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ELEVATOR WORLD’s August 2026 Issue
 On the Cover: Photo Contest 2026
Features: WEE Expo 2026, Guangzhou; Elevator U 2026
Focus on Insurance and Liability: How Tariffs, AI, Data Centers and Social Inflation Are Reshaping Insurance for the Elevator Industry...
Columns: NYC's 19 Elevators Project; A Conversation With mayr's Johann Eberle; How Black Boxes Are Changing the Elevator World...
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EW OCTOBER 2026 TO FOCUS ON DIGITALIZATION
ELEVATOR WORLD’s October 2026 issue will focus on Digitalization (AI, IoT, BIM, automation, simulation, digital twin and more). The Product of the Year Nominees will be featured. The editorial deadline is August 17, and the advertising deadline is September 1. To participate or for more information, contact the EW Editorial Department at phone: 251-479-4514, ext. 130 or editorial@elevatorworld.com. To advertise, contact ext. 131 or advertising@elevatorworld.com.
ENTER THE 2026 PRODUCT OF THE YEAR AWARD CONTEST
ELEVATOR WORLD’S sixth annual Product of the Year Award recognizes outstanding product development achievements of manufacturers whose products are considered particularly noteworthy or innovative. The product(s) should represent any of the following qualities: a significant advancement in a technology or its application, an exceptionally innovative design, a substantial achievement in price/performance, improvements in design performance and a potential for new product designs/opportunities. To learn more about how your company can participate in the 2026 contest, download and complete the 2026 entry form. Submissions must be received by August 24. |
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The WUR-COM On-Prem from Wurtec is a fully off-cloud / on-premise solution for multimedia elevator communications. The On-Prem’s devices connect to the local server over your internal network, not the public Internet. This means you stay fully compliant with code while maintaining control over your data. Read the brochure for details or get in touch with our elevator communications specialist, Gabe Capozzi, at gabe.capozzi@wurtec.com. Advertisement
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SUBMISSION DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR THE EW PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Submissions are now being accepted for the ELEVATOR WORLD 29th Annual Project of the Year Awards. We are seeking submissions of projects featuring vertical, horizontal or inclined transportation systems with an innovative design, special application or approach that solved a major problem or overcame a unique challenge. Projects will be judged on innovation, originality and creativity, challenges overcome, installation methods and techniques and use of advanced technology, as well as overall quality of presentation. This year’s categories are Elevators, New Construction; Elevators, Modernization; Escalators, New Construction; Escalators, Modernization; Moving Walks; Inclined Elevators; Platform Lifts & Stairway Chairlifts; Private-Residence Elevators; and Special-Purpose Lifts. All entries will be judged and categorized as received by an impartial panel of experienced industry experts and professionals. Winning entries will be published in the January 2027 issue of ELEVATOR WORLD. Winners in each category will be acknowledged with an award of recognition. The submission deadline is September 2. |
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NOMINATIONS FOR THE SECOND ELLIES EUROPE NOW OPEN
Elevator World Inc.’s prestigious and wildly popular Ellies Awards are on their second year recognizing European vertical-transportation industry businesses that have gone above and beyond for their customers, employees and communities. Ellies Europe is totally controlled by you. Any company can be nominated within their specific category. The nomination period is open until September 4. Read more here
DEADLINE TO SUBMIT ABSTRACT FOR IEES 2026 IS AUGUST 31
The deadline to submit an abstract for the International Elevator and Escalator Symposium (IEES) 2026 at Hotel Okura in Amsterdam on December 10-11 is August 31. Under the theme, “Passenger Experience, Access, Design and Safety,” abstracts of up to 300 words should include the name of the author(s), company/organization affiliations, email address, title of the paper, paper’s objectives, methodology employed, main results and conclusions. Read more here |
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Hilliard offers its customers two styles of spring applied electric released brakes that can be easily fitted to "A" frame elevator drives. These brakes are designed to apply when unintended travel of the car occurs. Hilliard offers a friction disc plate-style brake that attaches to the drive shaft of the pulley and a caliper-style that acts on a ring attached to the pulley. These brakes are an alternative to a rope gripper when performing a modernization job which requires lifting or moving a drive or extra construction to the elevator. Hilliard offers certain models of these two styles of brakes that meet CSA approval. For more information, visit www.hilliardcorp.com Advertisement
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51ST ANNUAL POP JOE GOLF OUTING SPONSORSHIPS AND SPOTS GOING FAST
