The latest industry news and product developments in the sector, including the vital role of key cutting in hardware stores. Including new drill bits and robust security locks for outdoor access. Also Regulatory compliant door controls and functional, durable and stylish ironmongery and fixings.
The Ironmongery sector, encompassing door furniture, closers, locks, and key systems, remains a cornerstone of Ireland’s and the UK’s construction and refurbishment markets. As 2024 unfolds, several key trends are shaping the sector, offering both challenges and opportunities for growth.
The ironmongery and locks market in the UK and Ireland has experienced notable developments in 2023 and 2024, influenced by technological advancements, economic factors, and evolving consumer preferences.
Key Trends
— Smart Lock Adoption
The smart lock segment has seen significant growth, driven by increasing safety and security concerns. In 2023, deadbolt locks accounted for the largest share of the global smart locks market, with the segment expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period.
www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/smartlock-market
— Sustainability Focus
There is a growing emphasis on sustainable building practices, leading to increased demand for eco-friendly ironmongery products. Manufacturers are focusing on producing hardware with recycled materials and energy-efficient designs.
— Supply Chain Challenges
The industry has faced significant supply chain disruptions due to global events, leading to material shortages and increased costs. These challenges have been exacerbated by a shortage of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers and international shipping issues.
www.amaresearch.co.uk/report/door-and-window
Future Outlook
Despite recent challenges, the ironmongery and locks market in the UK and Ireland is poised for growth. The adoption of smart lock technologies and the emphasis on sustainable building practices are expected to drive demand. Additionally, government initiatives aimed at addressing supply chain and labour issues may provide further support to the industry.
Growth Opportunities
Looking forward, the retrofit market presents significant potential, particularly with government initiatives targeting energy efficiency and safety upgrades in buildings.
Incorporating energy-efficient door closers and secure locking systems can align with these objectives, creating a lucrative niche. The smart home market is another burgeoning area. Demand for smart locks, integrated keyless entry systems, and IoT ( Internet of Things) -enabled security devices is expected
to grow rapidly, offering opportunities for manufacturers and retailers to diversify their portfolios.
The vital role of key cutting services in Hardware Stores
In today’s fast-paced world, hardware stores continue to meet the everyday needs of homeowners, business owners, and service professionals. Among the often-overlooked services they offer is key cutting, which remains a critical lifeline for security and accessibility.
For decades, key duplication has been essential for ensuring peace of mind. Whether for a spare house key or replacement keys for commercial properties, key cutting helps keep our lives running smoothly.
Convenience and Accessibility
One reason hardware stores thrive is their ability to provide immediate, in-person services. Unlike online retailers, where customers must wait for deliveries or deal with complicated returns, hardware stores offer quick solutions. A key cut can be completed in minutes, making it a reliable and accessible service for people in need of a replacement or extra key.
Affordable, High-Margin Service that Fosters Loyalty
Key cutting is an affordable service with high margins. Whether replacing a lost key or cutting extra copies for family members or employees, it provides an inexpensive solution to a common need. Hardware stores that offer key-cutting services often see increased customer loyalty. By providing fast, reliable services, customers are more likely to return for other home improvement needs. The personal touch – helping customers choose the right key or lock – also builds stronger connections with the community and enhances the overall customer experience.
Conclusion: The Enduring Importance of Key Cutting
Though it may seem simple, key cutting remains a cornerstone of both home and business security. Hardware stores that offer this service provide a vital resource for consumers, ensuring they have easy access to the tools they need to protect their property. By offering prompt, professional, and cost-effective solutions, hardware stores continue to build trust and loyalty in their communities. In a world where convenience is key, the ability to get a key cut on the spot may be one of the most valuable services a local hardware store can offer.
Will Sorohan is the owner of JB Key Co. Ltd he can be contacted at will@jbkey.com or +353 (0) 87 2556793.
Fasteners & Fixings – Draper Tools: New drill bits
Drill bits are a perfect example of a small product that can actually make a significant difference to the overall success of a job.
Consider the number of trades and tasks that rely on drilling a hole – from mounting brackets to snaking wires – drill bits are at the heart of many crucial jobs. And the right drill bit certainly plays a part in ensuring a smooth and effective job is done.
