Sonepar: Can you talk to us about the progress of Dimel Castilla and your relationship with this company?
Carlos González: Dimel Castilla started out in 1982. The beginning was not easy; at first my father and I had to work alone at a small site in Leganés, in the inner suburbs of Madrid. Just four months later and the company had four associates! In 1985, we bought several lots of adjoining premises in the Carabanchel district of Madrid. From 150m2 on two floors, we upgraded to nearly 1,000m2. In 1992, we relocated to the premises we currently occupy. Around 50 members of staff work in 4,000m2 of floor space.
Sonepar: Dimel Castilla has enjoyed brilliant times. What is the key?
CG: Constant work and daily commitment. When we started in the early ‘80s, some 20 companies similar to our own were opening; nearly all have since disappeared. Effort and tenacity are the qualities that change everything. We have known difficult periods, such as the 1993 crisis, which led us to fear for our survival. We had to tighten our belts considerably and adopt a cost-cutting plan that eventually saw us through. In my opinion, the key is to tackle problems head-on with the belief that work, effort, perseverance and a healthy dose of courage will be enough to make it through the bad times.
Sonepar: What role do associates play at Dimel Castilla?
CG: Staff relationships are essential. Without people, we’d be left with shelves full of equipment of little value. I firmly believe that people are irreplaceable: they are the soul of the company. At Dimel Castilla we invest in team continuity and try to offer full promotion opportunities. Nearly 80% of current associates have never worked anywhere other than Dimel Castilla. Also, staff training is one of our primary concerns. A good company is made up of good professionals, who become this way through training. Generally speaking, I would say that our turnover is very low. They are a remarkable group and without them Dimel Castilla would not have come this far.
Sonepar: How did Dimel Castilla’s consolidation into the Sonepar group in 2007 go down?
CG: Obviously when the first rumours started to circulate, the staff were a little concerned. When initial negotiations began, though, I informed all the associates of the situation. I explained to them that rather than having the slightest negative impact, the arrival of Sonepar would represent progress for Dimel Castilla, as staff were able to see afterwards.
Sonepar: What positive influence do you think the arrival of Sonepar can have for Dimel Castilla?
CG: Sonepar’s arrival gives us a better balance and allows us to plan for the future with more equanimity. Being part of a sound multinational group like Sonepar, we will be able to tackle any difficult times more calmly. This affiliation also presents new opportunities for the career development of many staff. We will have access to more information and more support on various markets, and have better working resources to make daily progress. The arrival of Sonepar has given much hope to staff, who want to be part of the many projects on the horizon.
Sonepar: In light of the current economic situation, how do you see the future of Dimel Castilla?
CG: I think that in these kinds of circumstances, you have to believe in the future. Of course, present uncertainties mean we have to be more cautious and alert over the months ahead. But I am quite convinced that Dimel Castilla is able to meet any challenge. Our situation is a good one, allowing us to be optimistic about our ability to overcome problems. Above all, we have to ensure bills are paid, look for new clients, and seek new business opportunities – which do exist. As I said, the key lies in conviction, courage and, in difficult times, work, work and more work. This recipe always generates good results.
