ABOUT
About Opposite Lock
Who are we? - The Opposite Lock Philosophy
Opposite Lock is a specialist retailer supplying accessories to owners of four wheel drive, commercial and passenger vehicles. The Opposite Lock range of accessories is for serious off-roaders and enthusiasts, representing the highest possible quality and best value available anywhere in Australia.
The product range, the expert knowledge base and the first class service support of the entire Opposite Lock network, presents a unique niche in the retail off-road market.
Where do we come from?
Opposite Lock was formed in the mid 1970's as a supplier of motor sport equipment. The name Opposite Lock, which means, "to turn into the direction of a skid", is worth remembering as it could save your life one-day when driving!
In the early 1980's the company started supplying 4WD-vehicle equipment and accessories. This side of the business grew so quickly that by 1991 it was our total focus. Whilst many of our people are motor sport enthusiasts, our business is all about supplying accessories and equipment for 4WD and Light Commercial vehicles.
Originally founded in Sydney, the company has grown steadily to have stores in all states and all major cities around the country. The national office is located in Melbourne.
About Opposite Lock
Opposite Lock is an Australia-wide chain of 4WD specialist accessory stores owned and operated by genuine 4WD enthusiasts. Combining bulk buying power with nationwide warranty and support, Opposite Lock offers a comprehensive range of accessories and equipment to suit all popular 4x4s.
Whatever you drive, wherever you want to go, Opposite Lock has everything you need to improve your vehicle's appearance, performance, and practicality, and make it more comfortable and enjoyable to take camping, towing and touring.The history and growth of Opposite Lock (OL) is also fascinating:
1974
Opposite Lock was born, the brain child of Ed Mulligan, a motor racer and off-road enthusiast. Initially, he and his wife, Pam, sold rally and off-road race gear accessories from their store in Thornleigh in Sydney's North. Within two years, the business had grown to four outlets in Sydney, located also in Regent's Park, Naremburn and Chatswood.
1981
In order to expand nationally, Ed decided to franchise and soon thereafter, Adrian Stafford opened the first OL store in WA, situated at Welshpool in Perth.
1983
The next store opened in Wagga Wagga, NSW.
1983
Also saw the opening of the first store in Victoria, located in Footscray, Melbourne, run by Lionel Sewart
1984
Another OL Franchise store opened in Fitzroy, Melbourne.
1985/1986
A franchised outlet opened in Country NSW called, Opposite Lock Orange, owned by Mark Blume, followed by a company owned branch in Tamworth, NSW
1988
Ed Mulligan opened his first store in QLD, Opposite Lock Brisbane, which was later purchased by Ralph Martell in 1990.
1991
Opposite Lock changed gears when Adrian, Mark, Ralph and Lionel bought the franchise rights and began building Opposite Lock into one of the strongest 4wd Accessories Retail Groups in Australia.
1994
Opposite Lock Dubbo was comissioned as the first franchise store
2000
The OL Group numbered 22 and by 2003 Opposite Lock was well represented in each state with 25 stores in all.
2006
Opposite Lock was sold to Tony Shaw
2009 (Feb)
Revolution Racegear Consortium bought Opposite Lock
2012
Opposite Lock franchise group numbers 50 branches and franchises (see our new website, www.oppositelock.com.au for all store locations countrywide)
Why are we the Obvious 4WD Accessories Choice?
Australia-wide warranty
From Cairns to Albany you are never far from an OL Store
Trusted advice and quality service Guarantee
Local service backed by a national infrastructure
Cater to your needs first
Best Price Guarantee
Total Satisfaction Guarantee
Opposite Lock Stores offer the full service, from the moment you walk into our doors, your off road experience begins, this includes taking the time to give quality advice, the right products to suite your specific requirements, superior quality fitting, full after-sales service, backed up by our nation-wide warranty which means if you have a product fitted in Sydney and happen to end up in the Red Centre with a problem, our Alice Springs store will take care of you, or if you want a component checked for peace of mind, you can call into any OL store nationwide.
With the massive numbers of Australians travelling around the country it is comforting for them to know that if they are a customer of Opposite Lock (anywhere) they can expect the same friendly service and assistance in all Opposite Lock Stores.