IndustrySA Issue 4

OCT2012

ISSUE 4

DENEL LAND SYSTEMS INNOVATION PROTECTING MORE THAN ONE NATION

GENERAL MOTORS SOUTH AFRICA DRIVING CSR THROUGH YOUTH EDUCATION

WD HEARN TECHNICALLY THE BEST MACHINES

PRIME CIRCLEPLATINUM STATUS

We speak to Willem Esterhuyse, MeerKAT project manager, about ground-breaking

science in the Karoo region.

Out of this World

If you detect any of these

warning signs in a child,

please SMS the

name of your province to 34486.

A CHOC representative will contact

you shortly thereafter. (SMS cost R2)

To donate R10 a week to CHOC, simply text the

word “CHOC” to 37261. Your pledge will run concurrently until

YOU elect to opt out. (Standard rates apply)

Contact us tollfree at 086 111 3500

or visit our website at www.choc.org.za

Many children in our country are never diagnosed because their symptoms are not

recognised, or they are diagnosed too late for effective treatment. To help solve this problem,

the South African Children's Cancer Study Group has prepared this list of Warning Signs, for

distribution to primary health care centres. CHOC has supported the printing and

distribution of posters. They have been adopted by the International Society of Paediatric

Oncology (SIOP), for distribution throughout developing countries.

CHOC is a member of the International Confederationof Childhood Cancer Parent Organisationswww.icccpo.org

CHOC2004201

2_LSMSINGLE

Please assist us in“Keeping more than hope alive.”

EDITOR’S PAGE

EDITORIALEDITOR Joe ForshawWRITERSColin RentonTim HandsRoland DouglasChristian JordanPROJECTS MANAGERS Alicja Lewanczyk Leslie KempJanis BillingtonHal HutchisonLauren GreyADVERTISING SALESDavid HodgsonChris BolderstoneSTUDIOSTUDIO DIRECTOR Vishnu JooryLEAD DESIGNER Ian WilliamsSTUDIO MANAGER Michelle CassidyOFFICE MANAGER Tricia PlaneACCOUNTSMike Molloy, Jane ReederIT DIRECTORSDaniel Sizeland, Dionne Smith

ECP LTDMANAGING DIRECTOR David HodgsonOPERATIONS DIRECTOR Chris BolderstoneFINANCE DIRECTOR Scott WarmanFerndale Business Centre, 1 Exeter Street, Norwich, NR2 4QB

If you would like more information about ways in which IndustrySA can promote your business please call +44 1603 618000 or email [email protected]

East Coast Promotions Ltd does not accept responsibility for omissions or errors. The points of view expressed in articles by attributing writers and/or in advertisements included in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely coincidental. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this magazine, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from use of information published. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the publisher.

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Welcome to the fourth issue...

Being the editor of a business magazine allows me to hear inspirational stories of business excellence every day. I have been told by numerous leaders about the keys to success and I recently learnt of the importance of quality control.

Providing a quality service or product and doing it in a quality manner is one of the things at the top of the list for industry leading companies. It is so vital that customers receive quality as now there is more competition than ever. WD Hearn, a leading machine tooling company, tells us that quality after sales service is critical. Karsten, a leading fruit business, emphasise a quality product is what customers want. So what does quality mean to you?

Is it about something being non-inferior or superior or is it about fitness for purpose? Quality is a subjective attribute and whatever your perception of quality, however you judge it, it is one thing that all companies at the front of their industries focus on every day.

The Technology Innovation Agency recently announced its program to help young entrepreneurs with funding and practical business advice and you can guarantee that offering a quality product or service will be a major part of that advice. Quality assurance and quality control are now vitally important in business. With that in mind, we are this month again speaking to exemplary organisations including Chevron and Denel to understand how they keep quality levels high.

Get previews of our next issue and join in discussions like ‘South Africa’s most beautiful city’ on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ECPindustrysa and Twitter @industry_sa

Joe [email protected]

If you detect any of these

warning signs in a child,

please SMS the

name of your province to 34486.

A CHOC representative will contact

you shortly thereafter. (SMS cost R2)

To donate R10 a week to CHOC, simply text the

word “CHOC” to 37261. Your pledge will run concurrently until

YOU elect to opt out. (Standard rates apply)

Contact us tollfree at 086 111 3500

or visit our website at www.choc.org.za

Many children in our country are never diagnosed because their symptoms are not

recognised, or they are diagnosed too late for effective treatment. To help solve this problem,

the South African Children's Cancer Study Group has prepared this list of Warning Signs, for

distribution to primary health care centres. CHOC has supported the printing and

distribution of posters. They have been adopted by the International Society of Paediatric

Oncology (SIOP), for distribution throughout developing countries.

CHOC is a member of the International Confederationof Childhood Cancer Parent Organisationswww.icccpo.org

CHOC2004201

2_LSMSINGLE

Please assist us in“Keeping more than hope alive.”

OCT 12 PAGE 3

3 EDITOR’S PAGE A lesson in quality

6 NEWS All that’s happening in South Africa

10 ENTREPRENEUR Shona McDonald, making a real difference

12 CHARITY The Robben Island Balloon Run

14 FASHION Getting you suited and booted in the world’s finest suits

16 DESTINATION DIRECTOR Beauty on the doorstep

20 PRIME CIRCLE South African rock band on their journey so far

20

CONTENTS

PAGE 4 OCT 12

CONTENTS

CO

MPA

NY

RE

PO

RT

S

22 WD HEARNTechnically the best machines

30 KARSTENKarsten an eye over the fruit business

38 DENEL LAND SYSTEMS Innovation protecting more than one nation

46 CHEVRONFuelling a nation

52 FOSKOR A chemical reaction in mining

58 AFGENHelping SA to dig deep

64 THE SKASearching the skies for something out of this world

72 GOBAGoba goes the extra mile

80 JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTREWhen it comes to event hosting, size matters

84 BETAFENCE The best defence is Betafence

90 GENERAL MOTORS SOUTH AFRICADriving CSR through youth education

98 INDUSTRY RECOMMENDED This month’s showcased organisations

OCT 12 PAGE 5

72

NEWS A brief look at the issues making the news across South Africa. For more news stories visit industrysa.com

Distell is one of the biggest companies in the South African drinks industry. They are behind many of the favourite brands in the country and they recently increased their overseas expansion with the purchase of a 60% stake in Chinese liquor company CJ Wines and Spirits.

CJ Wines & Spirits is based in Zhongshan in the Pearl Valley Delta of Guandong province in southeast China and has operations in Hong Kong, Macau and mainland China. The new venture is called Distell China and is being headed up by Rody Wong, previously owner of CJ Wines and Spirits. Wong has established a strong support base for cognac brand Bisquit that Distell bought in 2009

The Far East is now the world’s biggest importer of cognac, with turnover exceeding US$1.25 billion.

Wong says that Distell China’s focus will be on building the presence of Bisquit in the southern part of the country initially. South China is referred to as the country’s ‘cognac belt’ as this is where most cognac is

The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) has approved loan facilities amounting to R9.6 billion in support of renewable energy projects within South Africa.

The 14 successful projects to benefit from DBSA loans are among the first batch of 28 preferred bidders, selected by the Department of Energy to provide South Africa with 3 725MW of renewable energy through its programme involving independent power producers.

The announcement came on Monday 22nd October after a ‘thorough environmental analysis’ of the chosen projects, “we believe this investment in the local power generation and transmission infrastructure will stimulate the development of the green economy which is a key priority in creating jobs and growing South African economy” explained Group Executive for Investments at the DBSA, Mr TP Nchocho.

The 14 successful projects are all in solar energy

consumed. Exports of cognac to China are surging according to French trade body Bureau National

Interprofessionel du Cognac (BNIC). Distell MD, Jan Scannell said: “The new

venture will carry spirits and wines from around the world, and that obviously gives us the scope to explore avenues for some of our

other brands.”He said that the priority for Distell

China was to focus on Bisquit and Amarula before considering other brands within the company’s portfolio for distribution.

Wong added: “The partnership with Distell creates the opportunity to accelerate the excellent progress achieved thus far with two of the company’s major brands Bisquit and Amarula. CJ’s conversancy with the cognac market is an important asset and we plan to bring this expertise in marketing to retail and on-consumption channels, to Amarula which is currently one of the fastest-growing spirits brands worldwide.”

with the exception of one; a wind energy project in Jeffrey’s Bay in the Eastern Cape. The solar projects include both concentrated solar and solar photovoltaic

projects, and with the exception of one project in the Free State province, are all located in the Northern Cape.

“Like all other transactions” explained Nchocho, “these projects were subjected to the Bank’s environmental appraisal guidelines to ascertain their impact towards the

environment…we are confident that investment in the solar energy programme would have less adverse impact on climate change and the environment.”

The loan is in support of a Government initiative to finance infrastructure programmes that are geared towards improving the security of energy supply which is needed to accelerate to economic growth of South Africa.BY LAUREN GREY

Distell moves into China

DBSA approves R9.6 billion for renewable energy projects in South Africa

PAGE 6 OCT 12


In September MetroWind, a South African renewable energy company, will begin building a 27 megawatt wind farm outside Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. The site is located in Van Stadens, between Port Elizabeth and Jeffrey’s Bay and construction will cost R550 million. The company says it has received final approval from regulatory authorities and the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality.

When the project is completed in October next year the site will be known as the Metrowind Van Stadens Farm and it will supply the municipality and Eskom with power. It will also be the first fully functional commercial wind farm in the Province.

The farm will consist of nine, three megawatt turbines and these will provide 80 million kilowatt hours each year to the local electricity grid. This will signal a big step towards the government’s green energy targets.

MetroWind director Ian Curry told Algoa FM in a

recent interview: “It’s about clean, renewable energy that’s being generated, the country’s in dire straits when it comes to generation capacity. We will be adding another 27 megawatts to the grid – 80,000 megawatt hours of electricity that will provide electricity close to source, to around 5000 to 6000 homes.

“That energy will be reducing our carbon footprint and saving a lot of water as well,”

MetroWind, which is 35% black owned, was chosen by the government as a preferred bidder for the construction and operation of commercial wind farms and now has a license to generate power by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa. While the company holds the license over the next 20 years they plan to put R50 million into local communities and allow those communities to own stakes in the large scale, energy producing sites.

SABMiller opens new greenfield brewery

NEWS

OCT 12 PAGE 7


PAGE 8 OCT 12

Finance Minister, Pravin Gordham has revealed that R3.6 billion was committed to South Africa’s Jobs Funds projects in its first year, during April 2011 and February 2012.

In a written response to a parliamentary question, the Finance Minister revealed that the Jobs Fund has approved more than R1.87 billion in grant funding, in addition to a further R1.78 million from the private sector.

Gordhan commented on the share between the state and private sector, saying it translated to an average of 95c for every R1 committed by the National Treasury.

The Fund, managed by the Development Bank of South Africa, was successfully launched in June 2011 with R9 billion set aside to be allocated over a three year period towards co-financing projects by public, private and non-governmental organisations that will significantly contribute towards job creation.

President Zuma was at the International Convention Centre in Durban recently to take part in the final draw for the 29th African Cup of Nations and he said that the country is ready to successfully host some of the world’s greatest players.

The tournament will be held between January 19th and February 10th 2013 and the world’s eyes will once again be on South Africa as 16 of Africa’s best footballing nation’s battle it out for the continental trophy.

Zuma said the tournament would be a special occasion for South Africa as the national team would be making a return after a four year absence from the continental competition.

He also extended his special congratulations to Cape Verde, who will be appearing in the tournament for the first time after knocking out one of the giants of African football, Cameroon, in the qualifiers.

South Africa had a proud record of hosting wonderful sporting events, Zuma said at the draw, adding that the 2013 Afcon finals would “be a timely reflection on the legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which we hosted successfully with the support of the African continent.”

Afcon local organising committee (LOC) chairman Mwelo Nonkonyane said:

The Jobs Fund will run until 2014 and has so far allocated 46.5% (R870 million) of all fund approvals to organisations running 16 enterprise developments projects, with these organisations contributing a further R816.9 million in funding.

The remainder of funds have been allocated to 20 projects to support those seeking work, four projects helping to build institutional capacity and one project of R50 million in infrastructure investment.

Those organisations which obtained funding in the first round of grants had projected they would create 10 344 new permanent jobs and 39 873 short term jobs over the next three years, with a further 36 729 people expected to have successfully completed training.BY LAUREN GREY

““We can assure you that as you go home to start preparing for this tournament and come back to battle for this coveted trophy, you will find the LOC ready to deliver a seamless tournament.

“We’ve put in place plans around team transport, training venues, team hotels, including team security and escort mechanisms, and spectator experience that will ensure that every single stadium has an offering that is unique.”

South Africa have been drawn in group A alongside Cape Verde, Morocco and Angola with all four teams being based in Durban.

South African Jobs Fund proves a success in its first year

SA is ready for Afcon 2013

NEWS A brief look at the issues making the news across South Africa. For more news stories visit industrysa.com NEWS

OCT 12 PAGE 9

SA is ready for Afcon 2013

Sephaku Cement recently secured nearly R2 billion in debt funding for its R3.4 billion African grinding facility projects.

In the North West province, in Aganang near Lichtenburg, the company is developing a cement production facility with the capacity of around 1.2 million tons per year. In Delmas, Mpumalanga the company is also developing a grinding facility with the yearly capacity of around 1.4 million tons.

It is reported that Standard Bank and Nedbank jointly funded the projects in a ten year deal valued at around R1.95 billion.

Sephaku Cement is an associate company of the JSE listed Sephaku Holdings and a subsidiary of Nigerian company Dangote Cement. The Nigerian-backed company will be the first new entrant in the South African cement production market to open its own new plant since 1934, and will be looking to challenge big local producers Lafarge, PPC and AfriSam as the country’s state-led infrastructure building programme gathers pace.

The CEO of Sephaku Cement, Pieter Fourie, said the deal pointed to “a strong, new commitment to industrial development in South Africa. Through new infrastructure establishment in Mpumalanga and the North West province and the resulting local job creation, the investment benefit will extend to provincial and community development.”

