Inauguration of New Building in Lörrach - More Space for Innovation

LÖRRACH-HAUINGEN. On July 18, we officially opened our new Innovation Centre in Lörrach with an international audience in attendance. The new building, located in the Entenbad industrial area, brings together the company’s R&D departments and central functions, providing space for modern, collaborative work environments.

Magnetic Autocontrol GmbH is a global technology leader in the field of vehicle barriers and pedestrian access control systems. As one of the few manufacturers worldwide, the company develops nearly all of its components in-house. This in-house expertise is especially evident in control and drive systems, where Magnetic offers field-proven technologies distinguished by exceptional reliability, safety, and energy efficiency.

This commitment to innovation is reflected in substantial and growing investments in research and development. Since 2012, Magnetic has served as a key development hub for the Italian FAAC TECHNOLOGIES Group, which includes renowned manufacturers of security bollards, automatic doors, and parking management systems.

“The new building couldn’t have come at a better time,” says Managing Director Heiko Lais. “It allows us to manage projects more professionally and enhances collaboration across teams. It also frees up space at our Operations Centre in Schopfheim, where we can now expand and redesign our production and warehouse areas.”

Architect Ingo Herzog designed the three-story building to meet these exact needs. The ground floor houses the testing and prototyping areas, with short distances and direct access to the outdoor test grounds. On the top floor, multiple Obeya rooms are available. Based on the Japanese model of project management, these spaces bring together all team members involved in a project—regardless of departmental boundaries—enabling faster coordination and more efficient decision-making.

The showroom serves as the key customer and partner touchpoint in the new building. Here, Magnetic’s full product range can be seen, touched, and tested—including a multimedia brand wall that showcases the company’s most important innovations at a glance. The latest products from parent company FAAC are also on display: two of the newly introduced AS3000 sliding doors and the A952 swing door operator are installed on-site for live demonstrations.

The building also sets a benchmark for energy efficiency. Developer Bernd Reuter of ReFi GmbH placed a strong emphasis on sustainable construction and cutting-edge energy systems. A large rooftop photovoltaic system and a groundwater heat pump ensure that the new Innovation Centre meets the strict energy requirements of Germany’s KfW45 standard.

Magnetic employees moved into the new offices at the beginning of May. With today’s official inauguration, the company reinforces its role as a technology leader:
“The Innovation Centre is our launchpad for future barrier and access control innovations,” says Heiko Lais. “With close collaboration between departments, sustainable architecture, and a strong team, we’re set up for continued success.”

The New Magnetic Innovation Centre

• Gross floor area: approx. 3000 m²
• Investment volume: € 9.23 million
• Jobs: approx. 90 employees at the Lörrach site
• Photovoltaic output: 178 kwp
• Energy standard: KfW40 plus