EXPANSION PLAN RETURNS TO HOME MARKET

Established in 2015, Manchester based TTP HARD drills Limited market their own brand of premium cobalt drill bits and metal cutting paste internationally.

The initial strategy was to concentrate solely on the UK market supplying professional tradesmen and DIY users. Then once their e-commerce distribution model had become proficient overseas markets were to be explored.

Managing director Brendan Kennedy explains that “within weeks of launching our UK website we were getting far more international enquiries than we could have imagined. In fact the volume of USA customers wanting to purchase meant that we had to revise our plan and focus on North America immediately. Through advice from our local Chamber of Commerce and an introduction to our local Department of Trade representative we received all the assistance necessary to successfully implement our new strategy which saw the setting up of a distribution centre in Michigan.”

With the USA division running smoothly their plan now is to partner with suitable distributors in the UK and Europe. With support from DIT TTP HARD drills took a stand at the recent TOOLFAIR exhibition in Harrogate. The 2 day exhibition attracted over 4000 UK and international visitors and has led to negotiations with a number of potential distributors expressing interest in stocking the TTP HARD drill range.

Brendan has learnt that despite developing a comprehensive launch strategy you need to be prepared for the unforeseen when your strategy actually goes live. You also need to be able to change your plans and efforts quickly if you are to avail of new opportunities when they arise. As Tony Robbins said ‘Stay committed to your decisions, but stay flexible in your approach.’