A new player in SA cement marketGreg Webber, head of mining finance South Africa at

Nedbank Capital, described the agreement as “a strong endorsement of South Africa’s economy and more particularly the need to meet our growing housing and infrastructure requirements.”

Sephaku began construction on its Aganang plant in 2010, and expects to start cement production in late 2013.

South Africa’s tax revenue has grown by R68.5 billion in the last financial year according to the 2012 Tax Statistics Report.

The report, released by the South African Revenue Service (SARS), confirmed a tax revenue total of R742.6 billion; SARS noted that a 10% increase in tax revenue stands in marked contrast to 2009/10 when tax revenue contracted by four per cent, following the 2008 economic crisis.

The growth in tax collections in 2011/12 was driven largely by significant increases in Company Income Tax (CIT) and Personal Income Tax (PIT).

CIT, which makes up around one fifth of all economic contributions, was up 15% from R133 billion in 2010/11, to R152.6 billion, whilst PIT, making up one third of all tax contributions increased 10% from R184 billion to R191 billion.

The fifth annual statistics report released by SARS, also revealed that as of March 31st this year, there were just over two million companies, 652,349

10% increase in tax revenuevendors, 247,595 importers and 224,216 exporters registered.

Of the 2.03 million companies registered with SARS, one third were liable to submit CIT and as of March 31st, over half of those companies had been assessed for tax.

Furthermore, the report reveals that Value Added Tax (VAT), which makes up a further quarter of tax contributions, grew by four per cent to R191 billion, and custom duties 26% to R34 billion.

Growth in domestic VAT payments came mainly from the financing, insurance, real estate and business service sector, agriculture, forestry and fishing and the coal and petroleum products sectors, offset by declines in the vehicle, parts and accessories and construction sectors.

Executive of Revenue Analysis, Randall Carolissen, commented on the 10% increase in tax revenue, stating that the collection of taxes is influenced by the performance of the economy, the overall level of compliance with tax and people’s response to administrative measures.BY LAUREN GREY

ENTREPRENEUR

Shona McDonald is an entrepreneur whose work has had an impact on the lives of a huge amount of people. A lot of people will get into business with the original goal of making profit, a fair motivation, but Shona McDonald moved into business after being inspired by her daughter.

Shelley, Shona’s daughter, was born with cerebral palsy and Shona had designed and manufactured wheelchairs to cater for Shelley’s needs because of the difficulty of finding locally made equipment of the correct specification. After working with non-profit organisations and research divisions, including the Bio-medical Engineering Unit at the University of Cape Town, Shona produced her first chair. This buggy was the first South African wheelchair that could be used not only on flat, paved roads and in urban areas, but also on uneven terrain, in sand, and over hills and rocks and instantly demand for similar products began to come in from other parents.

Shona founded Shonaquip in 1992 as a close corporation and the business was originally run out of her garage. The business sells wheelchair buggies and support devices for disabled children.

Shona started the business as a way to accomplish

several goals. She wanted to prove that people in wheelchairs could earn respectable incomes and become primary bread winners. She wanted to use the business to pursue poverty alleviation goals and to demonstrate to the public that she could develop practical and workable solutions via policy transformation. She also wanted parents to hope and to safely dream that their children could grow up with some pride and respect. She wanted to know that one day she could pass on a successful and sustainable business that would continue to grow and develop as a tool for transformation.

Today the business is headquartered in Plumstead, a suburb of Cape Town and there are also two further branches in the Western Cape and Gauteng and a factory near Cape Town. It is reported that the company builds more than 6000 wheelchairs each year and generates in excess of US$4 million in revenue. Shonaquip employs around 70 people many of whom are themselves disabled. Half of Shonaquip’s income is generated from government business, with 30% coming from private clients and medical insurers, and 20% from humanitarian agencies and NGOs. It is a fantastic achievement for a company which employs a relatively small amount of people but positively

Shonaquip – Globally recognised social enterprise.Our entrepreneur for this month provides a real ‘feel good’ story. Shona McDonald

started Shonaquip in 1992 designing, manufacturing and selling wheelchairs and

advice for disabled people across Southern Africa.

PAGE 10 OCT 12

By Joe Forshaw

ENTREPRENEUR

impacts on the lives of so many. Shona McDonald has received widespread praise and

recognition for her work and recently Shonaquip was named the South African Social Enterprise of the Year for 2011. She was also recognised by the World Economic Forum as the outstanding social entrepreneur in South Africa in 2010, she was winner of the Ernst and Young Social Entrepreneur award in 2009 and also in 2010 the Shonaquip business was featured on French national television.

The Shonaquip business core activity is the sale of the innovative wheelchairs and other unique products but a big part is also support services and training for wheelchair users and the people around them. Shonaquip provides community-based clinical services and training workshops on proper wheelchair fitting and the importance of postural support, to therapists and associated professionals

across South Africa’s nine provinces, Zimbabwe and Namibia. This side of the business is complemented by the Uhambo Shonaquip Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that looks to influence policy design relating to disability.

Shona McDonald’s drive an ambition has helped improve the lives of people across Southern Africa and her work has inspired research and development, increased knowledge and skills relating to disabled care and she does it all through a self-less, caring approach.

The company is looking to continue its fantastic growth responsibly and has been recognised as an industry leader and expert in manufacture and design of disability equipment by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Department of Health in South Africa.

Her commitment is admirable and her self-taught entrepreneurial drive is an example to follow. ●

OCT 12 PAGE 11

She wanted to prove that people in wheelchairs could earn respectable incomes and become primary bread winners

CHARITYSA

How do most people travel between Robben Island and the mainland? The most common method is a 30 minute ride on the ferry which leaves the V&A Waterfront at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm every day.

For Matt Silver-Vallance, pilot for the Robben Island Ballon Run (RIBR), the ferry does not get the heart rushing and adrenaline flowing so he has decided to make the journey across Table Bay hanging from a cluster of helium-filled balloons. Cluster ballooning is a form of ballooning where the pilot is suspended in a paragliding harness attached to a cluster of helium-filled latex balloons. To maintain altitude, equilibrium is established between the lifting force of the helium balloons and the combined weight of the balloonist, his equipment and ballast (usually in the form of water or sandbags). To initiate a descent, the pilot would incrementally jettison or deflate balloons and to initiate ascent the pilot will jettisons ballast.

BUT WHY?You are probably asking yourselves the same thing we did when we heard about this ludicrous event, why would you ever attempt something like this? The RIBR is a unique spectacle and aims to support fundraising for the proposed Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital in Johannesburg. It has been a long term vision of Mr Mandela to change the way society treats children and youth, by the realisation of a dedicated children’s hospital. As founder of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund he has given his full support to the Nelson Mandela

The Robben Island Balloon RunPeople do a lot of crazy things for charity. How far would you go to support a

meaningful cause? Would you suspend yourself 600 feet above Table Bay and the

Atlantic Ocean with nothing but some helium balloons holding you? That is the

plan of Matt Silver-Vallance…

By Roland Douglas

Children’s Hospital and the team behind the RIBR are looking to raise funds and awareness to contribute towards this vision.

There is a vastly experienced team behind Mr Silver-Vallance, as you can imagine this is an ambitious plan and it requires intense attention to detail and preparation. Mike Howard is the operations manager for the RIBR. He is a pilot for Emirates Airlines and has performed the second most number of cluster-ballooning flights in the world as well as holding a number of Guinness World Records. Jim Howard, Mike’s father, has also been a consultant for this project. Jim was the design engineer and co-director for Cameron Balloons who are the largest balloon manufacturer in the world.

Every safety precaution has been taken. There will be a powered paraglider, piloted by Keith Pickersgill, flying alongside Mr Silver-Vallance. Mr Pickersgill will

PAGE 12 OCT 12

This imaginative idea is sure to capture mass attention. There is already a significant following building through social network websites and other media. The location ties in perfectly with Mr Mandela’s connection to Robben Island and the principal of using balloons has attracted sponsorship from Afrox who will supply the helium.

If you would like to follow the RIBR then go to www.balloonrun.com or be involved

on Facebook (www.facebook.com/RobbenIslandBalloonRun.

com), Twitter (@Balloonbloke) or Google+. GoogleSA will be broadcasting the event through YouTube and Hangouts. The flight is scheduled to take place in April 2013 so keep an eye on the website and donate what you can to a fantastic cause. ●

OCT 12 PAGE 13

communicate with Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) regarding altitude and progress. There will also be a safety vessel tracking the entire flight, piloted by Mike Morris, who will be able to assist with a water landing.

FUND RAISINGThe whole project including the fundraising is being organised by the Launchpad for Charity Foundation set up by Mr Silver-Vallance and associates. With approximately 200 x 5 foot-in-diameter helium balloons attached to himself Mr Silver-Vallance hopes to raise R10,000,000 from global donations to the cause. The team has undertaken many face-to-face fund raising events in the UK and beyond, there will also be opportunities to donate through the website (www.ballonrun.com) and buy tickets for an online raffle for which there are fantastic prizes on offer.

“ Cluster ballooning is a form of ballooning where the pilot is suspended in a paragliding harness attached to a cluster of helium-filled latex balloons”

CHARITYSA

SUITED AND BOOTED

South Africa is not particularly well known for its tailors. When you think of a top class suit you perhaps think of Milan, London or New York. While there are fantastic tailors in SA we are going to launch the search for the best suits a little further afield. Because a suit says so much about you it is important to get it right and we think we have made some pretty good recommendations. After speaking to one of the world’s foremost tailors we have come up with the following selections for you, sure to astound your employees, impress your colleagues and make you feel good all day long.

The collection we recommend comes from an Italian business. Italy has been one of the world’s leaders in the fashion industry for a long time. Italians are known for their attention to fashion, “la bella figura” or good impression is still traditional in the Italian way of living.

Castangia is one of the finest brands around when it comes to luxury suits. The business was founded in 1850 by Giovanni Castangia in Cagliari. After more than a century and a half and six successive generations at the helm of the business the traditional values remain unchanged. Indeed, this family business has always been known for its great attention to detail, unmistakable elegance in the cuts and a genuine pride in serving a refined and cosmopolitan clientele. Castangia continues to remain faithful to its firm belief in striking a balance between respecting tradition and embracing new challenges.

Castangia suits have won many prestigious awards including first prize for tailoring technique, style and

Which suit suits you?Fashion is important in the modern world of business. Your fashion sense can say a lot about you as a person, business and boss. A suit can define your taste, discretion and in some cases your annual bonus. IndustrySA looks at some of the best around…

By Joe Forshaw

PAGE 14 OCT 12

fit at the International Association of Clothing Designers and Executives Convention in 2003. The brand has been synonymous with unrivalled quality in Europe and Italy for many years and it became known in the US after the cast of Oliver Stone’s 1987 ‘Wall Street’ were seen wearing the double breasted Castangia suit.

In 2012 Castangia suits are a symbol of success, class and quality for people in entertainment, politics and economic affairs. They have stores in Milan, Rome, Bologna, New York, Moscow and Tokyo, and they will be opening more in places such as Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan.

It is the skill of the tailors that make Castangia the leader in the industry. Castangia creations are produced in a modern plant where 120 expert tailors meticulously follow every stage of production to create the made-to-measure garments for the most famous names all over the world. More than 20 hours of careful work goes into every Castangia suit. Only after thousands of stitches, skilful canvassings, careful facings, precise trimmings and patient stokes of the iron, only when each individual part is perfect, can the distinctive harmony of the Castangia garment be achieved.

Alberto Grilletti is the CEO of the Castangia business and he tells us that the philosophy is about exclusivity, prestige and a continual search for perfection. The suits, shirts, knitwear and accessories which make up the

PAGE 14 OCT 12

SUITED AND BOOTED

OCT 12 PAGE 15

Castangia collections are all individual works of art and are emblematic of the excellence of Made in Italy throughout the world.

Members of the Castangia team are happy to travel out of Italy to come and meet your requirements, for more information go to www.castangia1850.com

If you want a suit that is made by master tailors, with the finest materials, with great care, that encapsulates the very essence of success then look no further than Castangia. ●

OCT 12 PAGE 15

The suits, shirts, knitwear and accessories which make up the Castangia collections are all individual works of art

DESTINATION DIRECTOR

We know that there are a lot of fantastic locations in South Africa to see natural beauty and take that perfect picture. There are numerous world heritage sites, fantastic mountain ranges, world-class beaches and unusual wildlife. We will take a look at five of the most popular sites to visit and what makes them astounding attractions that will not need you to board a plane and fly across the world.

TABLE MOUNTAIN – CAPE TOWN From the beach, the city, the suburbs and the ocean you can see this giant mountain. A huge attraction for tourists and visitors, Table Mountain is the backdrop of Cape Town. To get to the top of the mountain you can hike or take the popular cableway, and when you get there whichever route you chose to get to the top will fall to the back of your mind as you are taken in by the astonishing views across Cape Town, Table Bay, Robben Island and the Atlantic Ocean.

Natural beauty, right on the doorstepBy Joe Forshaw

PAGE 16 OCT 12

The top of the mountain is flat, contributing to the name ‘Table Mountain’, and is often covered with orographic clouds, sometimes called the ‘Table Cloth’. It is truly a beautiful sight and has been the subject of many famous works of art from some of the world’s foremost artists and photographers.

Table Mountain is part of a sandstone mountain range forming part of the Cape Peninsula, which continues to the south and Cape Point. The mountain is part of the Table Mountain National Park which is described as a “South African jewel, international tourism icon and a Natural World Heritage Site”.

It is unusual that such a well-recognised bio-diversity site exists within a thriving metropolitan area; Table Mountain is home to a rich environment with lush flora and fauna. Flanked by Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head, the mountain is a memorable picture when viewed from Bloubergstrand. In the 2012 FIFA World Cup Table Mountain played a big part

PAGE 16 OCT 12

There is an abundance of natural beauty in South Africa. You don’t have to fly across the globe to see sights that can truly blow you away. In previous issues of IndustrySA we have looked at great destinations further afield but this month we look at stunning sites right at home in South Africa.


OCT 12 PAGE 17

in advertising campaigns for TV companies from all over the world.

TUGELA FALLS – KWAZULU-NATAL Located in KwaZulu-Natal, in the Royal Natal National Park, Tugela Falls are a wonderful sight. The falls source is the Tugela River which starts atop the Mont-Aux-Sources plateau in the Drakensberg Mountains. Oh and don’t forget, Tugela Falls is the world’s second highest waterfall. The total drop is 948m (3110 feet).

