We interviewed Jon Bentley of JP Locksmiths who recently opened his first locksmith store in Cheadle Hulme and told us how great it is to have a base and how it provides stability for his business amongst other advantages.
How I got in locksmithing
When I was 25, I used to import ski goggles from America and supplied to all the major retailers such as Soccer Sports and Blacks. I loved it at the time because I was into snowboarding and liked to travel all over Europe, but when I had my family (two boys) I simply didn’t enjoy it anymore. I needed to be at home more and settle down.
A friend of mine who was a window and door fitter told me about the joys of locksmithing and it sounded interesting, so I found a couple of courses local to me. I went on the courses, one of which was a learn to be a locksmith in five days, however after the 5 days I didn’t feel ready to be a locksmith. I had learned just the basics, but found the best training was learning on-the-job and building up my knowledge over the years.
I’ve been a mobile locksmith for 10 years now and my son works with me, it’s great having a family business. My girlfriend helps me too working behind the scenes managing a team of people who support my business with things like marketing and social media. I have never looked back, and I’m chuffed to finally have my own store in Cheadle, it’s a fantastic achievement.
Opening My First Store
It’s been difficult opening my first store and a steep learning curve. I learned that things don’t happen overnight and that you need to give it time. We opened it in September, and it’s been great having a base for my locksmith business. We’ve got a local presence; people know we’re there; they might not need us right now, but in time they will pay us a visit.
I enjoy being a local locksmith with my own store, I feel part of the community. I have a base and somewhere to put all my stock, which anchors me and allows me to focus on supporting the local community and surrounding area. I have plenty of space to buy more stock if I need it and obtain the best bulk buying prices, as well as branching out into other areas such as window and door hardware supplies and safes.
If a customer asks for something I cannot supply and I find it happens a few times over, then, evidently, this is a potential growth area for my business. I don’t regret opening my store, it’s been expensive but worthwhile and the best is yet to come!
Tips for New Locksmiths
There’s so much to learn and you must start somewhere, but I don’t think you can learn everything in three to five days. Keep an open mind and learn on-the-job, the best way to get into locksmithing is by learning directly from someone already in the trade and becoming their apprentice. For anyone eager to start a career in locksmithing, I’d recommend reaching out to local locksmiths to enquire about apprenticeship opportunities.
Ideally, you should learn the trade properly – starting with how to pick locks rather than simply drilling them out. Drilling is a lazy approach and doesn’t reflect the true skill of locksmithing. To become a proper locksmith, mastering non-destructive entry techniques is essential. Once you know what you’re doing, picking a cylinder is not only more professional but often quicker than drilling it.
Get in touch with Mark Santi and Stuart Game from Eight Ball Engineering… I would highly recommend their 8-ball multi pick for mortice locks. They offer the best courses around for budding locksmiths.
It’s always best to buy products from companies recommended by other locksmiths – those with trusted relationships and a reputation for reliability. Building connections with people who are willing to go the extra mile for you is invaluable. I prefer working with companies that offer great products paired with a personal touch from a knowledgeable sales contact. When I first started out, Nigel Waters Hardware was fantastic, and I’ve also had excellent experiences with APECS for cylinders, Aldridge Security, and Burton Safes.
Future Plans
I plan to hit my profit targets (hopefully) and keep on going! It’s all about trying new things, finding out what works best and doing more of that.
07736 066063
More information
JP Locksmiths are highly trained in non-destructive entry methods, and provide locksmithing services to homes, vehicles and businesses.
In September 2024 they opened their very first physical store, Bentley-Secure, at 2 Gillbent Road, Cheadle Hulme. After years of serving the local community, they’re thrilled to offer a brand-new, in-person experience to their loyal customers and new clients alike.
The new premises is set to become a one-stop-shop for all things security. As well as offering their trusted locksmith services directly to the door, the shop will also provide a comprehensive range of security products.
From quick, essential services such as key cutting, to advising on the most reliable security solutions, they cover everything from driveway posts and locks to CCTV and alarm systems. J.P. Locksmiths is committed to providing the highest quality products and services to ensure maximum safety and security.