Having spent over a decade in the auto locksmith industry, Adam Boustead was no stranger to the products that Advanced Keys offered. As a long-time customer, he knew the company well for its high-quality products and excellent customer service. Now he’s General Manager, Adam is in a unique position to relate to both customers and staff, helping bridge the gap between the company and the end users who rely on its products every day.
“I understand what it’s like to be in our customers’ shoes, choosing the right products and knowing what works,” Adam explains. His journey into the role was a natural progression. For years, Adam relied on Advanced Keys as one of his primary suppliers, and it was a name he trusted within the industry. When the opportunity to take over the business presented itself, it felt like a logical next step, especially considering his deep understanding of the products and services they offer.
Taking over from Kim Stanier, Adam had big shoes to fill. Kim is well known in our industry, and well trusted; contributing to Advanced Keys’ strong reputation over the years. Adam’s priority from the outset was to ensure the company’s core values, such as exceptional customer service and product reliability, would never waiver.
Adam worked closely with Kim during a smooth transition period at the end of 2024, where he had the chance to learn from Kim’s vast experience. “Kim’s knowledge of the business and the industry is incredible,” Adam says. “I was able to learn a lot from her, but I also want to bring my own set of ideas and new approaches to the business. We’re always going to prioritise great customer service. That’s something that has always been part of who we are, and it’s something we will continue to focus on as we grow.”
Whether it’s being able to look up parts for a vehicle by its registration plate, online ordering for remote and transponder keys, or providing comprehensive product information, Advanced Keys is deeply committed to ensuring its customers have all the resources they need.
When it comes to technical expertise, Adam is joined by Sharon and Amanda who are always at the end of the phone or email for customers to contact and seek expert advice from.
One of Adam’s main goals since taking on the role is to keep expanding the product range and offer more choices for customers. The company plans to carry more stock in the future, to aid bulk-buy purchases.
“We want to give our customers as much flexibility as possible,” Adam says. “Our focus will always be on meeting the demands of our customers and supporting their businesses.”
While Adam is keen to innovate, he also acknowledges the importance of maintaining the high standards of service that have been built over the years. “It’s about balancing innovation with consistency,” Adam explains. “We’ll be looking at new product offerings, but we’ll also continue to provide the personal touch and expert support that our customers know and love.”
One of the standout aspects of Adam’s leadership is that he hasn’t completely stepped away from the hands-on work that he started with. While his role at Advanced Keys keeps him busy managing the company, Adam still keeps his hand in with practical auto locksmithing, explaining: “It keeps me connected to the day-to-day realities that our customers face.”
By staying involved in the practical side of the business, Adam remains well-equipped to assist auto locksmiths with the same kind of expert advice he once sought out from suppliers. “I’m always happy to help out, whether it’s troubleshooting a tricky issue or offering advice on the best products to use for specific jobs,” Adam explains. This hands-on experience not only allows him to remain grounded in the industry but also ensures he has the relevant, up-to-date expertise to offer solutions that are genuinely practical for locksmiths.
This October, Adam and Advanced Keys will be exhibiting at MLA Expo, in Telford. “I used to visit the MLA Expo as a customer, and now I’ll be on the other side of the stand,” Adam says.
At the show, Advanced Keys will be showcasing new products and offering live demonstrations, giving customers a chance to see, touch, and test the latest innovations. Advanced Keys will also be exhibiting alongside The Diagnostic Box, one of its key partners, as part of the UK distribution network for key programming tools. Visitors will be able to engage with both companies, ask questions, and see live demonstrations of the latest diagnostic equipment and key programming tools.
Looking to the future, Adam is optimistic about the direction Advanced Keys is heading in. “We’re always working to improve, whether it’s by expanding our product range, increasing stock levels, or enhancing our customer service,” he says. “There’s a lot of exciting work to do.”
Adam and Advanced Keys will also be collaborating with The Locksmith Journal on a range of articles, including product features and technical tips directly from the team. Stay tuned for more!