A Case Study in Long-Term Partnership
Since 1997, Independent Locksmiths & Security (ILS) has partnered with the Woolworths Group to provide comprehensive locksmithing services nationwide. We designed and implemented a National Master Key System across all Woolworths, Dan Murphy’s and BWS stores in metropolitan and regional areas. As Woolworths has grown, we’ve expanded this system, and provide ongoing support and maintenance. In addition, a tailored master key system was developed for Big W, securing over 170 stores across the country.
Key Challenges
Woolworths needed a robust, scalable, and reliable security solution to manage the access needs of their stores nationwide, which today numbers over 1000 stores. The challenge was to implement a consistent, secure system that could handle the diverse operational demands of such a large, geographically dispersed network, while maintaining flexibility for future growth and compliance with security regulations.
Tailored Solutions
National Master Key System
To meet Woolworths’ specific needs, we designed, developed, and implemented a scalable mechanical master key system. This system enables secure access control across all store locations, from entry and exit points to secured areas like offices, locked cabinets, safes, and storage areas.
The ‘Galaxy’ mechanical master key system offers a high level of security and scalability, which is essential given the size and complexity of Woolworths’ operations. To manage this system effectively, we use Promaster Master Keying Software. This ensures every keys issued is authorised and tracked, keeping strict robust.
Our team in Sydney oversees all installations, with our network of locksmith contractors fulfilling work outside Sydney. These contractors are Woolworths-inducted and Master Locksmiths Association of Australia members. This ensures ILS uphold its high standards across Australia.
Results & Impact
Over the years, ILS has delivered an industry-leading and technologically advanced keying system. This has been backed by a responsive supply of ongoing maintenance and repairs. With a dedicated National Contractors Department who prioritise the account, we have successfully provided excellent customer service.
Efficiency Gains: The National Master Key System has streamlined access, improving productivity and reducing delays for Woolworths staff.
Compliance & Security: Our system helps Woolworths meets strict compliance standards, securing restricted areas and providing reliable lock-and-key management.
Scalability: As Woolworths grows, our system scales with them, maintaining security across all store types, from retail outlets to distribution hubs.
Testimonial
At all times, Independent Locksmiths have met our compliance and contracted service level requirements. This has been demonstrated over a number of years with their exceptional KPI performance statistics, which we report on and document on a monthly basis. Woolworths is therefore happy to express its confidence in Independent Locksmith’s capacity and capability to deliver an efficient, effective, competitive and compliant national level keying system solution.” – David Buckland, Woolworths Asset Specialist Building Systems
Tales from our Tradies
The longest journey for Woolworths took us to the remote town of Nhulunbuy in the Gove Peninsula. This is the northeastern corner of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. Here, the northernmost Woolworths in Australia had an urgent issue – a broken safe lock that needed immediate attention.
We received a call from Woolworths to send a locksmith safe specialist to their Gove store to repair the safe. Our locksmith set out on a seven-hour journey, via Cairns, arriving at 3:30 p.m. Without delay he got to work. Using true bush locksmith skills, he dismantled a steel shelf, crafted a hook tool, and drilled a pricision hole to access the lock. By 11 p.m. the safe was open and operational, allowing the store to resume trading smoothly the next day.
Conclusion
Our 27-year partnership with Woolworths is built on trust, reliability, and innovative security solutions. As Woolworths’ security needs continue to evolve, ILS remains commited to delivering high-quality, adaptable security to meet their evolving needs.