Notice Board
Growth , Google and Guarantees
This month , we ventured behind-the-scenes – if you will – to discover the individuals active in the locksmithing industry that aren ’ t , dare we say it , locksmiths . We spoke to Natasha Pugh , Sales Director for APECS UK about her career progression , how the digital age has transformed the sector , and how APECS guarantees to deliver products that are safe and secure for its customers .
Oh , and a little on living with a locksmith …
Can you share more about your role at APECS ?
“ I ’ m Natasha and I ’ m the Sales Director for APECS UK . I essentially head up sales for the entire business . My primary focus is working closely with locksmiths and the wider industry to ensure we ’ re providing the best products and services .
“ I spend a lot of time visiting customers across the country and work very closely with our marketing team to elevate the APECS brand . You ’ ll probably have seen us participating in networking events , shows , and awards .
“ Personally , I find immense satisfaction in initiating customer relationships and engaging in those conversations to better understand their backgrounds and specific requirements . This enables me to provide a better service and support to assist them in the market . Due to these relationships , it also allows me check back in to ensure they ’ re happy , and to seek feedback we may require as a business . It ’ s this two-way communication that I enjoy , building relationships is what it ’ s all about .”
When did you first become interested in the locksmith industry ?
“ I began my journey in the locksmith industry in June 2013 when I joined Duffells as an Account Manager . Soon after , I progressed into new business , which I loved !
“ Then in 2016 , I moved to Manchester and began working as an Area Sales Manager for Aldridge Security covering the North and Midlands . Not long after , I moved back to London and took over the London patch until I left in December 2019 .
“ And then , in 2020 , I started a whole new chapter with APECS . I ’ ve been here for almost five years and in that time , I have completed the MLA five-day course with some incredible tutors at the MLA HQ in Rugby . I ’ m also thrilled to have recently celebrated a decade in this wonderful industry and I know that there are many more to come !”
We find ourselves in such a turbulent place economically , what has 2023 been like for APECS ?
“ This year has been exceptionally positive marked by an outstanding Q1 and Q2 , it ’ s all thanks to our incredible customers . And Q3 and Q4 is gearing up to be the same as we prepare for a series of new product launches and upcoming MLA regional meetings , Lockexpo and of course , the eagerly anticipated MLA Show in October .
“ Our success is testimony to our customers , we ’ re extremely grateful for their trust and loyalty .”
What have been your major accomplishments ?
“ My most significant achievement , without a shadow of a doubt , is my contribution to APEC ’ s growth . The business was essentially a start-up when I joined , and I undertook the challenge of fostering its development . We ’ re relentless in delivering real value
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AUGUST 2023
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