Fashion retailers invest further in automatic doors
Following the pandemic, fashion and retail stores in Spain have redoubled their commitment to installing automatic doors as an important tool for enhancing the image and aesthetic appeal of their outlets, says Juan Ramírez, Chairman of Fimpa.
The installation of automatic doors for entering outlets such as fashion stores and franchises has increased in recent years. And even more so in the wake of the pandemic.
"Companies in the retail industry are constantly updating their offer, given how important it is to portray a good image to customers. And the aesthetic aspects of their stores forms a key part of their communication and marketing strategy. A striking entrance will attract attention and invite people in," says Juan Ramírez, Chairman of Fimpa (Spain's National Federation of Manufacturers, Installers and Maintainers of Doors and Automatic Operation).
For this reason, more and more fashion shops, commercial establishments and franchises are choosing automatic doors for providing access to people - "a recoverable investment thanks to offering a greater potential for sales, in a more open, spacious and well-lit environment, along with energy savings as the doors are only open for as long as necessary".
Convenience and accessibility
By changing from hinged or sliding doors to automatic ones, the store "demonstrates that it cares about offering its shoppers convenience and comfort, whilst also providing accessibility for people with reduced mobility - an added brand value". Furthermore, "the materials used for automatic doors of this type of business provide thermal and acoustic insulation, which means great energy and cost savings".
The speed of operation means "there is a minimal delay in doors opening, thus enabling smooth traffic flow". In addition, "the ability to customise means minimal visual impact and any existing architectural style is respected".
Brushless motors
The automatic door market is generally going through a process of upgrading for the future, says Juan Ramírez. "In terms of technology, automatic pedestrian doors are beginning to incorporate brushless motors, which are much more efficient in terms of consumption and maintenance than traditional direct current motors and brushes, which have been common until now".
There is also a growing interest in the thermal and acoustic insulation, airtightness and wind load performance, as certified under EN 16361 standard. "Performance is a growing requirement in the residential sector, where noise pollution and sustainability requirements are highly valued".