Sales Growth Through Diversity

As an Industrial Distributor catering to the machining industry, we recognize the necessity for a wide array of products and suppliers to effectively address the diverse needs of our customers. The Southern California market exhibits significant diversity, primarily propelled by the aerospace and military industries. Unlike many distributors in the region, who concentrate on serving clients linked to these industries, S&D boasts a varied customer base involved in the manufacturing of items like razor blades, heart stents, water and food-grade valves, and mold cavities for Tesla parts etc. The products we provide are not exclusive to S&D; however, our distinctiveness stems from the collaborative ability of S&D's teams to tap into each other's field experience. This enables us to find innovative solutions that effectively address the real-world challenges faced by our customers.

Personally, my journey began with Valenite in 1977, and cutting tools has been the sole focus of my adult career. While I may have taken on a few different roles, they have always been within the same industry. My passion for this work remains unwavering—from the early days until now. There is a unique joy in contributing to projects like crafting the arm for the original Mars rover and witnessing firsthand what you have built on another planet. In what other industry could such remarkable experiences be possible?

In 1975, Sam commenced his career with Garrett Supply and spent several years in inside sales. Forty years ago, he embarked on establishing S&D, initially operating from his home. Remarkably, many of the original accounts that laid the foundation for S&D are still valued customers today. In a highly competitive environment, such longstanding customer relationships are a rarity. This enduring commitment is what defines S&D as "Service and dependability."

Chandan holds a bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering from Eastern Michigan and specializes in solid round tools, demonstrating expertise in machining plastics, composites, and challenging metals. His extensive operational knowledge, particularly in areas crucial to S&D, has proven invaluable. Chandan plays a vital role in the success of our Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) system and contributes significantly to the development of our website.

Darren's journey in the machining industry began at the age of 13 in his family's machine shop, and he later established his own shop for a considerable period. Afterward, he gained experience working for one of the world's largest manufacturers in our field before transitioning into industrial distribution. In just a few years, he has earned recognition as one of the top salespersons in Southern California.

Brandon took a different path to achieve success. He completed his education at NTMA, underwent an apprenticeship with a local mold manufacturer, and joined S&D without prior outside sales experience. Was it an easy journey for him or for us? Certainly not. However, through his dedicated effort and Brandon took a different path to achieve success. He completed his education at NTMA, underwent an apprenticeship with a local mold manufacturer, and joined S&D without prior outside sales experience. Was it an easy journey for him or for us? Certainly not. However, through his dedicated effort and diligence, Brandon has emerged as a top performer at S&D, managing relationships with some of our largest customers.

Finally, Cesar, who has accumulated fifteen years of experience in the industry, working for two of our customers in the manufacturing sector. Beyond merely working, he pursued continuous education, acquiring programming skills and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the tooling business from its foundational aspects. Even as a customer, he consistently sought to understand the intricacies of various tools, asking questions about their functions and principles. These experiences and knowledge base enabled him to launch his career in sales at S&D, expanding steadily year after year.

The strength behind our growing sales lies in the diversity of our sales team. With a range of experiences and unique personalities, we connect with customers in ways that suit their comfort levels. Our various paths to success enable us to comprehend the diverse needs of our customers. Most importantly, we have each other as a readily available resource, just a phone call away. As a team, our customers anticipate solutions, and together, that is precisely what we deliver.
Experience the distinctive S&D Advantage firsthand – where our diversity holds the key to your solutions.