Chronicles of precision: QP Mechanics' 15-year journey

Above, a sneak peek at QP Mechanics' new logo!

QP Mechanics stands out as a benchmark in the field of high-precision custom mechanical tools. Specializing in tungsten carbide processing (WIDIA), the company offers a wide range of products, including cold forming dies, punches, compasses, cutting tools, and more. Additionally, it handles the production of semi-finished products and custom grinding and lapping. QP Mechanics' constant attention to customer needs and commitment to providing personalized service sets it apart in the industry.

To mark its 15th anniversary, QP Mechanics invites us on a journey through its entrepreneurial past—an opportunity to revisit the challenges overcome, innovations introduced, and lessons learned over the years. Together with Paolo Giardiello, one of the founding partners of QP Mechanics, we'll explore the company’s trajectory so far and take a glimpse into its future.

What have been the most significant moments in QP Mechanics' history during these 15 years of operation?

The start, back in September 2008, was already a risky endeavor. The project had begun a year prior, with an impending financial crisis looming on the horizon. With only three of us and three ancient manual machines, we began by subcontracting grinding work. However, our true ambition was to manufacture finished dies. Despite these challenges, we managed to create our first dies just over a year later. We acquired more small manual machines, albeit old ones. Many of these drawing dies were prototypes showcased to potential clients at trade fairs, which we began attending in 2010.

In 2011, we faced our first tough decision: the purchase of a CNC grinding machine. It took us a year to find the perfect one, traveling across Europe, scrutinizing every detail from various manufacturers. Ultimately, we settled on the flagship STUDER model, a significant investment and a carefully considered choice.

In 2014, we introduced wire EDM technology, followed by a new website in 2015 and a second STUDER machine in 2016. We ventured into international trade shows, and our team began to expand. In 2018, we further invested in-house by adding soft metal machining capabilities, installed a solar power system in 2020, and acquired a third STUDER CNC machine in 2022. Another CNC grinder is due to arrive next week, and in March, we'll unveil our brand-new website with a refreshed logo design.

How has the industrial landscape changed in the field of precision mechanical equipment since you started the company?

Ongoing technological advancements, particularly in electronics and information technology, have driven the continual refinement of production processes and enhanced reliability. With machinery becoming faster and more efficient, mechanical components must meet tighter tolerances, superior finishes, and employ more effective materials and treatments. Meeting these demands necessitates persistent efforts to stay ahead of developments and innovate solutions to emerging challenges.

What were the main challenges QP Mechanics faced over the years and how did you overcome them?

Throughout our journey, we've encountered various new sectors and applications. We've pursued versatility for several years to understand market demands and carve out our unique value proposition. I consider this to be our greatest challenge as we navigated through demanding landscapes, proving our reliability as partners and designing solutions to long-standing complications.

Learning something new, merging it with our experience, finding new answers, overcoming obstacles in uncharted territories, and simultaneously bringing the customer to a new level of satisfaction and expectations. Our passion for successful work, seeing the satisfied smile of the customer whose problem we've solved, real teamwork, relationships based on synergy and trust.

I realize that it might sound a bit cliché, but we genuinely believe in these values. It's ingrained in who we are; we couldn't have operated any other way. The real joy comes from seeing, year after year, that our approach yields tangible results and reaffirmation.

What have been the most important innovations introduced by QP Mechanics in the field of tungsten carbide processing?

We use the same tech as everyone else, nothing fancy. But what really makes us stand out is how we dig deep into each job, always ready with a backup plan. Our focus is on what the customer needs, and we aim to deliver the best results, sometimes even surprising them. No beating around the bush - if there's a problem, we're upfront about it, whether it's with our team, suppliers, or clients.

What are the main lessons learned by QP Mechanics during the first 15 years of operation?

I think one of the biggest lessons we've learned is the importance of self-improvement. It's not always about getting the newest gear or tweaking processes. Understanding our strengths and weaknesses helps us connect better with our team, building stronger bonds and a culture of teamwork.

Plus, we've found that tackling problems head-on with the right mindset turns obstacles into chances to grow. It gives us the drive to keep pushing forward and overcome whatever comes our way.

How have you adapted your business strategy to remain competitive in an ever-evolving market?

We've been firm believers in the digitalization journey from the get-go. That's why, just two years after starting our business, we adopted a management software, a tool we've been fine-tuning ever since. Now, everything—from quotes to invoices—is seamlessly connected, including our machinery with their work logs and technical notes.

This setup gives us an instant and accurate overview of our operations, past and present. It enables us to make precise measurements and tweak processes for better efficiency. Plus, we've got systems in place for detailed accounting, management control, profitability tracking, and cash flow management.

Our robust data infrastructure allows us to analyze big-picture figures and dive into specifics when needed, giving us the confidence to navigate our strategies. Throughout, we've remained dedicated to delivering expertise, adaptability, and honoring our promises—a commitment our customers deeply value.

What is your vision for the future of QP Mechanics and how do you plan to realize it in the coming years?

Our goal is to establish QP Mechanics as a trusted name in hard metal tool fabrication internationally, serving as a reliable partner to customers seeking top solutions backed by our expertise. Through our brand, QP Mechanics aims to make a mark by innovating, patenting, and directly marketing our own products. Central to our strategy is our commitment to research and development, driving our innovative edge forward.

Our sincere thanks to Paolo Giardiello for his availability and contribution to this interview! We invite readers to explore the wide range of products and services offered by QP Mechanics and to contact the dedicated team for further information and personalized quotes by visiting the online stand. The company is ready to collaborate with you and find innovative and reliable solutions for every mechanical precision need.