Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have become conscious of how easily germs are spread and are looking for ways to reduce their risk of contracting transmittable diseases. At the same time, many retail businesses have noticed a marked reduction in face-to-face transactions as online shopping increases.

There is a risk that unless retailers take action, their physical premises may become financially unviable. One way in which these businesses can reassure and attract wary consumers is by installing touchless doors in their facilities.

What are touchless doors?

As the name suggests, they are doors which are operated without the need to touch them. They use either optical or motion detection sensors to detect the presence of a person who may wish to enter or exit the building and operate the door automatically for them so that they do not need to touch it.

It is possible to automate an existing door by incorporating automatic door operators into the building’s infrastructure or a new, fully automated door can be installed to perform the same function. Automatic doors can slide, open outwards or rotate based on the type of building in which they’re installed, the building’s layout and the business owner or building manager’s preferences.

What are the benefits of automatic doors for retail establishments?

1. Reduced cross-contamination

The major benefit of automatic doors, particularly to a hygiene-conscious consumer, is that they eliminate the need to touch a surface that others have touched, reducing the likelihood of contracting viruses or spreading germs.

2. Improved customer service

Because there is no touchpoint, businesses need to spend less time on cleaning so they can focus their full attention on delivering outstanding customer service.

3. Improved safety

Automatic doors are programmed to detect people approaching and moving through them and will open in good time and remain open until everyone has safely crossed the threshold. They make businesses more accessible to mobility-challenged individuals and reduce the risk of accidental injuries that can occur in crowded spaces or when doors are opened carelessly.

4. Compliance with hygiene regulations

Touchless technology takes the guesswork out of complying with hygiene regulations and building codes, protecting businesses against frivolous claims and financial penalties. Automatic doors can be installed in all types of retail business establishments, integrate with existing security and emergency exit arrangements and represent a practical and convenient solution to hygiene concerns.

5. Energy efficiency

Automatic doors can be programmed to only open when needed and to close once access or egress has been gained. Because of this, they can increase a business’s energy efficiency, reduce heat transfer and maintain a comfortable internal temperature. Reducing temperature fluctuations is good for a business’ environmental sustainability credentials and for the health of its employees and customers, who are at heightened risk of catching viruses when continually exposed to shifts in temperature and ventilation.

Automatic doors are the ideal solution

Automatic doors are perfect for retailers looking to improve efficiency, cleanliness and safety, meeting the needs of their customers and protecting their employees. They can help to maintain a hygienic environment, comply with building codes and accessibility regulations and increase foot traffic.

To find out more about how installing automatic doors could revolutionize your retail business, please contact the team at Pro Locksmiths today.