The Door Industry Journal

Tuesday, 29 September 2026

Abloy’s PROTEC2 CLIQ access control system improves East Midlands Ambulance Service medicine management

Abloy UK has provided East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) with its PROTEC2 CLIQ access control solution to enhance the management and security of controlled drugs across its operations. The project specification included almost 2,000 keys and approximately 600 cylinders, enabled via Wall Programming Devices.

Operating in a tightly regulated healthcare environment, EMAS is responsible for ensuring the secure handling and administration of controlled drugs within its ambulance fleet and depot facilities. With increasing compliance requirements and the need for greater accountability, EMAS recognised the necessity to upgrade from its mechanical key system to an electromechanical, auditable solution.

W.G. Pollard Security Specialists (Pollards) had previously installed 600 bespoke safes into EMAS’ emergency vehicles, and so EMAS enlisted them again to advise on this new project. Pollards, having previously worked with Abloy on similar projects, recommended the PROTEC2 CLIQ system based on its technical capabilities and suitability for EMAS’ operational needs.

Neil Hughes, Business Development Manager at Abloy UK, said: “The PROTEC2 CLIQ system was introduced to support the operational requirements of the East Midlands Ambulance Service. The solution was selected for its ability to provide physical security and real-time auditability, giving EMAS complete control and traceability across its operations.”

The upgraded solution secures drug cabinets not only in centralised depots but also within the ambulance vehicles themselves. Each staff member carries a programmable key which is authorised daily, ensuring access is granted to those who are scheduled and approved to handle the substances on a given day.

One of the advantages of the PROTEC2 CLIQ system is its ability to manage lost or stolen keys efficiently. A lost mechanical key system would mean either downtime, risk of misuse or an expensive and time-consuming replacement process. With the Abloy solution in place, compromised keys can be disabled remotely, and new ones can be issued with precise access permissions.

The deployment was conducted in two phases, the first focusing on software and Wall PD installation for central management, and the second on the delivery of safes and the installation of cylinders into drug storage units.

Peter Pollard, Director at W.G. Pollard Security Specialists, said: “Having worked with Abloy UK on a number of projects, we recommended the PROTEC2 CLIQ system based on its technical features and suitability for the environment. The system combines flexibility, auditability and ease of key management, which are particularly relevant in healthcare settings.”

For further information on products and services available from Abloy UK visit www.abloy.com, email info@abloy.co.uk or call 01902 364 500.

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Monday, 28 September 2026

Stand Out, Don't Stand Still, Urges ADSA

Businesses that continue to invest in innovation, people and market visibility during periods of economic uncertainty will emerge stronger than those that retreat, according to the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA).

As organisations across the construction supply chain continue to navigate inflationary pressures, delayed investment decisions, skills shortages and evolving regulatory requirements, ADSA is encouraging the entrance systems sector to view challenging market conditions as an opportunity to innovate, strengthen customer relationships and prepare for future growth.

In a new thought leadership feature, ‘Growing Through Downturn – Leadership, Innovation and Opportunity in Challenging Markets’, ADSA Managing Director Ken Price explores how manufacturers, installers and suppliers can build resilience by focusing on long-term strategy rather than short-term pressures.

The feature examines a number of key themes shaping the sector, including the shift from selling products to delivering integrated solutions, the importance of investing in organisational culture and professional competence, and how customer insight can drive product development and innovation.

Ken Price said: "Growth doesn't stop during difficult periods. It simply requires a different approach. The businesses that emerge strongest are often those that continue to invest, adapt and focus on delivering genuine value to customers."

The article challenges businesses to resist the temptation to reduce marketing activity during periods of economic uncertainty, arguing that maintaining visibility, demonstrating expertise and providing industry leadership become even more important when customers are more selective and competition for projects intensifies.

Ken added: "One of the biggest mistakes organisations can make is disappearing from view when conditions become more difficult. Visibility creates confidence. Confidence creates opportunity."

The discussion will continue in an upcoming episode of ADSA's Tech Talk podcast, where Ken will be joined by a panel of industry leaders to explore the opportunities and challenges facing the entrance systems sector, sharing practical insight into how businesses can build resilience and drive sustainable growth in an uncertain market.

