Interview: Burcu Çevik, Export Manager, Turnstiles & Access Control Systems Dept., Makim

a&s Adria: Could you please introduce yourself and your role at Makim?

Çevik: My name is Burcu Çevik and I have been working at Makim for eight years as an Export Manager in the Turnstiles & Access Control Systems department. My role includes international marketing and after-sales support. I focus on expanding Makim’s presence in global markets, managing customer relationships, and ensuring seamless after-sales service.

a&s Adria: Makim has been a player in the security solutions market for many years. Can you provide a brief overview of the company’s history, key milestones, and evolution?

Çevik: Makim has been a key player in the security solutions industry, specializing in access control systems and turnstile manufacturing. With over 250 employees, the company has expanded its reach to more than 65 countries. Makim is known for its innovation in access control technology, continuously developing high-quality turnstiles and security gates that meet international standards. Over the years, we have established a strong market presence through strategic investments in R&D and participation in global security exhibitions.

a&s Adria: How does Makim, with 250 staff members, manage to serve all of Turkey and deliver products to over 65 countries?

Çevik: Makim’s success in serving both domestic and international markets comes from its strong manufacturing capabilities, a well-established logistics network, and a dedicated export team. We work with a wide network of distributors and partners who help us ensure that our products are available in different regions. Additionally, our after-sales support and remote technical assistance enable us to maintain high customer satisfaction worldwide.

a&s Adria: What are the key market trends fueling the growth of the turnstile access control system market?

Çevik: The market for turnstile access control systems is growing due to several key factors:

• Increased security concerns: Rising threats to public and private spaces drive demand for advanced access control solutions.
• Technological advancements: The integration of AI, and biometric authentication enhances security and operational efficiency.
• Smart building integration: More facilities are adopting smart security systems that seamlessly connect with building management solutions.
• Urbanization and infrastructure development: Growing cities require modern security solutions for metro stations, airports, stadiums, and corporate buildings.

a&s Adria: Can you present your product portfolio?

Çevik: Makim specializes in the following access control solutions and security systems:

• Tripod turnstiles: Compact and efficient solutions, ideal for office buildings, public areas, and educational institutions.
• Full-height turnstiles: Durable, fully controlled systems designed for stadiums, industrial facilities, and high-security areas. They are available in painted, galvanized, and stainless steel (304 & 316)
• Speed gates: Fast and stylish access solutions suitable for corporate buildings, prestigious offices, and airports, blending seamlessly with modern architecture.
• Swing gates & VIP passage systems: Providing wide and controlled access for individuals with special requirements.
• Parking barriers: Durable and fast barrier systems used to control parking entrances and exits, prevent unauthorized vehicle access, and regulate traffic flow.
• Custom security solutions: Project-based access control systems, biometric integrations, and IoT-supported security solutions.

All Makim products are designed to seamlessly integrate with RFID, QR code, biometric authentication, and any type of readers.

a&s Adria: What are the differences between mechanical turnstiles, electromechanical turnstiles, and electronic turnstiles?

Çevik: Mechanical turnstiles operate without electrical components, relying on manual push force. They are cost-effective and commonly used in low-security areas. Electromechanical turnstiles feature both mechanical and electrical components, allowing controlled access via RFID cards, push buttons, or biometric systems. They offer higher security and better integration. Electronic Turnstiles are fully automated with sensors, biometrics, and advanced security features. They allow seamless integration with smart building systems and provide the highest level of control and data tracking.

a&s Adria: What product (or product range) would you highlight as the most sold one in the European market and why?

Çevik: Our tripod turnstiles, full-height turnstiles, and speed gates are among the best-selling products in the European market.

• Tripod turnstiles are widely preferred due to their cost-effectiveness, compact design, and reliability in high-traffic areas such as public buildings, transportation hubs, and stadiums.
• Full-height turnstiles are in high demand for high-security applications like industrial sites, stadiums, and restricted access zones. Their robust construction and advanced security features make them a trusted solution for preventing unauthorized entry.
• Speed gates are favored for their modern design, fast operation, and seamless integration with smart building technologies, making them ideal for corporate and high-end facilities.

