“We offer an innovative, insulated, concrete-formbuilding technology that helps you build cooler, quieter, faster, stronger,” explains Johnson, the company’s Managing Director. With approval from Jamaica’s Bureau of Standards for both commercial and residential construction, E-Z Block occupies a unique position as a manufacturer, with a sister company that does the building of the homes, creating specialized blocks that outperform traditional building materials in the tropical climate. Merrill, who serves as Director of Installation & Training, brings over four decades of construction expertise to the venture. “I’ve been a contractorbuilder for pretty much my whole life; over 40 years. My real expertise is in construction and contracting,” he notes. This practical knowledge has proven invaluable as the company adapted its North American technology to Jamaica’s specific needs. FROM CANADA TO JAMAICA The journey that brought E-Z Block from Canadian beginnings to Jamaican shores was a calculated mission driven by climate compatibility and social impact. From day one Johnson and Merrill made the strategic decision to establish their entire manufacturing operation on the island, recognizing Jamaica’s unique potential for their product. “Jamaica was always the goal. Canada was set up for Jerrold and me to learn how to manufacture this,” Merrill explains. “We’re not just the founders of the company. We actually made the blocks with the system, set it up, and we’ve improved the system.” This hands-on approach allowed the founders to perfect their manufacturing process before relocating. “Once we perfected what we could in Canada, we said, ‘Okay, let’s get this to Jamaica,’ which was always the goal,” says Merrill. In 2021, they moved their factory equipment from Canada to Jamaica, establishing their manufacturing base in the Caribbean nation. The tropical environment proved ideal for production. “It’s a perfect storm because the warm, humid air is ideal for concrete,” Merrill points out. “We’ve been able to refine our manufacturing process and give a more consistent product.” Ti Amo Apartment in Runaway Bay, St. Ann 67 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03 E-Z BLOCK (MANUFACTURING) & EVOLUTION ICF GROUP LIMITED (CONSTRUCTI
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx