25 Years of Hydraulic Expertise
Interview with Frank Sgarra, Authorized Officer and Sales Manager of Joiner‘s Bench GmbH
Since its establishment in Remscheid, Joiner‘s Bench GmbH has established itself as a successful specialist for hydraulic tools. The manufacturer of tools for the sanitary, heating, and electrical sectors mainly supplies customers in Europe. In the interview, authorized officer Frank Sgarra talks about the company's continuity and his plans for the future.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Sgarra, Joiner’s Bench is celebrating a special anniversary this year. Can you tell us about the development of your company?
Frank Sgarra: Yes, it's our 25th anniversary. The company was founded in 1999 by my brother Luciano in Remscheid, initially with just two employees. Since then, Joiner’s Bench has grown continuously. Today we employ almost 100 people. Our core competence is in machining metal, especially for plumbing, heating, and air conditioning sectors. We produce tools that are used worldwide for pressing pipe connections.
Wirtschaftsforum: How is your company positioned today?
Frank Sgarra: We have three locations in Remscheid, which is due to the dense construction of the region. Two sites are used for production, and the third houses administration and development.
Wirtschaftsforum: How would you describe your company's development in figures?
Frank Sgarra: Our annual turnover is between 15 and 20 million EUR, with steady growth of 3 to 7% annually. We grow organically and expect this to continue in the future, although we also feel the current slowdown in the construction industry.
Wirtschaftsforum: What tasks do you undertake in the company?
Frank Sgarra: I have been with the company since 2008 and lead the sales activities. I maintain close contact with our customers, visit trade fairs, and work on developing new business areas. Additionally, I am involved in strategic activities, such as planning and acquisition.
Wirtschaftsforum: Can you tell us more about your product portfolio?
Frank Sgarra: One of our most important product groups is certainly the classic pressing jaw for the sanitary sector, including the associated pressing technology. We also develop and produce battery-operated hydraulic machines here at the location, which drive these pressing jaws. Interestingly, in 2009, we were the first worldwide to develop a reading function for battery-operated pressing machines, and we also hold the patent on it. We offer similar products in the electrical sector, where our products compress cable connections.
Wirtschaftsforum: Besides the SHK sector, which industries do you serve and what marketing channels do you use?
Frank Sgarra: In addition to the SHK sector, we are also active in the railway sector and even in the automotive sector. Our hydraulic tools can be used in many different applications.
Word of mouth still plays a major role for us. In addition, we are present in trade media and use trade fairs to acquire new customers.
Wirtschaftsforum: What is your export share?
Frank Sgarra: Our export share is about 30 to 40%. We are particularly strong in Italy, which is certainly also due to our Italian roots. But we also supply the DACH region and even customers in Australia.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are the success factors of your company?
Frank Sgarra: Flexibility and speed are our greatest strengths. We are able to develop prototypes quickly, which is highly appreciated by our customers. At the same time, we make sure to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy while maintaining efficient processes.
Wirtschaftsforum: Do you have a message for the politicians?
Frank Sgarra: It is urgently necessary to reduce bureaucracy. The Heating Act has unnecessarily burdened many companies. My message to the politicians would be to make decisions more carefully and to advance the country in the areas of infrastructure and digitalization.
Wirtschaftsforum: What is your vision for the future of the company?
Frank Sgarra: We want to maintain our organic growth as we have done so far. However, it's not excluded that we may make a big leap if new projects arise.
For the next five years, I hope that we will not only have continued to grow, but also have found larger premises to optimize our logistical processes.
Wirtschaftsforum: What personally motivates you in your work?
Frank Sgarra: I am excited by the challenge of creating something promising for the future. Interacting with people from all over the world and cultural exchange greatly enrich my work. It is fulfilling to be part of a company that is so closely connected with its employees and customers.