The water actually falls from the edge of a peak called the Amphitheatre and the only way to the summit is via two chain ladders, a potentially gruelling hike and a long drive. As the water reaches the ground it has travelled over five cascades and there is a trail to the bottom of the falls which starts in the Royal Natal National Park and is easier than the trail to the top, passing through indigenous forests.

Tugela is a phonetic spelling of the word Thukela

meaning ‘sudden’ or ‘startling’ and it certainly lives up to this name as the water makes a very sudden leap into the sky at 948m up.

KRUGER NATIONAL PARKA safari is fun for everyone, not just a small drive through

one with some farm yard animals for the kids, we are talking about the sort with the big five and such astonishing scenery that people flock from all over the world to visit every year.

Kruger National Park spans two million hectares and is unrivalled in its diversity of life forms. It is a world leader in environmental management techniques and home to an impressive number of species.

Obviously this park is famous for having the Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo and Leopard among its residents but it is surprising that although it is not far from Johannesburg and Pretoria a lot of South African’s are still yet to visit this jewel. Citizens with ID can gain significant discounts to access the

OCT 12 PAGE 17


PAGE 18 OCT 12 PAGE 18 OCT 12

park, something which is sure to make the huge numbers of international tourists very jealous.

The park was established in 1898 with the purpose of protecting the wildlife of the South African Lowveld. It is run by South African National Parks (SANParks), experts in maintaining the country’s wildlife tourism destinations.

There is the opportunity for thrilling game drives and up close and personal walking safaris, there are family trips, luxury adventures and honeymoon options available to make every guest feel welcome. Some of the rarest animals alive live on the park and to see them in their natural habitat is something that not a great deal of people will get to see so it is a perfect opportunity for something a little different without having to travel all over the world.

The park forms part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere, an area designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as an International Man and Biosphere Reserve. Although it has gained these accreditations it is still a site that poachers try and exploit but the Park Police are cracking down hard on this. This, along with the fact that wild animals roam free make it intriguingly dangerous and exciting – not to be

missed when it is so easily accessible!

VREDEFORT DOMEThe Vredefort Dome is one of the more magical places on earth. Around 120km south of Johannesburg is the town of Vredefort and it is home to one of the most important scientific sites in history.

It is estimated that 2023 million years ago Vredefort was the site for the largest meteorite impact on earth, ever. The original crater, now eroded away, is estimated to have been 300km in diameter and the deepest astrobleme ever found on earth. An astrobleme is a meteorite impact structure where meteors will hit the earth and after rebounds will form domes or hills.

Scientists have said that this impact is the greatest known single energy releasing event, which had devastating global effects and some say major evolutionary implications.

It is unlikely that a lot of South African’s have been to the Vredefort dome area and not surprising as there really is not too much there to see. The images that help paint a clearer picture of what happened are taken from space and any after effects of the impact are now just common looking parts

Kruger National Park spans two million hectares and is unrivalled in its diversity of life forms.


OCT 12 PAGE 19 OCT 12 PAGE 19

of the countryside but it is a world heritage site with great importance and to say that you have that in your country is an interesting boast to have. To tell people you have been to the site of the largest meteoric impact with our planet is something that not many others around the world will be able to say.

It is a geologically exciting location as strata comprising the middle to upper zones of the earth’s crust are exposed. These layers of crust are developed over a period of 3200 million years so it is a wildly unique area with an enormous amount of scientific information.

Take a look at the pictures and historical write ups about the area and see if you can get away without delving a little deeper into the story behind the mysterious and unusual site. Another world heritage site which is located only a short distance from Johannesburg and perhaps not a destination that everyone would think to visit.

PRINCE EDWARD ISLANDS The Prince Edward Islands are two very small islands in the

Sub-Antarctic Indian Ocean. Officially part of South Africa the two islands are named Marion Island and Prince Edward Island. They are not tourist destinations or holiday hotspots; they are in fact, named as Special Nature Reserves by the South African Environmental Management: Protected areas act no. 57 of 2003. The only human residents on the islands are the staff of a meteorological and biological research station run by the South African National Antarctic Programme.

The climate is cool and windy. Strong winds blow hard, all year round so perhaps this is not the ideal destination for holiday makers but it is interesting that such a place is so close to South Africa and no one ever goes there.

Maybe this could be the place for a very different trip. The islands are volcanic and UNESCO world heritage sites with Marion Island reportedly erupting, on a small scale, on numerous occasions since 1980. UNESCO is always looking for donations to help fund research and maybe a donation could help you if you are truly interested in visiting these unique islands. ●

It is truly a beautiful sight and has been the subject of many famous works of art from some of the world’s foremost artists and photographers.

PRIME CIRCLE

How and when did the band meet and become a recording group?

We started late 2001, we all met at a club that bass player Marco Gomes used to own. We were all in different bands and decided to join forces.

How do you feel when people say that Prime Circle’s music has inspired them?

That inspires us to keep on writing and touring. When someone tells us that our music has helped or affected them it really means a lot to us

Do you enjoy listening to your own songs?Mainly in the production process, then not much, that way

a song can keep evolving. A recorded track is a record of the band at that time. It’s never really finished

South Africa is your home and where a large section of your audience resides. Does the country influence your music at all?

Of course, the people and the times influence us a lot, this

Prime Circle, made up of Ross Learmonth, Dale Schnettler, Dirk Bisschoff, Marco Gomes and Neil Breytenbach, are one of South Africa’s leading rock bands. Lead singer and guitarist Ross Learmonth recently took the time to chat with IndustrySA about the group’s success.

PAGE 20 OCT 12

is home and where we feel comfortable to create the most.Do you think you have been successful so far in taking

your music to an international audience and breaking new territories?

I think we have, there have been a lot of hurdles we’ve have to overcome, I think we will continue to grow internationally.

Do you have plans to move it further forward, take on America and gain more of a solid following there?

We do, we are concentrating more on Europe for the time being, but the States is definitely in the near future.

Is there anything innovative or different about the upcoming album or does it pick up where Jekyll and Hyde left off with classic Prime Circle material?

The new album is more guitar driven with a lot more punchy hooks. It isn’t as dark as Jekyll & Hyde. Artists always say this but I think it’s our best work to date. It’s going to be fun to play live.

PAGE 20 OCT 12

Platinum status

By Joe Forshaw

PRIME CIRCLE

OCT 12 PAGE 21

The South African tour in December will offer a chance to be amongst the home grown fans, so many of whom voted in the MK Awards. Does this make you nervous or excited?

Excited, first and foremost as we are a live rock band, that’s where we earned our place and that’s how we will continue to keep doing it.

We recently spoke to another fantastic musician, Dan Patlansky, and he told us that touring is a huge part of his life. Do you really enjoy touring or do you prefer being at home in SA and working on new material?

I would say a bit of both, but touring is a huge part of our lives...we are nomads

What is the long-term goal for the band? Album sales? Awards? International success? Happy fans? Band member action figures?

I would have to say all of the above, we are very ambitious.

As a band, a business and a brand what advice would you

give to young people and new groups looking to follow in the footsteps of Prime Circle?

We unfortunately made a few bad choices with some deals in our past. My advice would be to make sure you work with passionate people who are there for the right reasons. And read everything, don’t trust too easily. But have fun, music is supposed to be fun after all.

For more on Prime Circle visit:www.primecircle.co.za@Prime_Circlewww.facebook.com/Prime.CircleFor press enquires visit:www.totalexposure.co.za

Prime Circle’s new album, Evidence, is out in October and their new single ‘Time Kills Us All’ is now playing on the radio around the country. ●

OCT 12 PAGE 21

“When someone tells us that our music has helped or affected them it really means a lot to us”

COMPANY REPORT

WD Hearn is a machine tool company operating in the highly technical, South African manufacturing, mining, automotive and aerospace industries to name but a few. We have recognised in the past that South African’s are considered early adopters of technology and this is fortunate for the WD Hearn business. The machines that are sold and serviced form important parts of manufacturing businesses across the entire nation. The product portfolio includes: Conventional mills, conventional lathes, CNC machining centres, CNC turning centres, fully automated band saws, surface grinders radial drills and many, many more.

Graeme Cooper is the national sales manager for WD Hearn and he recently spoke to IndustrySA to explain more about the product range and the processes which have made the business a national success.

“The company was founded in 1937 and the original founder was a man named Brigadier

W.D Hearn. In 1985 there was a management buyout and this was when Ray Cooper and three others bought the company. This was also when WD Hearn sold their first

CNC (Computer Numerically

Graeme Cooper is the national sales manager for WD Hearn, one of South

Africa’s leading machine tooling companies. He tells us how they make these

complex machines serve your organisation without any trouble at all.

Controlled) machine. Since then we have really diversified into the installation and sales of high-tech CNC equipment. Three of the directors have left since 1985 and Ray Cooper is now the managing director.

“The company specialises in precision metal cutting, metal removal equipment, imports, installation, commissioning and then the after sales service with that equipment.”

The business is headquartered in Cape Town and has branches in all the major business hubs including Durban, Port Elizabeth, East London and Johannesburg. The business has worked with some of the country’s and the world’s major brands and their work is not done exclusively in South Africa. “We’ve done a few installations in Angola, Kenya and Botswana. It’s a small percentage of what we do but we are capable. In fact, one of our applications engineers is going up to Kenya to do some training on a big machine but our main focus is South Africa,” says Mr Cooper.

PUNCHING THROUGH RECESSIONSThe current economic climate around the world has made business tight for everyone. Some South African businesses have felt the squeeze more than others but at WD Hearn the constant flow of long-term contracts has helped the organisation push through relatively unscathed. “The last four years have been absolutely amazing for us, we’ve done well, but it has been tough. We’ve had great turnover from enquiries to sales. Our big projects working in the background have really taken the pressure off; in 2010 we installed 80 horizontal machines into Ford for the 1.4 and 1.5 litre engine blocks which are being produced for the rest of the

Installing the world’s best machines into your business By Joe Forshaw

PAGE 22 OCT 12

WD HEARN

OCT 12 PAGE 23

world in Port Elizabeth. Having projects like that has taken the pressure off the stand alone sales but we have done well with those as well,” says Mr Cooper.

WD Hearn opened in Johannesburg five years ago, right in the heat of the economic slowdown. Mr Cooper reports that since then the business has seen exponential growth and has survived the tough market place to prosper.

The company is not the only one of its kind in the market. “There is a lot of competition in South Africa. We are always on our toes, there are a lot of good products out there,” Mr Cooper, and he is well aware of the importance of a good reputation and quality service delivery.

“We’ve put a large emphasis on service so word of mouth advertising and an old reputation have gone a long way for us. We do a lot of marketing in the press and through exhibitions and that has also helped us.”

OFFICIAL SIEMENS PARTNERThe machines sold by WD Hearn are not toys. They require skilled operatives and engineers to keep them running smoothly. They supply machines from agencies including Leadwell, Mag, Sanco, Electronica, Renishaw and Ann Way Machines Tools to name but a few.

Upgrade your machines to accommodate the latest technology.The Siemens 828D makes basic programming easy on the machine. No expensive CAD/CAM software needed.Programs can be transferred with a USB stick.Unique graphical display for programs. Service and repair of Sinumerik, Simodrive and Sinamics.

T +27 11 979 5080

F +27 86 529 0073

E [email protected]

www.ejeindustrialelectronics.co.za

EJE Industrial Electronics – Machine tool upgrade specialists.

DOES YOUR MACHINE NEED AN UPGRADE?

EJE INDUSTRIAL ELECTRONICS

OCT 12 PAGE 25

EJE Industrial Electronics is now in its twelfth year as a company and has become the preferred CNC (Computer Numerical Control) service company for Siemens in South Africa. Run by Peet Buitendag and Dawie Malan, the core business of EJE is the service and repair of Siemens SINUMERIK, SIMODRIVE and SINAMICS materials.

Peet Buitendag tells IndustrySA that with the help of EJE your machines could gain an extra 15 years of life. “We do modernising of all machine tools. We will strip out all of the equipment and replace it with new technology to give it extra life; this is also a large part of our business.”

EJE has cemented its position as an industry leader thanks to its expertise, experience and partnerships. EJE deal with over 300 customers across Southern Africa, servicing big name brands such as Avure, Flow - Waterjet Cutters, Leadwell and Siemens. Mr Buitendag explains that the business is not limited to working in only one country. “From our base in Kempton Park we operate throughout South Africa and we have done service jobs in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Angola, Kenya and across Africa. Right now we are busy with a project for Botswana Railways.”

Investment in the right areas has seen EJE grow over the years, so much so that not even the recent global economic crash managed to derail the business. “We have not felt any pressures at all. Servicing is an on-going thing so our business has remained strong,” says Mr Buitendag.

He adds: “Our expansion comes through training

Peet Buitendag of EJE

Industrial Electronics tells

IndustrySA that his business

is now the service provider

of choice when it comes to

Siemens CNC machinery.

new apprentices. We are always up to date with new products and our staff is sent yearly to Siemens and Flow in Germany to be trained and updated on their latest products. This keeps the customers happy in South Africa.

“I’m not scared to invest money in training. We are always first to explore new products from Siemens. We have open communication with their headquarters in Germany.”

All of the service technicians are highly skilled and have years of experience in the industry and Mr Buitendag is fully aware that it is this expertise that give EJE the advantage in the market and make them the approved service agent for so many leading brands.

“A more recent focus for us has been becoming an approved service partner for Flow Waterjet. We service all of their machines in South Africa. We have four specially trained engineers who are the only guys in the country capable of servicing those machines,” says Mr Buitendag.

