From Retail Floors to Front Doors: Alex Waterhouse’s Locksmithing Triumph Across Bath and Beyond

From Retail Floors to Front Doors: Alex Waterhouse’s Locksmithing Triumph Across Bath and Beyond

At LockFit, we’re proud of the unique stories our franchisees bring to the table. Today, we feature Alex Waterhouse, a former retail professional who has swapped supermarket aisles for a locksmith’s toolkit.

A Leap of Faith: From Retail to Locksmithing

After 26 years in retail, Alex was ready for a career change that offered more control and flexibility. “I wanted financial stability but also the freedom to spend quality time with my family,” Alex shared. “Retail life often meant sacrificing precious moments like school plays and weekends together.”

Although locksmithing wasn’t initially on his radar, Alex discovered LockFit while searching for a career that matched his aspirations. Attracted by the franchise’s supportive network and affordable fees, he realised it was the perfect opportunity to start fresh.

Why LockFit?

For Alex, the appeal of LockFit was clear: independence, stability, and a chance to be part of a collaborative community. “The freedom of being my own boss in an industry that always needs skilled workers was a big draw,” he said. “LockFit stood out because of the teamwork and knowledge-sharing across the franchise. It’s a business model that works for everyone.”

Alex’s research into locksmithing revealed promising profit margins and consistent demand, cementing his decision to join LockFit.

Early Challenges and Support

Starting a new trade brought challenges, particularly for someone transitioning from a non-trade background. “My biggest challenge has been building hands-on skills and confidence,” Alex admitted. However, his extensive experience in customer service and problem-solving has been invaluable.

He also praised the support from the LockFit community. “The camaraderie among franchisees, especially through the WhatsApp group, has been fantastic. Everyone is always willing to help.”

Serving the Local Community

Alex is passionate about making a positive impact in the communities of Bath, Trowbridge, Frome, Westbury, and Shepton Mallet. “I’m already looking into sponsoring a local children’s football team and offering advice to local groups,” he said. These initiatives not only give back to the community but also help establish his business as a trusted local service.

Ambitions for Growth

Alex has clear goals for his business. In the short term, he’s focused on building a strong reputation for quality and reliability. Long-term, he aims to expand his reach and grow his team. “I want to create a recognised brand in the local area and eventually employ a small team of locksmiths.”

Advice for New Franchisees

For those considering a LockFit franchise, Alex offers practical advice: “Be ready to put in the groundwork. There’s a lot to do, from joining local organisations to marketing your services. Also, start small with your tools—you’ll learn what you truly need over time.”

The Future of Locksmithing

Alex sees the locksmith industry evolving with advancements in technology, particularly with smart locks and digital security systems. “While technology will play a bigger role, the fundamentals of locksmithing won’t change. A solid understanding of mechanical locks will always be essential.”

Unlocking New Opportunities

Since joining LockFit, Alex has embraced the challenges of his new career and found a better balance between work and family life. His journey is proof that with the right support and determination, it’s possible to build a successful business in an entirely new field.

Covering Bath, Trowbridge, Frome, Westbury, and Shepton Mallet, Alex is already making waves in his new career.