Read the full feature, here: www.adsa.org.uk/about-us/news/post/growing-through-downturn-leadership-innovation-and-opportunity-in-challenging-markets/

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Sunday, 27 September 2026

Smart as Standard: Why Has the Door Industry Been Left Behind?

Smart technology is everywhere, except, it seems, in the part of the home responsible for protecting everything and everyone inside it. Justin Harris shares his thoughts on smart technology and its growing role in our industry...

We control heating, lighting, appliances and security from our phones. A basic LED bulb might cost £5, yet for £7 it can offer an app, colours and dimming. Why, then, has the door industry expected homeowners to pay £500, £800 or even £1,000 more to make a door smart?

We should be brutally honest. Smart perimeter access has not been held back because homeowners cannot understand it. They use smart technology every day. It has been held back because our industry has not consistently offered the right product, confidence, simplicity, support and price.

Why has adoption remained low?

Many smart products are retrofitted or combine a device, cylinder and lock from different suppliers. Compatibility and integration are not the same. Door manufacturers and installers carry the risk of difficult setup, unreliable operation, callbacks and uncertainty over responsibility.

If they do not trust the product, they will not propose it. If they do not demonstrate the benefits, homeowners will not know why they might want it. Low adoption may reflect industry confidence, not homeowner interest.

Smart ready is not a smart door

Some doors described as smart ready have no smart capability when installed. The homeowner may buy something later, but even then, it may only monitor whether the door is open or closed.

That is “jam tomorrow”. A sensor can provide information, but it observes the door; it does not control it. It cannot necessarily lock or unlock the door, manage access or let someone enter without a key.

A smart door should provide visibility and action. Crafted Synergy is installed as a complete solution from day one, not a promise the homeowner must complete later.

Engineered as a smart doorset

A smart turner is only as effective as its lock. Many locks were never designed for motorised operation. Real doors move, bow and twist. Weather and seasonal change affect the force required. A person can compensate. A smart turner cannot.

Winkhaus did not rush another standalone product to market. AV4 and Thunderbolt accommodate the realities of a working doorset, with Polaris designed specifically around them.

We have placed doors under duress and repeatedly tested whether Polaris continues to operate. Comparative assessments with prospective customers reinforce the conclusion: the mechanical lock is critical to successful smart operation.

That is the difference between attaching smart technology to a door and engineering a smart doorset.

One complete ecosystem

Crafted Synergy combines German engineered locks, cylinder security, sensing and smart technology within one purpose designed ecosystem. The components have been dovetailed and tested together. There is no pick and mix from unrelated suppliers.

Installation, app setup and calibration are simple. Key operation remains, while the homeowner gains smart control and confirmation that the door is physically closed and locked.

Technology sits discreetly inside. Outside, the door retains its traditional appearance and compatible furniture. Smart functionality should be experienced, not displayed to the street.

The sale is not app, motor or sensor. It is children entering without keys, managed access for relatives, carers or tradespeople, and reassurance that the door is secure.

Our lifestyle videos and homeowner materials will demonstrate these real-life benefits. Customers receive the product, story and support needed to take it confidently to market.

A complete smart door for as little as £180 more

With Crafted Synergy and Polaris, the additional cost to the homeowner can be as little as £180. Over a conservative 15 year door life, that is £12 a year, £1 a month or less than 25 pence a week.

They receive mechanical security, active access, meaningful door information, simple operation and real family benefits from installation.

That is price plus: engineering, integration, testing, simplicity, immediate functionality, design freedom, homeowner benefits and marketing support at a realistic price.

Be first and lead the change

The market is difficult. That makes differentiation more important, not less. When competing doors look similar, why should homeowners choose yours?

Crafted Synergy changes that conversation. Sell how the door protects, operates and supports the way the homeowner lives. Stand out, increase value, sell more doors and improve profitability.

Innovation often wins in difficult markets. The products are ready, the benefits are clear and the additional cost is realistic.

Our challenge is simple: be first and lead the change.

Smart technology has changed the rest of the home. It is time for the door industry to catch up.

www.winkhaus.com

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Saturday, 26 September 2026

New Colour Promotion for Hörmann NT60 Side Doors

Hörmann UK is giving installers an added sales opportunity this autumn with the launch of a limited-time colour promotion on its popular NT60 and NT60-2 sectional garage side doors.