With the South African manufacturing industry in a relatively good place thanks to infrastructure investment and booming defence and mining industries the success of EJE looks set to continue. With the expertise and experience offered by the company and the emphasis placed on training and up-skilling it is clear that EJE will remain at the forefront of the industrial electronics industry for the foreseeable future. ●

CNC SYSTEMS EXPERTSBy Roland Douglas

“ I’m not scared to invest money in training”

COMPANY REPORT

“ Railways is a huge focus for us at the moment”

PAGE 26 OCT 12

One of the partnerships that has provided a huge benefit to WD Hearn has been with Siemens. The German electronics and electrical engineering company provides controls for the WD Hearn machines as Mr Cooper explains: “For the past four years we’ve been working with Siemens. It has possibly been the biggest factor for our growth in our stand alone machining centres and turning centres. They have been fantastic in their support of us. We can handle every aspect of after sales service on the controls and they have given us a lot of training by sending representatives and engineers to us. Since they moved into

the mid-range market and we have gone with their controls it has been a resounding success.”

The manufacturing sector has received a boost recently as the government look to upgrade and improve infrastructure across the nation. WD Hearn machines are playing a big part in that upgrade and Mr Cooper tells us that work in the railway industry and with Transnet has been a major focus. “Railways is a huge focus for us at the moment. In the last year my priority has been railways and related heavy duty machining equipment. Transnet have been big customers in the last year.

“We sold two 16 metre bridge type machines which

will manufacture the bogies for Transnet. You can fit two carriages on this machine and we are responsible for the fixturing, tooling, programming and complete manufacturing like a turn-key project. Each machine weighs 175 tons and we have distributed other large machines to Transnet branches across the country – Cape Town, Saldanha, Port Elizabeth and Pretoria.”

THE MACHINESAlthough WD Hearn has a large focus on service and after sales care the machines are still the core product. So what machines do they sell and what industries can these machines assist with. “One of our biggest strength is our agencies. We’ve been very selective and we’ve carefully chosen who we represent from around the world. We’ve got some very high-end machines from a company called Mag which will cover all automotive and mass production enquiries. For heavy duty, like the railways, we have two very strong agencies, Sanco

and Yushine. In each sector, whether it’s mining, aerospace or automotive we have a suitable brand.”

Transnet have seen the full range of capabilities from WD Hearn and Mr Cooper is understandably proud of the work. “We offer turnkey solutions so the customer will come to us with a component and say that they need to manufacture this as quickly as possible, we will then find the correct process, the correct machine, the correct tooling and then recommend a

turnkey project for them which we can implement from start to finish, and that’s what’s happened with

Transnet.”

THE PEOPLEPeople make businesses what they are. If you do

not have the right people you will not get the right profit. People drive innovation and at WD Hearn people drive the machines. Obviously a knowledgeable, experienced workforce is required to take care of the after sales service and to help with the day-to-day sales of the company.

“Our after sales service is critical. We’ve got a team of engineers in each city. Each engineer has different specialties. We believe in the training of engineers so they will regularly travel to Taiwan and Germany and they get factory training on the products. The engineers have years and years of experience to understand the mechanics of it all,” says Mr Cooper.

It is because of this unrivalled expertise and national

WD HEARN

reach that WD Hearn is amongst the industry leaders and deals with massive clients including Denel, Bell, Argent, Joy Mining Machinery, Distell, Habitat Industries, Cambro Manufacturing and the aforementioned Ford and Transnet. A major focus of the service offered by WD Hearn is on sharing ownership of the installation of CNC machines into machine shops and the highly skilled engineers make this easy.

This sort of quality service is probably a major contributor to the fact that WD Hearn has longstanding relationships with the majority of their clients. “Repeat orders are what counts for us,” says Mr Cooper.

So where do WD Hearn get these highly skilled, vastly experienced engineers with brilliant product knowledge? Mr Cooper tells us that they are running a successful apprenticeship scheme and a lot of the training is done in house. Investing in the workforce is clearly paying off and could be a way forward for many businesses out there. “We will take young engineers from a technical background like a technicon or technical school and we will train them on the products through the apprenticeship scheme, that is undoubtedly the best way.”

As the government continues to invest in projects to upgrade infrastructure and other industries there is no question that the future holds great opportunities for WD Hearn. The growth of the renewable energy market may also prove to be an area that could offer opportunities for the company and there is always a massive scope for expansion into the continent and the rest of the world. With the highest of service level and an in-depth knowledge of

OCT 12 PAGE 27

the best products available the business is a frontrunner and by offering turnkey solutions with the efficiency that they do, WD Hearn will be a leader for a long time to come.

For more information go to www.wdhearn.co.za or contact +27 021-5345351 ●

COMPANY REPORT

Habitat Industries was founded in 1995 by Clive Wagenaar and Donovan Barnes. At the time, Donovan was the toolmaker with his trusty apprentice, Henk Goosen. Since 2002, the company was scaled down in the transition, with the focus to keep and better the reputation of speed to delivery and quality tooling.

The blow mould tooling company has come from employing just seven people and treading a thin line to having a staff of 20 and working with some of the biggest brands in the country.

Mr Barnes, originally a tool maker on the floor, bought the company in 2002 and thanks to his and the workforce’s entrepreneurial thinking it has increased output, expanded its production facilities and vastly improved annual turnover. With such a large customer base and the ability to meet almost any demand made, Habitat Industries is now a fully-fledged industry leader.

“When I started we only had a retro fitted lathe, a CNC milling machine, an old surface grinder and a Haas VF3. Since then we’ve invested and we have five CNC mills, three CNC lathes, two new surface grinders, and whole bunch of other equipment and more computers and people.

“The machinery is what makes the production happen. We now have a romer scanning arm for reverse engineering and we have a laser welder which is one of the best things we bought,” says Mr Barnes, who is understandably very proud of what the company has achieved. Recently purchased are a 3D printer and a PLASMA cutting machine arriving in late

2012. This makes 2012 Habitat’s largest year of investment topping almost R4 million for the year.

The blow mould market provides wide spread opportunities. Habitat Industries works extensively with the plastic bottle production organisations and recent research reports that the soft drink market in South Africa is on a long-term incline.

“We work with plastic convertors and we specialise in blow moulding. The likes of Polyoak, Mpact, Boxmore and a handful of others are customers of ours,” says Mr Barnes. Polyoak and Mpact are of the largest packaging companies in the country and the moulds made by Habitat contribute significantly to those businesses.

A strategic decision was taken in 2008, to streamline production and give the service department its own platform. CNC manufacturing and service and maintenance were split into two separate divisions to allow for floor space expansion and increased productivity. In early 2012 Habitat Mould Services was formed and this division is handling all of the after sales service and maintenance for existing moulds. Mr Barnes says: “Splitting the business was the best decision. For production and service, it has speeded everything up.”

The company can now make any mould that is required, with a fast turnaround. Not only will the product be of high quality it will also be efficiently serviced and maintained by a highly experienced workforce. As for the market in blow moulding, Mr Barnes is confident that Habitat Industries is now the name to fulfil any requirement. “There is big competition but we like to have the edge. We can do anything in a quarter of the time that anyone else could (on some tooling). Our speed, quality and pricing are all good and our aftersales service is better than anybody in South Africa.”

While many businesses get carried away with success and look to grow beyond their means Mr Barnes takes a rather more calculated approach to his expansion. “If the industry demands it then we can expand. If I can’t finance things then I will not expand,” he explains, his approach is all about self-sustainability. Choosing not to use banks or other finance solutions, all of the business that Habitat Industries undertakes is self-sufficient. He explains that it was not the intention to expand in 2004, 2005, 2006 or 2007 but each year they did thanks to a healthy industry and the availability of

The success of the blow mould specialists Donovan Barnes of Habitat

Industries tells IndustrySA,

“In 2002 I was offered the

opportunity to purchase Habitat,

the company which I worked for

since 1995’’. Since then, with a

workforce unmatched anywhere

else, the dream of success has

been reached.

By Joe Forshaw

PAGE 28 OCT 12

HABITAT INDUSTRIES

suitable finances. Right now no further expansion is planned but so far every year has bettered the previous and there are undoubtedly opportunities looming on the horizon. Boxmore has recently taken on new contracts to manufacture more water bottles and beer bottles and there are two new major breweries opening in South Africa and Nigeria which could throw up potential for Habitat Industries who have proved in the past they can cater for clients outside South Africa. “We have made blow moulds for markets as far as Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Australia,” says Mr Barnes.

He adds, “We are a tool room with the most high-tech machines and CAD equipment so we can do whatever,” as he understands that the plastics and manufacturing industries in South Africa are swelling as the economy grows and various other moulds, products and services may be required by some customers.

If the future does call for growth and Mr Barnes sees a real opportunity for safe expansion then he will be looking for people who will embrace the Habitat way. The Habitat Industries corporate profile explains that the company has a ‘homely, humorous and relaxed environment’ and Mr Barnes likes this to rub off on his new people. “I like people who I can train up myself, experience isn’t vital. People on the floor will train the new guys and then the standard remains high from top to bottom.

“I treat them all as family members, as this is how a company should be.”

The blow mould specialists’ impressive customer base, first class service and unrivalled flexibility coupled with an expanding industry and interesting opportunities mean that this focused business is truly a master of the trade.

“My strategy is stick to what you know and when you know it get better at it and eventually you’ll become the master and you’ll be able to take the whole market,” says Mr Barnes and he and his company are very close to achieving just that. ●

11a Scheckter RoadKillarney Gardens, Cape Town, 7441T (+27) 21 557 9255F (+27) 86 514 [email protected]

“ Our speed, quality and pricing are all good and our aftersales service is better than anybody in South Africa”

OCT 12 PAGE 29

COMPANY REPORT

South Africa is the second largest exporter of fruit in the world. This country enjoys a perfect climate, large investments in infrastructure and counter-seasonality to Europe. Add this to brilliant bio-diversity programs, fantastic marine resources and competitive input costs and you have a major player in world fruit markets.

In the past we have featured companies that deal with fruit on a daily basis and they have all contributed to making South Africa one of the top exporters in the world. Our fruit focus this month lies with the Karsten business. The company is in its second generation of Karsten family ownership and Piet Karsten (Jnr) is the current managing director. He took the time to tell IndustrySA about the magic behind the highly successful organisation.

“Grapes are still the major business, then we have a range of the other products which are also performing well.

“We sell melon and watermelon in the local market as well as blueberries and cherries. Around 50% of the apples, pears, plums are exported and around 80% of the grapes.”

Of course, when it comes to fruit, the product is a major component. You cannot get by with only a good service. If the product is not quality the customers will not return. The Karsten Group pride themselves on offering ‘the highest quality, premium grade fruit’. This is achieved by attending closely to the smallest details throughout the entire productions process.

A team of agronomists (agronomy is the science and technology of producing plants for food, fuel, fibre or

By Joe Forshaw

The Karsten Group trades with the philosophy that

healthy profits are generated through a healthy

workforce. Piet Karsten (jnr) tells us about the

company’s commitment to its employees and the

importance of sustainable business practice.

PAGE 30 OCT 12

Farming for the future

reclamation) is employed by the Karsten Group to assist the team of production managers regarding every aspect of the production process. Their goal is to continuously improve production techniques in order to produce, every year, more and better quality fruit. The fruit farm managers are well qualified and have many years of experience. Maintaining and monitoring fruit in transport between farm and store is also an important part of the process and this is partly a reason why Karsten have developed their own logistics division.

HORIZON FRUITSHorizon Fruits is a partnership between the Karsten Group, Suiderland Plase and Fruit and Veg City International.

The logistical services of Horizon Fruits include loading at source, all South African landside arrangements, all documentation and delivery to the port of destination. Horizon is now a multi-line service provider and deals with 5500 containers of fruit each year. The shareholders provide around 80% of the produce handled by Horizon. They ensure they maintain close relationships with shipping companies and other providers in the produce

“ We need to farm for the future. All

of our principles and production

techniques are based on

sustainable business in the future”

THE KARSTEN GROUP

OCT 12 PAGE 31

THE KARSTEN GROUP

PAGE 32 OCT 12

export business so that the fruit is moved quickly and efficiently from South Africa to the various destinations.

“Opening the other companies allowed us to get a vertically integrated chain going which makes everything so much easier. We operate from all over South Africa, from Egypt, from China and from the UK so separating the business divisions was logical,” says Mr Karsten.

ECONOMIC PRESSURE?Since 1984 South African fruit exports have grown exponentially, showing year on year growth right through until 2009. When the global economic slowdown hit, following pressures in the US and Eurozone, South Africa’s exports were generally affected across the board. IndustrySA has reported that many businesses felt little or no effects but the import and export business, one which Karsten operate in heavily, has seen ill effects. In 2011 the University of Potchefstroom published a paper stating

that results after the recession differed considerably depending on product and Mr Karsten reiterates this.

“We have felt affects but not in a big way. It changed people’s habits, people are more attracted to special promotions and these seem to be more effective than in the past which is good. It did cause us to adapt a little bit but we can’t complain, we’ve had a good run so far.”

CSRCorporate Social Responsibility (CSR) forms a big part of business these days. Giving something back to the community, involving employees and working towards good causes are all part of CSR and Karsten participates in projects like this, not to paint a certain image to its customers but because it has a genuine affiliation with all of its stakeholders.

Recently, managers, executives, employees and friends of the Karsten Group agreed to participate in a bike ride

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5

25

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fresh connect artwork

Friday, October 19, 2012 3:51:21 PM

COMPANY REPORT

PAGE 34 OCT 12

from Kanoneiland on the Orange River to Cape Town. The 585 mile ride was to support children suffering with cancer and will build awareness and funding for the Cancer Association of South Africa’s (CANSA) Tough Living with Cancer (TLC) programme. Mr Karsten himself was one of the front-runners with this project and he admitted before the ride that he expected it to be difficult. He says after the ride: “We just wanted to do something charitable. A couple that went with us actually lost a child to cancer and it all started from there. There were 18 of us cycling, all the way down to Cape Town. It took five days in the end.”

The cycle ride is of course not the only CSR activity underway within the Karsten Group.

“There is constantly things going on, it’s a long list,” says Mr Karsten.

There are many employee involvement projects underway including: Life-skills training to enhance family and social life, training and development programs, comprehensive medical services, childcare facilities, literacy classes, spiritual counselling, sport programs and programs to combat aids.

“I would like to believe it’s good for business, but we do it because it is the right thing to do. In some areas of South Africa primary education and primary health care is

lacking so we try to help where we can, together with the government. We started investing in the labour force in 1984, in their livelihood and circumstances. We are in a remote part of the world where these services are not readily available so we try to put things in place,” explains Mr Karsten.

