Introducing Correlux
Welcome to Correlux, a new player in the hard surfaces industry. Founded by industry veterans Ivano Tirapelle and Rick Self, with nearly 60 years of diverse industry experience between the two, Correlux is committed to transforming our industry’s distribution landscape.
Make no mistake, our mission is to deliver unparalleled value to our customers. We understand the demands of the hard surfaces sector, and our mission is to streamline the distribution process, providing efficiency and cost-effectiveness like never before. We intend to challenge norms and redefine standards. We embrace the spirit of disruption.
Unlike far too many today, we believe competition is good, and we know that our ability to thrive is directly tied to the value we bring to our customers. Our approach is grounded in things that matter, like professionalism and honesty. We prioritize transparency, reliability, and customer satisfaction above all. It’s not about us, it’s about you –the customer – and we say this because it matters.
All we ask is for a chance to prove ourselves.
Who We Are
Ivano Tirapelle
Ivano is from Verona, Italy. He began working in the stone industry in the late 1980s, investing his first 11 years with a renowned company established in 1926. Starting as a Machinist, Ivano transitioned to Electronic Engineer and then into roles in Technical Management and Production Management. These years were invaluable. He did everything from assisting with the introduction of CNC technology
into Verona fabrication to working on both custom and high-volume projects installed the world over.
In 2001 Ivano made a pivotal move to Silicon Valley, bringing his experience to the United States. His time in the USA started as a Project Manager focused on high-end custom homes. In 2005, he obtained his California contractor's license, and by 2007 he had begun his own high-end installation business while at the same time providing consulting services to fabricators across California.
Ivano returned to Italy in 2009, opening a cut-to-size engineering office in Verona. Projects were international, highlighted by large high-end residential projects in and around Moscow. From start to finish, he did everything from digital surveying to installation.
The year 2013 marked Ivano's return to the USA, where he launched Comandulli NA, taking its helm as CEO and partner. Leading with his extensive background, Ivano played a pivotal role in steering Comandulli towards success and its respected place in the North American market.
Ivano's journey is a testament to his deep expertise and commitment to the hard surfaces industry, making him a trusted figure with a rich history. Amongst his current endeavors, Ivano is on the Board of Directors and Treasurer of the industry group SESA (Stone Equipment and Supply Alliance).
Rick Self
Rick brings to Correlux nearly 25 years of experience in the stone industry, including tooling/commodity supply and shop ownership. His background equates to an understanding of production, purchasing, project and product management, operations, sales, and general management.
Rick’s most recent experience is the 5 years he spent with Terminator Diamond Products, functioning as a hybrid National Sales Director/Chief of Staff. Rick’s operational style while at Terminator (April 2018 – June 2023) can be defined by four of his key principles:
- Building relationships founded on trust.
- Setting and exceeding expectations, consistently delivering results.
- Providing the necessary tools for his team's success and allowing them the autonomy to excel.
- Focusing on helping customers increase their bottom line.
As a seasoned business development professional, Rick has consistently heightened customer satisfaction while maintaining unwavering standards of quality.
In the realm of operations, Rick designed and implemented an ERP
program that seamlessly integrated P&L forecasting, workforce planning, and productivity analysis for his stone fabrication company. He recognizes the many demands that a modern stone shop puts on its employees and management. Prior to entering the stone industry, Rick’s analytical and problem-solving skills were recognized by the US Navy after he conceptualized, created, and implemented automated processes for the Navy’s Personnel Support Detachments throughout the
Mediterranean. He was also recognized by the US Navy for his efforts during Operation Desert Shield.
Lastly, Rick's experiences are an extension of his diverse interests and education, including MBA studies at the University of LaVerne's Naples, Italy campus, with a focus on International Management, and undergraduate work centered around Political Science/Russian Studies, Business Management, and English.