Door Industry Journal - Spring 2021

Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk Industry News It has been the innovation and re-grouping of existing solutions that has allowed the auto industry to best assist the wider community. From traffic light systems and touch- free activation to copper materials and sensor activated hand gel dispensers, there has been a practical application of COVID-busting initiatives. At Boon Edam adapting to change and an unknown future was key. “We have been incredibly hands-on in the development of new products and partnerships enhancing our touchless range of products. We have always been a highly technical brand with a focus on innovation. COVID-19 has really pushed our development departments to make changes to the way users use our entrance systems. We have invested in facial recognition for security turnstiles, provided advice to existing customers on how to change their manual products into fully automatic, along with developing better ways of ensuring social distancing regarding existing installations with clients,” informs Ian Goldsmith, Head of Sales record launched its FlowControl people counting and traffic light system for retailers and other public buildings. It is currently undertaking a major install programme for Tesco across the UK. Likewise, FAAC launched its retail traffic light occupancy control system. This led to its application across over 900 retail stores within the UK and Ireland - a monumental effort by its planning and engineer teams. Perhaps most importantly it has been the effect on our day-to-day interaction which has affected us most. Many have bridged the gap with leadership broadcasts, online coffee breaks and away days but as human beings we miss our social contact. David at Hotron perhaps sums this up most succinctly: “One of the toughest challenges that we face is keeping our morale and sense of team spirit intact. This we are working to do in the knowledge that this too will pass and brighter days are ahead.”