The security and safety industry is undergoing its most significant transformation in decades. Capital markets, consolidation, cloud and mobile adoption, the rise of platform-based ecosystems, labor shortages, and new customer expectations are fundamentally reshaping how manufacturers, distributors, integrators, locksmiths and consultants must operate to stay competitive. This session distills the top inevitable trends impacting door hardware, access control, and adjacent security markets and translates them into clear strategic actions leaders can take now. Participants will leave with a practical understanding of where the industry is headed, what these shifts mean for their businesses, and how to position themselves and their teams for the next decade of growth.

The traditional boundaries between mechanical locks, electronic access control, software platforms and credential technologies are dissolving. As outlined in the Access Control Executive Brief, the industry is experiencing accelerating consolidation, new platform battles, the rise of AI-enabled operations, new SMB growth opportunities, and a shift in how security solutions are evaluated and purchased. For ALOA members — locksmiths, mobile service providers, shop owners and security professionals — these shifts affect service offerings, business models, technical skills and long-term business viability. Understanding these forces is no longer optional. It is essential for staying relevant, competitive and profitable in an era defined by rapid technological and behavioral change.

This session will no doubt trigger many thoughts and ideas for attendees engaged or considering electronic locking as part of their business. This event is not to be missed for those attending the convention.