Product Feature
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to electricity via solar panel and stores in
capacitor for use.”
Dormakaba’s new
launches
At HITEC, Dormakaba introduced access
control systems focused on scalability
and flexibility. It presented technologies
designed to improve security and
streamline access.
“Hotels need flexibility, seamless
integrations and the ability to meet guest
expectations without compromising
security,” said Ben Brydges, Dormakaba
North America’s executive vice president.
“Our HITEC presence reflects our focus on
secure, scalable systems compatible with
partner ecosystems.”
Dormakaba launched the Dormakaba
Digital Wallet, allowing guests to store room
keys in Apple Wallet. It supports contactless
entry to rooms and shared spaces such as
gyms and business centers. Keys can be
issued without an app or in-person check-in.
Also introduced was the Quantum Pixel
Lock, with door-embedded electronics
for wallet-based access and no visible
hardware. The lock supports retrofits
and integrates with Dormakaba’s cloud
platform.
Dormakaba highlighted its deployment
at Resorts World Las Vegas, where guests
use Apple Wallet keys through a partnership
with Alliants. iPhones and Apple Watches
unlock rooms and amenities via NFC, with
Express Mode and Power Reserve allowing
access when devices are locked or out of
battery.
“Flexibility in technology is essential
for hotel operations,” said Darien Long,
Dormakaba North America’s senior vice
president for specialty access control
solutions. “We’re helping hotels adapt,
operate efficiently and streamline guest
access.”
UWB arrives
UWB is powered by ultra-wideband, the
next generation of smart locks will turn your
phone into a key that guests never have to
use. UWB-enabled locks detect the location
of authorized devices and enable hands-free
unlocking as guests approach.
“Integration with mobile apps supports
remote control, alerts, check-in, key
delivery and room settings,” Kannan said.
“Smart platforms support API integration
with concierge services and energy systems,
enabling automation and centralized
management.”
Picking the lock
When selecting a system, operators
should prioritize encryption and tamper
resistance. Access systems must be simple
and flexible for both guests and staff.
Integration with PMS ensures consistent
operation. Durability and long-term costs
should be evaluated based on savings from
www.asianhospitality.com
July 2025 | Issue 238
Lock companies respond to U.S. tariffs
ASSA ABLOY and dormakaba, among others, have imposed surcharges
The Trump administration’s tariffs are
beginning to impact prices in several
different industries, including hotel locks.
Several large lock companies have added
surcharges to cover the cost of the new
import taxes.
ASSA ABLOY designs and sells digital
and mobile door-opening systems.
Formed in 1994 through a merger of
ASSA in Sweden and ABLOY in Finland,
its portfolio includes access control,
mechanical and electromechanical
locking, identification technology,
entrance automation, hotel locks and
mobile access.
In February, ASSA ABLOY said it would
raise prices if U.S. tariffs on Canada and
Mexico were imposed. In April 2025, it
increased list prices by 3.5 to 4.5 percent
across mechanical, electronic and glass
product lines after Trump announced
tariffs against several countries.
"We have already several times increased
prices, and we are confident that we will
be able to defend our margins through
those prices," he said.
Trump paused most of the tariffs for 90
days, but in July the administration said it
would impose the taxes on countries that
did not enter trade agreements with the
U.S. by August. The freeze did not affect
the 10 percent blanket duty on almost all
U.S. imports or the previously announced
levies on Canada, Mexico and specific
products such as steel.
"Of course, there is the negotiation
with the suppliers to see if we can get
better costs. Because also the suppliers
understand that the cost increases might
lead to lower volumes. Therefore, they also
are willing to help," Delvaux told Reuters
when asked about other measures to
mitigate the tariffs.
Dormakaba, formed in 2015 through
the merger of Dorma in Switzerland and
Kaba in Germany, develops and supplies
access control and locking systems for
the hospitality and commercial sectors.
Its portfolio includes RFID and mobile
locks, cloud-based access systems, door
hardware and analytics tools.
In April 2025, dormakaba also
introduced a 3.5 to 4.5 percent tariff
surcharge across multiple product lines in
response to rising material costs. In May,
it implemented additional surcharges
of 13 to 15 percent on locks, exits,
closers, keys and cores. The company
cited international tariffs on steel and
aluminium as the primary driver.
ASSA ABLOY and Dormakaba, two top hotel lock
providers in the U.S., are among several adding
surcharges to cover U.S. tariffs.
Dormakaba’s new Quantum Pixel Lock features
door-embedded electronics for wallet-based
access and no visible hardware.