ECHOLAC (JIANGSU) CO.LTD

Guangzhou Turn Round Luggage Co.,Ltd

Zhejiang Jays Suitcase Co., Ltd.

Hangzhou Travelsky Co., Ltd

Foshan City Nanhai District Jinsha Zhujiang Hardware Industrial Co., Ltd.

What IATA’s 2025 Outlook Means for the Luggage IndustryThe 81st AGM of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), held in early June, highlighted both the resilience and the challenges facing global aviation. For stakeholders in the luggage industry, the discussions offer critical insights into passenger growth and operational challenges that may impact demand patterns.&nbsp;Our CFO, Yves Perrenoud, shared some notes:&nbsp;"IATA forecasts that global air passenger numbers will reach a new record of 5 billion in 2025, 10% higher than the pre-pandemic level. This represents a 5.8% increase (in terms of RPK – Revenue Passenger Kilometres) from 2024, driven by the Asia Pacific and European regions. More airline passengers mean luggage gets used more often, so people want luggage that can withstand the extra wear and tear of increased journey volume.&nbsp;Despite the optimistic outlook, the air transport industry also faces significant operational challenges. Supply chain disruptions have caused delays in aircraft deliveries. Basically, it takes twice as long for airlines to receive aircraft as it did twenty years ago. This suggests that some future travel demand will remain unmet.&nbsp;Trade tensions and rising tariffs, particularly in the U.S., are also putting pressure on various industries. These factors affect consumer demand, especially in leisure travel segments, which are key drivers of luggage demand. Indeed, the North American region is only expected to grow by +0.4% in 2025 (in RPKs).&nbsp;Sustainability remains a focal point, with IATA reaffirming its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. While the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) remains limited, accounting for less than 1% of total fuel needs in 2025, IATA emphasizes the necessity for supportive government policies to scale up SAF production and infrastructure.&nbsp;At Travel Sentry, we are committed to fostering innovation that contributes to the goal of a healthier planet. Operational constraints, coupled with the need to enhance the profitability of a razor-thin margin business, may pressure airlines to enforce stricter baggage policies, potentially influencing consumer luggage preferences. This calls for the luggage industry to remain at the forefront of sustainability and innovation.&nbsp;For the luggage industry, these developments signal a sustained upward trend in travel demand, presenting growth opportunities. Similarly, operational challenges and sustainability initiatives will shape airline policies on baggage handling, creating numerous opportunities to satisfy consumers' needs with further innovation.&nbsp;During an uncertain period and a rapidly changing business environment, consumer needs remain our compass. Whether travellers are taking short getaways, exploring local destinations, or combining business with leisure, they still need reliable luggage to carry their belongings. It's up to all of us in the luggage industry and the travel industry, more broadly speaking, to make this experience even better!"

The 81st AGM of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted both the resilience and the challenges facing global aviation.