From now to 30th October, customers can upgrade to two of the most sought-after contemporary colours - Jet Black (RAL 9005) or Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016), in either Silkgrain or Woodgrain finishes, for the same price as Traffic White (RAL 9016).

The promotion provides installers with an ideal opportunity to offer homeowners premium colour choices at no additional cost, helping to add value while meeting the growing demand for stylish, coordinated garage door solutions.

The offer is further enhanced by Hörmann's recently introduced Fast Track programme, which enables NT60 and NT60-2 sectional garage side doors to be supplied in just three to four weeks from receipt of order. Concealed hinges are also included as standard at no additional cost, delivering an even higher specification as part of the package.

Designed to complement Hörmann's range of sectional garage doors, the NT60 side door range provides homeowners with convenient everyday access to the garage while creating a fully coordinated appearance. Manufactured to the same exacting standards as Hörmann's garage doors, the NT60 combines robust construction, precision engineering and high levels of security with an attractive, contemporary design.

The Fast Track programme covers both single and double-leaf side doors, with no size restrictions, providing installers with maximum flexibility across a wide variety of residential projects. A choice of block frame or corner frame configurations is available to suit different installation requirements, together with practical hardware options including electric strike upgrades, standard lever handle sets and standard hinge colour finishes.

Alongside the promotional colours, the Fast Track range is available in a wide variety of colours, finishes and designs. For homeowners seeking the appearance of natural timber, Decograin finishes in Golden Oak and Dark Oak are also available.

By combining an attractive colour promotion with significantly reduced lead times and a comprehensive range of design options, Hörmann is making it easier than ever for installers to deliver premium garage side door solutions that combine style, convenience and exceptional value.

The NT60 colour promotion is available on orders placed between 1st August and 30th October 2026.

www.hormann.co.uk

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Friday, 25 September 2026

DoorBird Launches the New D22x Series for Modern Building Requirements

Modern buildings are placing ever-increasing demands on door communication systems. Property owners, operators, and residents require intelligent solutions that accommodate different user groups, support flexible access methods, and meet high standards for security, connectivity, and integration.

With the new D22x series, DoorBird introduces a new generation of IP video door intercoms. Developed based on specific customer requirements, the series combines cutting-edge technology, exceptional flexibility, premium design, and Made in Germany quality.

As part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, the global leader in access solutions, DoorBird combines innovative IP-based door communication with extensive expertise in modern building security.

Security and Control at a New Level

The D22x series comprises more than 30 models and is the direct successor to the globally successful D21x Series. New additions to the portfolio include versions with digital nameplates, which can be managed centrally and remotely, offering significant advantages for property managers, housing associations, and operators of larger buildings.

All models feature a 5 MP HDR camera with a Sony image sensor and a 180° ultra-wide-angle lens, providing excellent visibility of the entrance area even under challenging lighting conditions. Video transmission is available in HD quality via the local network or through DoorBird Cloud Pro. Outstanding audio performance ensures clear and intelligible communication between visitors and residents, even in demanding environments.

Depending on the model, a variety of authentication methods are available, including the app, dual-frequency RFID, Bluetooth, PIN code, QR code, and fingerprint recognition. The security concept is further enhanced by a radar-based 4D motion sensor and an integrated tamper sensor.

Simplified Installation and Maximum Integration

With the D22x series, DoorBird also simplifies installation. Thanks to the integrated power output for electric door openers, many installations no longer require a separate power supply for the door release mechanism. This reduces cabling complexity, saves installation time, and lowers overall system costs.

Open interfaces such as SIP, OSDP, RS485, and Wiegand, along with a comprehensively documented LAN and Cloud API, enable integration with more than 100 smart homes, access control, video surveillance, and building management systems.

The door station supports installations with up to 3,000 residential or office units. In addition to traditional call buttons, digital nameplates and displays with resident directories are available. Accessibility features can be added to every model, including an integrated hearing loop, pictograms, and acoustic door-opening confirmation signals.

As an ISO/IEC 27001-certified company, DoorBird incorporates privacy and information security throughout the development process in accordance with the Security by Design principle.

