Chris Hanson’s journey from patrolling the streets as a burglary unit officer to directing a thriving security business is anything but ordinary. As the founder and managing director of SheffLOCK Ltd, Chris and his father, Kevin, transformed their decades of policing experience into one of South Yorkshire’s most trusted security brands. Their mission was simple: provide a reliable service and accredited security products.
“I work alongside my dad, who’s also ex-police, and we’re supported by a brilliant team of 34 staff,” Chris says. “For me, this whole journey has been about applying the discipline, vision, and values I developed in the police force to build something reliable, customer-focused, and genuinely useful.”
The path wasn’t what Chris initially planned. Following in his father’s footsteps, he joined the police force and served in the burglary unit. His dad served for 32 years, and together, they saw firsthand the emotional and financial cost of poor security.
“When my dad retired and said, ‘What about locksmithing?’ it wasn’t just a career move—it was a mission,” Chris explains. “We took a leap of faith, attended a five-day course, and stepped into a world we knew little about. But we knew how to solve problems and communicate with people, skills sharpened on the force. That was enough to get us going.”
In 2016, SheffLOCK launched, and the phones started ringing from day one. They haven’t looked back since.
Today, SheffLOCK operates as three businesses under one umbrella, all built around trusted, accredited security services:
With 34 employees—including engineers, admin staff, and marketing professionals—SheffLOCK has grown significantly. Twenty of their engineers are on the road every day, securing homes and businesses.
Despite the company’s size, Chris remains hands-on. “I’m a business owner, but I’m also a dad to three kids, so my schedule must work around nursery drop-offs, school runs, and bedtime stories,” he says. His day starts at 3 a.m. to clear his inbox and strategize before family life and the business day begin.
Chris credits his time in the burglary unit for SheffLOCK’s success. It taught him the true meaning of security, the gaps criminals exploit, and what homeowners truly need to feel safe. This experience is what sets the company apart.
“Our unique selling point is simple: we’re ex-police, security-focused, and customer-obsessed,” Chris states. They only install Sold Secure approved products from trusted brands. “You can’t fit a cheap lock and expect premium results,” he adds. This commitment to quality is reflected in their more than 1,300 five-star Google reviews.
Now in its ninth year, SheffLOCK plans to continue its organic growth, expanding coverage and services without sacrificing quality. They are also investing in their people, with an engineer currently preparing for his Master Locksmithing Exam.
Chris is passionate about marketing and highlights the importance of a diverse strategy. While social media, particularly Facebook, has been a game-changer for the company, he stresses the need to avoid relying on a single platform.
“Have you heard of the Google Slap?” Chris asks. “Digital advertising is powerful, but the pricing is volatile. We’ve seen Google click rates jump from £1 to £5 overnight. That’s why having a broad, multi-channel marketing strategy is key.”
Chris believes the locksmith industry needs more regulation. “There are too many stories of people being ripped off,” he says. “I believe all locksmiths should go through mandatory vetting—background checks, product training, and standards for how they operate.” For Chris, this isn’t just about locks; it’s about safety.
Being featured in a locksmith industry publication is a full-circle moment for Chris and his team. “My dad reads it cover to cover, and our team follows it on social media,” he says. “We’re proud to share our story, not just as a business, but as a family. From a father and son on a five-day course to a team of 34, SheffLOCK was built on trust, service, and the belief that doing things the right way still matters.”