IATA 2025 Outlook and Luggage Industry

Our 2025 Lock Manufacturers MeetingIn May 2025, we held our annual Lock Manufacturers Meeting - and this time, we took it to the mountains. Our partners from across the Greater China region, including Taiwan and Hong Kong, came together for three days of team meetings, shared insights and forward planning.The meeting was held at the Qingcheng Mountain Zun Hotel, where Travel Sentry hosted a full agenda for our licensed lock partners. From business strategy to bamboo weaving, this year’s gathering was one of our most memorable yet.Our COO, Tim Meade, summarized Travel Sentry’s milestones over the past year. Despite geopolitical challenges, our certified lock program continued to grow in both reach and performance:Travel Sentry locks are now accepted at over 750 airports in 75 countriesSix new countries joined the program in 2024, including the Philippines and ColombiaSales of luggage locks and padlocks both increased, supported by expanding demand and strong brand alignmentThe global traveler count reached 1.4 billion, with particularly strong momentum in the Asia-Pacific regionBehind these numbers is the hard work of every lock factory represented at the meeting. Tim reminded everyone that our shared success comes down to shared standards - and a shared commitment to secure, easy travel.Based on the financial reports from industry leaders, Yves Perrenoud, Chief Financial Officer of Travel Sentry, outlined the industry's growth blueprint: Latin America and Europe will grow much faster than America and Asia. The global willingness to travel continues to increase and the tourism market remains optimistic.Maya Hall, CEO of Travel Sentry, highlighted our sustainability projects and long-term partnerships with major luggage brands. From new materials to smarter logistics, our network is moving steadily toward more environmentally friendly practices.Congratulations to lock manufacturer Jingyu, who won one of our Sustainability Awards, plus a $15,000 prize. They have sold over 100,000 sustainable locks and this award is just one of the ways we’re encouraging more factories to join the sustainability movement.Travel Sentry IP protection lawyer Kevin Jinwen shared updates on Travel Sentry's ongoing legal work to protect lock IP rights. In 2024, several counterfeiting operations were successfully challenged, resulting in the removal of fake products and stronger brand protection across markets.The China regional team also presented their latest findings:Field studies of the luggage market in Southeast Asia, with a focus on IndonesiaDevelopment of OEM partnerships in Greater ChinaExpanded marketing of travel accessories under the Travel Sentry brand&nbsp;A breakdown of 2025 traveler behavior trends, including increased demand for smart luggage and eco-friendly gearResults from country-level marketing campaigns run in 2024Of course, no meeting in Qingcheng would be complete without exploring the mountain itself. The next morning, the team and partners climbed the stone steps to the Laojun Pavilion.Later that day, was spent wandering through Jie Zi Ancient Town, where red panda souvenirs and bamboo weaving workshops brought local culture to life. A few attendees even made time to visit the Sanxingdui Museum,&nbsp;which mainly collects and exhibits thousands of artifacts of bronze, jade and gold from the ancient Shu period three thousand years ago.This meeting wasn’t just about recent achievements - it was about what comes next. As a team, we’re setting our sights on:Deeper cooperation with certified lock factories to reach more travelers with better, smarter productsProtecting the rights and interests of our partners through ongoing legal support and brand enforcementStrengthening our brand, both through consumer marketing and B2B storytellingGrowing our sustainability programs, with more innovation, more transparency and focus on impact metricsOur team members and partners are at the heart of everything we do. Events like this remind us of the power of face-to-face time - not just to solve problems, but to build something meaningful together for the future.

In May 2025, we held our Lock Manufacturers Meeting. Partners from across the Greater China region came together for 3 days of meetings.