Sustainable Modernisation of Existing Installations

The D22x series offers a particularly cost-effective way to modernize existing DoorBird D21x installations. When upgrading, only the main electronic unit needs to be replaced. Existing housings, front panels, and other components can continue to be used, while all existing settings can be retained. This significantly reduces installation effort and contributes to environmental sustainability.

Design as Part of the Architecture

In addition to technology, design plays a central role. More than 50 finishes and color options allow seamless integration into a wide variety of architectural concepts, from private residences to prestigious commercial properties.

Using the DoorBird 3D Configurator, customers can customize the D22x series to their individual requirements. Front panel size and shape, engravings, mailboxes, and the integration of reader units from leading manufacturers can all be configured with maximum flexibility.

“Modern buildings require solutions that can adapt flexibly while remaining easy to integrate,” says Sascha Keller, Founder and CEO of DoorBird. “With the D22x series, we provide a future-proof platform that combines powerful door communication, flexible access solutions, and sophisticated design Made in Germany.”

www.doorbird.com/shop/d22

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Thursday, 24 September 2026

External Pedestrian Doorsets – Demonstrating Compliance with Designated Standards

Fiona Critchley, Chair of the Timber Doorsets Group at the Door & Hardware Federation and Head of Communications, Gerda Security Products, outlines key points of which to be aware.

The Construction Products Reform White Paper places product safety at the centre of proposed reforms to the construction products regulatory regime. It identifies that only just over a third of construction products are currently regulated through designated standards and highlights ongoing concerns regarding incomplete, unclear, and misleading product information.

The Government’s objective is to ensure that construction products are safe, trusted, and supported by accurate, accessible, and transparent information.

Although new standards and Digital Product Passports are expected from 2028/29, the existing designated standards remain applicable today. CPR 305/2011 continues in UK law and is policed by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).

For developers, architects, Principal Designers, manufacturers, economic operators and the wider supply chain, understanding the applicable standards and evidence is essential to ensure that external pedestrian doorsets are correctly specified, manufactured and installed.

The compliance route depends on the type of doorset. There are three important categories:
Standard external pedestrian doorsets, such as flat entrance/balcony doors and service-room doors;
External pedestrian doorsets incorporating panic hardware; and
External pedestrian doorsets requiring fire resistance and/or smoke control.

These categories have different assessment and verification requirements.

Designated Standards

Two designated standards apply:

BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016
Windows and doors – Product standard, performance characteristics – Part 1: Windows and external pedestrian doorsets.

BS EN 16034:2014
Pedestrian doorsets, industrial, commercial, garage doors and openable windows – Product standard, performance characteristics – Fire resisting and/or smoke control characteristics.

BS EN 16034 cannot be used independently. Where fire resistance and/or smoke control is required, it must always be applied alongside another designated standard.

1. Standard External Pedestrian Doorsets

Standard external pedestrian doorsets without fire, smoke or panic-hardware requirements are covered by BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016.

Examples include flat entrance or balcony doors; front entrance doors; and service-room doors.

These products are subject to AVCP System 3. This means that the manufacturer or economic operator must ensure that initial type testing has been completed for the applicable Annex ZA essential characteristics. Testing must be undertaken by a UKAS-accredited test laboratory using the relevant test methods.

Applicable essential characteristics include: Thermal transmittance; Watertightness; Wind resistance; Air permeability; Acoustic performance; and Dangerous substances.(Just to note security is not an essential characteristic in Annex Za).

Where permitted, No Performance Declared (NPD) may be used. However, Thermal transmittance cannot be declared as NPD in the UK and must comply with Building Regulations.

For England, the current maximum U-values are 1.4 W/m²K for non-fire-rated external pedestrian doorsets; and 1.8 W/m²K for external pedestrian doorsets with fire resistance / smoke control.

Declaration of Performance

The Declaration of Performance (DoP) is the legal document under the Construction Products Regulation and provides the basis for UKCA or CE marking.

It should identify the applicable designated standard; the manufacturer; the product and product reference; the intended use; the date of issue; and the applicable Annex ZA essential characteristics.

Marking is on the product or the packaging, or accompanying documentation

2. External Pedestrian Doorsets with Panic Hardware

External pedestrian doorsets incorporating panic hardware remain within BS EN 14351-1, but they are subject to AVCP System 1 rather than System 3.

