Manufacturer unlocks growth plans with new collaboration

A Black Country hardware manufacturer is set to create new jobs after agreeing a partnership deal with a smart lock developer.

Wednesbury-based Eliza Tinsley believes the deal with Smarke and sister company, Avocet Hardware could pave the way for 10 new jobs.

The partnership, which was developed by Eliza Tinsley’s Lyric Jain, will see a variant of Avocet’s snap-secure ABS lock fitted to all of Smarke’s keyless hi-tech smart locks. Production of the enhanced locks will take place in the Black County, the historic home of UK lock-making.

Eliza Tinsley announced the deal during a visit to its factory by West Bromwich MP, Adrian Bailey.

Commenting on the deal, Mr Bailey said: “Eliza Tinsley has brilliantly brought together traditional Black Country lock-making craftsmanship with modern digital technology to develop a ground-breaking product with the potential to transform home and business security.

“By doing so, the company is securing jobs in the area and protecting the public and business at the same time. I totally welcome and support the excellent work they are doing.”

Lyric Jain added: “Having recognised the potential that Smarke had with its multi-platform access control technology, I worked hard to make the strategic, technical and commercial decisions that enabled us to bring together this exciting partnership.”

Bassam Beidas, market development director of Smarke, said: “This is a major milestone for Smarke and given that it aligns us with a hardware manufacturer of the standing and stature of Eliza Tinsley, is one that both backers and customers will greet with great delight.”

Smarke is currently developing a smart home access system which would be the only keyless entry solution for gates, buildings and flats. To date it has raised £600,000 in capital – £90,000 of which was achieved through crowd-funding.

“Smarke has taken great strides in getting its initial product to market,” he added. “We are confident that by working together we will quickly improve on this and deliver the best possible digitised door entry solution for commercial and residential properties on the market today.”