Our 2025 Lock Manufacturers Meeting

New U.S. Tariff Policies: &nbsp;TWhatravel Goods Brands Need to Know&nbsp;UPDATED ON 21ST MAY 2025&nbsp;Important Note on Tariff Deadlines&nbsp;The 90-day pause on country-specific tariffs announced by the White House applies to all countries except China. This means tariffs could take effect for others as early as July 9 2025, under the national emergency declaration.&nbsp;Temporary Tariff Reduction Agreement&nbsp;In a May announcement, the U.S. and China agreed to a temporary reduction in tariffs to allow more time for negotiations. Key elements include:&nbsp;U.S. tariffs on Chinese products reduced to 30%, but these are stacked on top of existing tariffs such as the Section 301 and fentanyl-related tariffs - bringing total effective rates as high as 75% on some items.The new rates take effect for 90 days starting in early May 2025.&nbsp;Talks between both governments are expected to continue through summer, with locations rotating between the U.S., China, or neutral ground.&nbsp;The White House maintains that the 30% tariff will be the likely cap during this period, while analysts suggest that this “truce” has brought both sides back to the negotiating table with a clearer range of expectations.&nbsp;Stock markets responded positively, with analysts calling the reduced tariffs “manageable” for U.S. businesses.&nbsp;As of May 12, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has not released specific implementation guidance, which may affect how importers plan around the new tariff timeline.While negotiations with countries like Vietnam, Cambodia India and Indonesia are ongoing, travel goods from these regions remain subject to an additional 10% 'reciprocal' tariff as of mid-May.Shipping Route Disruptions Due to TariffsFollowing the tariff escalation, major container shipping firms have begun reducing or suspending services between Asia and the U.S., citing collapsing trade volumes. This reduction in capacity may further raise shipping costs and delay deliveries.The Supply Chain: What’s Changed?&nbsp;China’s Role Is Shrinking, But Still Major&nbsp;While China is still the largest supplier, its share of U.S. imports has dropped from 84.7% in 2016 to 47.1% in 2025. But, don’t celebrate too soon—other major suppliers like Vietnam (24.8%) and Cambodia (11.2%) are now facing steep tariffs, so the whole supply chain is at risk.&nbsp;Concentration of Suppliers&nbsp;The top five suppliers, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, India and Indonesia, make up nearly 90% of U.S. travel goods imports. That’s a huge concentration risk. If there’s a tariff shift or disruption in any of these countries, it could wreak havoc on your supply chain.&nbsp;Shipping Costs: What to Expect&nbsp;Shipping Fees from ChinaAs of October 2025, if you're shipping from Chinese vessels, you’ll face a surcharge of $50 per ton of cargo. This surcharge will increase each year for the next three years, making Chinese shipping more expensive and less reliable.&nbsp;Container and Chassis Tariffs&nbsp;95% of global containers and 87% of chassis are made in China. With new tariffs ranging from 20% to 100%, this will affect the cost structure of nearly every shipment. It’s not just about getting your goods to the U.S.; it’s about how much it costs to do so.&nbsp;How Are Brands Adapting? &nbsp;Short-Term StrategiesHold shipments: Some brands are holding their shipments in China to see if tariffs change or are reversed.&nbsp;Use bonded warehouses: By storing goods in Canadian warehouses, companies can delay paying tariffs until they enter the U.S.&nbsp;Ship early: If you're racing against the clock, consider speeding up shipments to get goods into the U.S. before the July 9 deadline.&nbsp;Shift final assembly: Moving assembly operations to other countries like Vietnam or Cambodia can help avoid the highest tariffs.&nbsp;Lobby for trade exclusions: Companies are actively working with governments to negotiate tariff exemptions.&nbsp;Long-Term StrategiesDiversify suppliers: Look beyond China and Southeast Asia. South and Central America could provide more stable tariff environments.&nbsp;Reshore manufacturing: Some companies are investigating restoring certain product lines to reduce tariff exposure.&nbsp;Revamp pricing models: Be transparent with your customers about tariff-related price hikes. They’ll understand if you communicate early and clearly.&nbsp;Invest in compliance: Staying updated on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule and other trade regulations is crucial for staying ahead of any changes.&nbsp;Advocacy and Legislative Efforts&nbsp;&nbsp;Industry-wide efforts: Companies are sending letters to President Trump, asking for exclusions or reductions in tariffs, especially for goods under HTS Chapter 42.&nbsp;Lobbying: Trade associations are pushing for stronger legislative oversight of U.S. trade policies.&nbsp;Media campaigns: Industry leaders are speaking out across major news outlets to raise awareness of the economic impact on small businesses.&nbsp;Step-by-Step Guide for U.S Travel Goods Brands &nbsp;Audit your supply chain: Map out all the countries you source from and identify their tariff exposure.&nbsp;Act fast: Get your shipments cleared before the July 9 deadline to avoid additional tariffs.&nbsp;Shift operations: Look into moving labor-intensive parts of your manufacturing to other countries to change the origin status.&nbsp;Reroute shipping: Explore non-Chinese shipping options and consider domestic ports if feasible.&nbsp;Adjust pricing: Build tariff flexibility into your pricing model and communicate price increases early.&nbsp;Explore new markets: Look at exporting to Europe or Canada to reduce U.S. dependency.&nbsp;Consider reshoring: For critical product lines, explore U.S.-based production.&nbsp;The 2025 tariff escalation is a game-changer. It’s driven by a combination of national security priorities, trade imbalances, and the desire to reduce dependence on foreign manufacturing.For travel goods brands, this means higher costs, supply chain uncertainty and new challenges. But it also presents an opportunity to adapt, diversify, and become more resilient. By staying informed you can navigate these changes and continue to thrive, no matter how the trade winds blow.&nbsp;Accurate as of 21st May, we will be making running updates as the story develops.&nbsp;Data and tariff details referenced from CNN, Understanding the 2025 Tariff Developments, May 1, 2025; South China Morning Post; Deutsche Bank; Travel Goods Association; USTR notices.

The 2025 tariff escalation is transformative, driven by national security, trade imbalances and reduced reliance on foreign manufacturing.