This is because of the safety-critical characteristic of ability to release.

An Approved Body is responsible for assessing ability to release and is also involved in sampling assessment of relevant characteristics, including: Thermal transmittance; Watertightness; Resistance to wind load; Air permeability; and Acoustic performance.

NPD may be declared where permitted, except for ability to release and thermal transmittance.

The manufacturer must issue a DoP and apply UKCA/CE marking, including the Approved Body identification number.

The distinction is important: a doorset incorporating panic hardware should not simply be treated as a standard external pedestrian doorset under AVCP System 3.

3. External Pedestrian Doorsets Requiring Fire Resistance and/or Smoke Control Performance.

Where an external pedestrian doorset requires fire resistance and/or smoke control, both designated standards apply:

BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016; and
BS EN 16034:2014.

BS EN 16034 cannot be used on its own.

These doorsets are subject to AVCP System 1 which means that they require Approved Body involvement for factory production control and product sampling prior to testing. Testing is undertaken at a UKAS-accredited test house using the relevant standards: BS EN 1634-1 for fire resistance testing and BS EN 1634-3 for smoke leakage testing.

Fire classifications are established in accordance with EN 13501-2+A1:2016, based either on a Direct Field of Application, using a single test, or an Extended Field of Application (EXAP). The EXAP route involves several primary tests, with results considered strictly in accordance with the applicable EN 15269 EXAP rules. The resulting EXAPs and classification reports are subsequently considered by the Approved Body. Classifications include: E: Fire integrity; EW: Fire integrity and limited heat radiation; EI: Fire Integrity and full insulation, with the duration in minutes stated thereafter.

Smoke classifications include Sa for ambient temperature smoke leakage; and S200 for hot smoke leakage.

The Approved Body uses the test evidence and classification report to issue the Certificate of Constancy of Performance (CoCoP), which the manufacturer uses to support their declaration of fire and smoke performance in the DoP.

The manufacturer then has to combine the essential characteristics for both designated standards into the one Declaration of Performance for the doorset / doorset range.

Marking for EN 16034 includes the UKCA or CE Mark with the registered number of the Approved Body on the product.

System House and Cascaded Test Evidence

Many fire door producers operate as fabricators or assemblers using designs, components and test evidence developed by a System House. A System House may develop and test the doorset design, hold the master CoCoP and cascade approved designs and evidence to individual producers.

However, cascaded evidence does not remove the producer's own regulatory responsibilities. A producer must not assume that a BS EN 16034 CoCoP is sufficient evidence of compliance for the complete external fire-rated pedestrian doorset.

The CoCoP provides evidence for the fire resistance and/or smoke-control performance covered by BS EN 16034. It does not, by itself, demonstrate compliance with the other applicable requirements of BS EN 14351-1.

The Doorset must also meet BS EN 14351-1

The producer must ensure that the doorset design has appropriate test evidence against the relevant performance standards required by BS EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016.

Essential characteristics include: Thermal transmittance; Air permeability; Water tightness; Resistance to wind load; and Acoustic performance.

The evidence must relate to the doorset design being manufactured, including its relevant construction, components and configuration, and the finished product must remain within the scope and limitations of the supporting evidence.

The producer therefore needs to consider the System House evidence as one part of the overall compliance package, not as evidence that the complete doorset complies with both standards.

The producer remains responsible for ensuring that the final doorset is manufactured in accordance with the approved and tested design; uses the specified and approved components as laid down in the tested design; has appropriate evidence for the relevant BS EN 14351-1 characteristics; has appropriate evidence supporting its BS EN 16034 fire and/or smoke classifications; has a issued a correct DoP covering the applicable requirements of both standards (as laid out in Annex Za of both designated standards) and is correctly UKCA/CE marked.

A BS EN 16034 CoCoP is therefore not, by itself, evidence that the complete external fire-rated pedestrian doorset complies with BS EN 14351-1.

Conclusion

The compliance route for an external pedestrian doorset depends on its characteristics and intended use.

A standard external pedestrian doorset, such as a flat entrance/balcony door, front door or service-room door, is covered by BS EN 14351-1 and AVCP System 3.

An external pedestrian doorset incorporating panic hardware remains under BS EN 14351-1, but is subject to AVCP System 1, requiring Approved Body involvement because of the ability-to-release characteristic.

