4 Key Facts About the Concrete Masonry Checkoff Program

Aaron Fisher | March 8, 2023

What is the Concrete Masonry Checkoff Program?

The Concrete Masonry Checkoff is a program created by the concrete masonry industry to fund research, education and promotion activities. Checkoffs have primarily been used by agricultural industries which led to programs and campaigns like Got Milk?, Beef – It’s What’s for Dinner, and Pork – The Other White Meat.

The goal of Checkoff is to drive demand for concrete block and win back lost markets.

Our competitors in the wood industry have their own checkoff and invest over $25 million annually in promoting their products which, as you see daily, has been very effective in getting wood greater share of walls and structures. It is time for our industry to fight back and promote the durability, sustainability, and strength of our product and people.

Brendan Quinn, CEO, Ernest Maier

What is the Assessment?

It is the federal tax on block that funds the CMU Checkoff program. 1 cent per masonry unit goes to the Concrete Masonry Checkoff Board pursuant to the Concrete Masonry Products Research, Education, and Promotion Act of 2018. It is collected once by the manufacturer at the point of origin beginning April 1, 2023.

Where will the money be spent?

At least fifty percent (50%) of funds that come from a region will return to that region for investment in local programs, research, education and promotion. The national program is annually expected to raise at least $10 million.

Who is representing the local market?

Brendan Quinn, CEO of Ernest Maier, is serving as a Director on the national Checkoff Board. Dr. Aaron Fisher, VP of Business Development at Ernest Maier is serving as the Region 1 Research Advisory Council (RAC) Chair. Jan Boyer, Executive Director of the Mid-Atlantic Masonry Association, is a member of the Region 1 RAC. Most of the meetings are open to the public and your participation and feedback is welcome.