Entrance Systems: 20 years of growth and transformation

The story, however, began before the division was formed. A key milestone was ASSA ABLOY’s acquisition of Besam in 2002, which marked the Group’s entry into entrance automation.

Founded in Sweden in 1962, Besam had become a global leader in automatic pedestrian doors. It laid the foundation for what would develop into a global division with a broader offering across automated pedestrian, industrial and residential doors, loading dock equipment, perimeter fencing and service.

The initial focus was on expanding Besam’s geographic reach, supported by several smaller acquisitions. As new companies, brands and areas of expertise joined the Group, the foundations of a broader entrnce automation business began to take shape. This development led to the formation of the Entrance Systems division in 2006.

Expanding into new product areas

As the business grew, so did the ambition to offer customers more complete solutions across a wider range of entrance needs.

Through acquisitions including Ditec and Portsystem, Entrance Systems expanded into industrial doors and docking systems. A major step followed in 2011 with the acquisition of Cardo, which brought the Crawford brand and significantly broadened the division’s offering.

In 2013, the acquisition of Amarr strengthened the division’s manufacturing platform for sectional doors in North America.

Growing with a clear purpose

Once Entrance Systems had expanded into several product areas, the focus increasingly turned to building greater depth and scale within the existing business.

The acquisition of record in 2020 reinforced the division’s position in automatic pedestrian doors. Four years later, the acquisition of SKIDATA represented a different type of opportunity. It extended the division’s capabilities into the closely related area of people and vehicle access, including solutions for parking facilities, ski resorts, stadiums and other destinations.

Together, these developments show how Entrance Systems has continued to evolve: sometimes by strengthening established areas and sometimes by moving into adjacent markets where the division’s expertise can create new value.

Moving closer to customers

As Entrance Systems marks its 20th anniversary, the division continues to grow by strengthening its core business and expanding its service capabilities. Through a combination of organic growth and carefully selected acquisitions, it remains focused on creating long-term value and closer customer relationships.