Retail shop door - Safetell

Why automatic doors are an ideal solution for retail outlets

05 May, 2025

Automatic doors are a great investment for retail outlets. Improving accessibility and enhancing the customer experience can improve security while improving operational efficiency.

An automatic retail shop door is more convenient for all kinds of customers, allowing people in wheelchairs or pushing strollers to enter and exit without needing to physically open the door.

Installing automatic doors in a retail environment creates a more welcoming environment for your customers, improving footfall and security.

At Safetell, we install automatic doors in a wide variety of retail locations and in outlets of different sizes.

What are the advantages of an automatic retail shop door?

Automating a retail shop door has a range of advantages for business owners, employees, and customers alike:

  • Greater accessibility

Automatic doors make it easier for everyone to enter your premises, increasing foot traffic, and your potential customer base. People with disabilities, parents with pushchairs, and the elderly can all easily access your store. They can also ensure that your premises are compliant with the relevant accessibility requirements.

  • Improved customer experience

Along with greater accessibility, hand-free entry is convenient and hygienic for customers, giving them a welcoming, hassle-free first impression of your business. Automatic doors have a contemporary, modern aesthetic appearance that can be attractive to customers.

  • Energy efficiency

An automatic retail shop door will only open when required and close automatically once the customer has passed in and out of the shop. This helps to maintain the indoor climate, reducing heating costs during the cooler months. Unlike manual doors there’s little risk of the door being left open, allowing heat to escape your premises.

  • Hygiene and safety

In our post-Covid world, people are more concerned about the transmission of bugs and germs. Automatic doors remove door handles which can be a vector of transmission for viruses.

  • Managing foot traffic

If you run a busy retail outlet, automatic doors are an essential requirement. They help to manage foot traffic, particularly during busy periods, and reduce bottlenecks at the entrance to your shop.

  • Added security

An automatic retail shop door can be integrated with access control systems, surveillance, and other security elements to reduce the risk of theft and vandalism.

The different types of automatic retail door

Retail environments can choose from several types of automatic doors, depending on space, foot traffic, and aesthetic needs.

Sliding doors are the most commonly used in retail settings. They operate by gliding along a track and are ideal for entrances with limited space. Their sleek design and reliability make them a go-to option for high-traffic areas.

Swing doors open inward, outward, or both, typically via sensors or push pads. They’re often found in staff entrances or where accessibility compliance is needed.

Revolving doors are more commonly used in large retail complexes or department stores. They help regulate temperature and foot traffic but are more expensive and require more space. They are not typically used in smaller retail units.

Other options include bi-fold and telescopic doors, which can maximise openings in confined spaces.

Professional automation for your retail shop door

At Safetell, we have developed a range of bespoke security solutions for the retail sector. Our automatic door opening system is available for both new and existing swinging and sliding doors. We can conduct a free survey, discussing potential options, and what might be the best solution for your store. We also provide a 1 year warranty on installation and parts.

To keep your automatic retail shop door in full working order we offer an automatic door servicing and maintenance service. This allows our clients to enjoy the full benefits of their automatic doors, minimising the likelihood of costly, unplanned, emergency repairs.

Because we’re completely system agnostic, we’re always able to give the best advice on equipment regardless of the make and model. We don’t attempt to try and sell you unnecessary products when your doors can be repaired and maintained.

With 100’s of installations successfully completed, we use our experience and expertise to benefit our diverse range of retail customers. We can ensure that you have efficient doors that enhance customer accessibility and improve security.

Our experienced team can answer your questions and provide you with a detailed quote.

Contact us to find out more about our services.