U.S. Tariff Policies

Canton Fair 2025: Three Key Luggage Trends&nbsp;The Spring Canton Fair 2025 - China's largest trade event - just wrapped up with record overseas attendance. Over 228,938 overseas buyers from 219 countries and regions attended the fair.The luggage industry impressed buyers with innovative designs that cater to every type of trip and traveler.&nbsp;&nbsp;Quiet Luxury&nbsp;Harmonizing beautifully with the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, muted hues dominated both hardside and softside luggage. Exhibitors showcased a palette of crème caramel, clay, beige, taupe and creamy whites enhanced with tan accents.&nbsp;PU materials served as a convincing leather substitute for luggage accents. Leather grain effect finishes elevated pieces of luggage. These types of materials offer many of the same benefits as traditional leather but are often more affordable and easier to care for, providing your customers with cost-effective luxury options.&nbsp;Designers showcased luxury fabrics for those seeking a statement piece. Luggage featuring bouclé, tweed and Hermès-inspired repeat prints gave an upscale touch to everyday travel gear.&nbsp;Notably, TSA accepted locks appeared even on smaller pieces like vanity cases, adding a private jet feel to commercial travel.&nbsp;In Bloom&nbsp;Spring brightened the luggage halls with purple shades ranging from wisteria to lilac. Fashion-focused travelers can now match their luggage to their Instagram-ready airport outfits, creating merchandising opportunities.&nbsp;Yellow also shone throughout the fair, from floral mimosa and daffodil to butter yellow, which is the standout fashion color of Spring/Summer 2025&nbsp;These cheerful tones offer a breath of optimism and ensure luggage stands out on the baggage carousel after long flights - a selling point that addresses a key consumer pain point while maintaining style.&nbsp;Innovation&nbsp;Innovation demonstrated a deep understanding of modern travelers' needs. For example, carry-on suitcases with integrated pop-out laptop tables for business travelers seeking productivity on the go. Some models doubled as secure baby-seat carriers, addressing the challenges parents face navigating terminals - a new market segment for your distribution channels.&nbsp;One design we spotted addressed weight management concerns with a built-in digital scale in the luggage handle - eliminating the anxiety of potential overweight fees at check-in. The scale could be kinetically charged for use, by the user simply moving the handle back and forth repeatedly.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, an innovative wheel system allows users to quickly reposition wheels from the base to the side of the case, depending on their preference and terrain - features that provide significant differentiation in a competitive marketplace.&nbsp;Adaptability took center stage with this standout convertible design: a suitcase designed to open on both horizontal and vertical axes, perfect for navigating narrow spaces like compact hotel rooms.&nbsp;Security upgrades were equally notable across the luggage industry. Alongside standard TSA008 locks, brands introduced clever upgrades to the TSA007 models, adding extra details to discourage and prevent tampering by bad actors.&nbsp;These trends showcase how the industry continues to evolve with designs that combine style, security and practical features suited for every type of trip.&nbsp;

The Canton Fair 2025, China's largest trade event had record overseas attendance, showcasing designs that cater to every type of traveler.

