From the Editor
Changing the locks
» THIS YEAR WILL BE MY FIFTH year as editor of The Locksmith Journal , and since 2018 , I ’ ve seen a lot of changes . But we also have locksmiths who have been working in our industry for more than 50 years and I ’ m always curious to know what have been the biggest changes for them – which do they think have been a change for good , and which are they not onboard with ?
In recent years the shift to smart has been one of the biggest changes consumers will likely have noticed and paid attention to , when it comes to hardware and security . For professionals , smart security can offer a lucrative opportunity , but has also come with hesitancy for those that prefer mechanical or electronic access and security solutions . But , as consumers incorporate smart products into other areas of their homes and lives – such as lighting and heating hubs , entertainment and communications – it starts to make sense that smart tech will be used on the doors and windows that house all of that too .
Likewise , as consumer decision-making and purchasing power has meant that more locksmiths are switching onto smart , the need to consider aesthetic options ; the style and appearance of hardware has developed and evolved in line with their changing preferences . That ’ s to say , where safety and security were once the only prerequisite of hardware – particularly in the commercial sector – we now see that options open up and the opportunity to have fun with function and even incorporate different tastes and personal touches in domestic and commercial settings .
One of the most significant changes we see from inside the industry – even when consumers may not realise – is the changing of legislation and regulation . These developments can also be a source of controversy for the sector . But , whether you agree with them or not , once they have been set everyone in the chain must adhere to new standards as they are revised and issued ; from the designers and developers to the installers and end users ( whether they know it or ). Then when they change again , we must all change again .
Change is inevitable . Change is also inspiring . Change is unavoidable . Change is also exciting .
The need to keep safe and secure has never altered , but as locksmithing changes to meet the needs of those who need locks , even though ‘ changing the locks ’ may be a lot different in 2023 than it was in 2018 , 2003 or even 1923 .
See you next time , Gemma
CODELOCKS HITS THE ROAD WITH EXPERT TRAINING DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR
» ON THE ROAD LOCKS with Codelocks ’ tailored , hands-on , practical troubleshooting and training sessions are open to distributors , locksmiths and installers .
Depending on the customer ’ s needs , Codelocks can deliver Mechanical or Electronic : Lock 101 training and troubleshooting courses . The programme gives attendees a chance to receive first-hand guidance from Codelocks ’ experts and features lock troubleshooting , including common faults and maintenance issues , to help trade professionals improve customer service . By hosting a session , organisations will benefit from boosting customer loyalty and establishing competitive advantage through offering better quality customer support and expertise .
Michelle Watkins , Sales Manager at Codelocks explains , “ Even if you have been a part of our great industry for many years , we find there ’ s always something new to learn .
“ Codelocks has been established for over 30 years and we ’ ve been delivering expert training sessions at our head office in Newbury since 2012 . It ’ s a real privilege for me
to be able to take Codelocks ’ 101 Training to the road this year . For distributors , industry members and facilities managers , hosting Codelocks ’ training sessions also has the added benefit of promoting brand visibility through combined marketing efforts .”
Codelocks has delivered successful onsite training sessions for Aldridge , St . Andrews links Trust , The Master Locksmith Association and The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers . After receiving positive feedback , Codelocks decided to make the launch of its moving training sessions official with ‘ On The Road Locks with Codelocks ’.
A delegate who attended onsite training last year said , “ Codelocks ’ 101 session was a brilliant opportunity to learn from experts in the field , expand my skill set and gain a better understanding of the features and range of applications for Codelocks ’ products . Being able to access this valuable information without having to travel too far was a huge bonus .”
On The Road Locks with Codelocks can be delivered at distributor and partner venues across the UK . Sessions host up to eight people and are free to attend . Codelocks ’ training page is now live for you to register your interest . Organisation and scheduling will take place from 17th April 2023 .
For more information visit https :// codelocks . info / ontheroadlocks
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MAR / APR 2023
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