Robit Going Further and Faster

Q: How did Robit achieve positive results in 2020, despite the challenges caused by COVID-19?

A: We have positioned ourselves as a global company in consumables for the mining and construction segments because we work with local distributors. The global pandemic prevented us from traveling but it did not impact our ability to serve customers, as local people always work directly with end-users. Sometimes there were issues that required advanced technical support that were handled by videoconferencing and other remote work tools. There will be some permanent changes in our working routines, especially because we have been forced to do more things remotely. Traveling, for example, will be less common in the future. Of course, you will have to travel to meet people and discuss more complex challenges but for quick communication, remote option works just fine.

Q: In what ways do you work with your distributors in the Mexican mining market?

A: Our mining market distributors are Rock Bits and Minsol, with whom we have been working for about four years. The real key to success has been understanding the end-customer value of each company and how our technical staff supports this value. For instance, we have been able to show the benefits and importance of selecting the right drilling consumables for each operation, as well as provide operational advice on how to operate the drill rigs more efficiently. We have found it to be an attractive offering because customers really appreciate the value that we provide. It has been a good way to expand our business.

Q: What added value does Robit’s Top Hammer series of button bits provide?

A: We relied on our knowledge to improve the drill bit lifetime in meters. These new generation bits last longer and at the same time, their properties have been improved to increase the drilling speed. We have used them extensively in different conditions and we are very happy with the results. They are simply more efficient and have a state-of-the-art design.

Q: Why did the company decide to invest in the development of educational materials for the Top Hammer division?

A: Training and education are at the core of any successful operation. We are training our distributors and technical teams to work with clients in selecting the products best suited to them and to help them operate the equipment correctly, since that knowledge can lead to a huge difference in productivity. We believe that knowledge and its development are necessary for a successful business and we invest heavily in these concepts.

Q: What should the mining sector expect with the new  Down the Hole drill (DHT) hammer series launching in 2021?

A: We are providing a complete offering. It is an additional product so it is not replacing our existing product. It will provide more options for customers to select the right hammer for their rock and terrain conditions.

Q: What is the company’s plan for its Top Hammer and  Down the Hole products in the short term?

A: Our Top Hammer line of products is truly a proven global business for us with presence in all main markets and customer applications. At the same time,  DTH is entering to new markets and creating another global business for Robit. The market potential of Top Hammer and  DTH is almost at the same level worldwide and both have a good opportunity for a continuous growth.

Q: What is Robit’s outlook for 2021?

A: We are a publicly traded company, so we have a formal guidance and expect Robit's sales to increase this year. We also expect increased profitability as the higher volumes improve cost efficiency in the entire value chain.  It appears that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is diminishing. Moreover, the mining market is very strong, so we have opportunities to grow our business in 2021.

Robit is a strongly internationalized growth company  servicing global customers and selling drilling consumables for applications in mining (underground and open-pit), construction, geotechnical engineering and well drilling. The company’s offering is divided into  three product and service ranges: Top Hammer (TH),  Down the Hole (DTH) and Geotechnical.