With the brand relatively new to the UK shores but a top seller in Spain, France much of Europe and Ireland, we chat to Les Ashley, head of sales (UK & Ireland) at Bellota, to find out more about the tools manufacturer.
Founded in 1908 by Patricio Echeverria, Bellota has been making tools for more than a century for agriculture, construction, and the workshop. The company name was coined as a homage to the acorns from the oak trees in the Spanish province of Gipuzkoa, to liken the strength of the timber to its multiple ranges.
Thanks for chatting to us Les, can you tell us a little more about Bellota?
Bellota proudly designs and manufactures a lot of their own products, which are manufactured in Spain or at one of our many plants across the world.
Our mantra is high standards to ensure success, which is reflected in the quality of our tools. Most of our merchandise is made from forged steel, meaning they’re tougher, more durable and can withstand high impact.
What does your role at Bellota entail?
My day-to-day activity tends to vary. Beyond maintaining my own customer base and business development, I play a critical role in the success and progression of our sales representatives, agents, and our merchandising team. I also develop key growth strategies as we set our sights on expanding into other sectors around UK and Ireland. I also assist our Legazpi based, Spanish manufacturing and marketing department, with new product development for the two countries.
What drew Bellota to working with Tiles and Trims?
We were looking for a partner in the North West region and we were drawn to the fact that Tiles and Trims is an independent company and a family business.
Once we knew the customer liked the product and price, we went on our own journey to see if they were a good fit and have a sound strategy. We wanted to forge a partnership with Tiles and Trims because they ticked all the boxes, were prepared to work with our recommended retail prices and take on the brand concept within the tiling sector. They are also committed businesspeople and happy to work with our strategy and most of all are nice people!
The new trade counter at Tiles and Trims, which will feature Bellota products, is now open – what can customers expect from your range of tiling tools?
Customers are guaranteed a very good experience at extremely competitive prices.
In addition, the tradesman can expect to begin their journey with clear and effective packaging. This is vital; our packaging will communicate to the tradesman in ways that will help them build a connection with our brand and fit their needs and interests. The eco friendly visuals and mascots will also help in associating the brand with high recall value.
What are your signature products?
Our signature products include our diamond drill bits, which are manufactured using high quality diamonds fitted byelectroplating. This method ensures the bit can withstand high friction and impact. Some other brands currently in the market do not take into consideration the fact that tiles are getting much harder and bigger.
With some diamond drill bits, you can only get a minimal number of holes out of a bit but with Bellota’s, you can achieve 20 holes from a 6 mm bit and up to 35 holes with a 35 mm+ bit.
Bellota’s other signature products you can find at Tiles and Trims are our wedge and push levelling systems and cutting discs.
Does Bellota have any exciting plans on the horizon for 2023?
We have an additional two highly experienced representatives starting with us at beginning of January 2023. They are already in training, the Bellota way! We are also finalising plans for some exhibition events throughout the year. Overall, we’ve got 75 new products coming out in 2023 with 30 for our tiling range alone. As well as adding to our collections, we’re always upgrading and updating existing lines to constantly develop our offering.