How technology and sustainability are reshaping access solutions in european construction
The construction sector in Europe is undergoing a major transformation, driven by sustainability regulations, digitalization, and the need for smarter, more efficient buildings. As projects increasingly integrate green building standards and advanced automation, the role of access solutions is expanding far beyond traditional doors and entry systems.
For EMI Group and its partners, this shift presents significant opportunities—from energy-efficient hospital doorsto fully automated access control in logistics hubs. The companies that embrace these innovations will not only meet new regulatory demands but also gain a competitive edge in the evolving European market.
1. Sustainability and energy efficiency: the new standard
Regulations are driving change. Governments across Europe are tightening energy efficiency requirements in construction. EU regulations such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) are pushing for zero-emission buildings, making high-performance access solutions a necessity.
This means growing demand for:
- Thermally efficient automatic doors, reducing heat loss in hospitals, office buildings, and retail spaces.
- Fire-rated doors that not only meet safety requirements but also improve insulation and energy efficiency.
- Access solutions integrated with building management systems, ensuring that entry points contribute to a building’s overall energy performance.
EMI Group’s expertise in fire-resistant doors, hospital access solutions, and industrial entry systems positions it as a key player in helping developers comply with these new energy standards.
Retrofitting and renovation: a new growth segment. With fewer new construction projects expected, the market is shifting toward building renovations and energy-efficient upgrades. In sectors like healthcare, logistics, and commercial real estate, older buildings must be adapted to meet stricter efficiency and safety standards.
For companies like EMI Group, this means more opportunities in replacing and upgrading access systems in hospitals, factories, and public infrastructure and also a growing market for customized maintenance and retrofit solutions, ensuring buildings remain compliant and operationally efficient.
2. Automation and smart access systems: the future of building security and efficiency
Technology is not only making buildings greener but also smarter and more efficient. The demand for intelligent access systems is rising, particularly in airports, healthcare facilities, warehouses, and large commercial spaces.
Key trends that we observe in access automation:
- Automated and sensor-driven doors—integrated into smart buildings to optimize energy use and security.
- Advanced fire-resistant doors—linked to digital monitoring systems, ensuring compliance with real-time data tracking.
- Automated vehicle access—for logistics centers and industrial sites, integrating license plate recognition and real-time entry control.
- Cloud-based access management—enabling remote monitoring and control of doors and entry points across multiple facilities.
EMI’s companies are already active in these segments, providing intelligent door and access solutions that integrate with broader security and energy management systems.
3. A competitive edge for solution providers
For companies operating in the access solutions market, the shift toward smart and sustainable buildings isn’t a future trend—it’s happening now. The businesses that can adapt quickly and offer integrated, technology-driven solutions will be the ones leading the industry.
For EMI Group, this means:
- Strengthening partnerships with construction firms and infrastructure developers focused on sustainable projects.
- Expanding smart access and automation capabilities, ensuring compatibility with modern building technologies.
- Leveraging group-wide expertise to provide comprehensive solutions, from industrial and medical access to fire safety and automated systems.
Preparing for the next generation of access solutions. 2025 will be a turning point for access solutions in construction. Sustainability and automation are no longer optional—they are essential for compliance, efficiency, and market relevance.
At EMI Group, we see this as an opportunity to drive innovation, working with partners and clients to deliver future-ready access solutions that combine security, efficiency, and sustainability.
The companies that invest in smart, integrated, and energy-efficient systems today will be the ones shaping the industry tomorrow. EMI Group is ready to lead this transformation.
