The Locksmith Journal 120 May 2026 | Page 4

From the Editor

and the reality behind everyday decisions

» LATE MAY BRINGS THAT FAMILIAR shift in pace. The days stretch out, the evenings feel lighter, and there’ s a quiet sense of momentum building. Whether on-site, in workshops, trade counters, or over a well-earned cup of tea, conversations naturally turn toward fresh ideas and new perspectives in the locksmith, hardware, and security sector.

This week, I heard a riddle that stopped me in my tracks: what are there more of in the world, doors or wheels?

At first, it feels like a bit of light-hearted fun. But the more you think about it, the more complicated it becomes. Do internal doors count? What about security doors, fire doors, or automatic entrances? Do padlocks and cabinet locks change the equation? And do castors, rollers, and wheels on everything from trolleys to safes all count the same way? Suddenly, a simple question opens into a maze of interpretation, assumptions, and unknowns. Sound familiar? In many ways, our industry is built around questions just like this. Not riddles, perhaps, but constant conundrums. What will customers want next in access control and security? How will regulations evolve around fire safety, compliance, and physical security? Which innovations will stand the test of time, and which are just passing trends? Like the doors or wheels debate, there is rarely a single, definitive answer, only perspectives shaped by experience, context, and a willingness to look a little closer. And it is not just the big questions that matter. Day to day, it is the smaller decisions that quietly shape outcomes. Choosing the right lock, cylinder, or door hardware for the right property. Balancing security performance with usability and aesthetics. Managing customer expectations while delivering reliability, compliance, and peace of mind. Each choice adds up, creating a bigger picture that defines both reputation and success over time.

At The Locksmith Journal, our customers navigate these uncertainties every day. Whether it is exploring new security solutions, responding to shifting market demands, or finding smarter ways to deliver quality and value in locks, hardware, and access systems, the path forward is rarely a straight line. It is a series of considered decisions, informed judgement, and the occasional leap of faith.

Perhaps that is what makes this industry so engaging. Behind every installation, every specification, and every innovation, there is a quiet problem-solving process at work, turning questions into solutions, and ideas into something tangible and secure. It is an industry that never stands still, always adapting, always improving, and always looking ahead to what comes next.

Doors or wheels, where do you stand? Answers on a postcard please!

See you next month, Gemma

The Trade Keeps Moving

» SOMEHOW HALFWAY THROUGH THE YEAR IS JUST around the corner. A major highlight in this month’ s magazine has to be the Auto Locksmiths Association celebrating its 30th anniversary in April, returning to Nottingham where it all began back in 1996. What started as a handful of specialists sharing knowledge has grown into one of the most respected communities in the trade, and from speaking to those who attended, this year’ s event has been described as“ the best yet.”

Staying in the world of auto locksmithing, we also head north to Scotland to meet Gary Millar of GDM Auto Keys. What makes Gary’ s story particularly interesting is coming into the trade from running vehicle workshops and diagnostics. It’ s a reminder that modern auto locksmithing is increasingly about understanding vehicles as complete systems, not just keys and locks. His journey from technician to business owner, taking over Fife Auto Keys and building GDM Auto Keys, offers a fascinating insight into where the trade is heading as cars become more complex by the year.

Elsewhere, we explore a very different side of the industry with Melanie Mahabir, known to many as Lady Kamalock of Global Locks UK, whose existence aims to resolve the pain points of every locksmith. From leadgeneration frustrations, to unregulated operators and public uncertainty, Melanie set out to create a platform designed to support vetted locksmiths while giving customers greater confidence.

We also explore how one long-established security business has successfully balanced traditional locksmithing values with the demands of modern access control and architectural ironmongery, proving that heritage and innovation can still work hand in hand.

Finally, we head into the heart of London traffic, where Lloyd Morgan of London Locks has taken an approach that simply works. While most locksmiths are battling congestion in vans, Lloyd’ s business runs largely on electric cargo bikes and scooters, weaving through canal towpaths and side streets to reach customers faster. It’ s makes you stop and think: would this only work in London, or could it be the future for urban locksmithing elsewhere too?

As always, this issue is packed with stories shaped by real experience, practical thinking and people doing things their own way. Hopefully, somewhere in these pages, there’ s an idea, perspective or conversation that sticks with you long after the magazine’ s been put down.

If you’ ve got a story to tell, get in-touch wendy @ cvgroup. co. uk