As it is now officially summertime and things are in full swing here at brickslips.co.uk I decided to make the most of the Friday afternoon sunshine and interview the managing director of Brickslips Carl Jones on his business and present some interesting questions.
Business is great and the market is still growing do you have any predictions on trends set to take over the world of brick slips for the seasons ahead?
As a company we have already started to see many of our clients explore and develop a new take on the use of our products and I particularly have noticed that designers are becoming more aware of the unrivalled quality and service we are offering the industry.
So… do you think that designers are becoming more aware of your products?
Absolutely, we entered this industry many years ago with a vision in mind to change the way things are done. We have always marketed our products directly to leading designers and through this continued effort we are fortunate enough to be dealing with some of the worlds leading brands.
We really do have a fantastic team here at brickslips.co.uk, through hard work and continuous investment we have created a brand and a quality product that is not only consistent but of the highest quality.
And that makes the product more commercial I expect?
Yes certainly, the brand is out there and we do feel that through our investment and drive we have elevated the standard and availability of brick slips, hence the designers and contractors are more aware of the products. Our customers are more likely to use and specify our range due to product availability as we consistently hold large stock.
Do you have a company philosophy?
I think any Director or business owner will tell you that they have a core philosophy, for me I think that I come to expect the expected from everyone that is involved with brickslips.co.uk.
Our core principle is really simple, we have always been willing to “go the extra mile” to help our customers achieve their objectives. Unlike many manufacturers, we provide a true value-added service, specialist cutting orders, bespoke product offerings and I really do believe that we have a brand that people can rely on.
You have it all sewn up then?
“Absolutely not” I don’t think that any company can say that. We are constantly seeking better ways to deliver on our promise and look to provide customers with quality customer service and amazing products.
What do you think are the company’s core strengths, especially for any new customers out there that haven’t used brickslips.co.uk and what would you say would attract them to your products?
For me it is simple, we enhance our customer service and expectations. I myself and my management team are always in the process of forming new partnerships with our clients. We offer the most diverse range of brick slips available in the UK, the products are unmatched within our industry. Styles / colours / texture / sizes etc.
I have a highly experienced and skilled team that are constantly pushing the limits of their capabilities and providing me with the opportunity to constantly re invest and upgrade the facility we have. I think this is a core commitment to the customer that sets us apart from our competition and helps maximize the benefits you derive from our products and services.
You mentioned about your team, what makes the staff at brickslips.co.uk special?
Its one thing to invest in the latest technology, but a true full service manufacturer like ourselves also understands the importance of investing in talented personnel as well. I certainly take this philosophy to heart, and I think my staff and customers would agree that it shows.
Some of the most highly skilled operatives in our industry work right here at Brickslips.co.uk. and the great thing is they allow us to continuously provide exceptional service in a variety of processes.
Other than finding talented members of staff do you give them any further training?
Off course, I come from an educated background and see the importance of training and further development. For instance all of our operatives undergo product and machine training by our own in house RoSPA Certified Instructor. Ensuring compliance and consistency in our operative’s qualifications and abilities.
Our Sales and Management personnel are experienced in our industry as well as in most of the industries and markets that we serve. By blending “home grown” talent with additional personnel bringing in a variety of outside expertise, we have achieved a balance of knowledge and skills that help us serve our customers best. This knowledge is passed on from tier to tier.
So would you consider yourself a good employer?
No I would say I am a great employer “ha ha” I think our employees are much more than just a workforce, for me they are the core reason why we do what we do.
Lastly, what does the next year have in store for brickslips.co.uk?
Without giving too much away we have a lot of different things going on at the minute, new products and further advancements in our production facilities are keeping our production team very busy. I’m sure our customers will be kept fully informed through our News section on the website.
