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BKS office building with BKS logo and trees in Velbert
BKS office building with BKS logo and trees in Velbert
About Us

BKS – Expertise in Security Technology

For over 120 years, BKS has stood for high-quality security solutions. Our portfolio includes locking systems, door technology, escape door solutions, and access control. As part of the Gretsch-Unitas Group, we combine tradition with innovation and develop solutions that reliably protect people and buildings.

Figures. Data. Facts.

BKS in Numbers – because security and innovation are measurable

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More than 550 employees

Factory icon: depiction of production areas and industrial processes

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60000 m² production area

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The BKS range includes approximately 10000 mortise locks

Mission & Vision

Tradition and Progress in Harmony

At BKS, we combine tradition with progress. Our mission is to reliably protect people and buildings. Our vision: security and comfort through innovative solutions – today and in the future.

BKS key in metal lock with handle

Security Today & Tomorrow

BKS combines tradition with innovation. For over 120 years, our solutions have ensured the highest level of security – and set new standards for the future of access and building technology.

CAD drawing of a lever mechanism

Innovation as Standard

We develop intelligent systems that network doors, locks, and access control. In doing so, we create solutions that combine comfort, efficiency, and maximum security.

BKS plant assembly
Worker inspects metal part in production facility

Quality with Reliability

BKS stands worldwide for precision, durability, and trust. Our products meet the highest standards – for security that people and companies can rely on.

BKS building with logo and window front

Globally Connected – Locally Rooted

With strong roots in Velbert and as part of the international GU Group, we are present worldwide. This enables us to deliver intelligent security systems from a single source – close to the customer, globally networked.

OUR HISTORY

BKS – Security with History

The success story of BKS began in 1903 with its founding in Velbert, the center of the lock and hardware industry. What started with the production of high-quality locking cylinders and locks developed over decades into an internationally recognized provider of security technology. Since 1983, BKS has been part of the Gretsch-Unitas Group, expanding the portfolio with intelligent solutions for access control, building management, and modern door technology. Today, BKS stands for the combination of tradition and innovation – with products that are valued worldwide for the highest security, quality, and reliability.

 

 

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The Beginning of a Success Story

BKS started as "Rheinische Türschließerfabrik Boge & Kasten GmbH" and laid the foundation for high-quality security technology.

 

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Introduction of the First Round Cylinders

These offered significantly higher security than traditional warded locks and were used in special types of locks such as tubular frame doors.

View of a panic lock of the BKS brand

Introduction of the First BKS Panic Lock

BKS launched one of the first panic locks on the market, shaping safety and standardization for escape routes at an early stage.

 
Logo of the GU Group – umbrella brand logo

BKS Becomes Part of Gretsch-Unitas

BKS becomes part of the Gretsch-Unitas Group and expands its portfolio to include door technology and automatic entrance systems.

 
BKS janus locking cylinder and key

The Janus Reversible Key System

With the Janus system, BKS presents a reversible key system that combines modern design with the highest security and effective copy protection.

ixalo door hardware RFID

The Move into Electronics

BKS expands its portfolio to include electronic cylinders (ixalo RFID/SE), opening up new possibilities for access control.

The building management system GEMOS in use in a security control center. An employee is sitting in front of several monitors.

Solutions for Modern Buildings

BKS expands its product portfolio to include the intelligent building management system GEMOS.
BKS employee management
Men in suits in the storage room

BKS: Security with a Future

BKS is synonymous worldwide with security, quality, and innovation – with solutions ranging from locking systems to access and building management.

1903
1938
1950s
1983
1990s
2017
2019
Today
Stronger Together

BKS in the Gretsch-Unitas Group
Gretsch-Unitas

Since 1983, BKS has been part of the Gretsch-Unitas Group. Integration into this strong community provides access to an international network and combines window, door, and security technology into holistic solutions from a single source. At the same time, BKS remains an independent brand and a leading provider of locking systems, door technology, and access control – supported by the strength and experience of a globally operating corporate family.

 

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Strong Together – Our Memberships in Professional Associations

Through close cooperation with professional associations, we actively shape the future of access and security technology.

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Contact

We are happy to help you!

Our service team will be happy to assist you with any questions regarding products, applications, and projects. Simply contact us by phone or email.