About us
BFT Automation across the globe
BFT is a leading manufacturer of automation solutions, with over 40 years of experience in the industry. We are recognised for combining product quality with reliable service and expert technical support.
Our portfolio covers a wide range of automation systems, all engineered to deliver long-term performance and reliability. While BFT is widely known for gate automation, the range also includes traffic barriers, automatic bollards and access control solutions - making it suitable for residential, commercial and industrial applications.
BFT operates through two dedicated business units. The Residential & Industrial division focuses on automated entry systems for homes and businesses. The Commercial & Urban division delivers solutions for high-traffic environments, including infrastructure for vehicle and pedestrian access such as barriers and bollards.
Our approach is built around supporting customers at every stage - from specification through to installation and aftersales. Every BFT solution is backed by technical expertise and responsive customer service.
Headquartered in Schio, near Vicenza in northern Italy, BFT operates in over 120 countries, supported by a network of subsidiaries and distribution partners worldwide.
Our history
BFT Automation was founded in Thiene, Italy in 1981 with a focus on being a customer-orientated business. The approach of focusing on the customer, providing support and being easily available to customers, quickly won the loyalty of those working across the automation world.
The name BFT comes from Bonollo (name of the family), Francesco (name of the founding father) and Thiene (the town where the business was set up).
Over time, as the business grew, BFT began acquiring companies within the automation industry. BFT Automation opened the first branch in Germany after the acquisition of one of the largest customers in 2002. This was the first foray into a local market and the beginning of the process to understand each country’s individual requirements. From this initial step, BFT Automation began to diversify products and services to suit the needs of the local markets, whilst still prioritising customer satisfaction.
BFT Automation opened the first branch in the United Kingdom in 2004 after the acquisition of an automation business in the North of England. Three years later in 2007, a second automation business in the South of England was acquired, giving BFT Automation nationwide coverage in the UK. In 2010 Bft Ireland was opened after the acquisition of a Dublin based automation business which was later transferred to ASD LTD in 2026, who became an exclusive distribution partner for BFT.
Since 2004 BFT Automation has been part of the Somfy Group: which has given us the support to gain significant market share and build a structured distribution network. A radical change that has facilitated the transition from a family-run business to a multinational organisation.
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BFT Automation is one of the leading companies in the automation industry. Discover more about us, our products and services.