The Spring Canton Fair 2025 

Rise in In-Flight Theft and Guide to PreventingHow TSA-Accepted Locking Systems Enhance Travel Security and Brand TrustPhoto by&nbsp;Suhyeon Choi&nbsp;on&nbsp;Unsplash&nbsp;In-Flight Theft: A Growing Concern Among Global TravelersIn-flight theft has become an emerging challenge facing travelers worldwide. For the travel goods industry, this rising trend presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Today’s consumers are seeking travel goods that offer not only style and functionality but also peace of mind. TSA-accepted locks deliver on all counts.Understanding When and How Theft Happens in FlightIn-flight theft most often occurs when passengers are inattentive - during boarding, while sleeping or when distracted by onboard services. Thieves typically target carry-on bags stored in overhead compartments, where visibility is limited and access is shared.Lloyd Figgins, an international security expert and CEO of The TRIP Group advises not to place valuable items in the overhead compartments. “Although you may think they are safe, you can’t actually see if anyone is interfering with your luggage or legitimately getting something from their own bag."Although passengers may assume their belongings are safe when stored in a bag in the overhead compartments, the reality is that the lack of direct visibility - especially for window seat passengers - makes it easier for a thief to act unnoticed.Travelers may also put valuables in the seat pocket or leave important items in unmonitored overhead compartments, if there is no space. This creates more risks.In-Flight Theft PreventionAt Travel Sentry, we encourage our brand partners to lead the conversation on theft prevention.Here are essential features that travel consumers are actively seeking:Travel Sentry-approved locks that allow for secure inspection without damage. With the rise of inflight theft, these locks are also essential for hand luggage.RFID-blocking compartments to protect credit card and passport data.Hidden and lockable zippers to protect access points in overhead compartments.Slash-proof materials in personal items stored under the seat.Bright bag tags or brand-marked designs that allow users to easily mark their bag and deter confusion or tampering.When clearly explained at the point of sale, these features can greatly influence buying choices. This is especially true for long-haul and international travelers.Securing Carry-On Bags with TSA-accepted SolutionsTSA accepted locks are among the most practical and effective tools for securing belongings. Travelers are increasingly aware of the risks associated with unprotected bags in overhead compartments and are turning to brands that offer solutions built for real-world travel scenarios.According to Figgins, an international travel safety expert, “Having something as simple as a lock on your cabin bag will deter most criminals, as it’s an additional layer they have to overcome.” This sentiment is echoed across travel advisory platforms and reflected in purchase behaviors and consumer reviews.By integrating the Travel Sentry® Lock system into your products, you provide consumers with added confidence while aligning with global airport security protocols that depend on the Travel Sentry standard.Creating Product Value Through Travel SafetyTravelers today are not only choosing bags and luggage based on aesthetics or price—they are also evaluating which brands demonstrate foresight when it comes to safety and theft prevention. When customers trust your products to protect their most valuable possessions at 35,000 feet, that trust becomes a competitive differentiator.Travel Sentry works with brands across the globe to certify and support luggage and accessories built for modern security needs. Our locking system is accepted and used by security agencies in over 60 countries and enables travelers to move freely without compromising on protection.Position Your Brand as a Leader in Secure TravelBy partnering with Travel Sentry and using TSA-approved locks, you demonstrate that your brand values security. This shows retailers and customers that you care about compliance and their peace of mind.If your organization is exploring ways to innovate around travel security, we invite you to reach out. Let us help you equip your customers with smarter, safer and more travel-ready products.Photo by&nbsp;Lukas Souza&nbsp;on&nbsp;Unsplash

Today’s consumers are seeking travel goods that offer not only style and functionality but also peace of mind. TSA-accepted locks deliver on all counts.

Rise in In-Flight Theft 

Luggage Trends and Market Outlook 2025&nbsp;Insights from TGA 2025&nbsp;&nbsp;The global luggage market continues to evolve in 2025, driven by changing consumer preferences, economic&nbsp;pressures and innovation in both products and services.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our team&nbsp;exhibited at the Travel Goods Show at the end of March and have prepared a digest of observations from the show, offering brands some clues to adapt their business models in today’s&nbsp;often unpredictable environment.&nbsp;By YuriArcursPeopleimagesTABLE OF CONTENTSStill in Recovery ModeBackpacks and Duffels&nbsp;Retail ChannelsDesign MattersPersonalizationColor trends1. Still in Recovery Mode&nbsp;The&nbsp;US&nbsp;market reached $3.1&nbsp;billion in 2024, down 6% from 2023 and still 2% below 2019 levels. Despite strong interest in travel, particularly international travel, full recovery has not yet been achieved.&nbsp;2. Backpacks and Duffels on the Rise&nbsp;Travel bags like duffels and backpacks are leading the charge.&nbsp;These flexible, multifunctional pieces of luggage are ideal for carry-on use and short trips.&nbsp;This trend was on display at the Travel Goods Show, where outdoor and lifestyle brands&nbsp;showcased innovative designs - from ski-ready bags to lightweight packs for biking and hiking. It reflects a clear shift in consumer preferences toward adaptable, purpose-driven gear.&nbsp;3. Retail Channels Are Changing&nbsp;The luggage distribution channel landscape is shifting. Per&nbsp;Circana, online sales now make up 54% of volume, slightly up from 2023 but below the 2020 peak. Meanwhile, physical stores are rebounding, especially for more expensive and larger purchases, like a suitcase - see more insights&nbsp;here.&nbsp;The winning business model is omnichannel - meeting customers wherever they shop. Success depends on delivering consistent, high-quality experiences across all platforms.&nbsp;Look at our recent article&nbsp;Easy Ways to Improve Your E-commerce Merchandizing.&nbsp;4. Design Matters: Form Meets Function&nbsp;Modern travelers expect unique, practical features in every piece of luggage. Popular innovations include:&nbsp;Built-in compression or expansion systems&nbsp;Outside “speed-through” pockets for essentials&nbsp;Hidden compartments for security&nbsp;GPS tracking integration for smart luggage&nbsp;This focus on innovation is especially crucial in carry-on bags,&nbsp;where&nbsp;space and convenience are critical.5. Customization and Personal Expression&nbsp;Personalization is no longer niche -&nbsp;it’s becoming a standard. At the show, we saw brands offering build-your-own suitcase stations where travelers could select color options for shells, zippers,&nbsp;handles and wheels, plus add monogramming.&nbsp;In a crowded marketplace, customization is a powerful way to differentiate and makes a bag easier to spot on the conveyor belt at baggage reclaim for a consumer.&nbsp; &nbsp;6. Color Trends&nbsp;Muted tones (black, copper, olive, dark purple) dominate premium and functional categories.&nbsp;Vivid shades (pink, aqua, lilac) cater to younger, fashion-conscious travelers, particularly in carry-on luggage and accessories.&nbsp;The global luggage market in 2025 is being shaped by a blend of value-driven choices and strategic distribution channel adaptation. To thrive, brands must align with consumer preferences,&nbsp;deliver innovative business&nbsp;models and high-quality solutions that work across leisure, international&nbsp;travel and everyday mobility.&nbsp;

