QUICKBLOCK’S construction blocks are shipped flat packed on pallets for rapid assembly in the defence, security, humanitarian aid and commercial markets.

The Stirling-based company recently moved from its previous supplier in China to producing its blocks in Yorkshire amid current disruptions in the Red Sea shipping route, triggering container delays and sharp shipping price rises.

QUICKBLOCK is manufactured completely from post-consumer waste and the simple, yet effective system, provides easy to build structures which can be delivered to remote locations and be built by anyone with little need for any skilled labour.

The manufacturing switch came as the company successfully completed its latest investment round, raising £1.3m. The funding included £460,000 from existing investors Equity Gap, the University of Strathclyde and Scottish Enterprise, demonstrating a strong vote of confidence from early-stage investors in Scotland.

A further £738,000 was received through a Defence Innovation Loan, awarded by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), part of the UK Ministry of Defence, solidifying QUICKBLOCK’s position as an innovative new player advancing sustainable lifesaving solutions for the Defence and Security sectors.

QUICKBLOCK CEO and Strathclyde alumnus Andrew Vincent said: “Supply chain security and price were firmly on our risk radar and our switch in manufacturers came with impeccable timing.

“Our mission is to put sustainable construction in the hands of everyone, enabling people to build shelter and safe spaces. We are thrilled to embark on this next phase of growth and development, having recently re-shored our production to the UK, reducing our exposure to ongoing risk in global supply chains.

“The funds raised will be instrumental in further strengthening our amazing team, advancing our research and development efforts and enabling us to put new QUICKBLOCK solutions in the hands of our customers.”

Mr Vincent added: “The support of the Ministry of Defence shows encouraging signs in the appetite for the system which has wide utility in that market from protective structures or military, counter terrorism barriers for large scale events and even humanitarian aid shelters.”

Meryl Levington, director of innovation and industry engagement at Strathclyde, said: “Along with our investment partners we are pleased to support QUICKBLOCK as the company expands and develops.

“Strathclyde has a strong history of investing in innovative businesses and the company’s sustainable construction blocks have the potential to support the transition to a greener economy.”

Fraser Lusty, managing director at Equity Gap, said: “Equity Gap is delighted to continue to support QUICKBLOCK and provide the funding to scale the business and to build the team and grow international sales across multiple markets from its Scottish base.

“Andrew and his team continue to impress and are committed to embedding a modern circularity approach to their offering which will increasingly appeal to major sector customers seeking green viable material supply alternatives.”