Founded in 2001 by David and Karen Bates, Bluestone Sales & Distribution is a highly regarded independent and Irish owned company selling and distributing a vast array of brands and products across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Originally set up in 1993 as a BRITA subsidiary for Ireland they focus on innovative household brands that offer reliability and value, working in partnership with market leading brands including BRITA, Severin, Leifheit, Soehnle, Greener Cleaner, Strata, Restore and E-Cloth. They are the sole distributors in Ireland and Northern Ireland of BRITA water filters, the market leaders in water filtration. Based in Trim, Co. Meath, they serve their customers with a dedicated sales team that operates throughout the country ensuring all of their customer’s needs are catered for in their own unique way, ensuring a high quality of customer service and satisfaction. Here we get a chance to meet the team.
Cillian Shiggins: cshiggins@bluestone.ie
Cillian is the youngest and newest member of our sales team at Bluestone Sales & Distribution. He covers the South Leinster, Midlands, and East Munster regions, managing all accounts within his territory with energy and professionalism.
Why did you choose sales, and what do you love most about it?
I chose sales because I’ve always enjoyed working with people and helping them find solutions that truly make a difference. What I love most is the variety, no two days or clients are ever the same. Every conversation is an opportunity to build strong relationships, create value, and contribute to mutual success.
How do you approach building relationships and trust with clients?
For me, building relationships and trust with clients starts with listening. I take the time to understand their needs, provide honest and transparent guidance, and always follow through on my commitments. By consistently delivering on these principles, I can build strong, long-lasting partnerships.
What’s one sales tip, philosophy, or mantra you live by?
One sales mantra I live by is: ‘Listen more than you speak.’ Clients will always share what they truly need if you give them the space. My role is to listen carefully, understand their priorities, and then provide solutions that genuinely help.
Gary Kelly: gkelly@bluestone.ie
Gary has been a Sales Representative with Bluestone Sales & Distribution for 8 years covering the Munster Area. Gary has built great relationships with his customers over the years and is proficient in showcasing Bluestone products at In-store Demo days, Trade & Consumer Shows.
Why did you choose sales, and what do you love most about it?
I chose sales because it’s something I grew up around. My father was in sales, and he loved meeting people, building relationships, and being out on the road. During my school holidays, I often went with him, and that experience showed me how rewarding it can be to connect with customers and make a difference for them. What I love most about sales is that same variety and interaction, every day and every customer brings a new opportunity to learn, grow, and add value.
What achievements or results are you most proud of in your sales career?
One of my proudest achievements in my sales career was winning a trip to Wembley for a match after achieving top sales in a quarter during my first sales role. More recently, in Munster, I’ve consistently matched, and often exceeded, my sales compared to the high population Dublin region, which has been incredibly rewarding.
What’s one sales tip, philosophy, or mantra you live by?
A sales principle I live by is to be reliable and true to your word. I also focus on finding common ground with every customer, building trust and strong relationships that allow us to work together effectively.
Gordon O’Rourke: gorourke@bluestone.ie
Gordon has been a team member of Bluestone Sales & Distribution for 13 years. He covers the greater Leinster Area, providing dedicated service calls to major multiples within the FMCG sector.
His role encompasses sales, merchandising, stock management, logistics, and compliance, all aimed at driving growth & strengthening each brand.
Why did you choose sales, and what do you love most about it?
I didn’t set out to choose sales, but looking back I’m glad I stayed with it from the early days. My background was originally in the construction industry, but sales has given me opportunities I really value. What I love most is that every day is different, which keeps the role interesting, and over the years I’ve also made some great friends along the way.
What achievements or results are you most proud of in your sales career?
One of my proudest moments early in my career was winning the company Sales Representative of the Year award in 2014. More recently, I’m proud to have been part of the Bluestone team when we won Best Green Business of the Year at the Meath Business and Tourism Awards in 2024.
How has your career in sales evolved over time?
There have been ups and downs along the way, but that’s all part of a career in sales. Over time, I’ve gained the experience to handle challenges more effectively and professionally. I’ve also found the role to be even more rewarding than I could have imagined when I started, and I’m excited to keep growing and moving onwards and upwards.
James Kelly: jkelly@bluestone.ie
James represents Bluestone Sales & Distribution across the West & Northwest regions, working closely with customers in both the Hardware and FMCG sectors. He is dedicated to developing new market opportunities, driving growth, and promoting sustainability through Bluestone’s diverse product range.
Why did you choose sales, and what do you love most about it?
I chose sales because I enjoy working with people and helping them find the right retail solutions. For me, it’s about more than just products – it’s about understanding each customer’s needs and supporting them in growing their business. What I love most is the variety and the opportunity to build long-term relationships.
What achievements or results are you most proud of in your sales career?
I’m proud to have consistently increased turnover and developed numerous new sales opportunities throughout my career. Building strong relationships with clients and helping them grow their business has been particularly rewarding, and it’s satisfying to see these efforts translate into tangible results.
How do you approach building relationships & trust with clients?
I approach building relationships and trust with clients by providing regular calls, giving them the opportunity to discuss our products and address any queries that may arise. I focus on understanding their needs, offering practical solutions, and following through on commitments, which helps to build strong, reliable partnerships over time.
John Brogan: jbrogan@bluestone.ie
John has been a valued member of Bluestone Sales & Distribution for nine years. In this role, he
combines his extensive experience with a customer-first approach, ensuring that Bluestone’s brands are represented to the highest standard.
Why did you choose sales, and what do you love most about it?
I chose sales because I enjoy the social side of meeting new people, generating business, and helping customers feel confident that they’ve made the right choice in stocking our brands. What I love most is building strong relationships while supporting their success.
How do you approach building relationships and trust with clients?
I build relationships and trust with clients by being approachable and reliable, so they always feel comfortable working with me. I focus on understanding their requirements, taking into account store profile and demographics, and ensuring that initial orders and recommendations meet their specific needs.
How has your career in sales evolved over time?
My career has evolved through hard work, learning from experience, and developing the skills to resolve issues effectively. I’ve also learned the importance of treating my customers’ shelves as if they were my own, ensuring their business is well-supported and successful. Over time, this approach has helped me grow professionally and build strong, lasting client relationships.
For further information visit www.bluestone.ie.
Bluestone would like to wish their customers a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. They look forward to seeing everyone at The Hardware Show in February on stand A39.
