News Briefs, December 2025
Wolflok Lock Boxes Enter U.S. Market
Wolflok’s new range of maximum-security key lockboxes was launched to 35,000 industry experts at ISC West in Las Vegas earlier in 2025. The brand is preparing to impact the U.S. market after its parent company, The Key Safe Company, signed a deal with leading security hardware distributor IML Security Supply.
Wolflok recently received accreditation from the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), a globally recognized third-party certification body, at The Security Event in Birmingham, England.
IML will help to distribute Wolflok’s patented, pushbutton key lockboxes to locksmiths and other security professionals as part of a bid to drive B2B and B2C sales growth in the States.
The company hopes to cater to a surge in demand for business and home security solutions, reportedly driven by technological advancements, rising consumer concerns, and the broader trends of urbanization and population growth.
Both the Wolflok and Wolflok Pro key lock boxes have undergone rigorous attack testing and boast formidable attack security ratings from the LPCB. They also benefit from multi-push button technology that accommodates more than 9.7 million passcode combinations.
James Buckle, Wolflok’s Group Sales Director, said, “The Wolflok maximum-security key lock box offers something different to the market in the USA because it focuses on a high level of protection against attack.
“Having just exhibited Wolflok at ISC West, I was blown away by the interest in what we have created. The feedback was clear that we have built a product that will give people assurance and provide a level of security for storage of keys at point of need that doesn’t currently exist in the USA.”
James added, “I am excited to partner with IML Security Supply through their network of branches. IML has built a successful business based on trust with friendly, knowledgeable, and quick service.
“They have the same vision as Wolflok in terms of offering a first-class experience while working with the best brands in the industry to enable their customers to provide safety excellence.”
Wolflok products benefit from one-handed access with a hinged lid and ergonomic handle, advanced anti-pick technology, and anti-drill hinge pins for extra protection.
These units help businesses to improve their efficiency, meet regulatory requirements, and provide a better service. They also provide a safe way for consumers to grant family, emergency responders, and service providers point-of-need access to their homes.
Formed in 1996, The Key Safe Company employs around 30 people at its head office in Worcester, England. The business began life as a value-added retailer but has evolved into an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) that now designs, makes, and sells a range of security products, including police-preferred key lock boxes, secure cabinets, access control systems, key cabinets, and padlocks. The Key Safe Company has now sold more than three million key lock boxes worldwide.
For more information, visit www.wolflok.com.
Zentra Puts Resident Keys in Google Wallet
CARMEL, Indiana – Zentra, a brand of Allegion US, and leading provider of smart access solutions, is the first to offer resident key capability in Google Wallet. This enables residents to easily and securely add their resident key to Google Wallet and unlock their apartment with a simple tap of their Android phone or Wear OS by Google smartwatch. With this new capability, residents can unlock their building doors, amenity spaces and individual apartment units without contact using their Android Phone or Wear OS smartwatch—eliminating the need to use a traditional, physical fob or key.
"With resident key now available in Google Wallet, Zentra is expanding what modern access looks like for multifamily communities. We’re excited to be the first to deliver this seamless, secure solution that elevates the resident experience," said Mark Vigren, vice president, Sales & Field Marketing, Allegion.
“This innovation not only simplifies daily life for residents but also supports property managers in creating a truly premium living experience, aligning with the expectations of renters today and building the future of access control,” added John Goodwin, vice president, general manager, Multi-Family Access, Allegion.
Benefits include:
Tap to unlock with your Android Device: Adding resident key to Google Wallet lets residents tap and move throughout their multifamily community with just their phone. Residents can simply raise their phone to access points they have access to, and the NFC credential in their Wear OS smartwatch or Android Phone will grant them access.
Luxury experience and increased net operating income (NOI) for multifamily properties: With resident key in Google Wallet on Zentra, properties offer a best-in-class luxury experience for their residents that also decreases operational overhead. Reducing cost and time associated with physical keys or fobs leads to increased NOI for the property.
Secure and convenient: Google Wallet protects residents’ essentials with industry-leading security features built directly into your Android device.
“Our goal with the resident key in Google Wallet is to redefine access control for multifamily properties,” said Olivia Renaud, group product manager, Credential Software at Allegion. “As we continue to develop and expand these capabilities, we are committed to helping property operators create smarter, safer and more appealing communities that meet the demands of modern living.”
The Zentra and resident key in Google Wallet solution has recently been made available on the award-winning Schlage XE360 Series, the Schlage Control Smart Lock, Schlage NDE Mobile Enabled Wireless Cylindrical Lock, Schlage MTB Mobile Enabled Multi-technology Reader and Schlage RC Reader Controller.
Learn more about Zentra at Zentra.co.
iLOQ’s Multifamily Smart Access Control System Expands
Helsinki, Finland -- iLOQ, a global leader in battery-free smart access systems, has launched its 5 Series+ locking system and access-management platform. iLOQ 5 Series+ is a mobile-first solution made for the growing multifamily residential market. The launch taps into a broader digitalization trend, moving away from mechanical locks and keys toward keyless access management. For residents, this means greater convenience, such as being able to share digital keys with family members, delivery providers, or service staff remotely, without needing to replace or duplicate physical keys.
The rollout of the new systems started in the United States and has now expanded to Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, with launches in other global markets expected over the remainder of 2025 and 2026.
“Access management should be about giving residents peace of mind and giving property managers tools that save time and reduce costs. Everyday life is increasingly managed through mobile devices, yet access to homes and shared spaces has lagged behind. With the 5 Series+, we’re aiming to bridge the convenience gap by providing digital-access tools that are as flexible as the mobile apps we use to bank, shop, and communicate,” explains Tomi Karjalainen, Chief Innovation Officer at iLOQ.