Earlier this week, Elevator Conference of New York (ECNY), which helps organize and host the 51st Annual POP Frohlinger JOE Machese Golf Outing, set to take place rain or shine on September 8 at the Brookville Country Club in Glen Head, New York, said a few pin flag and tee marker sponsorships are still available, as well as eight golf spaces. The typically sold-out event, known affectionately as the POP JOE, is the major fundraiser for the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation (EESF), and includes a full day of golf, dinner and awards. It typically draws representatives of industry organizations — ECNY; EESF; National Elevator Industry, Inc.; National Association of Elevator Contractors; NAESA International; and countless New York area elevator companies and organizations. This year’s honoree is Joel Frohlinger. |
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USDJ PUTS KONE-TKE DEAL UNDER ANTITRUST MICROSCOPE
The U.S. Department of Justice (USDJ) is putting KONE's plan to buy TK Elevator (TKE) in a deal worth US$34.4 billion under the antitrust microscope, with a full review of the plan underway, outlets including Briefs Finance report. Despite the USDJ's thorough antitrust review — which could take a year or more — Finland's KONE still expects to acquire Germany's TKE, with the transaction closing in the second quarter of 2027 at the earliest. Read more here
WURTEC WELCOMES MIDWEST PRODUCT LINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE
Wurtec recently welcomed Gabriel Capozzi as Midwest sales representative specializing in the WUR-COM Multimedia Communicator product line. Capozzi joins Toledo, Ohio-headquartered Wurtec from Vantage Elevator Solutions, where he served as a national technical sales manager for door systems. Read more here |
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Replace Smarter. Win Faster. Revolution Jacks. Downtime isn’t an option, and overpaying shouldn’t be either. Nidec Elevator delivers high performance jack replacements designed to help you secure more jobs with competitive, transparent pricing, fast, reliable lead times, quick quote turnaround, and fits engineered for seamless installs. From single-stage to in-ground replacements, every jack is built for performance and speed in the field. Win more bids. Keep projects moving. Deliver with confidence. Nidec Elevator Revolution Line - The right jack, right now. WWW.NIDECELEVATORGROUP.COM Advertisement
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BANKS PROMOTED TO FABACAB DIRECTOR OF SALES
David Banks was recently promoted from costing manager to director of sales at FabACab, headquartered in Anderson, Indiana. Roles Banks has held at the custom elevator cab interior design and manufacturing company include sales manager and senior sales representative for the Midwest. Previously, Banks worked for Schindler in the greater Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, Indiana, areas in branch management and sales. Banks is currently based in the greater Chicago area. Read more here
PUGH MOVES FROM TKE TO ELPRO AFTER NEARLY 25 YEARS
After a nearly 25-year career with TK Elevator (TKE) that saw him rise from apprentice to vice president of TKE's Prairie Region in Canada, Jeff Pugh announced he has taken a new position as chief operating officer at ElPro Elevators & Lifts Inc., based in Calgary, Alberta. In Ottawa, Ontario, Pugh held roles with TKE including district manager, maintenance supervisor and elevator mechanic. He said he is grateful for "the opportunities, challenges, mentors, colleagues and teams" that shaped not only his TKE career, but "who I am as a leader and a person." He went on to say: “Leadership isn't defined by titles, but by a commitment to continuous learning, earning trust, developing others and following through on your commitments." |
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CECA’S UPCOMING EVENTS INCLUDE EESFC ANNUAL FUNDRAISER
The Canadian Elevator Contractors Association (CECA) has announced upcoming events, with the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation of Canada’s (EESFC) annual fundraiser first up on August 20. The fundraiser is set to take place at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto starting at 7:30 p.m., promising “an unforgettable evening dedicated to raising awareness about elevator and escalator safety in one of Canada’s most iconic venues.” On September 17 will be Ontario’s Technical Standards and Safety Authority Annual Public Meeting and Safety Awards presentation in Toronto starting at 3 p.m.; and on September 24, the CECA Construction Hoist Committee meeting at 1 p.m. followed by the Central Region meeting at 4 p.m. Read more here
EAM TO HOLD ANNUAL MEETING AT NEW LOCATION
The Elevator Association of Minnesota (EAM) plans to hold its annual meeting on September 10 from 2:30-5:30 p.m. at a new location — the Lone Oak Grill in Eagan, Minnesota. Members will have an opportunity to vote on new EAM board members, hear from industry professionals during education sessions and wrap up the afternoon with networking, heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Education topics and speakers will be announced soon. |
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Maven Group, LLC is the premier choice for owners of independent elevator companies who consider selling their business. We understand the daily challenges of independent companies and we know what buyers are looking for. To maximize your return, we provide hands-on help when you prepare for the complex mergers & acquisitions process. For confidential advice, please contact Dominik Sachsenheimer at dominik@mavenelevator.com / 561-225-3320 or Bill Beaury at bill@mavenelevator.com / 239-253-4500; www.mavenelevator.com Advertisement
