A Handshake That Changed Everything

A Handshake That Changed Everything What if a simple tap on the shoulder could change the trajectory of a company? At Gould Industries, we’ve always believed that success is built, not gifted. That opportunities are created by people who dare to act, who lead with curiosity, and who stay grounded in values that never go out of style: hard work, respect, and human connection. 

Today, we’re proud to share an important milestone in our journey: Gould Industries is now a trusted supplier to Home Depot in both Canada and the United States.

This partnership didn’t begin with a boardroom pitch or a flashy marketing campaign. It began in Las Vegas, at the Hardware show, with a handshake. Actually, before that, with a young man named Alberto Tullo, who had followed our CEO’s journey on social media and decided he wanted to be part of it. He joined Gould not through a job posting, but by showing up. He learned. He listened. He earned his place in our family. 

And when the time came, he went to Vegas with our COO, Mike Leonardi. There, Alberto did what many no longer dare to do, he walked up to people, introduced himself, and shared our story. One of those people was Teresa Isabella, Senior Global Sourcing Manager at Home Depot. She saw something in that moment. A spark. And she opened a door.

That door was held open by the incredible Alexandra Arci, who brought our offering to life with intelligence, confidence, and clarity. Her work impressed Home Depot enough to send their Quality Control team straight to our facility in Montreal. We passed with flying colours. 

This story is more than a sales win. It’s a celebration of what happens when people believe in themselves, in each other, and in the mission. It’s about manufacturing, yes. But it’s also about mentorship, grit, and the power of showing up. 

We’re grateful to the team at Home Depot for their trust. And we’re even prouder of our own team, because none of this happened by chance.

 To everyone who taps a shoulder, opens a door, or takes the extra call: keep going. Business is still built on people and trust. 

Here’s to the next handshake that changes everything. 

— Frederico Panetta, CEO Gould Industries