Unlocking the future of smart home security

10 October 2024

The new government has promised that the UK is set to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years. SCC Member and global leader in access solutions, ASSA ABLOY, is ready to take on this challenge – and continue to safeguard homes for future generations. In this issue of LINK, we had the pleasure of speaking with Richard Bromley, Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, and Head of Residential at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland. Richard shared insights into how the company has been protecting our homes for 30 years, and what security truly means in today’s modern world.

Imagine a world where your door lock not only keeps intruders out, but also communicates with your lights, security cameras, and even your coffee machine. That’s the kind of world ASSA ABLOY is creating.

“ASSA ABLOY is on a mission to revolutionise home security! We believe in creating safer access for all and help billions of people move through a safer, more open world with ease every day,” says Richard Bromley.

For 30 years, ASSA ABLOY has been working quietly behind the scenes to keep us safe and secure – and what a journey it has been. From humble beginnings as a regional lock maker, the company has now grown into a global leader in home security.

“This remarkable journey is made possible by our rich heritage, enduring entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to creating a safer and more open world,” Richard emphasises. 

The Residential Division of ASSA ABLOY UK includes brands like Yale, Mila, PC Henderson, and Carlisle Brass, all of which have a rich history of safeguarding homes. 

However, security is not just about locks anymore. With these brands’ longstanding experience in the lock and hardware sector, combined with the latest technological innovations, ASSA ABLOY offers unrivalled smart home ecosystems equipped for the modern world.

Now, what does this really mean? Richard highlights four key trends and challenges in the sector and explains how ASSA ABLOY, as industry pioneers, is addressing them.

1. Digital security and data privacy 

According to Richard, one of the biggest concerns in today’s security industry is privacy and the use of customer data. And this is something that ASSA ABLOY understands well:

“Our heritage as a lock manufacturer gives us a deep understanding of security, privacy, regulations, and protocols. Importantly, we have no vested interest in our customers’ data. We take privacy very seriously and constantly collaborate with recognised bodies to ensure compliance with industry standards,” says Richard.

2. Interoperability between devices

Secondly, it’s about making sure that all the smart-home devices work together in harmony. “Customers want to know that their smart lock, alarm, or camera is going to work with other devices or smart assistants in their homes,” Richard states. 

Yale, a leading brand under ASSA ABLOY, is dedicated to integrating its products with third-party providers to develop a cohesive security ecosystem. Through a single app, homeowners can control multiple security devices, and partnerships with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant, to ensure a seamless experience.

Another step in addressing this challenge is Yale’s initiative to make its products ‘Matter’-compatible. This ensures that devices bearing the ‘Matter’ symbol will work reliably together, offering consumers greater choice and flexibility in building their smart homes.

3. Endless possibilities

Looking into the future, AI-driven technologies present both opportunities and challenges for the security industry. Richard elaborates: “Whilst there is naturally some trepidation around this, AI could also help to offer enhanced monitoring, using AI-driven analytics for better detection and response, such as recognising unusual patterns or activities.”

Given its potential to ultimately allow for more secure access control solutions, some of the brands under the ASSA ABLOY umbrella are already exploring advanced facial recognition and biometric technologies.

4. Smart and healthy homes 

Once the home is as secure as it can be, ASSA ABLOY looks to explore how its solutions can enhance the overall well-being of its inhabitants. Imagine a sensor that not only detects intruders but also monitors air quality, tracks your health, and ensures that your living environment is ‘just right’: 

“This could provide wellness checks that are linked to home security routines. As well as making our customers’ lives more convenient, we see that in the future we can make them happier and healthier.”

The future is bright, and green
While doing all the above, integrating sustainability remains a top priority for ASSA ABLOY. A commitment to a greener future is evident in their goals: halving their gas emissions by 2030, reducing their value chain footprint, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

And going towards a greener future, the Residential Division is set for strong growth, especially with the new government’s promise to build 1.5 million new homes in the next five years. 

“In addition to this, there is also an increased focus on build-to-rent homes, largely due to high mortgage interest rates for new buyers,” Richard explains. 

While ongoing partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) and first-fit partners will remain key, the renovation market offers significant opportunities.

“Both mechanical and smart solutions are important to us, whilst the smart sector will see growth, there are huge amounts of mechanical products out there that need updating, and we have the trusted reputation to meet this need.” 

About Richard

He has worked for ASSA ABLOY for over 10 years, starting in the position of General Manager of Replacement Multi Point Locks in 2012. Since then, he has taken on business development roles across numerous brands within the group. Before joining ASSA ABLOY, Richard spent many years as part of the management team at a distributor within the locksmith industry.

In addition, as Chairman of the DHF (Door & Hardware Federation) Building Hardware Group, Richard draws upon his many years of experience in the lock and hardware industry. On a wider level, he is also a board member of ARGE who drive the culture of product security and safety standards, as well as sustainability, for the industry across Europe.