One of the key strengths of Makim’s tripod and full-height turnstiles is the durability of their mechanisms. Designed for long-lasting, high-performance operation, our turnstiles ensure minimal maintenance and reliable performance even in the most demanding environments.

a&s Adria: Makim has been exhibiting at this year’s Intersec show. What were the latest products you exhibited?

Çevik: At Intersec 2025 in Dubai, Makim presented seven different turnstile models, including:

• T2500 K – 3-arm painted fullheight turnstile
• T2500 D – 4-arm stainless steel fullheight turnstile
• T2500 D Double – 3-arm double passage fullheight turnstile
• T300 HG 20 Chubby – speed gate turnstile
• T250 GT – Tripod Electromechanical turnstile
• T250 Tripod with drop arm – Electromechanical turnstile with drop arms
• T230 Motorized VIP Turnstile – A premium, smooth-operating speed gate

Our full-height turnstiles attracted the most attention due to increased security demands. We also observed strong interest in modern speed gates, especially from the Middle Eastern market​.

a&s Adria: How do you offer seamless integration with any technology? Are your speed gates ready to connect with advanced building management systems and the latest authentication technology?

Çevik: Makim’s speed gates and access control solutions are designed for seamless integration with:

• RFID, QR code, and biometric readers: Our systems support multiple authentication methods.
• Advanced building management systems (BMS): Compatible with smart office technologies and centralized security platforms.

a&s Adria: What brands with its manufacturer, supplier, and distributor identity does Makim serve?

Çevik: Makim operates as a manufacturer of turnstiles, supplier, and distributor, providing high-quality access control solutions in over 65 countries.

In addition to exports, Makim also engages in imports and collaborates with international companies such as ZKTeco, Hikvision, Seagate, TP-Link, and Tomst.

We collaborate with leading brands in the security industry to offer integrated and innovative solutions.

Our strong partnerships and expertise in access control systems ensure that we deliver the best solutions to our customers while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability.

a&s Adria: How is the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as IoT, AI, and machine learning affecting the operational efficiency and effectiveness of turnstile systems?

Çevik: The advancement of these technologies will enhance security access scenarios, offering more efficient and intelligent control mechanisms. Turnstiles are essential for physical security and will continue to be in demand, as they provide a reliable means of access control.

However, the development of AI will positively impact access speed, optimizing entry processes and reducing wait times. We believe that AI-driven improvements will shorten turnstile passage times, enhancing both efficiency and user experience.

a&s Adria: Can you share some projects/case studies where Makim installed its products?

Çevik: Makim has successfully implemented access control solutions in various sectors, including:

• Airports: Providing high-security full-height turnstiles.
• Metro stations: Implementing efficient ticket-based access control.
• Corporate buildings: Integrating speed gates with smart office systems.
• Sports stadiums: Managing high-traffic entry points with robust turnstiles.

Makim has a wide customer portfolio in Europe, the Balkan countries, and the Middle East. Wembley Stadium, Heathrow Airport, Rome Military Airport, and Sudan Railways are just a few of our references.

a&s Adria: What are your plans for growing your presence in the Adriatic region, and what unique opportunities do you see in this market?

Çevik: We see significant potential in the Adriatic region due to increasing demand for security solutions. Our expansion strategy includes:

• Strengthening partnerships with local distributors.
• Introducing advanced access control systems tailored to the region’s needs.
• Participating in industry exhibitions and security conferences.

a&s Adria: Looking ahead, where do you see Makim in the next 3 to 5 years in terms of product development and market expansion?

Çevik: Makim aims to expand its global market share, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, develop more advanced, aesthetically modern speed gates, and strengthen product range of security solutions. We are committed to staying at the forefront of security innovation while maintaining high-quality standards in access control technology.