SmartCode to Be Used in All Installations Where Electronic Locks Are Employed

            LAKE FOREST, CA (May 2, 2014) – Kwikset, the leader in residential security, has announced that the company has been named the preferred lock vendor for Protection 1, the largest full-service business and home security company in the U.S.

            As a result, Kwikset's SmartCode™ Deadbolt locks with Home Connect™ technology will be installed in all Protection 1 turnkey security solutions where an electronic “smart” lock is being utilized.  Kwikset offers a wide range of SmartCode Deadbolt locks with Home Connect technology, based on customers’ individual preferences for security,  functionality, and visual appeal. 

            The decision by Protection 1 to develop a preferred vendor arrangement with a smart lock manufacturer like Kwikset was driven by the changing nature of the home security space.

            "Home security is no longer just a keypad on the wall that lets you know when someone is trying to break in," said Jay Robertson, Vice President Marketing for Protection 1.  "Customers are now more interested in an integrated, home automation package in which security is just one of many core capabilities.

            "In order to evolve in this space, we knew we needed to offer a high-quality, Z-Wave-based electronic lock as part of our overall package," he added.  "As a recognized leader in the door lock space, Kwikset is certainly capable of providing that solution."

            The specific choice of Kwikset was based on a variety of functional and aesthetic factors, according to Robertson.

            "The SmartKey® feature of the Kwikset SmartCode locks -- which allows homeowners to re-key their locks without a locksmith's services -- was a major factor," he said.  "That feature really sets Kwikset apart from competitive offerings. 

            "Aesthetically, they're also very striking residential locks.  They offer the advanced technology that homeowners want without taking away from the modern look or elegance of an attractive door lock."

            Keith Brandon, Director of Residential Access Solutions for Kwikset, believes this new partnership will provide significant benefits to Protection 1 customers.

            "Often there is a need to let someone into your house when you’re not home, whether it's a family member, a friend, a caregiver, or service provider," said Brandon.  "The Kwikset SmartCode lock, in conjunction with a Protection 1 system, will provide homeowners with the ability to control access to their home in a way they couldn't before.

            "Also, being able to lock and unlock your door with a smartphone is important, given how prevalent smartphones have become in our everyday lives.  The bottom line is, Kwikset SmartCode Deadbolt locks will enhance the security of the Protection 1 security system while making home access and control far more convenient."

            Kwikset’s SmartCode deadbolts and levers with Home Connect technology integrate with home security and automation systems, allowing the locks to communicate with other wireless products in the home such as security systems and home entertainment systems.   Home Connect technology delivers convenience and peace of mind to homeowners with complete remote locking and unlocking via smartphones and tablets.  When paired with most home automation systems, homeowners can receive text messages when their doors are locked or unlocked, making Home Connect perfect for working parents who want to keep track of their kids or traveling professionals who want to monitor their home security from afar.

            Protection 1 offers multiple security packages, all of which can work with a Kwikset lock based on the level of interactive service that the Protection 1 customer selects for their system. 

About Kwikset

            Kwikset (www.kwikset.com), the leader in residential security, manufactures and markets a complete line of door locks and door hardware, including door knobs, door levers, deadbolts, handlesets, pocket door hardware and electronic keyless entry locks for residential and light commercial applications. Kwikset’s SmartCode™ locks with Home Connect™ technology are the industry’s leading wireless, access control lock solution for the digital home.

About HHI

            Kwikset is part of Hardware and Home Improvement (HHI), a major manufacturer and supplier of residential locksets, residential builders’ hardware and faucets with a portfolio of renowned brands, including Kwikset®, Weiser®, Baldwin®, National Hardware®, Stanley®, FANAL®, Pfister™ and EZSET®.  HHI is a leader in its key markets with #1 positions in U.S. residential locksets (Kwikset), Canada residential locksets (Weiser), U.S. luxury locksets (Baldwin), and U.S. builders’ hardware (Stanley-National Hardware), #2 in Mexico residential hardware (Fanal), and #3 in U.S. retail plumbing (Pfister).  Headquartered in Orange County, California, HHI has a global sales force and operates manufacturing and distribution facilities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Asia.  HHI is a division of Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SPB). 

About Spectrum Brands

            Spectrum Brands is a global, diversified consumer products company and a leading supplier of consumer batteries, residential locksets, residential builders’ hardware and faucets, shaving and grooming products, personal care products, small household appliances, specialty pet supplies, lawn and garden and home pest control products, and personal insect repellents.  Spectrum Brands employs over 13,500 employees worldwide and sells to the top 25 global retailers with products in more than one million stores representing 140 countries.

About Protection 1

            Protection 1, the largest full service business and home security company in the U.S., provides installation, maintenance, and monitoring of single-family home security systems, business security systems and multifamily security systems. I n keeping with the company’s unwavering focus on customer service, the automated phone attendant has been removed, allowing customers to interact immediately with customer care personnel.  In addition, Protection 1 has introduced its Tech Tracker service as well as same-day service in most cases.

            Since 2012, the company has been recognized by leading industry publications SDM Magazine and Security Sales and Integration as Dealer of the Year and Installer of the Year respectively for the company’s commitment to its customers, the industry and the communities it serves.

            Protection 1 is the nation's largest provider of wholesale monitoring services through its CMS division, and the leading provider of multifamily security systems installation, maintenance and monitoring through its Network Multifamily division.

            Protection 1, which serves more than 1 million customers and employs over 3,000 people in more than 70 locations across the country, has a 95.6% customer satisfaction rating and an A+ Better Business Bureau Rating. For more information about Protection 1, visit www.Protection1.com.