions later.

Training Remains the Foundation

Technology alone is never the answer.

The real differentiator will always be people.

For many years, GfA has championed high standards of technical training because well-trained engineers do not just improve safety and quality — they improve profitability.

Confident engineers work more efficiently. They diagnose faults faster. They reduce costly callbacks. They strengthen customer relationships. And they help businesses protect margins in increasingly difficult trading conditions.

That philosophy continues with the rollout of the TS-C platform.

The objective is not simply to introduce a new control panel. It is to support the industry through a wider period of transition — giving businesses the confidence to modernise without fear of disruption.

A Moment for Leadership

The industrial door industry is undoubtedly facing challenges. Labour shortages, changing regulations and increasing technical expectations are real pressures for every business.

But periods of change also create opportunity.

Companies that invest in training, embrace smarter systems and support engineers through technological transition will be the businesses best positioned for long-term success.

The key is ensuring that innovation feels accessible — not intimidating.

That is why GfA’s message to the market is simple:

Change does not need to be disruptive.
Modernisation does not need to create barriers.
And engineers do not need to fear the future of control technology.

With the right support, training and product design, the industry can move forward confidently together.

To find out more, please call us on 01926 452452 or visit our product and news pages at www.gfa-elektromaten.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Friday, 10 July 2026

Mila UK promotes Julie Holmes to Director & General Manager

Mila UK is pleased to announce the appointment of Julie Holmes to the role of Director & General Manager, strengthening the company’s ongoing long-term strategic growth.

The newly created role will benefit Mila customers by leading to faster decision-making, enhanced coordination across sales and operations, and a more responsive service aligned to their specific needs.

Julie has worked in the fenestration industry for 20 years and has extensive customer and market experience. She joined Mila in 2013 and has progressed through the roles of Area Sales Manager, National Sales Manager, and Sales Director, making this latest step a natural progression.

Julie comments: “Our mission at Mila is to become the most customer-centric and trusted partner in the fenestration industry, delivering reliable products and industry leading service to our customers – and that’s exactly what I want to achieve in my new role. I can’t wait to get started.”

Mila has been at the heart of the UK hardware industry since 1980. It supplies the trade, merchant, and retail sectors, and has a track record of exemplary service and product development.

www.milasecure.com

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Thursday, 9 July 2026

Integrated LED light strip and box strengthener combines two common installer requests

A new integrated LED light strip and box strengthener from Trojon Roller Doors has been developed to address two of the most common requests from garage door installers, bringing lighting and structural support together in a single component.

Set to launch this spring, the product combines an LED lighting strip with a box strengthener, offering installers a practical way to enhance both the functionality and finish of a garage door installation.

Two installer requests in one solution

When specifying garage doors, installers are frequently asked for two things: external lighting above the door, and additional support to reinforce the door box. Rather than providing separate accessories, Trojon’s new design integrates both functions into a single product.

Additionally, the new strengthener will solve another big issue faced by homeowners – that of the hood rattling in strong winds.

The LED strip sits neatly above the garage door, providing external illumination while also acting as a structural reinforcement for the door box. By combining lighting and strengthening into one element, the product reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall installation process.

For John Munday, owner of Trojon Roller Doors, and designer of this new product; it is a straightforward idea, but one that reflects the practical requirements installers encounter on site every day.

Flexible installation options

Flexibility was central to the product’s development. The integrated LED light strip can be installed at the same time as a new garage door, giving homeowners immediate exterior lighting.

It can also be retrofitted to existing doors, offering installers a solution when customers want to upgrade the exterior of their garage at a later date.

The lighting can be configured in different ways depending on the application. For example, it can be set to activate automatically when the garage door is operated, providing immediate illumination outside the door. This is especially useful for driveways, paths, and entryways where extra visibility improves safety and convenience.

Alternatively, the LED strip can function as a standalone light source, offering a permanent exterior lighting feature above the garage.

Designed to integrate with the door

Alongside functionality, appearance has also been considered in the design. The LED strip is supplied in white as standard, but Trojon laminates the units in-house so they can match the finish of the garage door. This allows the strip to blend seamlessly with the door’s design rather than appearing as an afterthought.

