Jules Took 2 Years to Buy His First Metal Fab Business—Now He Owns 3

Summary In this conversation, Jon Stoddard interviews Jules Brenner from Metal Solutions Holdings, discussing the company"s journey in acquiring multiple welding and metal manufacturing businesses. They explore the importance of partnerships, the challenges of refining a buy box, the self-funding approach, and the unique landscape of California manufacturing. Jules shares insights on operational improvements, the significance of contrarian thinking in business strategy, and the potential for growth in the metal fabrication market. In this conversation, Jules Brenner discusses the intricacies of managing a manufacturing business, focusing on customer relationships, the significance of repeat business, and the importance of quality standards. He shares insights from his experiences in acquiring businesses, navigating deal flow, and the personal growth he has undergone as a leader. The discussion emphasizes the need for strategic decision-making and the commitment to preserving manufacturing jobs in California. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Metal Solutions Holdings 02:52 Building Partnerships in the Industrial Space 05:59 Refining the Buy Box: A Journey of Discovery 08:53 Self-Funding and the Role of Investors 12:00 Understanding Deal Structures and Financing 14:53 The California Manufacturing Landscape 18:08 Contrarian Thinking in Business Strategy 20:58 Operational Improvements in Acquired Businesses 23:56 Implementing Systems for Growth 27:06 Market Potential and Customer Acquisition 27:42 Understanding Customer Relationships in Manufacturing 32:36 The Importance of Repeat Business and Quality Standards 38:17 Lessons Learned from Acquisitions and Quality Control 44:45 Navigating Deal Flow and Seller Relationships 48:20 Personal Growth and Leadership in Business Management Keywords Metal Solutions Holdings, industrial partnerships, buy box, self-funding, deal structures, California manufacturing, contrarian thinking, operational improvements, business systems, customer acquisition, manufacturing, customer relationships, repeat business, quality standards, acquisitions, deal flow, leadership, business management, industrial technology, California manufacturing