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NEII SPONSORS AND PARTICIPATES IN SKILLSUSA CONFERENCE IN NEW ORLEANS
The National Elevator Industry, Inc. (NEII) sponsored and participated in the SkillsUSA State Directors Conference in New Orleans on August 4-6. NEII Senior Director of Safety and Workforce Dot Mynahan delivered a presentation to the state directors about the elevator trade offering a great career opportunity, and Mynahan and NEII Communications Director Nikki Smith enjoyed working with the dedicated SkillsUSA team. A total of 57 SkillsUSA state leaders representing 49 state associations gathered for the event, which began with training for new directors, according to SkillsUSA. Read more here |
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Business Advisors in the last 3 years has successfully represented the sellers of more than 25 elevator contractors and suppliers in the elevator industry to a broad range of acquiring companies. Since our inception in 1998, we have provided hands on support to help improve profitability and optimize value for an eventual exit. Contact Jeff Eaton for a confidential discussion and complimentary strategic review. www.liftbusiness.com, jeff.eaton@liftbusiness.com Advertisement
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OTIS TO PROVIDE 251 VT UNITS FOR LANDMARK TIANJIN TOWER
Otis announced on August 17 it has been selected to provide 251 vertical-transportation (VT) units for Tianjin 117, China's new 600-m supertall landmark. When complete, it will be China's third-tallest building. The Tianjin 117 project is poised to set four high-rise mobility records: 53 Otis SkyRiseTM double-deck and super double-deck elevators, the most Otis double-deck elevators in a single building; two Otis SkyRise elevators with maximum rises exceeding 597 m, the world's longest elevator hoistways in a building; three Otis SkyRise super double-deck elevators traveling at up to 10 m/s and reaching 463 m, making them Otis' fastest and highest super double-deck elevators of their kind; and two Otis SkyRise double-deck elevators traveling at speeds of up to 12 m/s — the fastest in Otis' portfolio. Solutions for Tianjin 117 also include digitally native Gen3TM elevators and Otis LinkTM and Public escalators. Read more here |
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Deploy IP cameras, intercoms, displays, and emergency communications in elevator cabins using existing coax or 2-wire infrastructure. Reduce costs, avoid traveler cable modification, minimize disruption, and accelerate project timelines. Deliver reliable power and data with up to 24 times the reach of standard network solutions. Learn more Advertisement
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SCHINDLER AWARDED 31-UNIT MODERNIZATION CONTRACT AT GENERAL MOTORS BUILDING
Schindler announced on August 12 it has been awarded a contract to modernize 31 elevators at the iconic 50-story General Motors Building at 767 Fifth Avenue at the southeast corner of Central Park in Manhattan, NY. The Schindler PORT destination-dispatch system will be incorporated to improve traffic flow and provide additional security. The project entails a complete overhaul of the elevator system, including the original machines and core mechanical components, with the Schindler team installing new controllers and electronic infrastructure. Read more here
HINTON ASSUMES NEW ROLE AT SPECIALIZED ELEVATOR
Allin Hinton recently announced he has transitioned from service manager to branch manager, based in the Washington, D.C.-Baltimore area, with Specialized Elevator. With Specialized Elevator for more than three years, Hinton previously served as a service operations manager for KONE in Washington, D.C.-Baltimore. Read more here |
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Choose the original C-Series Barricades—lightweight, ultra-durable and designed to fit compact service vehicles. Made from rigid, high-visibility plastic, they require no assembly and unfold quickly for reliable setup every time. Available in multiple sizes, with custom graphics to meet your specific needs. https://www.lustreproducts.com/safety-barricades/ Advertisement
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OTIS APPOINTS KIM AS MD VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA
Otis Worldwide Corp. recently announced the appointment of Alex Kim as managing director (MD), Vietnam and Cambodia. In this role, Kim will strengthen Otis' position in Vietnam and Cambodia's rapidly evolving construction markets by helping customers meet growing demand for safe, reliable and innovative vertical transportation (VT). Kim brings nearly 30 years of field experience to his new role. He joined Otis in 2000, previously serving as acting MD for Vietnam and Cambodia from 2011-2016, strengthening the local organization and expanding market presence. Read more here
SOUTH KOREAN ESCALATOR MANUFACTURING RETURNS, EYES U.S. MARKET
Ten years after cheaper Chinese imports pushed South Korean-made escalators out of the market and prompted the largest domestic manufacturer, Hyundai Elevator, to halt production in 2014, the industry is back with a new company that's showing results, Korea JoongYang Daily reports. K-Escalator, established in 2024 by Hyundai Elevator Service with several additional smaller players, has started manufacturing escalators in South Gyeongsang. Read more here |