The company offers employees the opportunity to become further involved in the company and take on shares. This was started by Piet Karsten (snr) and in 1997 a new initiative was launched and preference shares were offered to the workforce. Presently 350 workers and managers are shareholders in the company.

“We do offer shareholding to all employees and it works well but not everyone has money to buy into this type of thing so we need government assistance,” says Mr Karsten

SUSTAINABLE FARMINGSustainability, green, eco-friendly, these are all buzz words at the moment and for good reason. The government has announced that it is actively encouraging green business practices and the Karsten Group has practices in place to ensure that farming can go on, a long way into the future.

THE KARSTEN GROUP

OCT 12 PAGE 35

“We need to farm for the future. All of our principles and production techniques are based on sustainable business in the future. We are looking at more sustainable ways for growing in the future, whether it’s use of water, use of resources or whatever, every day we need to re-evaluate and see if we are doing the right things,” says Mr Karsten.

The business recently won an award from the Department of Water and Environmental affairs for its water saving techniques across the grape farms. The Karsten Group uses a computerised irrigation system and this helps to achieve water savings of up to 30%. Deputy Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Ms Rejoice Mabudafhasi, congratulated Karsten Farms for successfully championing innovative water conservation and water demand management programmes that ensure water savings, benefit communities and promote economic benefit and sustainability.

Mr Willem van Aarde, Karsten Groups’ agriculturalist said: “The success is the culmination of many years of hard work striving for optimal water use. The results can be seen in lower electricity costs.”

Mr Karsten adds: “We practice effective use of water daily. It is vitally important.”

A KARSTEN FUTURE?In the future the Karsten group is looking to continue

with its immense success and grow further. Mr Karsten explains that sustainability will be a big focus for the business as they go forward. “Our target is to carry on business as usual. We have the same goals as any other company with the major addition of trying to be sustainable. With sustainability comes everything from the labour force to the resources so that remains at the heart of our business. We hope to set an example.”

As for the family ownership of the business, Mr Karsten has young children who will have every chance of being involved in the business if they have the desire, just as he had as a young man.

“The third generation succession plan is still far away; my father is still in the business. If they have an interest and want to be involved then we will look at the opportunities available.”

If there was a third generation of the Karsten family at the helm of the business in the future it would ensure that the original values, formed in 1968, would be continued, and that would be no bad thing for the Karsten Group and for South Africa. ●

THE KARSTEN GROUP PRODUCE:Grapes, Apples, Pears, Plums, Lemon, Grapefruits, Oranges, Cherries Pomegranates, Blueberries, Melons, Watermelons, Dates, Onions and specially selected other fruits and vegetables.

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advert5.pdf 6 2012/10/11 4:23 PM

COMPANY REPORT

Denel Land Systems (DLS) has underlined its position as one of the big guns in South African industry after signing the largest export deal in its history.

The company - specialists in landward firepower and mobility systems - is celebrating after winning a R3.5 billion contract to supply Malaysia with a range of turrets with integrated weapon systems to be fitted on to 8x8 armoured vehicles.

Riaz Saloojee, the Group Executive Officer of Denel, DLS’s parent company, says: “This is the largest export contract in the company’s history. It will result in significant foreign earnings and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the company.”

The new contract comes as DLS continues work on delivering another major deal – a R8 billion order to supply the South African Army’s new fleet of combat vehicles.

The turrets for Malaysia, designed and developed by DLS, will be delivered over a seven-year period – with the first delivery scheduled for early next year for integration on to the vehicles and subsequent trials by the Malaysian Army.

The contract has been signed with DRB-Hicom

Defence Technologies (Deftech), the Malaysian company that is the prime contractor of the armoured vehicle programme on behalf of the Malaysian Ministry of Defence.

The huge order will see DLS supplying:• 69 two-man turrets fitted with the South African GI30 30mm main gun;• 54 missile turrets fitted with the GI30 30mm gun and South African Ingwe anti-tank missile system including 216 South African Ingwe anti-tank missiles manufactured by Denel Dynamics; and• 54 remote control weapons systems manufactured by Reutech Solutions, a fellow South African firm, specialising in Engineering Procurement.Stephan Burger, the delighted CEO of DLS says: “It is of significance that the turrets and the GI30 30mm main gun which have been developed by DLS have been selected by Deftech and the Malaysian Army for their armoured vehicle program.”

He explains that the contract opens the door to future defence industry co-operation between South Africa and Malaysia, including on-going maintenance and future upgrades of the turrets.

He says the Malaysians were impressed with DLS’s “unique balance of technologies and engineering

PAGE 38 OCT 12

R11billion contracts underline Denel Land Systems’ burgeoning

worldwide reputation in defence systems.

By Colin Renton

Bring on the big guns

NTW20

capabilities” and the company’s ability to take “complex systems or products through their entire life cycle from conceptualization through production to long term maintenance and eventual disposal.”

To cement the relationship, Denel is establishing an office in Malaysia to ensure the smooth completion of the contract.

Denel’s presence there will help to maintain the excellent client relationship it has developed during the past 17 years with the Malaysian Army and Deftech.

DLS staff will also be on hand to advise the Malaysians on their input into the

completion of the turrets. The Malaysian Government requires participation by all suppliers in a

local Economic Enhancement Programme, which means that the production of certain turret components and the assembly of the turrets must be carried out in Malaysia.

DLS’s other major deal is for the development and supply of 264 state-of-the-art Badger combat vehicle to replace the South African Army’s 30-year-old fleet of Ratel vehicles.

It is thought this project, to be completed over a ten-year period, could create more than 3000 jobs.

The DLS-developed Badger is a “best-of-breed” combat vehicle that meets all the requirements of a sophisticated modern army.

Burger says: “It provides flexibility to armed forces who are involved in peace-keeping operations but also has the capacity to protect troops and provide fire support in high-intensity warfare.”

DLS was awarded the contract by Armscor – the SA government-supported weapons-producing conglomerate.

Burger says: “Through the Badger project we are addressing most of the government’s industrial objectives with regards to high-end manufacturing, skills development, job creation and foreign-currency earnings.”

More than 3000 job opportunities will be created in the development and manufacturing phases, right across

DENEL LAND SYSTEMS

“ The Badger is more than

70% local content”

OCT 12 PAGE 39

Badger

QMUZIK IS AN ICT SYSTEMS PROVIDER OF NICHEMANUFACTURING, HEALTH & MOBILE SYSTEMS.

Qmuzik Is proud to be associated with Denel Land Systems& provides Enterprise Solutions to the vast majority of

South African Defence companies.

CONTACT QMUZIK TECHNOLOGIES (PTY) LTDT 27 12 640 3500 WWW.QMUZIK.COM

QMUZIK

OCT 12 PAGE 41

Qmuzik is a prominent software solutions company in South Africa.

Working with the biggest brands around, the company is renowned for

rapid solutions crafting.

By Joe Forshaw

Successful Solutions

Qmuzik is one of South Africa’s premier software development houses. Headquartered in Gauteng, the company is an industry leader in solving business problems with an innovative, technological approach. Jan Small, managing director for Qmuzik, tells IndustrySA that innovation, a highly experienced workforce and world class technology are critical drivers of success.

“We are an engineering-centric company that happens to have a passion for IT and technology. The majority of our staff is industrial engineers so we are solutions crafting and optimisation company who leverage technology. We have developed effective tools to craft these solutions fairly rapidly.”

The industries served by Qmuzik include retail, mobile, mining, automotive, manufacturing, finance and aerospace and defence (A&D). Working in A&D was a natural first step for Qmuzik as Mr Small and some of his colleagues had previously worked for Denel Land Systems. One of the solutions that Qmuzik began with was the integration of business systems, developing a solution to manage the whole collaborative space that surrounds the A&D industry. This space will often involve product designs from across the globe and supply chain collaboration as well as conventional business software. “Quickly after establishing Qmuzik ERP we became the product of choice. We went commercial in 1996 and today we own 95% of the A&D market in South Africa,” says Mr Small.

The supply chain solutions offered by the company have proven especially popular in the automotive industry with our customers supplying into big brand subsystems such as

Daimler Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen and Nissan, to name a few. “We developed an extension of the Qmuzik solution to manage sequence in line supply (SILS) for the South African automotive industry. We now have a prominent share of the entire SILS environment across the country,” says Mr Small.

In the last decade Qmuzik has been a pioneer in the development of software to assist in the market of prepaid services for telecommunication companies and banking organisations. Mr Small is also proud of the fact that they have been involved in the pioneering of the very first mobile NFC (near field communication) project with a leading bank. “This is about replacing your card and wallet and implementing your card into your cell phone so you can tap and go at retail points.”

Qmuzik solutions have also been used to solve health and safety problems in business, specifically the mining industry. “Our solution can manage health profiles for miners utilising innovative Electronic Medical Records. Upon commencement of employment with a mine people will have to take a health baseline check, they will also do it when they leave. Ineffective management of this information can leave people sitting on the bench for months but our solution has solved this issue and is now growing beyond the mining industry,” says Mr Small.

Development of a solution like this can be done rapidly with this example being designed and fully integrated in just five months. With only a handful of companies offering services of this kind it is easy to see why Qmuzik has grown into a leader in the industry. ●

“ Quickly after establishing this software solution we

became the product of choice. We went commercial

in 1996 and today we own 95% of the A&D market in

South Africa”

COMPANY REPORT

PAGE 42 OCT 12

the board from graduate engineers, system designers and technical staff to skilled and semi-skilled workers.

The contract will also have spin-offs for small and medium enterprises who will be the subcontractors and suppliers for the project.

Burger says the unique feature of the Badger is its LCT-30 turret, developed by DLS in five variants, namely Section, Command, Mortar, Missile and Fire Support models.

This variety gives mechanised infantry access to a family of vehicles with a single turret system.

The turret is fitted to an 8x8 mechanised vehicle manufactured by the Finnish contractor, Patria.

“The Badger is more than 70% local content,” says Burger. “It is locally designed and customised to meet the unique requirements of operational deployment in an African environment.

“The result is a mature vehicle design, adapted and optimised to serve the requirements of the SA Army.”

He says the deal confirms DLS’s position as a strategic incubator of high-tech skills and manufacturing and a leader on the African continent in innovative technologies.

Burger says that over the five years of its development the Badger was subjected to extensive design and testing processes, and hails the systems integration of the Badger programme as a shining example of “South Africa’s innovation and intellectual prowess.”

And such is the Badger’s reputation that it is causing a stir beyond South Africa’s borders.

Burger says: “The development of the Badger raised the profile of the South African defence industry and strengthened its reputation as a reliable supplier of high-technology products.

“It has generated considerable international interest and opened a number of prospects for future exports that might result in the injection of foreign direct investment into South Africa.”

These major contracts add to DLS’s proud reputation as a world leader in the research, design, development and manufacture of towed and self-propelled artillery

weapons, infantry systems, combat turrets and a range of infantry weapons.

The capability to integrate these systems with small, medium and large calibre guns has been established over more than 20 years of practical experience and battlefield feedback.

Denel Land Systems grew out of LIW, the Afrikaans abbreviation for Lyttleton Engineering Works (Lyttleton Ingenieur Werke) between 1953-1991. The company, a division of Denel Pty Ltd, emerged after the Denel Group was formed in 1992 when most of the subsidiaries of Armscor were regrouped into a commercial company.

DLS, based in Lyttleton, south of Pretoria, now has 439 permanent full-time staff.

DLS is a landward defence system solutions business with its primary focus on the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF) requirements as prime contractor.

DLS also works with international customers as a systems integrator and subsystem and product supplier.

Burger says the company’s strength lies in the unique fine balance of technologies and engineering capabilities that allow it to take complex systems or products through their whole life cycle, from conceptualisation, systems design, development, testing and qualification to industrialisation and production, product support and eventual decommissioning. This strength is enhanced by an entrenched

“ This is the largest export contract in the company’s history. It will result in significant foreign earnings and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the company”

LAV III T7 105mm SP Howitzer

DENEL LAND SYSTEMS

OCT 12 PAGE 43

culture of learning which is fostered in the company. Burger is proud of the accolade DLS received as Best

Employer South Africa in 2011/2012 and has a clear idea of how this was achieved.

He says: “It’s mainly as a result of our vision and values as a company.

“The vision is to be the most sought-after supplier of landward defence systems, customised turret solutions and infantry weapons.”

He says this will be achieved by ensuring that customers are completely satisfied with DLS products and services. This is ensured by rigorous staff training, problem prevention, compliance with ISO:9001 quality standards, elimination of defects and by setting goals for continuous improvement at every level.

In 2013 DLS will be celebrating 60 years of design and manufacturing excellence but this is not a company content to rest on its laurels: Burger says the next three

years could be as exciting as the last 60.He says: “We are hoping to double our turnover and

continue to expand our markets especially in Africa, getting our footprint in that emerging market.

“Additionally we plan to establish ourselves as a firm product lifecycle supporter, to deliver efficiently on our current complex projects.” ●

Rooikat

Even through difficult times Zitera, one of South Africa’s primary

technology companies, has managed to achieve significant growth and

branch out into many industries with a view to continue expanding.

By Roland Douglas

Best of Breed Tech Solutions

Operating in the technology solutions sector, Zitera is one of the industry leading organisations that provides purpose built hardware and software solutions to businesses that have a need to integrate rugged, robust and reliable technology platforms either into their own business processes or into the product and service offerings they deliver to their customers.

Established by managing director Jacques Swart, the company has shown fantastic growth and is looking to expand into different markets. “Zitera was established by a number of engineering professionals whose primary goal was to create a core competencies group capable of tackling the complex technological challenges facing

ZITERA HAS POSITIONED ITSELF AS A CORE COMPETENCIES GROUP

WITH HIGHLY EVOLVED TECHNICAL SKILLS AND ACCESS TO HIGHLY

SOUGHT AFTER TECHNOLOGY PLATFORMS. THE COMPANY IS SOLUTIONS

CENTRIC SO ENGAGES ITS CUSTOMER BASE AS A TRUSTED ADVISOR OR

TECHNOLOGY PARTNER, RATHER THAN AS A SALES ORGANISATION FOR

A PARTICULAR RANGE OF PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES.

