What American Lock & Key does

American Lock & Key Co., Inc. is a family-owned, full-service locksmith and physical security company headquartered at 2110 Spencer Rd, Richmond, Virginia, with a service history dating to 1980. The company serves automotive, residential, commercial, and safe/vault customers across the greater Richmond metropolitan area — Henrico County, Chesterfield, Midlothian, Ashland, Mechanicsville, Short Pump, and Tuckahoe — through a walk-in retail shop and a fleet of 7 mobile service vehicles operating 6am–10pm, 7 days a week. Service offerings span lockouts, rekeying, lock changes, transponder and laser key cutting/programming, key fob replacement, ignition repair, residential smart lock installation, decorative hardware, commercial access control, master key systems, high-security locks meeting UL 437, NFPA 80 fire door inspection, CCTV/security cameras, panic devices, electric strikes, automatic doors, and safe services (cracking, combination changes, moving, sales). The firm holds the Virginia DCJS license (#11-3052), ALOA membership (#21019), and Class A Contractor license (#2750149627), and has certified Fire Door Inspectors on staff.

Underlying capabilities combine mechanical and electronic security hardware with specialized tooling — diamond-tipped drilling rigs and light scopes for precision safe cracking, specialized equipment for transponder/laser key cutting and onboard programming, UL 437 high-security lock installation (including Schlage Primus), NFPA 80-compliant fire door inspection, and integrated access control stacks built around Open Options, HID readers, HES electric strikes (ASSA ABLOY), and BEA sensors. The technology footprint is integrator-led rather than proprietary: the firm certifies, distributes, and installs OEM products rather than developing its own access control, smart lock, or CCTV platforms. Brand reputation is supported by 4.8/5 stars across 770 Google reviews and an active review-response practice; talent is concentrated around a technical team with 100+ years of combined locksmith experience and 60+ years of combined fire door inspection experience.

The business model combines three revenue streams: (i) professional services — locksmith service fees quoted upfront over the phone on a per-job basis with no bait-and-switch pricing and a 6-month installation warranty; (ii) hardware sales — physical security products sold through the walk-in shop and the americanlockandkey.com e-commerce storefront (Lockly smart locks priced $349.99–$918.36 plus deadbolts, safes, keys, hardware); and (iii) recurring revenue via an Ultimate Plan membership at $249/year. Distribution is omnichannel local: shop walk-in, mobile fleet, online booking (Dispatch), phone-first conversion (804-282-6060), and a B2B referral channel for realtors offering $25 discount coupons for new homeowner rekeying. Outbound awareness is generated through SEO/content (blog), Google Business Profile, Facebook/Instagram/Twitter/YouTube, Angie's List, 1-800-UNLOCKS, and industry association memberships (ALOA, SAVTA, MLA, NSO); customer concentration is split between high-volume residential/automotive SMB consumers and Fortune 50/500 enterprise accounts referenced in Chesterfield, VA.

Name

American Lock & Key

Legal name

American Lock & Key Co., Inc.

Website

https://americanlockandkey.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1980

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

American Lock & Key is a family-owned locksmith and physical security company founded in 1980 in Richmond, VA. It serves automotive, residential, commercial, and safe customers across the greater Richmond metro via a walk-in shop, 7 mobile service trucks, and an e-commerce storefront.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Locksmith Services

NAICS

Locksmiths (561622), Security Systems Services (except Locksmiths) (561621), Security Systems Services (56162)

SIC

Services-Detective, Guard & Armored Car Services (7381)

akta.pro primary industry

Key Management, Duplication & Locksmith Services (HSAHAEAD)

akta.pro secondary industries

Residential Smart Lock Hardware (Keypad, Keyless, Biometric, Connected) (HSAHAEAA), Intercom & Video Entry Integration with Smart Locks (HSAHAEAI), Lock, Latch & Handle Hardware Repair/Replacement (Non-locksmith) (HSAGAEAF), Smart Locks & Access Control Retail (CRACAGAD), Security Seals & Locking Devices (Cable Seals, Padlock Seals, Meter Seals) (IMALANAG)

