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Why Automatic Doors Are a Strategic Investment for Restaurants

Blog 44, January 2026

There's an old saying in the foodservice business. "The easiest way to make $100,000 running a restaurant is to start with $1 million."

It speaks to the hard work needed to be successful in a business with razor-thin margins, which have only gotten tighter in today's market. Rising costs, whether from commission fees from delivery apps or technology investments to offset labor shortages, are forcing owners to rethink their physical spaces and service models. Consequently, operators are always looking for ways to squeeze efficiency out of every square foot, every labor hour, and every customer interaction.

Amid this renewed focus on innovation, automatic doors have emerged as more than an architectural detail, but a means of enhancing efficiency. Automatic doors can play a strategic role in operational flow, customer experience, and accessibility, which all can improve financial performance.

In high-traffic environments, entrances become bottlenecks during peak periods. Automatic doors improve traffic flow at entrances and exits so walk-in customers, third-party delivery drivers, and take-out guests move smoothly and safely through busy entryways.

Historically, the foodservice industry had lagged behind other high-traffic sectors like retail in automatic door usage, despite strong consumer preference. Nearly 99% of consumers with a preference prefer automatic doors, and 64% of consumers say automatic doors influence their decision to visit a restaurant. These statistics reflect broad consumer demand.

Now automatic doors are reshaping the drive-thru, as stores move from traditional windows to larger doorways that enable staff to serve cars directly and accelerate transactions. (The drive-thru lane accounts for up to 70% of sales in some restaurant formats.)

Automatic doors are more than operational tools. They improve accessibility for every customer, from families with strollers to guests with mobility challenges. Providing this seamless access isn't just socially responsible, it's also increasingly expected.

From an architectural perspective, entrances set the tone. Automatic doors communicate modernity and efficiency while signaling inclusivity and ease of access. A well-designed entrance enhances first impressions, contributes to brand equity, and supports customer expectations of a premium experience.

Taken together, automatic doors are a strategic investment in guest experience, operational efficiency, and carry the potential for long-term cost savings. As the foodservice industry continues turning to technology and design transformation to stay competitive, automatic doors are an often-overlooked improvement that can have meaningful impact.

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