Notice Board
The ALA: 30 Years of Support for Professional Auto Locksmiths
» THE ALA WILL CELEBRATE ITS 30TH anniversary in April 2026, marking the journey from a small Nottingham meet-up to a national voice for auto locksmiths. From a trade once barely recognised as its own discipline, a handful of determined locksmiths laid the foundations for what the ALA is today.
The ALA team are helping to organise the specialist vehicle seminars at the upcoming MLA Lock Expo in October 2025.
The Call for Organisation: The ALA Was Born
Almost 30 years ago, auto locksmiths were carving out a niche of their own, working under pressure, combining mechanical skill with electronics, and earning customer trust. Yet there was no dedicated support network or professional organisation for them.
Traditional locksmith associations didn’ t see the need to include auto specialists. But demand was growing, and a specialist trade representative who regularly visited locksmiths around the UK began gathering feedback: would they support a dedicated auto locksmith association? The answer was a resounding‘ yes’.
A small committee of individual locksmiths( not companies) organised the first training-led meetup in Nottingham. It was such a success that a second event was agreed that same year. That members-led, hands-on training approach still defines the ALA today.
“ Paul Souber was the catalyst,” says former chairman Andy Morgan.“ We started with training sessions every six months. As more people got involved, we added small exhibitions. Now we’ ve got around 100 vetted members, all working auto locksmiths.”
Twice a year, members gather for weekend meetings that combine specialist training, supplier exhibitions, and plenty of relaxed networking. It’ s a formula that’ s worked for three decades, including hosting the world’ s first auto-only locksmith convention in Manchester, which drew over 400 visitors from 28 countries. The idea and delivery of this landmark event came from a small group of ALA members who gave up their own business and personal time, as well as resources, to make it happen. Among those who played key roles were John Bodley, whose technical input, training class ideas, and know-how proved invaluable, and Tim Hart, who kept the event on track by co-ordinating the hotel, exhibition, exhibitors, and overseas visitors. The ALA continues to support its members through strong partnerships( including with the ELF, European Locksmith Federation), ongoing training, and knowledge sharing that keeps pace with changing technology.
A Trade Organisation Built by and for Auto Locksmiths
The ALA was founded by people within the trade to fill a gap: a place where qualified, working auto locksmiths could be recognised and trusted by the public, not overshadowed by call centres or generalist directories.
It’ s a professional organisation solely for independent auto locksmiths- to raise standards, build trust, and support auto locksmiths in standing out based on skill and credentials.
Why It Matters
With growing demand has come growing confusion. Customers searching online often find national companies that subcontract work, or directories where qualifications are unclear and reviews unreliable.
The ALA cuts through the noise. Every locksmith listed is vetted, DBS checked, and active in the trade. There are no silent members, just real, working professionals committed to doing the job properly.
Still Run by Working Auto Locksmiths
The ALA’ s strength lies in its foundation: it’ s run by active professionals who face the same dayto-day challenges. It’ s not about lead generation or commercial gain, it’ s about community, professionalism, and standards.
“ The goal’ s always been to keep it professional,” Andy says.“ If someone’ s got the ALA symbol on their website, then they should know what they’ re doing.”
Members must pass a practical technical exam, complete a DBS check, and actively participate- whether at
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AUGUST 2025
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