Keywords

• Locksmith services
• Residential security
• Commercial access control
• Automotive key replacement
• Safe installation

Headquarters

HQ city

Richmond

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Supply Chain, Infrastructure, Others

Revenue model

1. Locksmith Service Fees: Fees charged for on-site locksmith services including lockouts, rekeying, lock changes, key cutting, transponder programming, safe cracking, automotive services, and commercial security installations. Services provided both at the walk-in shop and via mobile technicians. Pricing is quoted over the phone upfront with no hidden fees.
2. Product Sales (Locks, Safes, Keys, Hardware): Sale of physical security products including deadbolts, knob locks, electric strikes, panic devices, door closers, safes (gun safes, fire-rated safes, wall safes, biometric safes), smart locks (Lockly brand), key blanks, and automotive keys. Products sold in-shop and via their online storefront.
3. Membership Plan (Ultimate Plan): The company offers an 'Ultimate Plan' membership at $249/year, providing ongoing benefits and discounts to members. This generates recurring subscription revenue from repeat customers, particularly real estate professionals and homeowners.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

American Lock & Key provides automotive, residential, commercial, and safe locksmith services from a walk-in retail shop and a fleet of 7 mobile service vehicles operating across the greater Richmond, VA metro area. Offerings include lockouts, rekeying, lock changes, key duplication, transponder and laser car key cutting and programming, access control, master key systems, CCTV/security cameras, high-security locks (UL 437), safe sales and cracking, and NFPA 80 fire door inspections. The company also retails physical security hardware such as Lockly smart locks and sells an annual Ultimate Plan membership for ongoing benefits.

Product overview

American Lock & Key is a full-service locksmith company serving Richmond, VA since 1980, operating as both a service provider and product retailer. Their service offerings span four primary categories: Automotive locksmith services (car key replacement, transponder keys, key fobs, laser keys, ignition repair, car unlocking); Residential locksmith services (lock changes, rekeying, deadbolt installation, keyless entry, smart lock installation, decorative hardware); Commercial locksmith services (access control systems, master key systems, security cameras/CCTV, panic devices, high-security locks, automatic doors, fire door inspections); and Safe & Vault services (safe cracking, combination changes, safe moving, gun safes). Their product retail division includes smart locks from the Lockly brand (Guard Duo, Secure Plus, Visage), deadbolts, knob locks, electric strikes, and panic devices. They also offer an Ultimate Plan membership for ongoing customer benefits.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Automotive Locksmith Services Mobile and in-shop automotive locksmith services for vehicle owners in the Richmond, VA area. Includes replacement of lost car keys, transponder key programming, key fob replacement, laser cut high-security car keys, ignition repair, and emergency vehicle lockout assistance across most makes and models including Toyota, Honda, GM, Lexus, Nissan, and Infiniti.
• Residential Locksmith Services Locksmith services for homeowners in the greater Richmond, VA metro area. Includes home lockouts, lock rekeying, lock changes, key duplication, deadbolt and knob lock installation, smart lock and keyless entry installation, decorative hardware, and residential security camera installation, with a 6-month warranty on new installations.
• Commercial Locksmith Services Commercial locksmith services for businesses, property managers, and Fortune 50/500 companies in the Richmond/Chesterfield area. Includes commercial lock rekeying, master key systems, access control system design and installation (including Open Options), security camera/CCTV systems, panic devices, electric strikes, automatic door repair/installation, and high-security lock installation meeting UL 437.
• Safe & Vault Services Safe and vault locksmith services for residential and commercial customers, including sale of gun safes, fire-rated safes, wall safes, and biometric safes; safe installation; combination changes; precision drilling safe cracking using diamond-tipped bits; and safe relocation services.
• NFPA 80 Fire Door Inspection Services Fire door inspections conducted by certified Fire Door Inspectors for commercial and institutional properties, ensuring compliance with NFPA 80 code requirements. Backed by DCJS licensing and Class A Contractor license.
• Access Control System Installation Commercial access control system installation and integration using Open Options (sole Richmond dealer), HES electric strikes, HID badge readers, BEA automatic door sensors, and doorbell buzzer systems for businesses managing employee access.
• Key Duplication Services In-shop key duplication services for residential, commercial, and automotive customers, including standard keys, transponder keys, and key fobs.
• Lockly Guard Duo 679D Interconnected Smart Lock Interconnected smart lock in matte black finish with multiple access methods, retailed by American Lock & Key as a certified Lockly distributor and installer. Listed at approximately $918.36 on sale.
• Lockly Secure Plus 728FC RFID Deadbolt Smart Lock Satin nickel RFID-capable smart deadbolt offering keyless entry with enhanced security, retailed and installed by American Lock & Key as a certified Lockly distributor. Listed at approximately $467.75.
• Lockly Visage 728WRHK Zeno Series Deadbolt Zeno Series smart deadbolt providing keyless entry with advanced access control capabilities, retailed and installed by American Lock & Key. Listed at approximately $349.99.
• Ultimate Plan Membership Annual subscription membership priced at $249/year that provides ongoing discounts and benefits on locksmith services and products for members, available through the company's online shop.
• High-Security Lock Installation (UL 437) Installation of UL 437-compliant high-security locks featuring bump-proof, drill-resistant, and pick-resistant properties, including Schlage Primus restricted keyway locks for residential and commercial properties.

