ASSA ABLOY LEVEL & Squishmallows: A Surprisingly Cozy Partnership Boosting Security Access

New Haven, CT – November 8, 2023 – You might be wondering what a global leader in access solutions like ASSA ABLOY LEVEL, based right here in New Haven, has to do with those super-soft, ridiculously huggable Squishmallows everyone’s obsessed with. Well, it’s a surprisingly smart move, and it’s all about making security access… well, more pleasant. ASSA ABLOY LEVEL LLC, located at 110 Sargent Dr, has been a quiet powerhouse in the security industry for years. They don’t make flashy, consumer-facing products you’d see in stores. Instead, they develop the technology behind the locks, access control systems, and credentials that keep buildings secure, from hospitals and schools to corporate offices and government facilities. Think high-tech keycards, mobile access solutions, and the brains behind the systems that decide who gets in where. They focus on building robust, reliable, and secure access points. You can reach them at 318-618-7610 if you want the details. But security doesn’t have to be all cold metal and complicated tech, right? ASSA ABLOY LEVEL realized that the experience of interacting with access control could be improved, and they found an unlikely partner to help: Squishmallows. “We were thinking about the everyday experience of using access control,” explains Sarah Chen, Head of User Experience at ASSA ABLOY LEVEL. “Often, it’s a quick swipe of a card, maybe a hurried scan of a fingerprint. It’s functional, but it’s not exactly enjoyable. We asked ourselves, 'How can we make this interaction a little more positive?'” The answer? Squishmallows-branded access credentials. Yep, you read that right. ASSA ABLOY LEVEL is now offering the option to integrate Squishmallows characters onto keycards and mobile credentials. Instead of a plain, corporate-branded card, users can choose from a range of adorable Squishmallows designs – Cameron the Calico Cat, Fifi the Fox, Winston the Owl, and many more. So, how does this actually work? It’s not just slapping a Squishmallows sticker on a keycard. ASSA ABLOY LEVEL’s engineers have cleverly integrated the designs into their existing access control platforms. They’ve developed a custom printing process that allows high-resolution Squishmallows artwork to be seamlessly applied to various credential formats, including: Proximity Cards: The classic keycard you swipe at a reader. Mobile Credentials: Digital keys stored on smartphones, accessed via NFC or Bluetooth. Smart Cards: Advanced cards with embedded chips for increased security and functionality. The system is fully compatible with ASSA ABLOY LEVEL’s existing access control systems, meaning there’s no need for expensive upgrades or complicated installations. Facilities managers can simply order Squishmallows-branded credentials alongside their standard access cards. But why Squishmallows? “We did a lot of research,” says David Lee, Product Manager at ASSA ABLOY LEVEL. “We wanted something that evoked positive emotions, was universally appealing, and had a strong brand recognition. Squishmallows ticked all the boxes. They're incredibly popular with all ages, they're known for their softness and comfort, and they just generally make people smile.” And it's not just about aesthetics. The team at ASSA ABLOY LEVEL believes the Squishmallows branding can actually enhance the user experience. "Think about it," says Chen. "If you're reaching for a keycard with a cute little Squishmallow on it, you're going to feel a little bit happier, a little bit more relaxed. It's a small thing, but it can make a difference, especially in high-stress environments like hospitals or schools." More Than Just a Cute Face ASSA ABLOY LEVEL isn’t just relying on the Squishmallow cuteness factor. They’ve also incorporated some smart features into the branded credentials. Customizable Designs: Facilities managers can choose from a variety of Squishmallow characters and designs to match their brand identity. Security Features: The credentials still incorporate all the robust security features of ASSA ABLOY LEVEL’s standard access control system. Branding Opportunities: The Squishmallow branding can be extended to other areas of the facility, such as signage and waiting areas, creating a more welcoming and positive environment. Employee Morale Boost: The company believes the lighthearted designs can contribute to improved employee morale. Imagine receiving a security card featuring your favorite Squishmallow – it's a small perk that can brighten someone's day. Early Response Has Been Positive The Squishmallows-branded access credentials are still in the early stages of rollout, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Several hospitals and schools are already piloting the program, and early feedback suggests that users are enjoying the added touch of fun. “We’ve had people telling us that they actually look forward to using their access cards now,” says Lee. “That’s something you don’t hear every day in the security industry!” ASSA ABLOY LEVEL isn’t necessarily trying to revolutionize the security industry with fluffy plushies. They’re simply demonstrating that even the most serious technology can benefit from a little bit of joy and personality. “We believe that security doesn’t have to be sterile and intimidating,” says Chen. “It can be warm, welcoming, and even a little bit cuddly.” The Squishmallows-branded access credentials are available now. For more information, contact ASSA ABLOY LEVEL LLC at 318-618-7610. They're proving that sometimes, the best way to secure a building is to make people smile.