ZITERA’S INNOVATIVE CULTURE, ITS AFFILIATION ACROSS THE GLOBE

WITH TECHNOLOGY LEADERS AND IT INTRINSIC ENGINEERING SKILL HAS

ALLOWED IT TO RISE TO THE CHALLENGE AND PERFECTLY POSITION

ITSELF AS A PROVIDER OF HIGH QUALITY, HIGHLY COST EFFECTIVE

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS CAPABLE OF TRANSCENDING INDUSTRY

BOUNDARIES.

COMPANY REPORT

business and industry of today,” says Mr Swart. Over the past five years the business has seen growth of

25%, year on year, and has an aggressive programme in place to take the company forward. Mr Swart says: “Zitera initially found its niche in the aerospace and defence industry providing hardware and software solutions for use in vehicles and aircraft. We are now looking to achieve the same levels of penetration in transportation and logistics, recording and monitoring, communications and business process automation.”

In the past, work with Denel Land Systems, Saab, Tellumat, Reutech, Route Gaming Solutions, Zeiss and a collection of other big brand names has made Zitera one of the ‘go to companies’ for technology solutions and

ZITERA

up many challenges for tech developers. Mr Swart tells us that there are three drivers behind

Zitera’s success, namely their staff, their partnerships with global technology platform providers and their attention to the finest detail. The company is made up of highly experienced engineers who utilise their skills specifically to suit the needs of each customer, big or small. Alliances with industry leaders such as Kontron, AMP, Technologies, TTTech and Wind River Systems to name but a few, has resulted in Zitera now offering top of the range products as well as services.

“Finally, innovation and out of the box thinking coupled with the willingness to tackle tough challenges is the cream on top,” says Mr Swart. ●

“ A particular high point for us this year was the completion of the

Fire Directing Software that was developed for the Denel Land

Systems manufactured LCT30 turret destined for Malaysia”

their expansion will further enhance this reputation. “A particular high point for us this year was the completion of the Fire Directing Software that was developed for the Denel Land Systems manufactured LCT30 turret destined for Malaysia.

“We also successfully deployed our GTRACK system which was used for the global real time condition monitoring, tracking and tracing of high power transformers transported from Brazil to South Africa,” boasts Mr Swart.

A project that will see the business gain further growth is underway right now in the commercial air travel industry with a comprehensive in flight connectivity solution. This will enable passengers to surf the net while travelling through the skies, something which has previously thrown

NAME: JACQUES SWARTPOSITION: MANAGING DIRECTOREMAIL: [email protected]: +27-12-665-2065MOBILE: +27-72-171-1584

NAME: ANDREW PALMERPOSITION: MARKETING & SALES DIRECTOREMAIL: [email protected]: +27-12-665-2065MOBILE: +27-82-378-1269

WWW.ZITERA.CO.ZA

COMPANY REPORT

This month we have been speaking to one of the super brands of energy in not only South Africa but across the entire globe. Chevron is one of the world’s largest integrated energy companies and an industry leader in finding, producing and marketing oil and gas and other energy products.

The history of Chevron, globally, is long and involves many different players. After multiple mergers and brand name changes we have the Chevron Corporation that we know today. In the very beginning Chevron’s roots can be traced to an oil discovery in 1879 in California which led to the formation of the Pacific Coast Oil Company. After time this company became the Standard Oil Company of California and eventually Chevron. The company took on the name Chevron after the acquisition of the Gulf Oil Corporation in 1984. This acquisition nearly doubled the company’s proved worldwide reserves of oil and natural gas. This merger was, at the time, the largest in US history. In 2001 the company was part

of another major merger, joining forces with Texaco, another prominent figure in the global energy industry at the time and then in 2005 the acquisition of Unocal Corporation strengthened Chevron’s position in the market and further added to their crude oil and natural gas assets across the globe.

Chevron South Africa has played an important role in meeting the country’s fuel needs since 1911. Chevron products are marketed under the Caltex brand in South Africa and this brand was formed following a partnership agreement between Texaco and Chevron in 1936. In 1966 the Caltex refinery was built in Milnerton, Cape Town and the company increased in investments significantly in South Africa. This is represented in the Caltex brand outlet offerings across the country. There are approximately 800 Caltex service stations country wide.

The company say they are committed to strategically growing their retail portfolio by tailoring their product

PAGE 46 OCT 12

Fresh Fuel

The Caltex Chevron brand is designed to

renew your drive and keep you on the go, so

that you can stay focused on reaching your

own goals. By providing you with the quality

pause and re-fuelling you need – from fuels

and other energy products to refreshments

and everyday supplies – you can leave a

Caltex station each time feeling recharged

and ready to hit the road again.

By Joe Forshaw

Fresh Fuel

slate offering to the market and by re-imaging their existing network.

STOP AND REFRESHTeresa Booth-Oliveira is the general manager of products for Chevron in South Africa. She recently told IndustrySA about another partnership that is continuing to build the Caltex brand and improve services offered to customers across the country.

“FreshStop at Caltex opened their 100th store on the 27th of September 2012 in a record time of three years, with the average store conversion time of 20 days, Caltex and Fruit & Veg City concluded an alliance agreement in May 2009 and the first franchised store opened during August that same year.”

Having FreshStop outlets at their service stations has given Caltex a real advantage in its retail offering. Fresh, healthy, convenient food and snacks are now available in-store and FreshStop is now playing a major role in

attracting customers to Caltex. “In the highly-regulated petroleum industry,

competing for retail growth on price is not an option. Instead, forecourts use their fuel quality, facilities and customer service to build loyalty and drive fuel volumes,” says Booth-Oliveira.

FreshStop has not always been associated with garage forecourts. Founded in 2006 as an in-store department of Fruit & Veg City, the brand was designed to address the issue of waste. As the worldwide trend for smoothies developed the management at Fruit & Veg City saw this as an opportunity to solve its wasted concerns and the FreshStop brand was created. The new brand was gained mass popularity that soon free-standing FreshStops were opened in shopping centres from the Western Cape to Bloemfontein. After just 12 months there were 13 free-standing FreshStops, alongside the in-store departments. The healthy menu was increased to include fresh sandwiches and wraps and the smaller franchise

CALTEX SOUTH AFRICA

OCT 12 PAGE 47

offered franchisees a more affordable way of joining the Fruit & Veg family. In 2008 Caltex approached the Fruit & Veg City franchisors with the possibility of a working partnership arrangement.

“The Caltex and FreshStop offering coupled with the new look Caltex forecourt is a force to be reckoned with in the fuel industry. Caltex in partnership with Fruit & Veg has converted 100 forecourts in record time to satisfy consumers. Caltex celebrates this huge milestone as it proves how we are passionate about satisfying the needs of our customers and how our strategic partnerships are highly effective,” says Booth-Oliveira.

The opening of the 100th FreshStop store was not the only milestone being celebrated by Chevron and the Caltex brand. Last year, Chevron celebrated 100 years of operations in South Africa while the Caltex brand commemorated 75 years and the Cape Town refinery reached 45 years.

The company has also recently delivered its latest TV advertising campaign, designed to showcase the brands affiliation with the local community and the country overall. It is the first time in eight years that the brand has shot and produced a commercial locally and businesses in the advertising industry in Cape Town have received a boost which Caltex are thrilled to have been able to contribute towards.

“We believe the new look Caltex service station is a force to be reckoned with in the fuel industry and this new brand campaign gives us an opportunity to showcase our modernised forecourts, FreshStop convenience stores and excellent service that we are so proud of,” says Jill Koopman, brand manager for Caltex South Africa. She continues to say: “The local production and implementation of this integrated brand campaign was yet another way that Caltex is able to support the local community in which we operate. Caltex South Africa has come a long way in 75 years and right now we are on a new journey to ensure that our offering continues to improve and remains relevant to our South African customers.”

The Caltex brand offering has evolved over the years and it is now becoming increasingly important to consider more than just the fuel. Research shows that South Africans are now choosing their service station for a range of different services. “The ‘Going’ commercial aims to find a way to present the unique setting of a service station, and how it brings people from all walks of life together to one place, but yet this one location, can meet all of their different needs,” says Graham Lang, chief creative officer from Y&R. He adds: “There is always something amazing that happens at a service station, depending on what time of the day you are there.

PAGE 48 OCT 12

COMPANY REPORT

G4S is a proud security service

provider to Chevron.

G4S is the world’s leading International security solutions group, operating in 29 countries on the African continent, providinga diverse range of services, including world-class Cash solutions, manned guarding and technology.

Our products and services add value to 58,000 customers in Africa. Applying our expertise and knowledge derived from providing security solutions in diverse environments in more than 125 countries around the world, we turn our customers’ challenges into opportunities.

Our Services include:

Manned Guarding Services: G4S provides professional, trained and qualified security personnel to a diverse cross-section of industries, with a strong foothold in the oil & gas sector.

Journey Management & Close Protection: Services are delivered by fully accredited skilled personnel and include meet-and-greet services, airside protocol, route reconnaissance, secure transportation & executive home security.

Technology: G4S has a range of leading edge products developed in-house, such as CCTV, intruder detection, time & access management, biometrics, security management systems & mobile camera solutions.

National Control Centre (NCC): Current capabilities include monitoring of alarms & CCTV, crime intelligence gathering & analysis, remote off-site monitoring (ROM) & vehicle tracking.

Cash Solutions: We provide true end-to-end solutions which include in-store technology, cash cycle software, cash transportation services, monitoring & maintenance of hardware / software.

For more information on G4S, visit www.g4s.com

G4S is the only private security company in Africa that has ever been awarded a Top Employer certification.

OCT 12

COMPANY REPORT

“ The Caltex and FreshStop offering coupled with the new look Caltex forecourt is a force to be reckoned with in the fuel industry”

a large number of Caltex service stations across the country and because of this their offering of the best fuels and related products, the best service, the best facilities and the partnership with FreshStop, allows Caltex to have a huge impact on so many journeys and really implement the ideals behind their mantra. “Our customers are the motivation behind everything we do, from our advertising, products and services, to our staff and community programmes,” says Booth-Oliveira.

CALTEX IN THE COMMUNITYChevron is committed to a social investment strategy that aligns both the needs of the communities in which it operates and the priorities of the Government of South Africa. The three core focus areas for Chevron’s social investment strategy are economic development, health and education. Through these three focus areas Chevron aspires to empower and uplift communities through the power of partnership.

Having a close relationship with the local community can bring huge benefits to business. We have heard this before from many of the country’s top organisations and Caltex is looking to build on its already strong relationships with communities in South Africa and especially that of the Du Noon township near the Cape Town refinery as Booth-Oliveira explains: “Our Cape Town Refinery has started a basic skills training program in conjunction with the Northlink Training College and Emprotrain. So far we have trained over 150 men and women from

It occurred to us that Caltex is more than just a fuel and convenience store story, it’s an incredible crossroad and serves an important role in any community.”

Aside from being in touch with the local market the commercial has a very strong focus on service quality, something which Caltex prides itself on. It ensures this by investing in its people through extensive fuel attendant training programmes and offering the 24-hour convenience of FreshStop, delivering a competitive healthy food offering.

RESPONSIBLE FUELING WITH TECHRON®

The energy industry is highly competitive and Caltex have been carving out an advantage by adding Techron to its fuel offerings. Caltex with Techron is proven to prevent build-up of harmful deposits, so engines can perform like they are supposed to. Using lower quality fuels can result in the build-up of deposits in the engine, particularly in the combustion chamber and on other vital engine parts. Caltex with Techron can clean engine parts to ensure maximum performance. Power and performance, reliability, fuel economy, emissions and driveability are all affected by the combustion of fuel and the condition of one’s engine.

The Caltex brand is very much about the customer and they pride themselves on delivering quality to the end user. The company states that the star in their logo represents that quality and everything from fuel products to service and facilities are meticulously scrutinised to ensure that high levels of quality are achieved. “Our creed of quality, professionalism, service and efficiency dictates that you are always satisfied with our distinctive value through modern and well-managed facilities, premium quality products and excellent service,” says Booth-Oliveira.

The company is keen to point out that in the modern environment driving has become stressful and difficult which in many cases is very true. The Caltex slogan “It’s how you get there” demonstrates the commitment to making difficult and stressful journeys as easy and enjoyable as possible. As mentioned above, there are

OCT 12 PAGE 51

CALTEX SOUTH AFRICA

the Du Noon township and other nearby communities in basic trade skills and provide “learnerships”, similar to apprenticeships, that provide skills useful in refinery work.”

The impressive community and social work that Caltex is doing coupled with the industry leading retail offering they have has made them one of the most popular choices when it comes to fuel in South Africa. The refinery has the capacity to produce petrol, diesel, jet fuel, liquefied petroleum gas, fuel oil, asphalt and other products at the rate of 110,000 barrels per day. Caltex South Africa also has interests in a lubricants manufacturing plant in Durban and maintains a laboratory and blending plant there, the brand is truly providing a huge amount of potential to the economy and has become an important name over the years.

Booth-Oliveira says: “Our retail strategy is an aggressive roll out to market that will position the retail brand of Chevron as market leader. Caltex has a robust retail business within South Africa that is relevant and sustainable in the long term. Because Chevron

believes in the value of people, partnership and performance, Caltex has become a partner of choice in the market place, with a firm commitment to South Africa.”

With energy projects at the top of the agenda for the government it is a good time for Chevron and Caltex, their unrivalled expertise and experience will undoubtedly see them into a strong future with further expansion and growth across South Africa.

South African’s can catch the ‘Going’ commercial on television throughout the day from 22nd October till 31st October, across all the SABC channels, Etv and Mnet.

The following radio stations will be playing the radio commercial all day from the 22nd to the 29th of October: East Coast, Jacaranda, Heart, KAYA FM, Highveld Stereo, KFM Stereo and Metro FM.

The next new television and radio Caltex commercial to look forward to is the ’Lecture’ commercial which is set to hit our screens and airwaves on November12th 2012. ●

COMPANY REPORT

What do you know about phosphates and phosphoric acid? Chances are these are not subjects that enter your conversations all that often, but perhaps they should. Phosphates are essential for life and are found in nearly all natural food products. Phosphoric acid can in fact have many uses within everyday products and services. Phosphoric acid has agricultural, industrial, medical and retail uses. Products made from phosphoric acid include catalysts, rust proofing materials, chemical reagents, latex, dental cements, tooth whiteners, toothpaste, disinfectants, food supplements, carbonated beverages, waxes, polishes and animal feeds, among others.

