With a heritage spanning over 80 years in the manufacture of industrial doors and loading technology, Hörmann UK has established itself as a trusted partner to many of the UK’s major developers, including Prologis, Panattoni, GLP, and Indurent.

Phil Thorpe
Industrial Division Manager at Hörmann UK

Backed by the strength and expertise of the international Hörmann Group, Hörmann UK is well equipped to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving warehouse and logistics sector. The company delivers a fully integrated service — from initial consultation and bespoke design to installation, ongoing maintenance, and aftercare — offering clients a comprehensive support package tailored to their needs.

Hörmann UK also incorporates FBS Hörmann, home to the UK’s largest industrial service and maintenance team, and Hörmann Transdek, a leading supplier of modular loading bay and lifting solutions to both UK and European markets.

Phil Thorpe, Industrial Division Manager at Hörmann UK spoke to Warehouse & Logistics News.

What are your best-known products/solutions/services?

Hörmann UK offers an extensive portfolio of high-quality products tailored primarily for major new-build warehouse and logistics developments. This includes advanced loading bay systems, level access doors, high-speed doors, fire sliding doors, and steel door sets. Complementing this, FBS Hörmann provides expert services for the refurbishment of existing warehouse facilities, alongside a dedicated Perimeter Protection Division that delivers complete turnkey solutions for access control and site security.

Specialist modular loading and lifting equipment is supplied through Doncaster-based Hörmann Transdek, including surface-mounted, rapid-install double-deck lifts designed for high-capacity trailers, vehicle-to-ground lifts for level-access sites, as well as scissor lifts and mezzanine goods lifts.

All Hörmann products and systems are supported by FBS Hörmann’s nationwide maintenance and service network – a team of over 150 field engineers who ensure reliable performance and long-term operational efficiency.

How do you think your industry sector is performing at the moment?

I think it’s fair to say that 2025 has been a year of contrasts. While there remains strong momentum, particularly in large-scale sheds and warehousing developments, there is an underlying sense of caution in the market. However, despite this, Hörmann continues to thrive, with full order books and sustained demand for our products and solutions.

One noticeable shift this year has been the move away from speculative developments towards more bespoke, built-to-suit projects. Additionally, where previous years saw significant demand from online retailers, we’re now seeing increased activity from established high street brands and major food retailers, driving the next wave of large-scale construction.

How many markets are you in and what is your biggest market?

Hörmann UK continues to play a leading role in the large shed sector and major new-build developments—areas that remain the core focus of our industrial operations. Meanwhile, our sister company, FBS Hörmann, specialises in the refurbishment of existing facilities, supporting the smaller-scale end of the market.

We are also fortunate to have a strong and loyal network of long-standing trade partners based across the UK. These partners remain consistently active, supplying Hörmann products and systems to a diverse range of smaller-scale projects. Recent applications have included incineration plants, luxury car showrooms, vehicle depots, distilleries, and fire stations—demonstrating the breadth and versatility of our offering.

What are your most recent product innovations?

This year, two key products from Hörmann have made a significant impact in the industrial sector, addressing safety and operational efficiency in high-demand environments.

Our newly introduced Automatic Wheel Blocking (AWB) system is designed to prevent premature vehicle departure and minimise ‘vehicle creep’ during loading and unloading. As one of the most versatile automated vehicle restraint systems on the market, it is compatible with a wide range of vehicles—from small vans to large articulated lorries.

Engineered for the tough conditions of busy loading bays, all hydraulic and electronic components are securely housed in a robust galvanised casing, offering long-term protection against dirt and harsh weather. Suitable for all types of logistics and warehousing operations, the AWB is set to play a crucial role in improving site safety and reducing accidents during loading bay operations.

Alongside this, our high speed TurboLux door has been officially certified by the Record Institute of Germany as the fastest high-speed door in its class, with opening speeds of up to 1.0 m/s and closing speeds up to 4.0 m/s. Designed for high-traffic, high-cycle environments such as warehouses and logistics centres, TurboLux offers rapid access while supporting environmental control and reducing energy loss. Its spiral-guided opening system ensures low-wear, low-maintenance operation, extending service life even under intensive use.

A standout feature is its door leaf, made from extruded polycarbonate laths that provide 90% transparency without sacrificing strength. This high level of visibility enhances safety, supports efficient material handling, and helps reduce accidents by improving awareness and visibility across busy working areas.

What is your strategy for growth and success in 2026?

Hörmann UK has built a strong reputation through long-standing partnerships with key players in the logistics and warehousing sectors. So, our strategy remains clear: to continue delivering what Hörmann is known for—exceptional product quality, reliable solutions, and outstanding service. This commitment to going above and beyond is what we call the Hörmann Difference.

The integration of our sister companies, FBS Hörmann and Hörmann Transdek, has further strengthened our offering, enabling us to explore new market opportunities. With ambitious growth plans in place for 2026 and beyond, we are well-positioned to expand into new areas while continuing to support the core sectors that have driven our success.

Can you tell us about any areas, such as in AI, where you’re currently making technical advances?

Like many in the industry, Hörmann has begun to explore the potential of artificial intelligence to enhance business operations across the group. An international AI committee has been established —comprising industry and technology experts—who will guide the strategic direction, implementation, and regulatory compliance of AI initiatives across all Hörmann operations worldwide.

In the UK, initial efforts are already underway, with a focus on practical applications such as the automated translation of technical, sales, and specification documents. This is just the beginning, as we continue to assess how AI can support efficiency, accuracy, and innovation across the business.

What sets your company apart from others?

Hörmann’s strength lies in its ability to deliver a true one-stop-shop solution — a capability further enhanced by the integration of FBS Hörmann and Hörmann Transdek.

With a broad and versatile product range designed to meet the needs of a variety of industrial sectors, Hörmann combines local expertise with the global resources of a leading multinational. This enables us to offer a fully integrated service that spans initial consultation, design, planning, installation, and long-term maintenance — a comprehensive approach that truly sets us apart in the marketplace. Our expert teams are always on hand to provide tailored advice and support, ensuring the most effective and efficient solutions are selected for every project, regardless of scale. Skilled Project Managers are available to work directly on-site, developing bespoke concepts that align with specific operational demands.

As a family-run business operating on a global scale, Hörmann also brings a unique combination of stability, reliability, and personal service — qualities that are particularly valuable in today’s challenging and fast-evolving logistics environment.

Is the industry placing a greater emphasis on sustainability?

Absolutely—sustainability has become a core focus across the industry, and it’s a responsibility we take seriously at Hörmann. As a family-owned business, we recognise our duty to future generations, so sustainability isn’t just a goal—it influences every part of our operations, from manufacturing to energy use and product development.

As a group Hörmann has long prioritised sustainable practices, guided by a clear climate strategy: calculate, reduce, and offset. Most of the electricity powering our European production facilities now comes from renewable sources, and over 100,000 tonnes of CO? are offset annually through partnerships with ClimatePartner, supporting wind energy and reforestation initiatives.

In the UK, our Coalville headquarters is powered by solar energy, and we provide Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) across our product range. We also offer CO?-neutral options for all industrial doors, loading technology, perimeter protection systems, and more—demonstrating our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions for today’s industrial challenge

How would you sum up your company in three words?

Engineering-Excellence, Customer-Focused, Sustainable.

HÖRMANN UK

01530 513000

doorsales.lei@Hormann.co.uk

www.Hormann.co.uk

Comments are closed.