Quantifiable outcome

• 4.8/5 star Google rating based on 770 reviews
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers4 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature5 records

Partnerships

15 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• 1-800-UNLOCKScoreGTM or Marketing PartnerVerified member of the 1-800-UNLOCKS network, a national locksmith referral and credentialing organization. Provides credibility through the organization's vetting process and drives referrals through the network.
• Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerMember of ALOA (ALOA# 21019), the largest organization of physical security specialists in the world. Provides industry credentials, training resources, and professional standards alignment.
• Safe and Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerMember of SAVTA, the professional association for safe and vault technicians. Supports the company's safe locksmith service offerings including safe cracking, combination changes, and safe moving.
• Master Locksmith's Association (MLA)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerMember of the Master Locksmith's Association, an international professional locksmith organization providing training, certification, and industry networking.
• National Safeman's Organization (NSO)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerMember of NSO, a professional organization for safe professionals supporting the company's safe and vault locksmith service line.
• LocklycoreTechnology or IntegrationCertified distributor and installer of Lockly smart lock products including the Lockly Guard Duo, Lockly Secure Plus, and Lockly Visage deadbolt systems. Stocks and sells Lockly products through their shop and installs them for customers.
• Schlage (Allegion)coreTechnology or IntegrationPreferred brand partner for Schlage electronic locks and Schlage Primus high-security locks. Offers and installs Schlage products as part of their residential and commercial security solutions.
• Kaba IlcocoreTechnology or IntegrationPreferred brand partner for Kaba Ilco keys and locks. Stocks and supplies Kaba Ilco products as part of their locksmith hardware offerings.
• HES Electric Strikes (ASSA ABLOY)coreTechnology or IntegrationPreferred brand for HES electric strikes, an ASSA ABLOY brand. Integrates HES electric strikes with access control systems and door buzzer systems for commercial and residential applications.
• HID (Honeywell Access Solutions)coreTechnology or IntegrationPreferred brand for HID badge readers used in access control systems. Installs and integrates HID card readers as part of commercial access control solutions.
• BEA SensorscoreTechnology or IntegrationPreferred brand for BEA automatic door sensors and access control components. Integrates BEA sensors with automatic door systems and access control installations.
• Open Options (Security Product Group)coreTechnology or IntegrationThe only Open Options dealer in Richmond, VA. Installs and integrates Open Options access control systems for commercial properties, providing advanced access control solutions.
• Real Estate Agents & Property Managers (Richmond VA)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOngoing referral relationship with Richmond-area real estate agents who recommend American Lock & Key to new homeowner clients. Agents obtain authorized $25 discount coupons to provide to their clients for lock rekeying services. Also serves property managers for ongoing lock maintenance.
• Flinn's Rooter ServiceminorGTM or Marketing PartnerRecommended plumbing/rooter service partner in the Midlothian, VA area. Cross-referral relationship where each business recommends the other to customers needing complementary services.
• Referred Locksmith Network (Out-of-Area Associates)minorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorMaintains a network of trusted out-of-area locksmiths for customer referrals when outside their service area, including Allen's Safe and Lock (Montgomery TX), BB Locksmith (SW Florida), Pro-Keys Locksmith Services (Woodbridge VA), Jon's Locks (Warwick RI), Buckley's Securitysmiths (Colonial Heights/Petersburg/Chester VA), Gaither Lock and Safe, Hoffman's Locksmith (Greenwood MS), The Locksmith Company (Knoxville TN), Palmer Lock and Key, Snap & Crack Locksmith (Columbus OH), The Door Heroes (Brighton MI), JB Lock and Key (Wichita KS), Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 (Philadelphia PA), KS Locksmith (Orlando FL), Key N Go Locksmith (Palm Beach County FL), LKE Locksmith (Fenton/Linden MI), FXBG Keys (Fredericksburg VA).

