Company Profile:

Haddonstone is a leading manufacturer of premium architectural cast stone designs, landscape features, garden stonework, and bespoke architectural elements. We work closely with architects, designers, developers, and landscape professionals to deliver high-quality products that enhance both traditional and contemporary projects.

Event(s) attended: Four BOND Custom and four Five Star USA events.

Industry: Architectural Stone

Company size (by employee count): 120+

Attendee Profile: 

Chris Doyle, Vice President - Commercial Operations

"I joined the Haddonstone Group in 2010, working throughout the UK and supporting projects internationally. I relocated to the US in 2022 and now serve as Vice President of Commercial Operations, overseeing commercial strategy and business development across North America."

Personal fact: "Since moving to the United States, I've learned that ordering a bacon sandwich, asking for a trolley, or discussing biscuits can quickly turn into a surprisingly long conversation."

Favourite quote: "Luck happens when preparation and hard work meet opportunity."

 

 

 

 

The Problem

 

 

 

 

 

Reaching senior architects and designers is absolutely critical: Architects and designers are often the key influencers and decision-makers when specifying architectural products. Building relationships with senior professionals allows us to better understand project requirements, educate specifiers on our capabilities, and position Haddonstone as a trusted partner early in the design process.

But, reaching them through traditional sales and marketing channels is deeply challenging. Their schedules are demanding, and gaining meaningful face-to-face access is often difficult. Trade shows can provide exposure, but they do not always create the environment needed for productive conversations and relationship building.

The Solution:

"BOND creates a unique environment where meaningful conversations happen naturally. The format allows suppliers and architects to engage in focused discussions without the distractions often associated with larger industry events.

This has enabled us to build relationships with key decision-makers, gain valuable project insights, and significantly increase awareness of Haddonstone within influential design firms."

Results

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Haddonstone have won an estimated 8-10 major projects through attending BOND Custom and Five Star.

"We have established relationships with architects and designers from leading firms across North America and increased specification opportunities for Haddonstone products."

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Value of projects won ranges from $50k through to $500k and they currently have one in design stage at over $3 million "which is a huge number for us as a SME."

"BOND has helped us to generate new project leads and business opportunities and expanded our professional network within the architectural and design community."

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Have developed relationships with  Gensler, RAD Architecture, Richard Manion Architecture, MGM Resorts, The Beck Group, The Ritz Carlton Group and others through BOND.

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Attending BOND continues to help strengthen Haddonstone's visibility and reputation among key specifiers.

Our events →
Chris' comments on:

ROI:

"The return on investment has been very positive. The quality of interactions and opportunities generated from a single event often exceeds what we would expect from much larger and more expensive marketing initiatives. The value comes not only from immediate opportunities, but also from the long-term relationships developed through the events."

Audience quality:

"The audience quality is consistently excellent. BOND attracts senior-level architects, designers, and decision-makers who are actively involved in specifying products and influencing project outcomes."

Connections made at BOND:

"The connections made through BOND have been both extensive and meaningful. Beyond potential clients, we have developed relationships with industry professionals who continue to provide opportunities, introductions, and market intelligence long after the event concludes."

Access:

"This is one of BOND's greatest strengths. The format encourages open dialogue and genuine engagement. Attendees are approachable, interested in learning about new products, and willing to discuss current and future projects."

Insight for regional and product development:

"The events provide valuable insights into regional market trends, design preferences, and project challenges. These conversations help us refine our product offering, identify new opportunities, and better align our solutions with market needs."

Any advice to other manufacturers considering BOND?

"The greatest value comes from understanding the challenges and objectives of the architects and designers attending. Focus on building relationships rather than making a sales pitch, and the opportunities will follow naturally."

Key Takeaway:

"Come prepared to listen as much as you speak. "

Anything else you want to add?

"BOND has become an integral part of our business development strategy. The events consistently provide access to high-quality professionals, valuable industry insights, and opportunities that would be difficult to replicate through other channels. We look forward to continuing our partnership with BOND and participating in future events."

It starts here:

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