All Posts

Key Control in Retail Facilities

In order to stay in business, shopping malls across the country must remain easily accessible to the public but still maintain a level of security that is in harmony with its purpose and operational requirements. Considering how many people visit shopping malls – over 190 million a month according to the International Council of Shopping Centers – maintaining a safe yet open environment requires a delicate balancing act by mall security.

One means to boost security for shopping centers is key control and management systems, to provide improved control of keys and other small items. Key storage cabinets with automated tracking capabilities are available in a variety of sizes and are ideal for installation in the mall security or management offices. For dual functionality, the same key cabinets may also be configured with lockers to allow for safe storage of items such as PCs, notepad computers, cash drawers and other valuable devices.

In addition to the mall’s security and management staff who may be authorized to access items in the key cabinet, specific keys or lockers can also be accessed by other authorized users such as cleaning staff or maintenance crew, using the built-in keypad and a pre-assigned PIN code. Illuminated key slots to locate the keys, random return capability and messages/user prompt screens are added features that help make systems easier and more efficient for everyone to use.

Individual keys are attached to a key fob containing an identification chip which automatically records the transaction activity for that key – who removed/returned the key and when. Even unusually-shaped or larger size keys that are used to lock outdoor enclosures surrounding the facilities’ heating and air conditioning units can be stored in the computerized key cabinets. For multiple key storage, tamper-proof key ring systems can accommodate several keys on a single key ring and keys can be added or removed without destroying the ring.

The role of security is a critical function within a mall environment and key control and management technology can help improve the overall safety and security by minimizing basic security vulnerabilities.

What's next? Now you can see some of the valuable ways that a key management system can play in retail security. Learn more about key control systems for retail by filling out a quick contact form or using our key locker configurator tool.
Tim Purpura
Tim Purpura
VP Global Sales & Marketing

Related Posts

Key Control: The Overlooked Source of Business Intelligence

Every business leader knows the value of data. Sales reports, staffing metrics, and financial dashboards drive smarter decisions every day. But one overlooked source of intelligence is the everyday key. Who uses them, when, and for what purpose creates a digital trail of activity that - when administered through a key management system - provides powerful insights into security, efficiency, and risk reduction. Comprehensive electronic key management systems like Morse Watchmans’ KeyWatcher® Touch do more than secure keys. They transform everyday key transactions into business intelligence, helping leaders protect assets, streamline operations, and plan for the future.

Key Control Enhances Hospitality Security and Business Intelligence

Guest satisfaction and repeat business depends on seamless hospitality operations – and seamless operations are driven by secure, accountable access control. Key management may not seem glamorous, but it plays a pivotal role in guest safety, hospitality asset protection, staff coordination, and even long-term business strategy. Modern hotel key management and control solutions do more than track keys. They generate valuable operational insights and reinforce a Zero Trust approach to security, essential for properties navigating labor shortages, compliance requirements, and rising expectations from guests.

How Smarter Key Control Transforms Dealership Productivity & Security

In high-volume dealerships, efficiency isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity. Every minute counts, every customer interaction matters, and every vehicle represents revenue. But there’s one common weak point that still plagues many dealerships and quietly chips away at profitability: key control. Poor key management doesn’t just cause mild frustration. It delays test drives, derails service schedules, and damages the customer experience. Over time, those small moments of chaos add up to missed sales, reduced productivity, and costly CSI score penalties. For dealerships looking to improve performance without adding headcount or expanding facilities, upgrading to a smarter key control solution can deliver transformative results. The right car key tracking system helps improve auto dealership efficiency by adding visibility, speed, and accountability across every touchpoint.