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Emerging players

• KeyMe: Digital key duplication platform combining kiosks, mobile app-based key scanning, and locksmith services. Overlaps with American Lock & Key across key cutting, automotive keys, and lockout services, while representing a digitally native alternative.
• MinuteKey: Automated self-service key duplication kiosk operator with thousands of locations across the U.S. Competes most directly with American Lock & Key's key duplication line by offering instant, low-cost residential key copying in retail settings.
• Brivo: Cloud-based access control platform serving commercial real estate, multifamily, and enterprise. Competes with Open Options (American Lock & Key's preferred access control platform) for the same Richmond commercial customers.

Direct peers

• Pop-A-Lock: Largest U.S. locksmith franchise network offering automotive, residential, and commercial locksmith services across hundreds of territories. Directly comparable to American Lock & Key's service mix, mobile dispatch model, and 24/7 emergency positioning.

Others

• Lockly: Smart lock manufacturer whose products (Visage, Secure Plus, Guard Duo) are sold and installed by American Lock & Key. Functions as both a strategic supplier and an adjacent player whose direct-to-consumer channel partially competes with the installation services American Lock & Key provides.

Broad incumbents

• Allegion: Public manufacturer of security products including Schlage, Von Duprin, and LCN — the Schlage brand is a preferred partner for American Lock & Key. As a broad incumbent, Allegion competes for the same commercial locking and access-control dollars via integrator channels.
• ASSA ABLOY: Global leader in door opening solutions and the parent of Yale, HES electric strikes, HID, and other brands American Lock & Key installs. Serves as both a key supply partner and a broad incumbent in the locks/access-control market.
• Master Lock (Fortune Brands Innovations): Iconic U.S. lock manufacturer (Master Lock, American Lock, Sentry Safe) under Fortune Brands Innovations. Competes broadly with American Lock & Key on consumer hardware, residential padlocks, and safes — overlapping in retail product lines.
• Yale Home (ASSA ABLOY): Residential smart lock and mechanical lock brand under ASSA ABLOY. Competes with the Lockly products American Lock & Key distributes and installs, and represents an incumbent alternative in the smart lock category.

Regional players

• Buckley's Securitysmiths: Virginia-based locksmith serving Colonial Heights, Petersburg, and Chester, VA. Operates a comparable mobile locksmith and security services model in an adjacent geography to Richmond and is explicitly listed as a referral partner, indicating direct market overlap.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks7 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/alkrva
• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UCC45DZ7cI-pJAlJ26ftijAg
• Facebookfacebook.com/AmericanLockandKeyCo
• Instagraminstagram.com/americanlockandkeyrva

Compliance5 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about American Lock & Key