Designing with the tradesperson in mind

By The Coffee Shops®.  

How direct collaboration with technicians and tradespeople influences product development. 

The success of Veto Pro Pac was built on solving one tradesperson's challenge, but according to founder Roger Brouard, the company's growth has depended on understanding the needs of many different trades. 

During an episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Roger described how customer feedback led the company beyond residential construction and into new industries. One of the most significant opportunities emerged during the 2008 recession when heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians began reaching out with a specific request. "They really liked our bags, but the pockets were not big enough to accommodate their meters," Roger explained. 

Rather than making assumptions, he immersed himself in their work. Roger connected with a local HVAC contractor, met with technicians, examined the bags they were currently using and spent weeks accompanying them on service calls. "I would go out and go on service calls with the heating and cooling techs and got to understand how they work," Roger said. 

The experience led to the development of an entirely new product line designed around the unique tools and workflows of HVAC professionals. It also established an approach that would later influence products for marine trades, electricians, plumbers and other specialized users. Karen noted the importance of that customer-focused mindset, saying, "Manufacturers that listen to the end user and take that feedback and integrate it into their products always seem to do very, very well." 

That philosophy continues with newer innovations such as the EVO platform, which allows users to customize and adapt tool organization systems for different jobsite conditions. Roger said the goal was to create a system that provides "much more customization and adaptability for guys working in the field so they can work smarter and more efficiently." 

Looking back, Roger believes one key factor separates the company from many competitors. "Most of these bags have been designed by designers who never seriously swung a hammer in their life," he said. 

For contractors and technicians, that connection to real-world experience remains at the heart of the brand's appeal. Products developed alongside end users are often better equipped to support the demands of the trades they serve. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about tool organization and storage solutions.