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Helping Trusted Locksmiths Stand Out Online: MLA Partners with Outrank

Unlocking New MLA Membership Benefits & Free Members-Only Google Business Profile Workshop

Digital marketing agency Outrank and the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) have partnered to make it easier for consumers to find trusted, professional locksmiths as home and business security concerns rise.

As demand for domestic and commercial security hits record highs, the UK locksmith industry is undergoing a transformation, and this new partnership is set to help tradespeople capitalise on the opportunity. Through the affiliation, Outrank will offer MLA members and Approved Companies throughout the UK exclusive, discounted access to tailored marketing services. These include website development, search engine optimisation, customer review strategies, and training support — all designed to help locksmiths stand out and win more local work.

With the UK security market now valued at £2.2 billion and rising, locksmiths are no longer just key cutters and emergency responders. Today’s professionals are also installing smart locks, advising on access control, and integrating home automation systems. At the same time, customers increasingly expect fast, digital-first services.

Emma Allen, Group Marketing Officer at the MLA, explains:

“Locksmithing has always been a skilled profession, but the trade is evolving fast with the rise of new technology and smarter security solutions. Today’s customers want more than emergency callouts; they’re actively looking online to explore services and find the right professional for their needs. Outrank has a proven track record of helping other trade sectors grow through smart SEO, lead generation, and reputation-building strategies, and now is the perfect time for the locksmith industry to benefit from that expertise.”

The partnership couldn’t come at a more crucial time. Break-ins and opportunistic thefts remain a concern across UK regions, with the Office for National Statistics reporting a 6% rise in residential burglary over the past year. This is driving demand not only for reactive locksmith services but also for preventative solutions, such as high-security lock upgrades, intercoms, and digital access control.

Meanwhile, a surge in DIY smart lock installs has prompted many customers to seek qualified professionals who can correct or advise on faulty setups, particularly following warnings from consumer watchdogs about poor-quality imports. That’s where the MLA and its network of vetted locksmiths come in — and with Outrank’s support, those professionals can now compete more effectively in the online space, where most customers begin their search.

Stephen Robinson, founder of Outrank, says:

“We’re seeing massive interest from locksmiths looking to modernise. This partnership is about giving them the tools, visibility, and confidence to grow their business and meet today’s digital expectations head-on.”

Locksmiths will also benefit from exclusive digital marketing advice in MLA publications, in-person seminars, and free digital audits to pinpoint where they could gain a competitive edge.

Upcoming MLA Members-Only Training: Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business)

As part of this new partnership, the MLA is delighted to invite members to a free, practical workshop led by Outrank Ltd:

Google Business Profile – Setup & Ongoing Management

Your Google Business Profile remains one of the most powerful free tools to attract genuine customers and counter the impact of rogue locksmiths misusing ads. This hands-on session will help you make the most of it:

🗓 Date: 19th August
⏰ Time: 10am–4pm (includes lunch and refreshments)
🎓 Topic: How to set up, optimise, and actively manage your Google Business Profile

What you’ll learn:
✅ Step-by-step guidance to fully optimise your profile
✅ Posting strategies & review management tips to boost local visibility
✅ Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
✅ Bonus takeaway: Printable & editable GMB Optimisation Checklist

👉 Places are limited! Free for MLA members — Book your spot now.

Together, this partnership and upcoming training reflect a shared mission: empowering professional locksmiths to stand out online, attract more genuine customers, and uphold the highest standards in security — even as the digital landscape becomes more competitive.