Where fire resistance and/or smoke control is required, the doorset must comply with both BS EN 14351-1 (with either of the two afore-mentioned systems) as well as BS EN 16034 which is subject to AVCP System 1.

The Declaration of Performance remains the legal document. For fire-rated doorsets, the CoCoP provides important third-party evidence for fire and smoke performance under BS EN 16034, but it does not replace the producer's responsibilities under BS EN 14351-1.

Where System House arrangements and cascaded evidence are used, producers must ensure that the doorset design has appropriate test evidence against the relevant performance standards required by BS EN 14351-1, as well as appropriate evidence for its BS EN 16034 fire and smoke performance.

Ultimately, compliance depends on a complete chain of evidence linking the tested design, relevant performance testing, manufacturing process, certification, declared performance and final product. Accurate documentation and clearly defined responsibilities are fundamental to product safety, regulatory compliance and confidence throughout the supply chain.

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Wednesday, 23 September 2026

Investing in the Future of Architectural Hardware

Amid a developing landscape of regulation, digital innovation and heightened expectations around competence, how can the industry support the next generation of architectural ironmongery professionals? GAI Fellow Award 2026 Winner, David Gray of Consort Architectural Hardware, discusses.

There was a time when architectural ironmongery might have been viewed as humble brassware, hinges and fittings only. That perception could not be further from the reality of the sector today, however. Door hardware, fire safety products and intuitive access control systems are central to the design, performance, accessibility and compliance of our homes, community spaces and commercial environments.

Against a backdrop of regulatory change and increasingly demanding end user requirements, there’s no doubt that the complexity of construction projects continues to grow. The drive towards smarter, more connected buildings is expanding the scope of integrated hardware solutions, and when you add in the progressive digital processes that are now shaping modern project design and delivery, it’s clear to see how the role of the architectural ironmongery professional is evolving.

Investment in the next generation is critical then. Importantly, the skills challenge facing our sector goes beyond talent acquisition alone - in fact, ongoing professional development has a vital role to play in maintaining standards, encouraging innovation and building the industry expertise required for the years ahead.

Preparing for better outcomes

Like many specialist areas of construction, architectural ironmongery relies heavily on experience and technical know-how. Traditionally, much of that knowledge has been developed through practical collaboration and hands on experience. Today, however, formal education, structured training and continuing professional development now sit at the heart of the occupation.

Over recent years, the sector has experienced significant developments in building and fire safety legislation and regulatory requirements, including the Building Safety Act 2022 and amendments to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. These developments have placed greater emphasis on competence across the built environment sector. BS 8670-1:2024 also provides a core competence framework covering the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours required for individuals working on buildings.

For architectural ironmongery specifically, these principles are central to the specification and delivery of products that can have a direct impact on safety, accessibility and security, such as fire door closers, panic exit hardware and escape locks. In short, a lack of knowledge on the hardware installed throughout our buildings can have serious consequences, particularly when products form part of a life-safety system. As competence and accountability move to the forefront of decision making, training should no longer be regarded as an optional professional benefit, instead it is an essential part of responsible practice.

Modern architectural ironmongery professionals are increasingly expected to move away from passive product selection and instead must be able to demonstrate an understanding of the wider specification process.

Why is a particular ironmongery solution appropriate for that application? How should it be specified, installed and maintained? And how will it interact with other elements of the building’s infrastructure? Trained professionals are better equipped to answer these questions, whilst understanding the relationship between BS EN standards, relevant building regulations and the needs of modern building users.

Bridging the knowledge gap

The connection between competence and professional development is also being driven by the modernisation of architectural hardware. This next generation of professionals are entering an environment where mechanical hardware products now form part of sophisticated electronic and integrated systems.

Between Building Information Modelling (BIM) and next-gen electronic access control solutions, the range of technologies influencing architectural ironmongery continues to expand. This creates opportunities for the sector, but also raises the bar in terms of the knowledge needed to specify and deliver effective solutions. At the same time, as with many specialist sectors, architectural ironmongery faces the challenge of an aging demographic among experienced technical specifiers.

