The global elevator and escalator market is witnessing strong and consistent growth, supported by increasing infrastructure investments, rapid urbanization, and the integration of smart technologies. Elevators and escalators are becoming indispensable in modern residential and commercial buildings, playing a critical role in vertical mobility and infrastructure efficiency.
Market Outlook
According to recent industry analysis, the global elevator and escalator market is forecast to grow from US$105.18 billion in 2025 to US$169.78 billion by 2032, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.08% during the forecast period. This impressive growth is largely attributed to rising demand across high-rise buildings, government infrastructure projects, and the adoption of energy-efficient and smart systems.
Market Drivers
Several key factors are propelling the growth of the elevator and escalator market:
• Infrastructure Expansion in Developing Economies
Governments across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America are significantly increasing investments in urban infrastructure such as airports, metro stations, commercial complexes, and residential developments. Elevators and escalators are essential components in these projects, enhancing accessibility and overall operational efficiency.
• Technological Innovation and Energy Efficiency
Manufacturers are prioritizing innovation with a strong focus on energy-saving technologies and digital solutions. The adoption of destination control systems, IoT-based monitoring, and predictive maintenance has revolutionized the industry, making elevators and escalators smarter, safer, and more user-friendly.
• Growth of Smart Buildings and Urbanization
As smart cities continue to develop, there is a surge in demand for intelligent building solutions, including smart elevators and escalators equipped with touchless controls, voice activation, and biometric security features. Urbanization in emerging markets is also accelerating the construction of high-rise buildings, further driving demand.
Emerging Opportunities
The elevator and escalator market offers promising opportunities across several areas:
• Integration of Smart Systems
The adoption of Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud-based analytics in elevators and escalators is enabling real-time diagnostics, optimized performance, and predictive maintenance. These smart features are transforming how vertical transportation systems are designed, operated, and maintained.
• Demand in Aging Societies
An increasing elderly population, particularly in countries like China and India, is boosting the need for residential elevators that enhance accessibility and convenience. Developers are responding to this demand by integrating elevators into mid-rise and low-rise buildings, previously considered optional.
• Expansion in Emerging Markets
Regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa present growth potential due to rapid urbanization, rising incomes, and infrastructure modernization. Manufacturers and service providers are leveraging this growth by expanding their presence and tailoring offerings to local market needs.
Regional Overview
Asia Pacific remains the most dynamic and fastest-growing regional market, projected to register a CAGR of 7.8% through 2032. The region’s growth is driven by widespread urban development, rising high-rise constructions, and large-scale government investments in public infrastructure. China continues to dominate the region with its expansive real estate and transportation projects.
Other regions, including North America and Europe, are focusing on modernization and sustainability, upgrading older systems with newer, energy-efficient models. The Middle East and Africa, along with South America, are experiencing steady growth due to infrastructure upgrades and the construction of new residential and commercial facilities.
Challenges to Market Growth
Despite the promising outlook, the industry faces several challenges:
• High Initial Installation and Maintenance Costs
The capital-intensive nature of elevators and escalators poses a significant barrier, especially in developing regions. Costs associated with installation, customization, and long-term maintenance can deter small-scale developers and low-budget infrastructure projects.
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards
Elevators and escalators must meet stringent safety and performance regulations across different countries. This regulatory complexity requires manufacturers to invest in continuous R&D and testing, often delaying product launches and increasing operational costs.
• Complex Installation in Older Structures
Retrofitting elevators into older buildings or structures with unique architectural requirements adds to installation difficulty and cost, potentially slowing down adoption in certain markets.
Competitive Analysis
Market players are investing heavily in product innovation, customer service, and strategic partnerships to expand their market presence. The adoption of energy-efficient technologies and digital platforms is helping companies differentiate their offerings.
Key companies dominating the global elevator and escalator market include:
• KONE Corporation
• Hitachi Ltd.
• Schindler Group
• Otis
• Toshiba Elevators and Building Systems Corporation
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
• TK Elevator
• Hyundai Elevator Co. Ltd.
• Fujitec Co., Ltd.
• SJEC Corporation
These companies are expanding their footprints in emerging markets through collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions while also strengthening their service and maintenance networks globally.
Recent Developments
• In March 2024, Otis Worldwide Corporation was awarded a high-profile contract to modernize 34 elevators in the Burj Khalifa, UAE. The agreement includes a long-term service and modernization package spanning over ten years.
• In July 2023, Schindler partnered with Umm Al Qura in Saudi Arabia to supply and install 150 elevators for commercial and hospitality facilities in Makkah. This included Schindler 5000 and 7000 series elevators, tailored to meet complex transport needs.
Market Segmentation
By Product
• Elevators
• Escalators
• Moving Walkways
By Technology
• Traction Elevators
• Machine Room-Less (MRL) Traction Elevators
• Hydraulic Elevators
By End-Use Industry
• Residential
• Commercial
• Institutional
• Infrastructure
• Others
By Service
• New Installation
• Maintenance & Repair
• Modernization
By Region
• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• South America
• Middle East & Africa
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