Locks and Security News: your weekly locks and security industry newsletter
24th April 2024 Issue no. 702
Your industry news - first
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Introducing the Organisation of Professional Accredited Locksmiths (OPAL)
Security Media and Events Ltd, publishers of Locks & Security Magazine, and the team also responsible for Locks & Security News, the Locksmiths' Exhibition, The Professional Locksmiths' Forum, and the upcoming Auto Locksmiths' Expo in October, have now launched the Organisation of Professional Accredited Locksmiths (OPAL).
OPAL is designed for the independent locksmith who wishes to associate with like-minded individuals within a framework that offers tangible member benefits, yet does not impose any burdens other than the necessary proofs of operating as an accredited locksmith business.
For many, locksmithing can be a very lonely occupation. It can be quite lucrative of course, but no-one doubts that it can also be very hard work with frequent unsociable hours, and the long days or nights spent operating alone by mobile locksmiths in particular can be daunting to those outside the industry.
Therefore the kind of person who is drawn to becoming a locksmith in the first place appears to be someone of great independence of mind, who is justifiably proud of his or her acquired skills and experience. This type of person is thus likely to be one who perhaps naturally resents being part of any overarching body that might seek to impose what they see as too many rules or regulations upon what many locksmiths feel is no-one's business but their own.
According to John Austen, Publisher of Locks and Security News, "When the e-zine was launched as the precursor to the magazine over two years ago, the first telephone call we received was to ask whether we were independent or not. Ever since the magazine launched shortly afterwards we have continually received calls asking much the same question, as well as: would we offer any accreditation?
"The simple answer is yes, we would.
"As a strictly Controlled Circulation publication that deals with technical information of a sometimes sensitive nature Locks & Security Magazine has already validated the accreditation of the great majority of our readers. Those who have not met our necessarily high standards have been cut from the circulation. We were, and still are, prepared to accept the loss in the interests of quality, not just numbers."
So what benefits would a member of OPAL expect to receive?
* Guaranteed Permanently Free Entry to Two Annual Exhibitions
Trade shows can be costly affairs and the Locks & Security team has endeavored from the outset to keep such costs to a minimum - including the cost of entry. In order to continue to be able to attract top-class exhibitors, all offering something of interest to visitors, and for us to guarantee continued free entry to members of OPAL, our promotional activity can remain focused on this group, whose own membership card will be their free entry ticket.
* Professional Locksmiths Forum
Already this forum is the biggest of its kind in the UK with over 500 members and approaching 12,000 posts. OPAL members will have their own exclusive level out of reach of any hobbyists or entry-level locksmiths who might have limited access to the Forum.
* Validation of Your Business
Once approved this carries the right to use the OPAL logo on business cards, work apparel, vans and stationery.
* Magazine
Locks & Security Magazine. has established itself as the magazine written by locksmiths for locksmiths. Membership of OPAL includes £30 annual subscription to the magazine. Those who have already paid their magazine subscription and subsequently wish to join OPAL will have their magazine subscription credited against the annual OPAL membership fee.
* Newsletter
This will be published in Locks & Security Magazine. We will bring news about fellow members as well as the special deals available and of course additional benefits and services being introduced. So watch that space!
* Weekly e-News
* Unbiased Professional Advice
Jointly, our security media group has literally decades of experience in business. Should you need to discuss any matter related to you, your work or your business, you can be assured of a friendly voice on the other end of the telephone or a prompt email response that will help to guide you in making your next decision.
* Access to Experts
Again, we have unrivalled access to experts both in business and in locksmithing. So if we do not have the answers for you, we will find someone who does.
* Emotional Support & Discretionary Financial Assistance
We all know that life can be tough and sometimes it helps if you can just reach out and share the burden. There will also be times when there is some financial hardship involved. Whether this is caused by sickness or injury to you, or to a close family member, theft or loss of tools or equipment, being a member of OPAL could provide the bridge that helps you cross over these stormy waters. (N.B. Being a member of OPAL does not mean that any insurance against theft etc, should be allowed to lapse.)
* Access to Mediation
In the event of a third party dispute OPAL membership allows you initially free, then low cost access to a trained mediator who will attempt to resolve the matter as amicably as possible. This is not a full legal service but mediation attempts to avoid judicial resolution, with all the attendant high costs involved.
* Access to Sales Training
Whether it is only for yourself, or for a team, ongoing sales training should be pivotal to a company's growth strategy. Having access to trainers through OPAL could make the crucial difference.
* Access to Advanced Training Courses
Our Training Partners have the best names in the industry and courses are available at discounted rates through OPAL.
* Access to Marketing Support
OPAL members may call upon us for the following services (either supplied free or at huge discounts): writing articles or press releases for the local newspaper; advertising templates; basic and advanced website design; stationery design.
* Access to Lead Generating Service
Wouldn't it be great if you knew the customers in your area who needed their new locks or security systems before they actually go and buy them from someone else? OPAL members do! We provide access to data suppliers that includes local council planning details for extensions and conversions as well as info from estate agents on house sales.
* Discounts on Tools and Equipment
We have negotiated tremendous discounts with suppliers for OPAL members.
* Access to Competitive Insurance Rates
* Access to Private Healthcare Plan inc. FREE £10,000 Personal Accident Plan
Instant cover (saving 3 months waiting period) on private healthcare plan at discounted corporate rates when taken out as an OPAL member, plus FREE £10,000 personal accident plan.
Should you wish to join OPAL you should have at least two years working as a professional locksmith. Annual membership is only £100 which includes the £30 annual magazine subscription.
Benefits and services will continue to be added over time and as OPAL grows, so be sure to keep an eye out for membership updates in Locks and Security News and in the magazine.
Ask for your application form now by emailing [email protected] Tel: 01580 754667 Fax: 01580 754669
22nd February 2012