Considering all of this perhaps it is now easier to appreciate how important the production of phosphoric acid is. One of the foremost companies in South Africa and the world when it comes to phosphoric acid and phosphates is Foskor.

After being formed by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) as a single phosphate mining operation in 1951, Foskor has grown exponentially into a highly regarded and highly profitable producer of phosphate rock concentrate and phosphoric acid. As a result of Foskor’s strategic expansion over the years, its primary business shifted from basic mining to the beneficiation of phosphate rock into phosphoric acid and phosphate-based fertilizers. These end products are sold locally and globally.

The company has a major mining interest in Phalaborwa where the majority of the phosphate rock is sourced and also a large plant in Richards Bay where phosphoric acid, sulphuric acid and phosphate based granular fertilisers are produced. Over 80% of the rock produced in Phalaborwa is transported via rail to Richards Bay where it is exported to countries all over

PAGE 52 OCT 12

Foskor; a proudly South African company exporting all over the world but

having a real impact at home in Phalaborwa and Richards Bay.

the world including Japan, India, Bangladesh, Dubai, Mexico and Holland. With just under 2000 employees (around 1200 at Phalaborwa and around 700 at Richards Bay) the business has a real stake in the communities in which it is situated and the commitment to good working practices was rewarded recently as Foskor was recognised by the BEST Employers ™ Project for being a front runner in excellence for HR management. The Best Employers South Africa project was set up by the CRF Institute and recognises organisations all over the world for their quality HR policies and employee involvement schemes. The excellent working conditions and commitment to employees was something which particularly impressed the CRF Institute. After speaking to many businesses, small and large, across South Africa we understand that looking after your people goes a long way. If the workforce is happy it is likely to result in a happy customer.

BEST EMPLOYER 2012/13The company, obviously proud of the accolade, said motivation of staff was vital in achieving such awards. Marlene Els, group organisational development specialist for Foskor said in a statement: “We believe that we can achieve excellence in everything we do if we adopt the right attitudes. The initiative involves five core pillars, namely leadership alignment, discipline and accountability, employee engagement, the elimination of red tape, and communication. These five principles are instrumental in motivating our staff to perform at their best.”

Zama Nyaose, executive assistant at Foskor said: “Foskor’s environment is encouraging and dynamic. I am highly inspired by the calibre of my colleagues. I admire their quality of thought and reasoning, as well as their

Foskor: Best Employer 2012/13

By Roland Douglas

FOSKOR

OCT 12 PAGE 53

The Analytical X-ray Company

Epsilon 3 and Epsilon 3 XL are the most advanced benchtop EDXRF spectrometers for uncompromised results

Cutting-edge technology. Ultimate commitment.

XRD

XRF

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Expertise

Global support

Empyrean - the only XRD platform with unique PIXcel3D detector that doesit all: powder, thin fi lms, nanomaterials, solid objects

Axios range with AxiosmAX and Axios (1 kW)

SST-mAX50 tube with corrosion resistant CHI-BLUE coating

Eagon 2 - beadmachine for safe, simple high-performance fusion

PANassist on-line supportAlways at work for you

and Axios (1 kW)

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PANassist on-line support

Throughout everything we do, we remember that our relationship with you is about much more than just technology.

Together, we focus on the new opportunities innovation can open up. We develop powerful applications-based solutions and share the expertise behind them. PANalytical works hard to maximize the return you get on your investment in us.

PANalytical (Pty) Ltd363 Oak Avenue,Ferndale, 2194T +27 (0) 11 577 0880F +27 (0) 11 577 [email protected]

the only XRD platform with unique

detector that doesit all: powder, thin fi lms, nanomaterials, solid objects

Epsilon 3 and Epsilon 3 XL are the most advanced benchtop

Epsilon 3 range

corrosion resistant CHI-BLUE coatingcorrosion resistant CHI-BLUE coating

X-ray solutions

• Dedicated XRF calibration standards for your industry

• Fingerprinting solutions

PN8157_210x275.indd 1 11/22/11 10:22 AM

PANALYTICAL

OCT 12 PAGE 55

Cutting- edge technology. Ultimate commitment.PANalytical is the leading supplier of X-ray equipment and software for materials analysis. Prepared for the future, PANalytical has entered a strategic alliance with neutron generator based analyzer specialist SODERN (Limeil-Brevannes, France). This alliance will widen the solutions we can provide to our customers in the cement, minerals and coal sectors.

PANalytical is the only supplier of analytical instruments that also develops and produces its own X-ray tubes, which are an essential part of the equipment.

To further strengthen this technology advantage, an ultramodern new X-ray tube factory was built in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, which opened in the second half of 2011. At the same time PANalytical is expanding its production facilities in Almelo, The Netherlands.

PANalytical is more than just technology. It is partnership, opportunities, support around the clock wherever you are. It is about ultimate commitment.

AXIOS RANGE OF X-RAY SPECTROMETERS – DESIGNED TO PERFORM. The Axios range of wavelength dispersive XRF spectrometers continues to be one of PANalytical’s most successful products. We have enhanced the Axios lineup to reflect our commitment to bring tangible, cost-effective benefits to our customers. The familiar Axios sequential spectrometers are now upgraded to AxiosmAX with the incorporation of the SST-mAX X-ray tube in the standard configuration. In addition, the Axios lineup now includes a new, internally cooled, low-power (1 kW) system. Axios FAST completes the range by offering the highest speed of analysis for dedicated process control.

THE WORLD OF X-RAY DIFFRACTION IS NO LONGER FLAT!

The new Empyrean from PANalytical is truly innovative, with cutting-edge technology in every aspect. Empyrean brings the idea of the perfect XRD platform to life:

The widest range of samples: powders, thin films, nanomaterials, solid objects

The highest data quality on every sample, no compromises

The highest performance goniometer2nd generation PreFIX for optics and sample platformsPIXcel3D – see inside your sample with the world’s first

3d detector Unmatched area detector dynamic range, linearity and

resolution

THE 3RD GENERATION OF INDUSTRIAL X-RAY DIFFRACTOMETERS. The new CubiX3 builds on our reputation for speed, reliability and reproducible analysis by introducing new features such as high-intensity data collection and extra flexibility in sample handling for automated environments.

Key applications are in the high-throughput industrial quality and process control. CubiX3 can be used in all areas where phase characterization delivers added value.

Dedicated CubiX3 versions are: Cement; Minerals; Pharma and Potflux.

SUCCESSFUL BEAD SAMPLE PREPARATION FOR XRF.

The Eagon 2 is a fully operated fusion machine for fused bead sample preparation for XRF analysis. Its innovative (patent-pending) design combines the advantage of both gas burner and muffle furnace technology with none of their associated disadvantages.

Performance, operator safety and ease of use are the central to the Eagon 2 design, making fusion and the consequent benefit of accurate XRF analysis easily achievable. ●

The Analytical X-ray Company

Epsilon 3 and Epsilon 3 XL are the most advanced benchtop EDXRF spectrometers for uncompromised results

Cutting-edge technology. Ultimate commitment.

XRD

XRF

Epsilon 3 range

X-ray solutions

Expertise

Global support

Empyrean - the only XRD platform with unique PIXcel3D detector that doesit all: powder, thin fi lms, nanomaterials, solid objects

Axios range with AxiosmAX and Axios (1 kW)

SST-mAX50 tube with corrosion resistant CHI-BLUE coating

Eagon 2 - beadmachine for safe, simple high-performance fusion

PANassist on-line supportAlways at work for you

and Axios (1 kW)

tube with corrosion resistant CHI-BLUE coating

PANassist on-line support

Throughout everything we do, we remember that our relationship with you is about much more than just technology.

Together, we focus on the new opportunities innovation can open up. We develop powerful applications-based solutions and share the expertise behind them. PANalytical works hard to maximize the return you get on your investment in us.

PANalytical (Pty) Ltd363 Oak Avenue,Ferndale, 2194T +27 (0) 11 577 0880F +27 (0) 11 577 [email protected]

the only XRD platform with unique

detector that doesit all: powder, thin fi lms, nanomaterials, solid objects

Epsilon 3 and Epsilon 3 XL are the most advanced benchtop

Epsilon 3 range

corrosion resistant CHI-BLUE coatingcorrosion resistant CHI-BLUE coating

X-ray solutions

• Dedicated XRF calibration standards for your industry

• Fingerprinting solutions

PN8157_210x275.indd 1 11/22/11 10:22 AM

positive outlooks on life.”The CRF Institute was particularly impressed with the

strong company culture and values, the significant CSI projects, the structured development programmes and the commitment to change and diversification. Samantha Crous, general manager of South Africa with the CRF Institute said in a statement: “The outstanding employee offerings that the certified Best Employers have in place for their staff show that they regard talent management as a top priority. They don’t just provide their employees with the things that interest them now, but also with those that will prepare them for their next career step within the organisation. Best Employers clearly show that they appreciate and foster their employees.”

The CSI work undertaken by Foskor is admirable and it is understandable that external bodies have been impressed. The vision of the company talks about the responsible beneficiation of phosphates and the CSI projects contribute to that, responsibility.

CSIWhile many companies have social investment policies that look good on paper they never quite make it to the forefront of operations but that is not the case at Foskor. We have looked at a selection of their vast CSI offering and it is clear to see why they are held in such high regard when it comes to empowerment and involvement.

As a contribution to the communities education and skill development Foskor hosts three schools on its premises, the Kingfisher Private School and the Moshate Hotel School in Phalaborwa and the Nitambanana Crèche in Richards Bay. The schools benefit from no land rental cost to give easy access to education in the local community. Being a scientific company, Foskor also sponsors the University of Zululand’s Science Centre to ensure that Zululand’s communities have access to world-class science and technology apparatus and the sponsorship does not end there. In collaboration with the Zululand Sustainable Development Forum, Foskor sponsors a winter school for Grade 12 learners.

Foskor also strongly backs the Dinaledi Maths and Science project, having adopted four schools: two in Limpopo Province and two in KwaZulu-Natal. The Dinaledi project provides enhancement with maths and science tutoring in secondary schools in preparation for tertiary studies. Dinaledi schools are earmarked to become centres of excellence and training for both educators and learners looking to make a move into careers in the maths and science fields. This is obviously beneficial for Foskor who will need these key skills to be strong in the workforce of the future.

Foskor proudly hosts a number sporting events, the proceeds of which go to charities. In both Phalaborwa and Richards Bay a 21km fun run, named the F21 Half

COMPANY REPORT

PAGE 56 OCT 12

Marathon, is held every year. It has been reported that Foskor has raised R300,000 from its golfing days, and this money was donated to local charitable causes. There are also plans afoot, in cooperation with the Department of Sports and Recreation, to build a sports field in Emabhuyeni (near Richards Bay) to encourage participation in football, rugby and cricket in the township.

PLEASING THE ENVIRONMENTEnvironmental considerations are hot right now with companies all over the country, and the world, looking to make their operations ‘green’ and as environmentally friendly as possible. Foskor has a strong programme in place and presents its findings quarterly to stakeholder groups and other relevant forums. This is a brilliant way to generate positive publicity which is important for the company right now following recent stories of high-level executives leaving the company in controversial fashion and yearly profits reportedly falling.

Water consumption and conservation is an important factor for any business and something which the government and minister for water and environmental affairs Edna Molewa has been proactively campaigning about. Foskor has in place a water management programme in which innovative ideas are used to recycle water wherever possible.

FOSKOR

The acid division at Richards Bay closely monitors emissions to ensure air quality standards are high. The company has installed five sulphur dioxide monitors worth R1.9 million which monitor wind direction and sulphur dioxide levels in the air so a warning can be sent when levels are too high.

The company now successfully disposes of paper, polystyrene, melamine, wood, rubber, plastic and some metals on site. Disposal of hazardous waste is down by 15% in the last year following the installment of new radiation waste and bunker facility. These initiatives are just a few from the massive environmental programme that the company runs.

If you needed any more convincing that the company is a great place to work and a great organisation with which to do business then know that Foskor is ISO:9001, ISO:14001, OHSAS: 18001 and SANS:16001 certified at both Phalaborwa and Richards Bay and the have also received DEKRA 5 Shields awards at both locations with millions of injury-free hours.

With agriculture, retail and manufacturing sectors on the up even after the problems in the global economy it is likely that Foskor will continue to strengthen its position as an industry leader.

For more information on the CSI projects at Foskor please visit www.foskor.co.za ●

OCT 12 PAGE 57

COMPANY REPORT

There is always a spark of excitement when we hear the word laser. Lasers project the image into our minds of sci-fi adventure and James Bond tied to a torture table. While they are both exciting and intriguing, they also provide amazing functionality and can assist immensely in mining, construction, manufacturing, surveying and other high tech industry sectors.

A company that has been putting laser technology to effective use for the last four decades is Afgen Laser and Survey Products. The business is involved in the design, sale and manufacture of laser and survey products, all done from their headquarters in Kyalami Park, Midrand, just outside Johannesburg.

John Anderson is the CEO of Afgen and he recently took the time to tell IndustrySA a little bit more about the business and the wonderful services they have on offer.

“We have a long history; the company was originally started in 1946 by my father and a couple of other gentlemen. At that stage they weren’t involved in this type of business at all; they were importers of raw chemicals for agriculture and industry.”

The company dealt in this industry from its formation

right through to the late 70s when the move into the surveying world was completed. The business focus switched because of the difficulty faced at the time with imports. The government was encouraging more and more industrial chemicals to be produced in South Africa and Afgen knew that a new direction would be necessary.

LASER TECHNOLOGY“In the 1970s laser technology was just beginning to get off the ground and we got in with it,” says Mr Anderson.

Today, laser technology is found everywhere and is used in all major industries including consumer electronics, information technology, science, medicine, law enforcement, entertainment and the military but what actually is a laser? The first lasers widely used by the general population were in shop barcode scanners and then in CD players and printers. The word laser originated as an acronym for light amplification of stimulated emission of radiation and a laser is essentially a device that emits light (electromagnetic radiation) through a process of optical amplification based on the stimulated emission of photons. These can of course have many uses in the mining and construction industry.