The luggage market is evolving in 2025, driven by consumer preferences, economic pressures and innovation in products and services.  

Luggage Trends Outlook 2025 

Consumer Insights into Attitudes Towards Luggage Security&nbsp;&nbsp;At Travel Sentry, we invest in market research that goes deeper than just statistics. We combine qualitative research, like focus groups, with global surveys to understand the motivations, concerns and habits of luggage users around the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharing our research helps our partners make better strategic decisions, whether they're improving a product or service, planning a campaign or entering a new market.&nbsp;Why Consumer Research Matters&nbsp;Travelers are diverse and their needs vary by market size, region and travel type. That’s why we take a detailed look at market segmentation, using real data collection methods to understand who’s locking their luggage, who isn’t and why.&nbsp;Our research covers:&nbsp;Security habits across five major travel markets: USA, UK, China, France and Germany&nbsp;&nbsp;The emotional drivers behind luggage choices&nbsp;Traveller typologies, grouped by attitudes and behaviors&nbsp;The impact of social media and peer influence on perceived risks and security choices&nbsp;A Peek at the Research&nbsp;Many travelers lock their luggage for added security during transit — but even those who don’t always use locks still value having the option. A built-in lock signals peace of mind, even if it’s not always engaged.Our insights are based on carefully structured research design, using both primary and secondary data. Our team focuses on collecting and analyzing traveler attitudes using credible research methods tailored to the travel goods space and focusing specifically on locks and locking behaviors.&nbsp;&nbsp;Who We Talk To&nbsp;We surveyed 2,500 travelers across the US, UK, France, Germany, and China—all of whom had flown at least twice in the past year and were responsible for packing their own bags. Through surveys and focus groups, we gathered valuable insights into how people think about travel safety.&nbsp;We also identified four distinct traveler types - from the highly organized to the more carefree - allowing us to support target market strategies with real customer understanding.&nbsp;What This Means for Your BrandIf you’re a travel brand, especially one not yet licensed by Travel Sentry, this kind of business planning support could help you make your next business decision with added confidence.&nbsp;&nbsp;Whether you're exploring entering a new market, launching a new product or rethinking packaging, access to this kind of consumer research makes a real difference in customer satisfaction and commercial success.&nbsp;Our licensees get exclusive access to this kind of research. If you’re a brand looking to better understand your target markets, contact us to learn how we use market research to help you grow.&nbsp;

We take a detailed look at market segmentation, using real data collection methods to understand who’s locking their luggage, who isn’t and why. 

