Our Values
Our Story
In 2013 our founder, Troy Albee, purchased a used car that came with only one key. Recognizing, as many people do, that having one key for your car is both inconvenient and risky, Troy decided it would be a good idea to get a second key. After discovering, however, that car dealership prices were exorbitant and that alternate solutions were in short supply, he began to think about starting his own business to address this problem. He found a small hardware going out of business and bought all of their key equipment, then began taking courses in locksmithing. Once he was equipped and trained, he started Affordable Auto Keys.
Humble Beginnings
In 2015, Troy incorporated the business and bought our first service truck, which came to be known (affectionately and, at times, unaffectionately) as "Little Red", which enabled him to go directly to customers who had lost all their car keys, getting them back on the road and about their business.
Gaining Traction
In 2018, we great again as Josiah and Beth joined the team as road technician and receptionist. A growing team meant that our availability and response time in serving our community improved significantly.
Growing the Team
In 2017, recognizing the complexities and intricacies of the quickly-expanding automotive side of the business, Troy decided to partner with a friend and fellow locksmith, Paul Troy, who is extremely knowledgable about advanced transponder programming, European car keys, and other tough automotive locksmithing issues that many others are not willing or able to take on.
Cutting-Edge Tools and Techniques
In 2021, seeing new needs in the market, we expanded to provide residential and commercial service. This expansion of our abilities prompted a rebranding that could more fully represent the scope of our services; thus "South Shore Lock & Key" was born. We offer the same great products and service that so many have come to expect from Affordable Auto Keys, but now with a wider scope and a new look.
A Neighbor You Can Trust
In 2023, continuing in our desire to be able to more quickly and efficiently serve the ever-growing needs of the automotive market, we hired Tommy to help deliver top-notch service with a smile.
Growing the Team (Again)
In 2026, we hired another team member, Liam, who just graduated from a well-known and long-established locksmith school in Boston and who specialized in commercial locksmithing. He is highly trained and skilled in making sure businesses are secure.
Expanding our Capabilities
In 2025, we hired another team member, Isaac, to manage logistics and our new storefront location at 386 Columbia Rd, STE 1 in Hanover. He is always eager to help, whether it be in e-communication, over the phone, or in person. Our storefront is open Monday - Saturday (9am- 5pm).
A Home for SSLK
The future continues to look bright for South Shore Lock & Key: with one part-time road tech, four full-time road techs, and one full-time shop tech, we are better equipped than ever to provide the South Shore with the excellent, honest service that has defined us from the very beginning. We commit to continue to grow and be the best choice for all your locksmithing needs.
The Story Continues
Find out why we have been the South Shore's premier locksmith for over a decade now...
Contact South Shore Lock & Key Today!