There is a clear responsibility to preserve that knowledge whilst creating meaningful routes for the next generation to develop their own expertise alongside new standards and technical practice. Professional recognition can form an important part of that process. Where many architectural practices prefer to work with accredited ironmongers, the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers’ Registered Architectural Ironmonger (RegAI) certification, provides a recognised demonstration of professional competence.

Conscientious manufacturers, distributors, specifiers and industry bodies must come together to ensure professional development remains accessible through structured career paths, mentoring, technical guidance and funded training.

These routes, alongside regular CPDs and the GAI’s Certificate in Architectural Hardware for example, can help businesses to attract new talent whilst supporting emerging professionals and existing teams as they develop their technical understanding and confidence. The bottom line is, a more aptly trained workforce can support effective specification and communication which ultimately contributes to better project outcomes.

The case for education and upskilling is therefore not only important for individual career development, but it is fundamental to the success of the ironmongery industry as a whole. The evolving demands associated with competence, innovation, safety and sustainability only demonstrate why training is no longer a one-off exercise. Ongoing professional development should not be viewed as an administrative expense, instead, it is a strategic investment - one the sector simply can’t afford to miss out on.

Ongoing Support with Consort Architectural Hardware

Consort Architectural Hardware is committed to supporting professionals within the sector, providing focused technical CPDs and digital specification guidance in the form of BIM and Revit integration.

For those looking to develop their knowledge and understanding on architectural ironmongery finishes, Consort’s CPD course ‘Architectural Ironmongery Finishes – Finding the Right Balance’ is delivered by accredited experts and explores the selection and application of finishes within architectural hardware.

A second CPD course ‘What Makes Ironmongery So Complicated’, provides an introduction to the principles of architectural ironmongery specification and explores many factors that influence hardware selection.

For more information on Consort Architectural Hardware CPDs, contact info@consort-hw.com

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Tuesday, 22 September 2026

“EasyAXS - made with the installer in mind”

A smart connectivity solution for automated gates: simple to install, set up and easy to hand over to the end user.

BFT Automation, the specialists in access automation systems and part of the SOMFY Group, has officially launched EasyAXS this summer, an innovative smart connectivity system designed for automated gates.

EasyAXS delivers a seamless end-to-end solution for installers, simplifying installation and setup, with comprehensive after-sales support.

Easy to install and quick to commission, the compact module is plugged directly into the gate system control panel and connects via a dedicated app with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing installers to configure and activate it directly from a smartphone even without an internet connection.

Wi-Fi or Mobile (4G with a 1GB SIM) connectivity modules are available, offering flexibility tailored to customer needs and project requirements. Users can control their gates through the TaHoma by Somfy app on their smartphones. Those already using TaHoma for home automation can seamlessly add their gate system, making it more convenient to manage gates and other connected devices in one place.

Commenting on the launch of the EasyAXS, Steven Montgomery, Managing Director for Somfy/BFT, said: “EasyAXS is made with the installer in mind – simple to install, set up and easy to hand over to the end user. The app is intuitive and designed so that no training is needed to install and use. No additional products are needed for smart phone control either.

“The 4G GSM solution is also very reliable and required for projects where the gate control panel is located out of range of the local WiFi signal. The TaHoma end user app, from Somfy, is easy to use while at home or away and can be linked to a smart speaker for voice activated control.

“We are also looking forward to introducing remote servicing in the near future, which will include remote diagnostics and aftersales support that can take place off site. For the installer, this will mean time saved on travelling to and from locations to resolve issues that can now be identified remotely."

EasyAXS is currently compatible with the Thalia BT A80/160 and Deimos sliding gate operators, with a continued phased roll-out planned for connectivity to other BFT products in the future.

For further information on the EasyAXS, contact BFT Automation on 0161 456 0456 (North Office), or 01477 674 750 (South Office) or visit www.bftautomationuk.com

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Monday, 21 September 2026

From the Garage Door to the Gate: One System, One Standard

LiftMaster's EVX garage door openers and EVK gate operators share the same radio, the same accessories and a similar set-up logic — and that changes how a residential project runs.

Residential access has become a two-part job. Most private projects now involve a garage door and an entrance gate, an app on the homeowner's phone, and one professional who has to make all of it work — ideally in a single visit. LiftMaster develops its residential range as one system for exactly that reason.