Our Latest Market Research 

Why Your Brand Should Choose Integrated TSA Locks&nbsp;Integrated luggage locks simplify the travel experience.&nbsp;There's no need to remember a separate accessory - just set your combination and&nbsp;you're ready to go. This ease of use aligns with what our recent consumer study highlighted about many U.S. travelers: they tend to secure their luggage at the last minute.&nbsp;Luggage locks also have an aesthetic appeal as they look sleek. The Travel Sentry® Red Diamond as&nbsp;a finishing touch means travelers instantly recognize a trusted global security standard.&nbsp;&nbsp;Padlocks are a good&nbsp;option for securing luggage, but they can get pulled off by airport conveyor belts, damaging both the luggage and its contents. People can mistakenly think the TSA causes the damage during inspections, but&nbsp;that’s not the case.&nbsp;It's hard to quantify the exact number of issues each year, but&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;not uncommon to see bins of damaged padlocks in luggage-handling, airport backstage areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We use a Travel Sentry integrated lock mainly for theft prevention.&nbsp;It's easier for the traveler as they no longer need to carry padlock or a key to secure their case.&nbsp;In addition to the peace of mind that comes from not worrying about luggage opening accidentally, the Travel Sentry lock is also TSA compliant (TSA has a master key if inspection is needed).&nbsp; ." James Lin, Operations Department,&nbsp;Traveler’s Choice.&nbsp;Key Benefits:&nbsp;Built-in convenience as&nbsp;they’re integrated. No need to ‘remember’ to add one to your case, just set the combination at the last minute and&nbsp;you’re ready to go.&nbsp;TSA-accepted - approved in 750+ airports worldwide.&nbsp;Peace of mind - knowing your bag is secure helps reduce travel anxiety.&nbsp;Sleek, travel-ready design.&nbsp;Luggage or checked bags with integrated locks are resilient during automated handling. Unlike external padlocks, integrated locks are protected from being pulled off, which can occasionally occur on a carousel, damaging both the luggage and its contents.&nbsp;&nbsp;What Consumers Are Saying&nbsp;According to our&nbsp;Attest Luggage Purchasing Habits Survey (January 2024):&nbsp;74% of consumers would pay more to have the Travel Sentry Red Diamond on their luggage.&nbsp;68% associate the symbol with trust and premium quality.&nbsp;Interest in&nbsp;zipper-style luggage (often paired with integrated locks)&nbsp;remains strong at 73.5%.&nbsp;These preferences signal a growing demand for locks that combine form and function.&nbsp;Integrated locks&nbsp;aren’t just a functional choice -&nbsp;they’re a confidence booster for travelers. And for brands, they&nbsp;represent a clear opportunity to meet growing expectations, differentiate in a crowded&nbsp;market and&nbsp;increase their margin.&nbsp;&nbsp;Whether&nbsp;you're designing new products or refreshing an old collection, now is the time to make integrated TSA-accepted combination locks part of your story.&nbsp;Looking to integrate the Red Diamond into your next collection?&nbsp;Get in touch with our team.&nbsp;

Integrated locks represent a clear opportunity for brands to meet growing expectations, differentiate in a crowded market and increase their margin.

