2012 has been an eventful year for the security industry–with the crowds at the Olympics and changes in legislation surrounding squatting being just a couple of the high profile issues that drew attention to the importance of effective security this year.
The Master Locksmiths Association(MLA)has been busy working towards launching a nationally recognised qualification and apprenticeship scheme which has been ongoing and has had major input into the content of the qualification,with Skills for Security and the MLA's chosen awarding body HABC due to officially launch both the apprenticeship and qualification next year.
However,there are still reports of scam operations who are positioning themselves as MLA members or using the names and addresses of genuine local firms despite not being in the area they claim to be–The MLA's new website,PR and marketing activity as well as work with third parties such as Trading Standards,aims to combat this and prevent the general public from being taken in by rogue traders.
The year also saw the successful launch of a new membership category for practicing locksmiths which has seen great take up by those who meet the criteria.We also enjoyed record retention rates evidentially the significant benefits of being an MLA member are proving their worth.
2013 is shaping up to be another busy year for all at the MLA with further work on Search Engine Optimisation to the website and even more information and articles offering security advice on a wide range of issues to consumers.
In addition the MLA is developing an e-newsletter campaign which should launch in 2013 to offer members,partners,customers and the media alike regular updates on security matters,MLA news and topical industry updates.
The MLA is also working on developing more members'benefits to ensure it provides maximum value to its members.In addition,the 17th incarnation of the MLA Expo in 2013 is shaping up to be one of the biggest locksmith exhibitions yet–with 20 per cent of space sold within just 24 hours of launch.The 2013 event will see the not only great deals for those looking to purchase locksmith related products,but will also see the usual highly acclaimed Expo training and this year a fantastic prize draw for visitors–the top prize being a trip to Las Vegas.
