Access Control VS Cremone Bolts - 30-1 Years in...

This may be a little premature. But 2025 will mark 30 years in the architectural ironmongery sector for Gary. Why wait to hear his insights on an industry that's evolving rapidly and becoming more complex by the day? There’s no time like the present. So, let’s go with 30 years of experience — and some wisdom along the way.

Gary and I have known each other since 2010. In those 14 years, how has the safety and security landscape changed? And where is the company now compared to the days of Oasis vs. Blur, when we were all caught up in football fever and Terry Venables’ reign over Euro ’96?

Also, what’s next?

With Door Controls Direct gaining momentum in recent years, what does our MD see as the next big thing in AI, smart door hardware, physical security, and passive fire protection? Let’s find out.

L: Tell me about your journey in our industry to date.

G: It was 1995, just after I got married, and I moved from a builder’s merchant to work on the trade counter of an architectural ironmonger in Yeovil. Back then, brown smocks hung on pegs, and vintage joinery tools lined the shelves. That was the beginning of my career.

There's a rich heritage in our industry, but so much has changed over the years. The trade counter was the best place to learn — hands-on, building knowledge, earning your stripes. You had to serve your time and understand the craft before moving up.

After four years and earning a Guild diploma, I moved into the specification department. That’s where the real magic happened — A1 plans coming off the printer, calls from architects, and the thrill of seeing projects come to life. It was a whole new world of architectural ironmongery.

Back then, it was all about knowledge and expertise. We worked closely with locksmiths and focused on bespoke systems. Today, I feel that personal touch and deep understanding are being lost in favor of speed and volume.

With my diploma (a silver award), and a solid grasp of both sales and specification, I gradually moved into management. Through various changes in leadership, I became a director in 2016 and Managing Director in 2018. It was a slow, steady path — the traditional route. But now, there's frustration among new entrants who want faster progression. My challenge is to adapt while maintaining quality and depth.

Knowledge is everything in this industry. It's the foundation of what we do at Door Controls Direct.

L: What are the challenges now compared to what they used to be?

G: The focus used to be purely on security — master key systems, door hardware, locking mechanisms. Now, safety is the top priority. People depend on us to keep them safe. We haven’t abandoned security, but it’s now layered with safety considerations. This shift is significant and requires a different approach.

L: You’re leading a business through a difficult time — recession, pandemic, cost of living crisis — what keeps you up at night?

G: At the top of my list is the team. Their development, retention, and well-being. Our people are passionate and hungry for growth, and we need to support that. If they don't care and aren't motivated, we won’t succeed. We also focus on creating a positive work environment and ensuring staff feel valued and supported.

Outside the company, supply chain fragility remains a concern. Plus, the rise of AI-generated misinformation poses a real threat. We're expected to provide accurate, reliable information to our customers, and if others use AI to create content without proper oversight, it could lead to dangerous mistakes in safety and security practices.

Other issues include budget cuts from governments and businesses, which can compromise safety standards. Clear regulations are essential for us to provide the right solutions and educate our clients effectively.

L: How are you setting the company apart in the industry?

G: We're taking a digital-first approach. It's not just marketing jargon — we've invested in a Marketing Director, brought in digital expertise, and focused on brand, SEO, and content. This helps us stand out from larger e-commerce competitors who may not offer the same level of knowledge and support.

Our differentiator is our team’s expertise. It’s not just about products or customer base — it’s about continuous learning, growth, and investment in our people.

L: What’s the focus for the future?

G: Knowledge is key, but we're also building on our long-standing brand reputation. We aim to be a market leader in architectural ironmongery and door control solutions, using digital innovation to drive growth.

With the construction industry facing challenges, including rising insolvencies, we’re focused on maintaining strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and our team. We want to remain a reliable source of door control solutions and avoid becoming another statistic.

L: What’s the best advice you’ve received or would pass on to someone?

G:

• Find something in your job you enjoy and do more of it.
• Work with a team you like and trust.
• Stay focused on your goals.
• And most importantly, don’t take work home with you.

From past experiences to current challenges and future visions, thank you, Gary, for sharing your thoughts and insights on the industry, your journey, and where we're headed as a company.

A final word from Gary: The industry is constantly changing, trying to find its identity. At Door Controls Direct, we're staying true to our roots while adapting to new trends. Many companies try to be everything to everyone, but that’s not sustainable. We’ve learned that lesson the hard way. It’s not about being all things to all people — it’s about focusing on what we do best.