AUTO LOCKSMITHS
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Why LDS Switched to Van Guard
LDS Van Security Locks has been a Van Guard customer for around three to four years. The initial decision to change supplier was driven by product innovation rather than brand loyalty.
“ One of the main reasons we switched was that Van Guard were the first to offer a Gold Sold Secure van lock,” Allan explains.“ They’ d added plates to the lock case to make it more secure, and it came with certification.”
That certification quickly proved valuable in conversations with customers.
“ It meant our customers could provide proper documentation to their insurance companies,” Allan says.“ That’ s a big deal for tradespeople.”
At the time, the move was straightforward.
“ It started as a product-led decision,” Allan admits.“ We thought we’ d give them a try.”
What followed, however, went beyond the lock itself.
More Than Just the Product
As LDS continued working with Van Guard, the service and support behind the products became just as important as their design.
“ Van Guard make sure our orders are ready each week so we can set off on the road,” Allan explains.“ And if for any reason that’ s not possible, they make it happen.”
That flexibility can take different forms. On occasions where plans change or time is tight, Van Guard has arranged alternative solutions, including delivering products directly to the customer LDS is travelling to.
“ They go out of their way to make sure everything’ s right,” Allan says.
And when issues arise— as they inevitably do in any supply chain— Allan says the response matters.
“ If there’ s a problem with a product, which is rare, they sort it out quickly and without fuss.”
That approach mirrors the way LDS runs its own operation.
“ We work hard to maintain our reputation by being honest, reliable and professional,” Allan explains.“ Van Guard do the same, and that’ s why it works.”
A Supplier That Feels Like Part of the Business
For a specialist locksmith business operating nationwide, consistency is critical. LDS installs a wide range of van security solutions— from deadlocks and hook locks to slam locks, protect plates and loom guards— and Allan says having confidence in the products and the people behind them makes day-today operations far smoother.
“ It’ s like Van Guard is an extension of our own business,” Allan says.“ Not a separate company.”
That sense of alignment is something Allan values highly.
“ Our values match. They care about getting things right, just like we do.”
As LDS Van Security Locks continues to focus solely on van security, those partnerships become even more important. Locksmiths specialising in this area need suppliers who understand the realities of mobile working, customer expectations and the importance of doing things properly.
For Allan, the lesson is simple: choosing a supplier isn’ t just about the product on the shelf.
www. van-guard. co. uk www. van-deadlock. co. uk
Choosing a Van Security Supplier – A Practical Checklist
Based on real-world experience, Allan highlights the factors locksmiths should consider when choosing a van security supplier:
• Proven security standards-
Products that are independently tested and certified
• Design that addresses real attacks-
Locks built to counter current methods of entry
• Reliable availability-
Orders ready when you need to be on the road
• Flexible delivery
- The ability to adapt when schedules change
• Straightforward problemsolving-
Issues resolved quickly and without hassle
• Shared values-
A supplier who understands that your reputation is on the line
48
JANUARY 2026
locksmithjournal. co. uk Issue Takeover