When a tradesperson invests in the right drill bits, they’re effectively investing in the overall efficiency, quality and ease of the job. At Draper, the small but essential items like this are as important to them to get right as power tools and large-scale equipment. That’s why they recently carried out a thorough review of their drill bits category, overhauling it and launching a complete new range featuring more than 200 new lines. This new range has a higher specification and much greater variety – including multi material bits, new look tile drill bits, turbo drill bits, cobalt sets and more.
It’s about offering greater choice and flexibility for the busy tradesperson, for example their multi-material drill bits are practical and reliable, designed for drilling through a variety of different materials from wood to masonry.
Draper’s all-new range features black, titanium and cobalt bit sets, all designed for maximum durability and ease on the job. Benefits of the new range include drill bits that are fully ground, as opposed to roll forged, for longevity, precision and accuracy when drilling holes. Another important feature of their new bits are the split points – which offer a faster drilling speed that requires less cutting force and offers better chip removal. There are also 135° drill bits, designed for frequent, heavy duty use and good for drilling into sturdy materials like steel.
After careful research, paying close attention to the details, Draper have invested heavily into this new range, because ultimately, they understand that quality drill bits mean clean, precise holes and save the user the hassle of redrilling or patching up damage. The right bit drills smoothly, minimises resistance and allows the busy tradesperson to power through their jobs faster – and that’s what it’s all about.
See the full range at www.drapertools.com
New XtraD Gate Lock from Codelocks delivers robust outdoor access control for gated facilities
Codelocks introduces Gate Solutions by Codelocks – XtraD Heavy Duty Gate Lock to its expanding range of access control lock solutions. Codelocks’ single point, bolt through, fixed gate lock is specifically designed for gates where a coded lock is the preferred method of entry for secured perimeters and outdoor areas. The XtraD Heavy Duty Gate Lock is a robust, durable access control solution designed to withstand the toughest conditions.
The XtraD Gate Lock is engineered to work with Codelocks’ heavy duty CL500 and CL600 mechanical locks for basic access control, and the electronic CL5000 lock for enhanced flexibility with time-sensitive codes. These options make the XtraD Gate Lock suitable for a wide range of gated access control environments, including those with high traffic use and in corrosive environments.
The range of options available for the XtraD Gate Lock include a marine grade finish for harsh outdoor and coastal environments, and knob or sprung lever options where a single-handed means of access is required.
The XtraD Gate Lock is especially suitable for public facilities that close to visitors at certain times to prevent access by unauthorised people but allow access to workers for out-ofhours maintenance. It is also a workable solution for industrial, commercial and building sites to provide site access for workers and delivery drivers without having to have a gate operator on hand.
Steve Newman, Regional Director of Codelocks EU, said, “Perimeter gates are essential for managing access to outdoor areas across a range of properties – from industrial and commercial sites to residential communal spaces, such as bin and bike storage, as well as public areas like sports facilities, schools, parks, and playgrounds. The XtraD by Codelocks brings the convenience and reliability of our advanced mechanical and electronic locks to outdoor gates, providing effective access control wherever it matters.”
Codelocks’ XtraD Gate Lock has a full stainless-steel construction for corrosion resistance and durability and has been tested to over a million cycles. Its adjustable heavy-duty latch bolt and anti-thrust snip allows up to 15mm adjustment without the need for lock removal.
For more information on XtraD Gate Lock by Codelocks visit:
www.codelocks.eu/gatesolution-xtradgatelock
Häfele Ireland introduces new compliant door controls range
Häfele are offering solutions to suit all projects, applications and budgets. Their new door closer range is comprehensive and is designed and tested to perform to stringent international standards, CE marking, and has attained the Certifire accreditation providing customers with confidence when specifying the Häfele brand.
“We have ensured the new range we offer is 100% compliant in terms of suitability for fire doors in each and every application”. Says Häfele`s Leon Byrne, “all units are tested to EN 1154:1997 and cover right up to EN 5 power sizes (adjustable by spring) for max 1250mm door widths”.
Fully adjustable on closing speed and latch action, the larger units also meet the opening force requirements of the ADM regulation and BS8300.
