Global Escalators & Moving Walkways Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

Global Escalators & Moving Walkways Market, Segmentation by Speed

The Global Escalators & Moving Walkways Market has been segmented by Speed into Low-speed (up to 30 feet per minute) and Medium-speed (up to 90 feet per minute).

Low-speed escalators and moving walkways, which operate at speeds of up to 30 feet per minute, are primarily used in environments where slower-paced movement is adequate and desired. These systems are ideal for locations where passengers are not in a rush but still need assistance with navigating large spaces. For instance, they are commonly found in airports for moving passengers between terminals or gates. These slower systems are also preferred in certain commercial buildings, exhibition halls, and other public spaces where the focus is more on comfort and safety rather than the need for quick transit. Low-speed escalators and walkways are often seen in areas with lighter foot traffic, as the slower pace allows for a more leisurely and controlled movement of people. Furthermore, these systems are often designed with added features for accessibility, including wider steps or tracks to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

On the other hand, medium-speed escalators and moving walkways, with speeds of up to 90 feet per minute, are designed for more high-traffic areas where there is a need for faster movement while still maintaining safety standards. These systems are typically installed in larger commercial and public spaces such as airports, train stations, shopping malls, and large office buildings where the flow of people is high, and speed is critical for efficiency. Medium-speed escalators and walkways can efficiently handle the movement of a larger number of passengers over long distances, offering a quicker and more efficient means of transport compared to low-speed systems. These systems are favored in scenarios where time is more of a factor, such as in airports where passengers need to quickly move between terminals or train stations where the quick transfer between platforms is essential. The increased speed of medium-speed systems provides a balance between efficiency and comfort, ensuring passengers can move efficiently without feeling rushed.

Global Escalators & Moving Walkways Market, Segmentation by Usage

The Global Escalators & Moving Walkways Market has been segmented by Usage into Commercial, Public, Residential, and Industrial.

The Commercial segment dominates the global market, driven by the growing demand in retail environments, office buildings, and shopping malls. Escalators and moving walkways in commercial spaces facilitate the movement of people across multiple floors, particularly in areas with high foot traffic. Retailers prefer escalators in malls to enhance customer experience by providing a seamless flow of people, especially during peak shopping hours. Additionally, commercial spaces often require customizable solutions to meet aesthetic and practical requirements, such as matching the interior design or handling large numbers of passengers quickly and safely. The increased focus on convenience, efficiency, and safety in commercial settings is expected to further propel the growth of this segment.

The Public segment refers to installations in areas with large-scale public gatherings and transport hubs, such as airports, subway stations, bus terminals, and train stations. These locations often experience heavy foot traffic, making the need for efficient vertical and horizontal transportation solutions critical. Escalators and moving walkways in public spaces are used to reduce waiting times, increase mobility, and improve overall flow. The convenience they offer in overcoming architectural barriers like uneven levels or crowded corridors makes them indispensable in public infrastructure. As urbanization continues to rise and cities expand their public transportation networks, this segment is expected to see substantial growth. Moreover, the increasing trend of improving accessibility and meeting regulations for the differently-abled population also drives demand in this segment.

The Residential segment, although smaller than commercial and public sectors, has been witnessing a steady rise. Escalators in residential spaces, particularly in multi-story luxury homes or apartment complexes, offer comfort and convenience for homeowners, especially those with limited mobility. These systems, though not as commonly used as in commercial or public sectors, are increasingly being incorporated into high-end residential buildings, luxury villas, and gated communities. Their main appeal lies in providing an upscale living experience and overcoming the challenges posed by steep staircases or physical limitations. Moreover, the growth in affluent populations and the trend toward personalized luxury homes is expected to expand the demand for escalators and moving walkways in residential applications.

The Industrial segment, though niche, is also a significant contributor to the market. Escalators and moving walkways in industrial settings, such as warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers, facilitate the smooth movement of goods and workers. These systems are often used in large factories where materials need to be transported across different levels or in areas with limited space. Moving walkways in industrial environments are especially useful in large warehouses where employees need to move efficiently between various sections of the facility. Additionally, the rise of automated manufacturing processes and efficient logistics networks increases the need for robust, durable, and heavy-duty escalators and walkways that can withstand the harsh conditions of industrial environments.

