Nortech Control Systems MD Discusses Challenges and Hidden Costs in Traditional Access Control Systems for UK Gym Operators
Cwmbran, Wales – 8 July 2025 – The managing director of Nortech Control Systems, Amer Hafiz, has revealed how traditional access control systems create “integration nightmares” for UK gym operators. In an exclusive interview, Hafiz highlighted how these systems not only pose integration challenges and security vulnerabilities, but also lead to inflexible vendor relationships and costly vendor lock-ins.
Hafiz, a veteran in the access control industry, explained that the most common mistake made by gym operators is choosing a generic access control solution that is not specifically designed for the leisure sector. This decision can result in two disjointed systems that create operational problems and costly vendor lock-ins.
The Financial Impact of Proprietary Systems
With over 11 million gym memberships across the UK (CBRE, 2024), the financial impact of poor access control decisions is substantial. Hafiz revealed that switching from integrated systems often requires complete hardware replacement, with costs reaching up to £9,200 per lane for typical installations. This includes speed lanes/turnstiles (54% of costs), readers/controllers (16%), and installation labor (27%). Additionally, recent data from the Building Cost Information Service shows that construction costs have risen by 21% between 2021-2024, making delayed upgrades increasingly expensive.
Hafiz stated, “A typical 4-lane refresh can quickly grow to cost more than the membership management software license for the same period. Many operators find themselves held hostage to their initial technology choice.”
The Integration Challenge
Traditional access control systems create critical operational problems through database synchronization issues, authentication challenges, and fragile APIs that can break with software updates. This can result in a “nightmare scenario” for unmanned access points, as Hafiz noted. “When these connections fail, your front door becomes disconnected from your membership database – a nightmare scenario for unmanned access points,” he stated. “Software updates occur on the access system side and then that API may break, the whole system will stop.”
OEM Solutions Provide Future-Proofing
Hafiz advocates for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) approaches that separate hardware and software concerns, allowing operators to future-proof their investments against rapidly evolving credential technologies. “The hardware is future proofing. The only thing which needs to be changed by the end user would be the front end – the reader technology itself,” he explained.
Modern OEM controllers, such as Nortech’s DeltaQuest system, support multiple credential types simultaneously – from RFID cards to smartphone apps with QR codes and biometric readers – all using the same controller infrastructure.
Industry Implications
Hafiz’s warning comes as the UK fitness market reaches record membership levels and continues to innovate. He emphasizes that access control infrastructure typically serves facilities for a decade or more, making strategic flexibility crucial. “Not to actually just buy for next six months or a year. Think about now, and then also in the mid to long term,” he advised. “In a competitive market where member experience and operational efficiency drive success, that flexibility is increasingly becoming not just an advantage but a necessity.”
Supporting Infrastructure
Modern OEM controllers offer enhanced installation flexibility through network-based connectivity, eliminating the need for dedicated serial cabling and reducing infrastructure costs. Advanced systems like DeltaQuest can manage up to 32 access points through a single network connection, simplifying expansion and maintenance.
The solution addresses operational concerns through comprehensive UK-based technical support, partnerships with over 20 leisure-sector installers globally, and backward compatibility that protects existing investments. As Hafiz noted, “Even if we release a new platform, we make sure that platform is compatible with the old hardware, which has been tried and tested in the field for many years.”
About Nortech Control Systems Ltd
Founded in 1992 and based in Cwmbran, South Wales, Nortech Control Systems is an independent British company specializing in innovative access control solutions. With over 25 years of experience in the leisure industry, Nortech’s products are deployed across more than 50 countries in applications including corporate campuses, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and leisure centers. The company holds ISO9001:2001 certification and Investors In People accreditation. For more information, visit www.nortechcontrol.com.
Media Contact:
Elliot Blackler, Marketing Manager, elliot.blackler@nortechcontrol.com
Technical Contact:
Amer Hafiz, Managing Director
Nortech Control Systems Ltd
+44 (0) 1633 485533
info@nortechcontrol.com
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