Hardware lock development needs to be market-oriented

In recent years, as China's hardware market has experienced rapid growth, the lock industry has also seen significant changes. The Shangyu lock market, in particular, now boasts an overall capacity of 70 billion yuan, with Zhejiang, Guangdong, Shanghai, and Shandong serving as key manufacturing hubs. This region has become a hub for industrial clusters, where numerous lock manufacturers operate in close proximity, driving high output and strong market expansion. The sector is not only growing in domestic sales but also seeing impressive export growth, with increasing presence in the global high-end lock market.

Over the past few decades, China's traditional and emerging industries have evolved into modern manufacturing powerhouses. By the end of 2012, the lock industry alone had reached an annual output value of 60 billion yuan, making China the world's largest producer of locks. However, despite this success, there are still challenges to overcome. Issues such as product quality, R&D capabilities, brand development, and international competitiveness remain areas that need improvement.

To move from a "manufacturing giant" to a "manufacturing powerhouse," Chinese lock companies must focus on enhancing innovation, upgrading manufacturing technologies, improving marketing strategies, and building stronger brand recognition. These efforts will help them compete more effectively on the global stage.

Currently, the national annual sales of locks exceed 2.2 billion units, with fingerprint locks alone accounting for around 5 million sets sold annually in commercial markets. These smart locks are used in various sectors, including corporate finance, military and police operations, and office environments. Meanwhile, the consumer market is also showing strong demand, with both traditional mechanical locks and advanced electronic or access control systems gaining popularity. Overall, the Chinese lock industry continues to grow at a fast pace, driven by technological progress and evolving consumer needs.