When I’m working as a locksmith in and around Aberdeen, I get asked a lot of questions. One of the most common is: What’s the best option? Local locksmiths or national locksmith companies?
Now, both options can offer a great service. There are pros and cons to both, so let’s take a close look at them!
National Locksmiths
In many cases, however, they’re licensed businesses or “middlemen”. They are often just remote call centers. And in many cases, the staff have absolutely no locksmith expertise.
The Pros of Choosing National Locksmith Companies
There may be some advantages to choosing a nationwide company for locksmith services. They include:
Wider Availability
National locksmith companies generally cover a larger service area, meaning they can assist in various locations. This might help if you need locksmith services across multiple regions. For example, if you run a national chain of stores and want a discount for a large contract.
The Cons of Choosing National Locksmith Companies
I hear a lot of horror stories from people who chose a national company for basic locksmith services in Aberdeen. Because there isn’t a face of the business or an attachment to the local area, some of the results can be less than satisfactory.
Higher Costs
National locksmith companies often charge higher rates because of additional overheads like national advertising, employee benefits, call centers and franchise fees. This can make them more expensive compared to local independent locksmiths.
Beware of pricing structures like this “£29/£39/£49”. They often mean you end up paying hundreds of points for a simple job.
Less Personalised Service
With a large company, you may receive a less personalised experience. You could be seen as just another customer, which may lead to less attention to your specific needs and details.
My face is one of my biggest marketing tools! Why? Because my customers recognise me. I live in Aberdeen, so I’m fully invested in the safety and security of my neighbours.
Potential for Third-Party Contractors
National locksmith companies often outsource jobs to independent contractors, which can result in inconsistent service quality. You might not always have the same technician or level of service every time.
Longer Response Times
Although national companies may have a wide service area, their response times can be slower, particularly if you’re located in a remote or less populated area. Local locksmiths may be able to respond more quickly.
Untrained Locksmiths
Some national locksmith companies send out builders, electricians, and other trade professionals to carry out the highly specialised work of a locksmith. This can lead to mistakes and inferior work quality. Some locksmiths aren’t even asked to produce their qualifications!
Irresponsible Marketing
Even though you might think you’ve found a locksmith in Aberdeen, you can’t be sure these days. That’s because national companies create dozens of different local websites to give the impression they’re based just down the road.
And if you see a local Aberdeen phone number, don’t be fooled. Some companies pay for these phone numbers, even though the person answering the phone is based in London, India, or somewhere else in the world.
Reasons Why I Believe Choosing a Local Locksmith Company Is Always the Best Idea
I’ve done this job for long enough to know that in the vast majority of cases, local locksmiths are best. Why? Well, there are a few reasons:
Personalised Service
I believe in offering a more personal touch when I work with clients. As a local locksmith, I’m able to take the time to really understand what you need and provide a solution that works best for you.
With big national companies, it’s often more about getting the job done as quickly as possible, rather than providing the custom service you deserve.
Fairer Pricing
Because I don’t have the overheads that a national company has, I can offer you more competitive prices. I don’t have to cover big advertising budgets or franchise fees, so I can pass those savings on to you. So, you’re not just paying for the service—I’m making sure you’re getting a fair deal.
Invested in the Local Community
Being a part of the local community means a lot to me. I rely on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business, so I do the best job possible for every customer.
I want to build trust with people in my community, not just make a quick sale. National companies can’t offer that same level of personal connection and trust.
Expertise in the Local Area
Living and working in Aberdeen gives me a unique edge. I understand the local area and the security concerns that come with it.
Whether you’re in the city centre or out in the suburbs, I know what works best for homes and businesses in the area. National companies don’t always have that same level of insight into local security issues.
Be sure to check Google Reviews for clear, honest, and reliable information about the locksmith’s work in your area. Sites such as Feefo and Trust Pilot can be manipulated.
Direct Contact
When you call me, you’re speaking directly to the person who will be handling the job. I believe in clear, open communication, so you know exactly who’s coming to your door.
With national companies, you may end up talking to someone who isn’t directly involved in the work, which can lead to confusion and misunderstandings.
More Accountability
If anything goes wrong, you know exactly who to talk to. I never shy away from taking responsibility.
If you’re not happy, I’m just a phone call away to make it right. With national companies, it can be harder to find the right person to speak with, and things might take longer to resolve.
My results and reputation – along with the reviews created by my locksmith clients – are the bedrock of my business. Without them, I wouldn’t survive in the industry. That’s why I always bend over backwards to deliver exceptional service.
Choose a Locksmith with a Local Following
When you’re searching for locksmith companies, it might be tempting to choose the largest or cheapest. However, in my opinion, national companies will never deliver the level of service and attention to detail you get from a local locksmith.
If you need professional locksmith services in or around Aberdeen, get in touch today!