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Discover 10Gb/s end-to-end Ethernet speeds with new Cat6a traveling cables from Draka EHC, a Prysmian brand. Get up to 10x higher speed and 5x more bandwidth the Cat5e with faster, easier installation. Available now from Prysmian + Draka EHC: a legacy of excellence, elevated. Advertisement
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STATE MINISTER-PRESIDENT VISITS ZIEHL-ABEGG’S SOUTHERN GERMANY HQ
Cem Özdemir, minister-president of the state of Baden-Württemberg in southern Germany, visited the headquarters (HQ) of motor and drive technology specialist Ziehl-Abegg in Künzelsau, southern Germany, on July 31. Özdemir met with Executive Board members Joachim Ley, Wolfgang Mayer and Marco Altherr, as well as Works Council Chairman Rinor Imeri, to discuss challenges facing the industry and opportunities created by energy-efficient technologies. The minister-president toured Ziehl-Abegg’s InVent development center and production facilities, gaining first-hand insight into the development of advanced fans, electric motors and drive systems. Read more here |
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Register now for the CEDES webinar Proactive Maintenance: What Works Today and What’s Next on Aug 20, 2026 10:00 AM CST to see how elevator contractors are using the CEDES Elevate and FIELDBOSS integration to detect issues earlier, minimize running on arrival headaches, prioritize service calls, and make more informed maintenance decisions. Advertisement
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CHINA’S TAOPING SECURES US$5.2 MILLION IN SMART ELEVATOR ORDERS
Taoping Inc., a Tianjin, China-based provider of innovative cloud-based technologies, Smart City Internet of Things platforms and related products and services, announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Skyladder (Tianjin) Technology Development Co., Ltd., has secured approximately US$5.2 million in new smart elevator project orders. The new orders represent another important milestone in Taoping’s “AI + elevator” growth strategy and further validate the company’s expanding role in China’s elevator modernization and intelligent infrastructure market. Read more here
U.K. STUDY: CHOOSING STAIRS OVER LIFTS COULD PROLONG LIFE
A study by experts at Norwich, England’s University of East Anglia (UEA) and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital analyzing five case studies involving more than 450,000 people found that choosing stairs over lifts or escalators could “slash death risk,” The Herald reports. People who regularly climb stairs, the study found, are 39% less likely to die from heart problems and 24% less likely to die from “any cause compared with those who did not use the stairs as often.” Published in the American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs, findings also indicate taking the stairs may contribute to fewer heart attacks and strokes. Read more here |
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FIVE DAYS LEFT to enter your product for EW’S 2026 PRODUCT OF THE YEAR AWARD. ELEVATOR WORLD’s Product of the Year Award honors manufacturers for outstanding product innovation and development. For more information, previous winners, and submission criteria, visit the official contest page at https://elevatorworld.com/contests/product-of-the-year/ Deadline is August 24. Advertisement
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PAY-PER-RIDE ELEVATORS SPARK PUSHBACK, BUT PERSIST IN SOME PLACES
Requiring residential building tenants, regardless of age or physical ability, to pay to ride an elevator has sparked strong pushback, resulting in most countries getting rid of such systems, Yahoo News reports. Still, systems that require passengers to pay using either a coin- or card-operated system persist in some places, including Tbilisi, Georgia, where Soviet-era towers have "rudimentary metal coin boxes" that take up to GEL10 (US$3.83) per ride to help pay for electricity and maintenance on aging lift systems operating past their expected lifespan. Read more here
UZBEKISTAN AND BELARUS OFFICIALS DISCUSS ELEVATOR SAFETY
Representatives from Belarus's Department for Supervision of Industrial Safety (Gospromnadzor) and the Committee for Industrial, Radiation and Nuclear Safety under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan held a working meeting in August to exchange experience regarding elevator safety and state supervision over elevator operation, UZ Daily reports. During the meeting, Belarusian officials delivered reports on core operational areas, including a presentation on the circulation and safe operation of elevator equipment in Belarus and state supervisory practices over elevator operations. Participants discussed the specific aspects of state oversight, the legal frameworks governing both regulatory bodies and practical inspection and preventive measures used during elevator management. The sides noted similarities in their regulatory approaches while reviewing operational challenges and potential solutions. The meeting was held in accordance with the 2026–2027 Joint Action Plan implementing an agreement between the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Belarus and the State Committee for Industrial Safety of Uzbekistan. |
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