Hello, welcome to an exclusive interview featuring a visionary whose entrepreneurial spirit shaped the very foundation of Erect & Tile. Today, we have the distinct honour of
delving into the extraordinary journey of Raymond Johnson, the ingenious mind
behind the inception and growth of this renowned enterprise. With a career steeped in innovation, perseverance, and unwavering dedication, Raymond propelled Erect & Tile to remarkable heights, leaving an incredible mark on the industry landscape. Join us as we explore the insights, experiences, and invaluable wisdom gained from this trailblazing leader.
What inspired you to start Erect & Tile, and what was the initial vision behind it?
Raymond: Ah, back in the days of my youth, I can still remember it like it was yesterday. It all started when I was just a wee lad, knee-high to a grasshopper. I had this fascination with crafting things out of discarded matches. I'd hover around my parents as they indulged in endless cigarettes, waiting eagerly for those used matches they tossed away. Ah, but I had to be patient, let them cool down first, didn't want to singe my fingers, you see!
Once they were safe to handle, off I scurried to the garden, adding them to my stash of used matches. And oh, my parents, they were quite the chain smokers! So, before long, I had myself a rather sizable collection.
But it wasn't just erecting things with matches that captivated me. Oh no, it was the art of tiling that came a bit later. You see, I'd salvage the remains of shattered crockery, remnants of my dear mother's frustration thrown at my father during those heated moments when she caught him straying again. Amidst that chaos, I found beauty in the broken pieces and the intricate patterns they could create.
It was when I merged the skills of matchstick construction with the artistry of tiling that I had my epiphany. I realised, with a spark of certainty, that I possessed the skills and the passion to turn what I loved into a livelihood. I had discovered my calling amidst the discarded remnants of everyday life.
How did you manage the early challenges and obstacles while building your company?
Ah, the early days were filled with their fair share of trials, as you might imagine. You see, one cannot construct a life solely from matches, even the unburnt ones. It became evident that I needed to diversify, to expand my craft beyond the confines of matchsticks if I were to thrive.
Those tumultuous times of the 70s and 80s, marked by harsh economic downturns, they surely took their toll on my endeavours. It was a challenging period, navigating through those recessions, trying to keep the flame of my passion burning amidst the financial hardships.
And yes, like any journey through the ages, there were scandals that came our way, stories best left untold for now, tales that etched their own lines on the canvas of my experiences.
What was a pivotal moment that significantly impacted the company's growth?
It was the invention and triumph of my innovative EnticiGrip© grout that truly was a game-changer for Erect & Tile. It was then that I could finally exhale, knowing that all the hard efforts had borne fruit, and success had found its way to us. EnticiGrip© brought a sense of stability and assurance, weaving together the elements of our craft and securing our place in the world. And no, I won't be sharing the secret formula with you!
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs based on your own experiences?
Never let anyone crush your dreams. My father was a cruel man who despised my matchstick and crockery structures. One evening he smashed them with a baseball bat in a fit of rage. I retaliated by revealing his latest affair to my mother, who tired from his constant infidelity, kicked him out forever. Good riddance.
How has your role or perspective changed since retiring from the company?
Since stepping down as Managing Director due to a number of health concerns, I've maintained a vigilant watch over proceedings. Truth be told, I never envisioned passing the reins to Jeremy, but circumstances left me no alternative. He was the only option, being our sole heir. Jennifer, my dear departed wife, God rest her soul, always wished for another child. Alas, fate had different plans for us, and it was never meant to be.
I can't deny it—Jeremy is proving to be remarkably adept in his role. The company's steady expansion under his leadership truly astonishes me. It's a pleasant surprise, albeit unexpected.
What activities or projects are you currently involved in during retirement?
In this first year of retirement I've embarked on an exhilarating journey with a senior parkour group, an endeavour that's proven to be immensely fulfilling and keeps me fit!
I also take great pleasure in indulging myself with regular massages and rejuvenating treatments at my daughter-in-law Letitia's splendid beauty salon. It's conveniently situated next to the Erect & Tile's new offices, allowing me to drop by frequently and greet the team, always relishing those moments of connection.