The launch comes at a time when property owners and facility managers are under increasing pressure to enhance building management and access systems, reduce operating costs, and meet residents’ rising demand for the convenience of mobile-first access services. Unlike mechanical locks or competing smart locks that depend on batteries and wiring, 5 Series+ operates without electricity or batteries. Access rights are managed entirely in the cloud and activated through a resident’s smartphone.
In addition to new, upgraded locks, 5 Series+ also comes with a significantly upgraded back-office access-management platform. The new platform is modular, meaning building managers can add the functionality they need, leaving out unnecessary features.
“iLOQ’s battery-free and keyless smart locks have been a game-changer in the industry. They are integral components of modern access, and we are delighted to see our solutions being rolled out around the world,” Karjalainen continues.
A key advantage the 5 Series+ delivers for investors in residential buildings is the return on investment timeframe. Mechanical locks often require additional long-term costs, including key replacements, lock changes, and delivery or maintenance work. By contrast, battery-free locking systems based on mobile access are virtually maintenance-free, ensuring fast investment returns. According to data from iLOQ, most residential building owners see a return on investment within the first few years of the installation’s lifetime.
For more information, visit https://www.iloq.com/en/.
ASSA ABLOY Acquires Kentix
ASSA ABLOY recently announced the acquisition of Kentix GmbH (Kentix), a German designer and manufacturer of monitoring and access control products for use in data centers.
"I am very pleased to welcome Kentix to ASSA ABLOY," said Nico Delvaux, President and CEO of ASSA ABLOY. "This acquisition delivers on our strategy to add complementary products and solutions to our core business."
"I am delighted that Kentix will join the EMEIA Division," added Executive Vice President of ASSA ABLOY and Head of EMEIA Division Neil Vann. "Their strong expertise in access control products for data centers aligns well to our Digital & Access Solutions segment vision. Kentix will expand our capability in the fast-growing data center segment, delivering an integrated, future-proof security solution that complements our portfolio and positions us well in this critical vertical. We welcome the team at Kentix to the ASSA ABLOY family."
Kentix was established in 2008 and currently has 40 employees. The main office and factory are located in Idar-Oberstein, Germany.
Sales for 2024 amounted to about MEUR 8 (approx. MSEK 90) with a good EBIT margin. The acquisition will be accretive to EPS from the start.
ASSA ABLOY Issues 3RD Quarter Report
President and CEO Nico Delvaux reported strong growth when releasing the company’s third quarter financial report. Key points include:
- Net sales totaled SEK 38,146 M (37,418), with organic growth of 3% (0) and acquired net growth of 5%
- Organic sales growth was good in EMEIA, Entrance Systems, Global Technologies and Americas, while organic sales declined in Asia Pacific.
- Five acquisitions with combined annual sales of about SEK 500 M were completed in the quarter.
- Operating income (EBITA) increased by 3% to SEK 6,815 M (6,609) with an operating margin of 17.9% (17.7).
- Operating income (EBIT) increased by 3% to SEK 6,416 M (6,255), with an operating margin of 16.8% (16.7).
- Net income amounted to SEK 4,144 M (4,033).
- Earnings per share1 amounted to SEK 3.73 (3.63).
- Operating cash flow amounted to SEK 6,969 M (6,341).
Below are Delvaux’s comments:
I am pleased to report strong results in a market that remains mixed. Organic sales grew by 3%, with an additional 5% acquired net growth. Currency effects were a headwind of -6%, resulting in total growth of 2% in the third quarter.
EMEIA delivered good organic sales growth of 4%, driven by strong growth in the Nordics and Central Europe. Entrance Systems grew organically by 4%, with growth across all segments. The Perimeter Security and Pedestrian segments posted the strongest growth, and the Industrial segment returned to growth as loading dock orders were translated into sales. Global Technologies reported good organic growth of 3%, with good contribution from both Global Solutions and HID. Americas also achieved good organic growth of 3%, led by the North America Non-Residential segment. The North America Residential segment declined in the quarter as high interest rates continue to hold back demand for new construction. Asia Pacific saw organic sales decline by 4%, with good growth across most regions being more than offset by significant sales declines in China.
The operating profit, excluding items affecting comparability, increased by 3% to SEK 6,416 M, despite continuous currency headwinds and rising tariffs. The operating margin improved by 10bps to 16.8% (16.7), the highest margin for a single quarter in ten years. The margin was supported by excellent operating leverage of 41% driven by ongoing MFP savings, tariff mitigation activities, and higher growth in margin-accretive parts of the business. The operating cash flow was strong at SEK 6,969 M with an excellent cash conversion of 125%.
Electromechanical transition is driven by long-term trends
ASSA ABLOY is at the forefront of the transition from mechanical to electro-mechanical solutions and is leading the way as our industry transforms. The shift strengthens our resilience, even as we navigate mixed market conditions. The transition is driven by strong, long-term trends: increasing demand for safety and security, increasing regulations and standards, digitalization, and the emergence of new technologies such as IoT and mobile access. Demographic changes, with a digital native younger generation and an aging generation in need of care, are accelerating the need for more convenient, reliable, and efficient electromechanical and digital solutions.
Our results reflect this momentum. Year to date, our electromechanical products have had a strong currency-adjusted growth of 12%. These outcomes are the direct results of our consistent investments in innovation. Importantly, the mechanical base remains central to our success. Most electromechanical solutions are built upon mechanical platforms, which we also continue to invest in to secure our long-term competitive position.
Acquisitions also play a vital role in our strategy, expanding our product and solution offering and giving us access to new technologies. During this quarter, we acquired five businesses, and the pipeline remains strong.