As garages increasingly serve multiple purposes and are part of the overall home frontage, homeowners are more conscious of aesthetics. A coordinated finish ensures the lighting feature feels like a natural and integrated part of the installation.

Practical benefits for installers

Combining lighting and structural reinforcement into a single component offers clear practical advantages.

By reducing the number of separate elements required, installations are quicker, simpler, and easier to specify. Installers no longer need to source and fit separate lighting and strengthening components, saving time and effort on site.

At the same time, the structural element helps support the door box, contributing to the long-term durability and stability of the door system.

This dual-purpose approach adds value both structurally and aesthetically without adding complexity to the installation.

A small change that makes a big difference

Innovation in the garage door sector is often about practical improvements that make installations simpler and the finished system more functional for homeowners.

By combining two commonly requested features into a single component, Trojon’s new LED light strip and box strengthener delivers exactly that kind of improvement.

More information is available at www.trojonrollerdoors.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Wednesday, 8 July 2026

Growing Ellard’s JM Range: Supporting Fire Shutters of Every Size

Last year, Ellard refreshed its JM range of fire shutter and industrial door motors, reinforcing its commitment to providing reliable, easy-to-specify solutions for installers and manufacturers across the industry.

The refresh focused on improving consistency across the range and making it easier for customers to identify the right motor, control system and fire safety components for their application. It also reaffirmed the JM platform's position as a trusted solution for everything from compact fire shutters to large industrial door systems.

This year, that journey continues with the introduction of two new additions to the family: the JM3000 and JM4000.

These new operators extend the capabilities of the JM range even further, enabling manufacturers and installers to specify complete solutions for larger and heavier fire shutter installations than ever before.

Meeting the Demands of Larger Fire Shutters

Fire shutters are used in an increasingly diverse range of buildings, from retail premises and warehouses to manufacturing facilities and large commercial developments.

As building designs evolve, so too do the requirements placed on fire protection systems. Larger openings often require larger fire shutters, creating a demand for operators capable of handling increased door weights while maintaining reliable day-to-day operation and dependable performance in an emergency.

Recognising this need, Ellard has expanded the JM platform with the introduction of the JM3000 and JM4000.

Completing the JM Family

One of the key strengths of the JM range has always been its scalability.

From the compact JM150, designed for smaller fire shutters, through to the JM2200 for larger industrial systems, the range provides a clear progression of solutions for different door sizes and operating requirements.

The addition of the JM3000 and JM4000 now allows the platform to support some of the largest fire shutter installations in the market.

Delivering up to 765Nm and 825Nm of torque respectively, these operators have been developed to provide the additional power required for larger shutter assemblies while maintaining compatibility with the wider JM ecosystem.

For manufacturers, this means a single product family can now be specified across an even broader range of projects, simplifying product selection and reducing complexity when designing fire shutter systems.

Fire Safety at the Core

While the new motors provide increased capability, the primary objective remains unchanged: reliable fire protection.

The JM3000 and JM4000 have been designed to integrate with Ellard's wider fire safety offering, including the FCP-03 fire control panel and compatible fire release systems.

This allows installers and manufacturers to create complete fire shutter solutions that combine everyday operational performance with dependable fire safety functionality.

By ensuring compatibility across the entire range, Ellard continues to offer a joined-up approach to fire shutter specification, helping customers source motors, controls and fire safety products from a single supplier.

Investing in the Future

The launch of the JM3000 and JM4000 demonstrates Ellard's ongoing investment in the JM platform and the fire shutter market.

While last year's refresh strengthened the existing range, these latest additions expand what the platform is capable of delivering.

The result is a comprehensive family of operators that now provides solutions for everything from compact shopfront fire shutters to some of the largest fire shutter installations found in industrial and commercial environments.

As fire shutter requirements continue to evolve, Ellard remains focused on providing practical, reliable solutions that help manufacturers and installers meet the demands of modern building design.

With the addition of the JM3000 and JM4000, the JM range is now better equipped than ever to provide a solution for fire shutters of every size.

www.ellard.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website