H.L. Flake History - Est. 1912

Herbert L Flake opened H.L. Flake in 1912. It began as a cycle company but in the following years added locks and keys, material handling supplies, lawn and garden equipment, and yes, even the air rifles, skates and wagons you see depicted in this 1956 Bicycle Business Journal ad.

Things have changed a bit over the years and while we have decided to focus on locksmiths supplies, we are still committed to providing the same great value & service that we have offered since 1912. Herbert Flake passed away in 1960 and his daughters, Annie and Marie, took over the reins until their retirement in 1988 when they sold the company to Dan Floeck, Jr.

When asked his business philosophy, Dan responded “We are here to supply locksmiths to the best of our ability with competitive prices, a broad on hand inventory, quality products, same day service and innovative technology. We do this while following the “Golden Rule”. Beyond this we support the customer. From time to time something can go wrong in the sales process, and when that occurs, we will correct an error quickly and fairly. Although the customer has been harmed, I feel he or she will be as satisfied as possible. My three children are in the business and it’s important to their future for us to be responsive. We are interested in their business 20 years from now, not just today’s dollar. We know that without the customer, we do not have a business.”

Mr. Floeck’s background is in retail and wholesale. Prior to purchasing H.L. Flake, he ran 70 auto parts stores and their distribution as well as a few bicycle shops. His experience with computers has helped the H.L. Flake Company to grow 30 fold since 1988. The accounting software by Microsoft and internet web site leads the industry. This technology ,when blended with an appreciation of the day to day difficulties of running a retail business, allows the H.L. Flake Company to meet the customer’s needs. Please note, Dan (x201), Lindsey (X211) and Jeff Floeck (x240) would welcome your call or suggestion.

Our sales staff has well over a combined 100 years experience and a few have been locksmiths. Over the last twenty years we have added over 16,000 line items to our inventory. We now have over 21,000 different items in stock. We have the most beneficial freight program in the industry. Our shelves are full and we look forward to filling your orders.