Notice Board
Got any special skills / USPs ? We have become well-known locally for our ability to problem solve , especially when it comes to repairing or replacing discontinued locking products . I really believe that the security industry moves as fast as the computer industry in developing new technology . What was popular ten years ago is often not even in production now ! We have never come across a lock or locking system that we haven ’ t been able to find a new solution for ; whether repairing or replacing it .
We recently had to sort out a customer who needed replacement access control for their gaming establishment . Previously they were told their current system was outdated and couldn ’ t be repaired , but we were able to sort it out and get them up and running .
Henri is also very good at fixing things due to his background in agricultural engineering ; damaged safe lids seem to be a special skill of his at the moment that I don ’ t think he realised he had !
Marketing your business : tips for other locksmiths ?
We use the usual channels as much as we can ; Henri is great at getting us a big reach across social media . In a world where online channels are flooded , and the younger generations are abandoning social media , I think that there is a big and perhaps even growing demand for printed media .
We spend a large part of our marketing budget on print and it works really well for us . Leaflet drops have also generated a lot of business for us . I would also recommend making links with community leaders and community groups . Embedding yourself into your local community is an excellent way of spreading word of mouth and building your local reputation .
What is a typical day like in your business ?
Well , the day always starts with a nice brew . We like to be one step ahead so the day has already been mapped out the day before , from customer appointments to stock deliveries so we can crack on . But to be honest , there is no such thing as a typical day ; one of the reasons why we all enjoy it so much . No matter how well you plan and prepare , when the phone starts ringing and the emails start coming in the day can take any shape .
We offer a 24-hour emergency service and you never know what situations people are going to get themselves into or when . Sometimes I can get a full night ’ s sleep , and others I am helping a drunk groom get into the correct house at midnight , or a locked-out McDonald ’ s team trying to get in at 4am for breakfast service . But I love it !
What is the biggest challenge you ’ ve had to date ?
I think that the biggest challenge was a recent safe removal . It took three of us to do it and we needed to use a small mechanical crane . One of the safes weighed about one tonne and the other about half a tonne . They were located to the rear of a closed down McColl ’ s shop that was due to have the floors redone the following day . So , no matter what , we had to get them out that very day , we couldn ’ t afford to fail . The safes were in a back-office area with narrow doorways and weak floors . I was so worried at one point that we were about to fall through to the basement ! But with some ingenuity , and a bit of elbow grease , we were able to remove them safely .
Got any funny stories we can tell ?
One of the things I love about this job is the odd and wonderful things you encounter . But one of the funniest things recently was when a lovely Labrador started bringing me gifts . I was at a lady ’ s house working on her rear patio doors , and she had popped out to the shops , when her Labrador started bringing me
things . First of all , it was his favourite teddy , then his tennis balls , and he was placing them around me . After a period of time , he had piled up around me a selection of the lady ’ s underwear ! I looked around and I was surrounded by knickers , thongs , bras , stockings the lot ! When the customer returned home , she was mortified and I tried not to laugh .
Got any plans for this year ?
We are continuing our growth strategy , expanding our product ranges , and where best to open the next shop . We have recently formed a new relationship with a leading safe manufacturer which we are very excited about .
Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates : @ jonaskinglocksmiths Locksmiths : 0330 0430429 Shop and office : 01379 423690 admin @ jonaskinglocksmiths . com www . jonaskinglocksmiths . com
JUNE 2024
9
Issue Takeover locksmithjournal . co . uk