Access Control is Evolving Fast: Key Takeaways from ACS24 Europe

The access control game is changing...and fast. I had the chance to sit down with Alper Cetingok , Senior Managing Director at Raymond James , at ACS24 Europe to unpack what’s going on in the industry and where things are headed. With 27 years of experience (and 24 of those focused on security and safety), Alper provided some great insights on the growing momentum and future of access control.

Access Control is Catching Investors' Eyes

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the increasing interest in the access control market from institutional investors. What was once an obscure niche has now become a mainstream investment opportunity. This shift is driven by the industry's unique combination of downside protection and growth potential. According to Alper, “The industry is resilient. Whether it was the Great Recession or recent market shifts, businesses in this space have held strong.” That kind of stability, combined with advances in tech, is drawing in investors who see the opportunity to win big.

Integration is Driving the Future

One of the strongest trends we touched on was integration, and not just among security systems. We’re seeing a deeper connection with building automation and smart home technologies. This trend toward an ecosystem of connected systems reinforces the belief that security is now a core part of everyday infrastructure. Investors are taking note, betting on the power of integration to push the market forward.

Access Control is Heating Up

Alper made a great point about the recent surge in innovation: “Access control was stagnant for years, but in the last decade, especially the last five years, it’s been buzzing with activity.” Technology has disrupted the space, and it’s not just startups. Even long-established players are pivoting from hardware-only models to focus more on software and services. It’s all about transformation, and the companies that adapt are the ones thriving.

What’s Next: More Innovation, More Investment

Looking ahead, Alper sees a mix of new challengers shaking things up, alongside established players reinventing themselves with new tech and business models. His message to those in the market for investment? Now is the time. The combination of resilience, growth potential, and evolving tech makes this a great moment to engage with access control.

Embrace the Change

Access control is evolving, and those who lean into the changes, whether it’s innovation, integration, or new ways of doing business, will be the ones leading the charge. There are huge opportunities for both newcomers and established players. The future looks bright.

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The Access Control Summit (ACS) is a global event that unifies executives and thought leaders from the access control, smart lock, and broader sectors. It serves as a platform for industry professionals to share insights, discuss trends, and explore future opportunities. Held annually in North America, Europe, and soon Asia, each summit is themed around current and future opportunities. ACS is renowned for its esteemed speakers, high-caliber attendees, and exceptional experience, setting it apart in the global access control and smart lock industry. Participating in ACS provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, forge strategic partnerships, and stay ahead in the industry. For more information, pictures, testimonials from ACS23 DC and ACS24 Europe, and future ACS dates, please visit https://www.leeodess.com/acs24europe .