Global Escalators & Moving Walkways Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Escalators & Moving Walkways Market has been segmented by Application into Public transit, Airports, Retail, Institutional and Others.

Public transit systems, such as metro stations and railway terminals, constitute a significant portion of the market. Escalators and moving walkways in these settings are crucial for facilitating efficient passenger flow, especially in densely populated urban areas experiencing rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion. As cities worldwide invest in expanding their public transit networks to accommodate growing populations, there is a corresponding increase in the demand for reliable and efficient escalator solutions that enhance commuter convenience and safety.

Airports represent another pivotal application area for escalators and moving walkways. With the global rise in air travel and the construction of new airports or expansion of existing ones, there is a heightened need for escalators and moving walkways to manage passenger traffic within terminals. These systems improve passenger experience by reducing walking times between gates and baggage claim areas, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction. The emphasis on modern airport infrastructure also drives demand for escalators that meet stringent safety and reliability standards, ensuring uninterrupted service amidst heavy foot traffic.

Retail environments also constitute a significant market segment for escalators and moving walkways. In shopping malls and retail complexes, these systems play a crucial role in enhancing shopper convenience and facilitating seamless movement between different floors and retail sections. As the retail sector evolves with the growth of e-commerce and changing consumer preferences, escalators that offer enhanced energy efficiency, design flexibility, and maintenance ease are increasingly sought after. Institutional settings such as hospitals, educational institutions, and government buildings utilize escalators to improve accessibility and operational efficiency within large, multi-floor facilities.

Drivers

• Digitalization and IoT integration
• Demand for reliable transportation
• Building automation integration

• Growth in tourism and hospitality - The growth in tourism and hospitality sectors globally has significantly impacted the demand for escalators and moving walkways. Tourist destinations, airports, hotels, and entertainment venues are increasingly incorporating these systems to enhance visitor experience and operational efficiency. Escalators provide convenient vertical transportation in large venues, reducing congestion and improving flow for guests.
  In airports, they facilitate seamless movement between terminals and concourses, accommodating the rising number of travelers. Hotels and resorts utilize escalators and walkways to ensure easy access to amenities and rooms, catering to guests with varying mobility needs. This trend is further driven by the hospitality industry's focus on providing a modern and accessible environment, which enhances overall customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Restraints

• Trade barriers and tariffs
• Safety and security risks

• Operational disruptions - Operational disruptions pose a significant challenge in the escalators and moving walkways market, impacting efficiency and safety. These disruptions can result from various factors such as technical faults, maintenance delays, and unexpected breakdowns. Such incidents not only inconvenience passengers but also disrupt normal business operations in commercial and public spaces. Maintenance plays a crucial role in mitigating these disruptions, but scheduling maintenance activities without causing operational downtime can be complex.
  Escalator downtime affects passenger flow in transit hubs, shopping malls, and office buildings, potentially leading to overcrowding and safety concerns. Addressing operational disruptions requires proactive maintenance strategies, investment in robust monitoring systems, and swift response protocols to minimize downtime and maintain optimal performance.

Opportunities

• Demand for airport walkways
• Smart building integrations
• Tourism infrastructure growth

• Expansion of mass transit - The expansion of mass transit systems worldwide has spurred the demand for escalators and moving walkways in metro stations, bus terminals, and railway networks. As cities invest in enhancing public transportation infrastructure to accommodate growing urban populations, escalators play a vital role in providing efficient vertical mobility within transit hubs.
  Moving walkways improve passenger throughput and accessibility, particularly in large metro stations and intermodal transit centers. The integration of escalators and walkways supports efforts to reduce congestion, enhance passenger comfort, and promote sustainable urban mobility solutions. This expansion trend is driven by urbanization, increasing commuter traffic, and efforts to modernize transit facilities to meet the evolving needs of urban residents and travelers alike.