Investment into Integrated TSA Locks 

TSA Locks: Everyday Versatility for Travelers and BeyondTSA-accepted locks are best known for keeping luggage safe during air travel. But today’s consumers need security beyond the airport. From gyms and hotel rooms to train travel and coffee shops, people are looking for smarter ways to secure their belongings - wherever they go.As buyers and retailers evaluate travel goods for multi-functional value, TSA lock versatility offers a simple, compact solution that delivers security, convenience and peace of mind.Beyond Airports: Why TSA Locks Make Sense for Daily LifeMany travelers assume luggage locks are only necessary for flights. In reality, theft and tampering can happen anywhere. Whether at a busy train station, at the gym or staying in hotels, TSA-accepted locks protect your belongings.On Trains: Security When Your Luggage Is Out of SightTrain travel is popular, however, many carriages store bags in communal racks or at the ends of carriages, often out of a traveler's line of sight.&nbsp;TSA locks are ideal for:Securing suitcases stored away from your seatLocking compartments within your bag for added safetyAttaching a bag to a fixed object (with a cable).The peace of mind that a visible lock provides is invaluable, especially on overnight routes or high-speed trains with frequent stops.At the GymGyms and fitness centers are high-traffic environments and gym-goers need somewhere to stash their stuff when working out. Not all lockers come with built-in locks. A TSA lock provides a practical solution, letting gym-goers:Lock personal lockers or shared storageSecure zippers on duffels or gym bagsProtect small items like phones, wallets or keys that you don't want on your person when working outTSA padlocks are a simple, lightweight way to secure your belongings.In Hotel RoomsEven premium hotels can't guarantee total security, particularly in shared accommodations or during housekeeping visits. TSA locks let travelers:Lock luggage while they’re away from the roomSecure drawers or closets storing valuablesLock personal bags in hostels or shared Airbnb spacesAdd a layer of privacy by locking adjoining doorsThe ability to quickly lock a bag gives travelers control, especially when traveling solo or sharing accommodations.On the GoPeople living in the city, students and digital nomads carry important belongings daily - from laptops and passports to musical instruments or photography gear.TSA locks can be used to:Lock a backpack when exploring a citySecure a laptop bag at a café or co-working spaceLock equipment cases at events or photo shootsProtect personal bags in libraries or study areasSecure a briefcase or purse on public transitWith their compact design, these locks offer convenience without extra weight.What Makes TSA Locks Special?There are many types of locks available - but Travel Sentry accepted options offer unique advantages that make them a go-to for savvy travelers.Key features include:TSA approval: These locks can be safely opened by airport screeners without damaging the luggage.Trusted by airport security: Recognized in over 75 countries, the red diamond symbol is a global standard.No keys to lose: Lots of TSA locks are combination-based, eliminating the risk of misplacing a key.Built to last: Their durable construction stands up to repeated use on the road or at the gym.Lightweight &amp; portable: Easy to store into a bag or attach to gear without hassle.What the Research Says: A Global Look at Luggage SecurityTravel Sentry’s recent consumer study across five major travel markets — the US, UK, Germany, France and China — revealed some key insights:Business travelers are most likely to use locks, given the value of the items they carry.Many travelers secure their luggage out of fear of theft or bags opening during transit.Trains and hotels are often overlooked as risk areas, even though luggage is frequently out of sight.A significant number of people (20%) have never considered locking their luggage — but research proves that taking action to secure delivers significant practical and emotional benefits.&nbsp;Interest in locks rises dramatically when consumers are informed about TSA approval and the meaning of the red diamond symbol.The study also showed strong demand for innovative solutions, including GPS trackers and biometric locks - especially in markets like China.A Retail Opportunity: Smart Security for a Range of CustomersTSA-accepted locks are a perfect add-on item for:Suitcases and carry-onsBackpacks and satchelsTech and camera equipment casesMusical instrumentsGym duffels and toiletry kitsSchool or work gearThey’re affordable, easy to merchandise and appeal to a wide range of buyers — from students and athletes to business travelers and vacationers. With growing global awareness of theft and the importance of security, TSA locks are an excellent upsell for anyone selling travel gear.From the airport to the train, from the gym locker to your local café — TSA locks empower people to move through life with confidence. They’re not just for travel anymore. Thanks to their TSA lock versatility, these small but mighty tools help people protect their belongings, avoid stress and travel smarter — every day.

From gyms and hotel rooms to train travel and coffee shops, people are looking for smarter ways to secure their belongings - wherever they go.

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ECHOLAC (JIANGSU) CO.LTD

Guangzhou Turn Round Luggage Co.,Ltd

Zhejiang Jays Suitcase Co., Ltd.

Hangzhou Travelsky Co., Ltd

Foshan City Nanhai District Jinsha Zhujiang Hardware Industrial Co., Ltd.

ECHOLAC (JIANGSU) CO.LTD

Guangzhou Turn Round Luggage Co.,Ltd

Zhejiang Jays Suitcase Co., Ltd.

Hangzhou Travelsky Co., Ltd

Foshan City Nanhai District Jinsha Zhujiang Hardware Industrial Co., Ltd.

Lijun (ST TOBOL) Wheels Factory Interview

President Luggage Interview: Canton Fair S/S 2025

Spring ’25 Canton Fair

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Investment into Integrated TSA Locks

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Versatility of TSA locks