Xp Bonaire IslandLife Feature Story
Nestled away on the serene Caribbean Island of Bonaire, Ezone, a logistics powerhouse, is celebrating revolutionizing the way goods flow in and out of Bonaire. In October 2023, we commemorate the remarkable journey of Ezone, managed by Bart and his family, and reflect on their extraordinary legacy that continues to shape the logistics industry.
Humble Beginnings
A decade ago, in 2010, Bart Fielmich, the patriarch of the Fielmich family, laid the foundation for their logistics venture by establishing a DHL service on the island. It was a modest beginning, but Bart's vision was grand – he believed that Bonaire deserved world-class logistics services, and he was unwavering in his commitment to this cause.
The Takeover of Ezone Bonaire
Fast forward to 2013, and the DHL service on Bonaire had already earned a reputation for reliability. An exciting opportunity beckoned, and the concept of Ezone was born. Ezone aimed to transform the island's shipping and freight processes, and in 2013, it officially opened its doors, with Carl Fielmich, Bart's son, joining hands with family, friends, and siblings to embark on this entrepreneurial journey.
Carl Fielmich – Operational Director
Carl Fielmich's life journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Amsterdam, raised on the ABC islands and having experienced life across various Caribbean islands and continents, his diverse experiences have shaped the person he is today.
Carl's early years were marked by active engagement in community service, volunteering in probation and abuse victim support in Curacao. His passion for service extended to his involvement in the Youth Parliament and participation in political campaigns.
His academic journey, however, was not without its challenges. He eventually pivoted his focus to law, public administration and politics. In Europe, Carl realized the paramount importance of education, and on his path of self-discovery, logistics emerged as his true calling. His education equipped him with the tools needed to bring innovative changes to the logistics industry on Bonaire. During his studies, he introduced a barcoding system and leveraged social media to enhance customer service, underlining his commitment to continuous improvement at Ezone Bonaire.
In 2021, amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Carl made the pivotal decision to return to Bonaire from Europe, driven by a clear purpose - to contribute his expertise and passion to the family business, Ezone.
A Journey of Innovation
Ezone started small, handling just 200 pieces of cargo a month. However, the Fielmich family’s vision and determination knew no bounds. As online shopping gained momentum, Bonaire faced a challenge - lack of direct cargo connections to the USA, leading to logistical bottlenecks in Curacao at Don Andres.
Undeterred, Ezone Bonaire worked tirelessly to establish direct flights with FedEx and Amiri, ushering in a new era of logistics efficiency. It wasn't merely about moving goods; it was about connecting communities and turning dreams into reality. What began as a mission to connect the USA and Bonaire has expanded to connect Europe and Bonaire as well.
Expanding Horizons
Ezone's growth was not limited to Bonaire alone. A strategic partnership with Paul and Dane, the Ezone founders in Trinidad, marked the beginning of a remarkable expansion. Within 20 years, Ezone has spread its wings to over 30 locations, cementing its position as a trusted logistics partner.
Customer-Centric Philosophy
What truly sets Ezone Bonaire apart is its profound connection with its customers. Carl Fielmich, in particular, holds a special place in his heart for the loyal patrons of the company. He cherishes the moments when customers bring homemade treats or travel gifts to the office, fostering a sense of community and appreciation.
Celebrating Two Decades
October 2023 marked a grand celebration - the 20th anniversary of Ezone's journey and the 10th year of Fielmich & Sons on Bonaire. To honor this milestone, Ezone Bonaire organized a month-long Customer Appreciation event in October. Loyal customers were showered with gifts and heartfelt thanks, and touching videos highlighted their remarkable journey together.
Ezone Bonaire's unwavering commitment to excellence was recognized as they were crowned the Best Agent of the Year at a prestigious logistics conference attended by agents from around the world. It was a testament to their dedication and passion for the logistics industry.
December Rush
As December dawns, Ezone gears up for its busiest month yet. With Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Sinterklaas, and Christmas in full swing, the team works relentlessly to maintain their high standards of service. Their message to customers is clear: "Please comply, you need to upload your invoice to process your order."
A Legacy Continues
A momentous year, the Fielmich, family, reflects on their journey. They marvel at the legacy they have built and the profound impact of Ezone on the island community. With an unwavering commitment to customer service and a passion for logistics, they eagerly look forward to the next 20 years of transforming the way goods move in and out of Bonaire and beyond.
In just one decade, Ezone Bonaire has transformed from a modest DHL service into a logistics powerhouse with a global footprint. It's a testament to the vision, dedication, and innovation of the Fielmich family and their commitment to serving both their local community and customers worldwide. As Ezone continues to write its story, it remains a shining example of what can be achieved when passion and purpose come together in the world of logistics.