EVX: Connectivity meets convenience

The EVX Series is myQ compatible, enabling smart and connected access when paired with the myQ Internet Gateway. Remote operation, real-time door status, guest users’ management, activity alerts and scheduled closing are available from the moment the operator is commissioned.

Designed around the installation

The EVX Series is engineered with that in mind: logical assembly, sensible cable routing, pre-set default applications and programming that can be completed without calling technical support. Commissioning ends with a working app on the customer's phone before the van leaves the driveway.

With skilled labor, the scarcest resource in the industry, installation time and avoidable service calls are no longer soft factors. They are the margin.

The same thinking at the gate:

Here is where the system idea pays off a second time. LiftMaster's EVK gate operators are developed on the same principles as the EVX Series — the same radio standard, the same accessories, the same myQ connectivity, the same approach to development, installation and daily use.

In practice, on site and in the household:

One radio system. The handset that opens the gate opens the garage. There’s no need to carry a second remote.
One accessory portfolio. Keypads, wall controls, remotes and myQ gateway are drawn from the same range, so stock in the van covers both access points.
One app. The homeowner manages the whole property in myQ, with a single, consistent way in.
One skill set. Whatever the team already knows about the EVX Series carries straight over to gate operators. No separate training track for gates.
One point of contact. Both ranges are supplied and supported through the LiftMaster Partner Network.

Handled as two unrelated products from two suppliers, a garage and gate project means two radio systems, two apps, two accessory ranges, two different skill sets and two possible sources of complaint. Handled as one system, none of that arises.

What does that mean commercially?

The second access point stops being a separate project and becomes a straightforward extension of the first. Quoting the gate alongside the garage door is easier to justify to the customer, faster to install, and simpler to service afterwards, because everything on the property runs on the same platform.

For the professional: fewer part numbers, less training overhead, fewer callbacks. For the household: one app, one handset, one system that behaves the same way at every entrance.

Everything You Need, One Partner Away 

Explore the full range of LiftMaster garage door openers and gate operators at www.liftmaster.eu or speak to your LiftMaster contact about becoming a certified partner. 

Interested in getting started? Contact Andrew Buckler: Andrew.Buckler@chamberlain.com

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Sunday, 20 September 2026

Hörmann Street Campaign Makes Strong Start

Hörmann Truedor’s innovative and creative social media campaign, ‘Hörmann Street’, has made a strong start, reaching more than one million people and attracting over 900,000 views across its five episodes in just its first month.

Launched at the beginning of July across the Company’s Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube channels, Hörmann Street takes a fresh approach to promoting composite doors, using humorous, distinctly British soap-style storytelling to engage homeowners.

Developed with a clear commercial objective in mind – to increase homeowner awareness and generate high-quality, live enquiries for Hörmann Truedor installers, the campaign follows the daily lives, relationships and emotional conflicts of a recurring cast of recognisable characters.

Combining romance, family drama, betrayal and suspenseful cliffhangers, each of the five episodes cleverly incorporates the key features and benefits of Hörmann Truedor composite doors without losing the entertainment value of the storyline.

Strong first-month results

The campaign’s performance during July has exceeded expectations, with:

More than 1 million people reached
Over 900,000 episode views
711 additional visitors driven to the Hörmann Truedor website

As part of the campaign journey, consumers are encouraged to visit the Hörmann Truedor website, where they can design their ideal door and use the new Installer Finder to locate their nearest Hörmann Truedor installer.

David O’Mara, Marketing Manager at Hörmann UK, comments: “It’s fair to say that even in its first month, Hörmann Street has been a great success. It’s designed not only to entertain, but also to create a strong pipeline of enquiries for our composite door installers. We’ve received an excellent reaction to the campaign, with strong engagement and traction across our social channels, and it’s certainly got our customers and the market talking.

“No other entrance door supplier in the UK market is currently taking such an innovative and creative approach to engaging with homeowners. The results from the first month demonstrate that there is a real appetite for brands to communicate differently, and we’re delighted with the response so far.”

Hörmann is also encouraging its installers to make use of the campaign content themselves. Customers wishing to feature the Hörmann Street videos in their showrooms or on their own social media channels can request access to the films from the Hörmann Marketing team.

www.hormanntruedor.co.uk

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