66: Building a Global Leader in Innovative Building Solutions with Rothoblaas USA CEO, Hannes Blaas

Design Development

Hannes Blass is the CEO of Rothoblaas USA, a multifaceted company that provides a wide range of products for the construction industry, including fasteners and connectors, building envelope products, acoustics, safety equipment, and tools. Founded in the Alps of Italy in 1991, Rothoblaas has expanded to service over 100 countries with employees in about 70 of them. Hannes has been responsible for the company's tremendous growth in the US market since their first project in Montana in 2011. Under his leadership, the company maintains a forward-thinking approach and invests heavily in its people, contributing to its growth-oriented strategy.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes welcomes Hannes Blass, Rothoblaas USA's CEO, whose company's origins trace back to the scenic Italian Alps. With a knack for innovation and serving a global market, Rothoblaas has established itself as a dominant player in the realm of construction, particularly in the mass timber and building practice sectors. This snapshot delves into the inspirational climb of a company that began with two brothers and a truck and became a global phenomena with over 5000 SKUs.

A highlight of the episode includes Hannes' personal journey. Crafting a narrative from sweeping warehouse floors to spearheading the company's expansion into new territories. The story of Rothoblaas is a testament to strategic vision and adaptation, showcasing a transformation from tool resellers to innovators and thought leaders in the construction supply industry. Key moments reveal insight into the challenges of international logistics, cultural adaptability, and fostering a culture grounded in team unity and relentless improvement.

Key Takeaways:

• Rothoblaas started as a small tool importing business and evolved into a global leader in building products, emphasizing mass timber.
• Hannes Blass played a pivotal role in expanding the company's footprint, navigating challenges like cross-continental logistics and cultural barriers.
• The company invests in close relationships with its clients, differentiating itself by emphasizing in-person connections over remote sales.
• Rothoblaas is committed to continuous innovation, expanding product lines, and improving logistics to cater to growing markets like the US.
• The podcast underlines the importance of adaptability in growth, both from an organizational and individual leadership perspective.

Tune in to the full episode to witness the inspiring evolution of Rothoblaas and gain a deeper understanding of what drives innovation and growth in the fast-paced world of construction. Stay connected for more engaging and informative sessions here at Design Development.

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