Uhlmann & Zacher develops, produces and distributes electronic locking systems since 1996. The company offers customers everything that belongs to a modern digital access organization, from electronic locking cylinders, door handles and wall readers to the associated software and the appropriate infrastructure.
From the idea and development through production to customer service and technical support: everything takes place at the company headquarters in Waldbuettelbrunn near Wuerzburg and is originally manufactured in Germany.
Interview with Sebastian Schäfer, Key Account & Business Development Manager at Uhlmann & Zacher.
Easy Engineering: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
Sebastian Schäfer: We sell electronic locking cylinders, door handles/door fittings and the corresponding infrastructure. With our different systems Clex prime, Clex private and Clex public, nearly every object can be equipped, from a private home to a huge industrial plant.
With many patented product developments and system enhancements, we have set new benchmarks in the field of transponder-based locking systems. Thus, we are focussing on open and integrated solutions in the development phase.
E.E: What’s the news about new products/services?
S.S: With our new apps, the entire system can be easily managed using your smartphone. You don’t even need a key or transponder anymore, just take you smartphone with you and use it to open the doors.
E.E: What are the ranges of products/services?
S.S: Our products and systems can be used in nearly every object, such as: hospitals, public buildings, industrial plants, schools and universities, offices and private homes.
The electronic knob cylinders are made in a modular design. That means that individual components can be replaced flexibly and adapted to the respective installation situation. For example, if the cylinder length no longer fits due to a new door, you only need to order a mechanical cylinder adapter. If access is to be controlled electronically on both sides in the future, all you need is another electronic knob. To date, Uhlmann & Zacher is the only manufacturer to offer this modular design.
E.E: What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
S.S: The demand for electronic access control systems is still increasing across various sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial and government. This widespread adoption is, amongst others, driven by the need for enhanced security measures. Electronic access control systems are increasingly integrating with 3rd party host systems and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and smart building systems. This integration allows more seamless and intelligent access control solutions. Cloud-based access control solutions are becoming more prevalent as well. This shift allows remote management, real-time monitoring, remote opening of even wireless locks and a huge scalability. The use of smartphones as access credentials is also on the rise. Mobile access control solutions allow users to unlock doors with their mobile devices, enhancing convenience and security. This includes the ability to easily add or remove users and integrate with other systems. Compliance with industry standards and regulations is also a key for growing in the electronic access control market. Solutions like the OSS standards that meet or exceed security standards are more and more preferred.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
S.S: Electronic locking systems are increasingly integrated into 3rd party ecosystems. This includes compatibility with mobile apps, international protocol standards and other soft- and hardware devices. Cloud-based solutions are becoming more prevalent, offering benefits like remote management, data storage, and the ability to integrate with other cloud-based services. There is also a growing interest in energy-efficient electronic locking systems, incorporating features like low-power modes and efficient use of resources to enhance battery life times. Consumers are showing an interest in customizable and electronic locking systems that could seamlessly integrate with various devices and management systems.
E.E: What are the most innovative products/services marketed?
S.S: Uhlmann & Zacher was the first to launch an electronic door handle, in which the entire electronics, mechanics, LED signalling and power supply are compactly built into the handle. This makes the design much more flexible and results in a wide range of different handle shapes and fittings.
E.E: What estimations do you have for the beginning of 2024?
S.S: A significant trend we observe is still an increased adoption of cloud-based access control systems and interconnected devices in the Internet of Things (IoT). These solutions provide businesses with flexibility, scalability, and the ability for remote access. One of the biggest challenges could be the security against cyber threats. With the growing interconnectedness of access control systems, companies must ensure that their systems are equipped to handle this.