The new door closing units also feature genuine stainless-steel covers in semi-radius design in Satin finish. There are matt black finishes also available from stock. The products come with a 10-year guarantee.
For a more concealed look, Häfele also offers a Cam action concealed closer unit with cushion stop in silver arm or matt black for a minimum door thickness of 44mm.
The concealed feature makes it the ideal choice if your client or customer doesn’t want to see the closer. This achieves EN2-4 variable power and spring adjustable for door widths up to 1100mm or 120 Kg in weight plus complete with intumescent for timber fire doors up to FD60.
Contact the Häfele Ireland Architectural Ironmongery Department today for a free quotation.
Call their Sales Department on 01 287 3488, email info@hafele.ie or visit www.hafele.ie
One stop for quality ironmongery & fixings
Joseph Murphy Ballina Ltd have full categories of quality heavy duty hot-dipped Galvanized Ironmongery & Quality Fixings in their popular MOY Range.
MOY ironmongery range details:
- Full range of quality ironmongery
- Heavy duty, hot-dipped galvanized
- Ideal for external & internal use
- Designed for all weather applications
Range includes:
- Interior door bolts & hinges
- Exterior padbolts & gate hardware
- Chains & chain accessories also available
- Domestic, commercial & agricultural use
MOY high-quality fixings
Moy Fasteners and Fittings is a fantastic range of quality bolts, nuts, masonry nails, washers, screws and fixings. Available in a range of sizes and finishes.
Range includes:
- Felt, wire & spring head nails
- Netting & Fence Staples
- Galvanized Felt Nails
For Domestic, Commercial & Agri Use – Packaged in boxes & Tubs.
Check out www.josephmurphy.ie to explore the full MOY Product Ranges.
Rothley – durable, stylish, and functional hardware
For over 190 years, Rothley has been a name synonymous with innovation and quality in the hardware industry. As one of Europe’s leading suppliers of DIY, builder’s products, and decorative ironmongery, Rothley has consistently delivered solutions that combine functionality and style.
Wide Handrails’ range
One of Rothley’s most impressive offerings is its range of handrails, particularly the Stainless-Steel Handrail Kit. Designed for both interior and exterior use, these handrails are made from high-grade stainless steel and feature a protective lacquer that shields them from weather and UV damage.
What sets Rothley’s handrails apart is their ease of installation. Unlike many other systems, the handrail kit requires no drilling into the rail itself. Rothley’s handrails are about creating a cohesive look that complements contemporary design trends.
Wardrobe rail solutions
Rothley’s wardrobe rail fittings exemplify durability and versatility. They provide strong, reliable support for wardrobe rails, towel bars, and worktop supports. Designed with different finishes, these brackets are as visually appealing as they are sturdy, offering a sleek and polished look that complements modern
interiors. For longer rails or installations requiring additional reinforcement, Rothley’s products provide mid-point stability, preventing sagging and ensuring the rail remains secure, even under heavy loads.
Complementing these solutions, they offer products such as the Deluxe End Sockets, which offer easy, face-fixed installation for both oval and round tubes. Their design allows for quick installation while maintaining a clean, professional finish in wardrobes or utility spaces.
Brackets, hooks and shelving accessories
Rothley offers different brackets that suit a variety of wall types and are easy to install, making them a great choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Their extensive catalogue also includes table legs, curtain poles, and sliding door systems.
For more modular and customisable setups, Rothley’s Twin Slot Brackets and Uprights offer exceptional flexibility. Tested to hold up to 50 kg, these components come in anti-microbial finishes, providing strength and versatility for homes, offices, or public spaces. Rothley’s hooks are a standout feature of their product line: available in a wide array of styles, sizes, and finishes, these hooks provide practical solutions for organizing spaces. Their durability and finishes ensure they seamlessly integrate into interior and exterior designs, offering both form and function.
Rothley’s unwavering commitment to quality and versatility is evident across its different product lines. For all your ironmongery needs, Rothley has the solution for you.
For further information visit www.laydex.ie or contact Laydex at sales@laydex.ie Dublin: +353 01 642 6600, Belfast: +44 28 9038 2223.