PAGE 58 OCT 12

Emitting light in mining and manufacturing

By Joe Forshaw

Afgen’s laser and survey products are used to measure distances,

check for hidden utilities, assist with mine and tunnel construction

and alignment and perform many more important tasks. MD Derek

Gouws and CEO John Anderson tell Industry SA more about the 66

year old business.

By Joe Forshaw

Afgen stock a list of high spec products from some of the world’s foremost brands as Mr Anderson explains: “We import products from a company in America, a company in Switzerland, a company in Japan and a company in China so we have four main principles.”

The company also designs and manufactures products under its own brand and this has proved to be very successful and become a major contributor to the Afgen business.

“All the design and manufacture of our products is done onsite in Midrand. A large slice of our business is our own manufactured products for mining and tunnelling applications and amongst the surveying equipment our biggest seller at the moment is GPS (Global Positioning System) materials,” says Mr Anderson.

As discussed above mining companies are a major

customer for Afgen but Mr Anderson adds that civil engineering companies are also part of the client base.

HEALTHY BUSINESSIt is hard to talk about business today without discussing the effects of the worldwide recession and economic slowdown. We have reported before that South African businesses have felt the effects in different ways and this is again the case at Afgen. “We felt recessionary pressures on the civil engineering side of things which includes construction, but it didn’t affect our mining sales at all,” says Mr Anderson.

The business is healthy and enjoying success but they are prepared for any challenges that could arise as Mr Anderson explains: “Everything has gone very well over the last 12 months but we are always ready for hiccups, which could happen at any time. The Rand is getting

AFGEN LASER AND SURVEY PRODUCTS

OCT 12 PAGE 59

COMPANY REPORT

PAGE 60 OCT 12

weaker against the dollar so there may be an issue there but it does help us when exporting our own products.”

Afgen export to a host of other African nations including Congo, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia and Mr Anderson tells us that in the past they exported as far as Australia, Korea, America and the UK. To keep the customers happy Afgen endeavour to have the most up to date stock list possible. “We’re always on the lookout for new developments in products and we’re always looking to develop products ourselves. It’s important for our industry,” says Mr Anderson.

Another one of the major issues on the tip of everyone’s tongue right now is eco-friendly practice and the ‘green’ economy and while Mr Anderson is very aware of this, he is confident that the business operates in a green fashion. “Our products are basically green. We don’t pollute anything but we are conscious of it. We are a green company; we don’t manufacture anything that is going to pollute anything.”

Afgen is not only about brilliant products. The service side of things is big business too. “Every product we sell, we maintain. We have a service department to look after

everything. It’s like selling a car – you have to service it. We have a team of electronic technicians who take care of that,” says Mr Anderson. Their service centre is fully SABS accredited.

It is important for the business to excel in this area as it is required by customers and also helpful to the brands which Afgen sell. “We have a relationship with Pentax and Leica, both well-known companies and a couple of others. Along with our own products these make up the focus of attention,” Mr Anderson tells us.

He goes on to tell us that Afgen need the best people to help with the service delivery and maintain the products but these people are not always easy to find. “We are so technical we have to employ people with some experience. Preferably they will have a university education. We deal with specialised electronics so it’s not easy to find people. A lot of young people want to go into finance and make their money that way.”

You may think that Afgen enjoy a dominance in the market because of the nature of the highly specialised products that they supply but this is not the case. Mr Anderson tells us that competition is fierce and their

“ In the 1970s laser technology was just beginning to get

off the ground and we got in with it”

AFGEN LASER AND SURVEY PRODUCTS

OCT 12 PAGE 61

employees, their flexibility and their innovation are the drivers behind their success.

“We have intense competition in about 80% of our business. I think that we are ahead and we stay ahead through innovation and that’s thanks to our employees. Everybody pitches in with everything in the business.

“We often get asked for products that can do new things so we will design new products to fill those gaps. It takes time and research but we are flexible. We don’t deal with a full chain of mines or anything like that. We deal with individual mines, it’s just the nature of the market, we have to be on the ground dealing with the people who use the product.”

The Afgen business is no longer family owned but the board of directors still assert the traditional values that have made it successful over the years. After coming through the problems in the economy relatively unscathed it is clear that the service and product are hitting home in the right areas. The challenge going forward will be continuing to meet demand as the mining industry grows and activities change, and the construction business kicks into overdrive as the government continue to push for economic growth.

For more information go to www.afgen.co.za ●

“ We try to offer a full turn-

key solution It is the level of

expertise that separates us.”

JUST BATTERIES

OCT 12 PAGE 63

When it comes to powering our equipment we may, mistakenly, not pay too much attention. Energy and power is the lifeblood of any organisation, without it you have nothing. Batteries are perfect for supplying power and a company that knows batteries inside out is Just Batteries.

Just Batteries is an industrial battery company who can design, manufacture and supply industrial battery solutions of all kinds. Gary Chapman, national sales manager, tells IndustrySA about the turn-key solutions on offer from Just Batteries and how their unrivalled experience makes them one of the industry leaders.

“Just Batteries was founded in 2003. We mainly focus on supplying batteries for industrial applications and by that I mean things like portable instrumentation, battery packs for medical equipment, radio communications and military hardware.

“From relatively humble beginnings in 2003 we have grown steadily. We had only a 2x3m room and now we have a large factory and store and around 40 people on the payroll.”

Just Batteries like to get involved with product development right from the start so close relationships with customers are key. “We try to get involved from the start so we can get a good understanding of what voltage, capacity, lifespan and working environment and then provide the perfect battery solution,” says Mr Chapman.

The company is the sole supplier in, South Africa, of some of the world’s best battery brands. The flagship product and something which has given Just Batteries a real advantage in the market is the French produced

SAFT range. “This is a high-end product and there is very little that can compete with it,” says Mr Chapman. This product is perfect for many high-tech customers looking for a high-end battery.

Just Batteries business is not confined to South Africa. They work in Namibia, Zambia and other Southern African countries and they also have arrangements in place with well recognised Chinese manufacturers. The company, now headquartered in Benoni, Gauteng, has agents in target locations across the country including Cape Town and Durban.

“We try to offer a full turn-key solution,” says Mr Chapman. He continues: “If a customer requires a rechargeable solution we can design and manufacture the charger as well as the battery.” Just Batteries aims to be a one stop solution for power problems for any industrial customer. Their innovative approach has seen them manufacture 10 way and 20 way chargers to suit client requirements.

Just Batteries has also worked in the mining industry,

providing intrinsic safety services. “When working around gases or other hazards you cannot have a battery that will cause a spark,” says Mr Chapman. The company will assess the situation and provide a battery that will pass all of the testing demands and work safely.

A milestone for the company is approaching as soon they will be ISO:9001 certified following audits from officials. “It has been a monumental task, preparing everything for certification. We now have everything in place and it will give us an advantage,” says Mr Chapman.

Just Batteries specialise in all chemistries. They can provide batteries of all kinds including lithium iron, nickel cadmium, lead acid and more. Mr Chapman says: “We have to be adaptable to meet the needs of our customers,” and it is this flexibility that helps make them the first choice across many industry sectors. ●

Powered upJust Batteries are an industry

leader in their sector. Their national

sales manager tells IndustrySA

why: “If you go with the best

quality available, you tend to

create a hassle free product with

no problems,” says Gary Chapman.

By Joe Forshaw

COMPANY REPORT

The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is one of the biggest scientific projects ever undertaken. It will see the construction of the world’s largest radio telescope made up of thousands of radio wave receptors, or antennas, linked together through fibre optic technology, spanning an area the size of a continent. Starting out as an idea in the early 90s, the project has gathered momentum over the last decade and in 2007 an agreement was drawn up to establish the SKA Program Development Office (SPDO). In 2008 this became active and now provides an international framework for technology development and design work. One of the most recent moments of significance was the decision taken in May to host the SKA jointly between South Africa and Australia.

Media coverage surrounding the project is intense which has helped to give the wider community a better understanding of what is going on and what is going to be achieved. President Zuma was recently is the Carnarvon in the Northern Cape and he said that it was time for people

to start getting excited about the SKA. He said that being selected to host the project was proof that South Africa is now on the cutting edge of science and technology and he reiterated the message that the project has the full backing of the government. This was further reiterated when Susan Shabangu, Minister for mining, said that the exploration for shale gas or ‘fracking’ would stop in the Northern Cape if there was any conflict with the SKA Project.

Something that is often missed by the media is that the SKA Project is not only relevant to Africa and Australia. It is of interest to every country in the world and many have membership to the SKA Organisation. The SKA Organisation is headquartered in Manchester, England and there are nine full member countries - Australia, Canada, China, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden and the UK with Germany and India and a host of others set to join in the near future.

Jo Bowler is head of communications for the SKA Organisation in the UK and she recently spoke to

PAGE 64 OCT 12

SA Centre Of The UniverseBy Roland Douglas

In May it was announced

that South Africa will

host the SKA Project

in partnership with

Australia and other

African nations. Located mainly

in the Northern Cape, the project

will see construction of the

world’s largest radio telescope.

IndustrySA to give more of an insight into the project. “The organisation was established in December 2011 to

formalise relationships between the international partners and centralise the leadership of the project,” she says.

She adds: “The SKA will address questions that people have pondered for thousands of years. Are we alone or does life exist on other planets? How did the universe begin and how will it end? The answers to these questions are relevant to everyone across the world. On a practical scale, the vast size of the SKA has the potential to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, not only in astronomy related fields but in others including aerospace engineering, mathematics and the natural sciences.”

When the full array is complete there will be around 3000 dishes spread across a maximum separation of 3000km across Southern Africa. Prior to that there will be other projects including the MeerKAT project which will see 64 dishes constructed and placed in South Africa. The first of the 64 dishes are now in place and known as the KAT-7 and

these are providing the opportunity to test engineering and technical specifications before the full array is built in 2016.

It is the technology which holds the key to the success of this project and Willem Esterhuyse is the MeerKAT project manager and he tells IndustrySA a little more about the hardware involved.

“The seven antenna array, the KAT-7, is already on site and working. The MeerKAT will be a 64 antenna array that is in progress. We will have the first antenna on the ground in January 2014, 32 down by end of 2015 and all 64 antenna and all hardware down by the end of 2016.

“The SKA will grow out of the MeerKAT project with phase one seeing another 190 antenna put in place. The SKA phase two is the big one that will incorporate dishes and aperture arrays.”

Mr Esterhuyse makes it clear that the design of the antenna is one of the most important decisions of the entire project and although it has been a long time coming, a choice on the final design is almost here. In 2024 the SKA will cover

THE SQUARE KILOMETRE ARRAY

OCT 12 PAGE 65

Picture by Dr Nadeem Oozeer


than what was originally planned for. When the MeerKAT telescope is operational, high-

tech digitisers and correlators will be used to decipher the information collected. “The digitisers condition the signal and there’s an analogue-digital converter in there from which the information is sent to the fibre network and through to the correlator room,”

You may find yourself asking why 64 dishes are needed for the MeerKAT project and why around 3000 are needed for the SKA? Perhaps you may think one larger dish could accomplish the same thing? Well this is not the case. Mr Esterhuyse explains that an array can provide massive sensitivity and large single dish telescopes are too expensive to build and maintain.

“For the SKA, specifications have been issued so each dish will have a sensitivity of 4m²/k. So if you have 250 antennas

Williem Esterhuyse

the radio frequency range 70MHz-10GHz and in order to be able to follow through on the aims of the project the system must work correctly and the design is a fundamental part of that. KAT-7 has proved helpful here as testing design and engineering elements has given a clearer picture of what will be required further down the line.

“After KAT-7 we went through a system level trade off study of various options and we are now looking at prime focus dishes versus offset Gregorian dishes. We are looking at a range of different receivers, single pixel and wider band receivers. We looked at various options for cooling, stirling cooling, GM (Gifford McMahon) coolers and ambient cooling. We have had a few international conferences and reviews and the design is almost there but there is so much to consider, it takes time,” Mr Esterhuyse says.

Quality control is obviously a major part of this project and it is something that Mr Esterhuyse and the rest of the team have to deal with every day. After every decision that has been made a full system review has to be undertaken, evaluations have to take place and software and hardware components have to be reviewed. While it can be tedious it is necessary. “The first time you do anything it takes time. You have to qualify everything and do a lot of tests,” says Mr Esterhuyse. He adds: “Quality is so important otherwise you get to a point where you’ve made 20 antennas and then you need to start making changes which isn’t where you want to be.”

From start to finish the SKA as a whole will have a major impact on South Africa, boosting the economy and highlighting the science and technology industry in the country. 75% of the antennas will have local South African content thanks to companies like Etse and EMSS. “Local content on the KAT-7 antennas was about 82%,” says Mr Esterhuyse. He also says that using local suppliers allowed for a better financial deal and higher specification equipment

PAGE 66 OCT 12

Picture by Dr Nadeem Oozeer

WWW.ETSE.CO.ZA

ON THE SAME WAVELENGTH

If you need radio frequency and microwave electronics (components, transmitters, receivers, systems) GPS, GPRS, RF-Modems, embedded and microprocessor

systems then Etse Electronics is the company you need to speak to.

One of the names at the forefront of electronic design, development and manufacture in South Africa is Etse Electronics. Since its establishment in 1997 the company has come a long way and has been involved in a

number of major projects. Dr Johann de Swardt is the managing director and he tells IndustrySA about the strengths of the business. “The core business involves radio frequency and microwave electronics.

“While we are a small business we have the ability to make quick decisions and offer specialised services at affordable costs.”

The company was founded following the award of a contract from the South African Special Forces Brigade which tasked Etse with the development of a two-way radio. Dr de Swardt and his two partners at the time

completed the project successfully and the business began to grow. Since then Etse has contributed to work on satellites in the Middle East and with the SunSpace project, radar work for the defence industry, military radio

systems, the Bloodhound field personnel technology and livestock security technology. ETSE has played a major role in an innovative development for long-time partner Celmax. A Celmax

collar monitors the behaviour of livestock and can warn a farmer, via an alarm on a cell phone, of a likely theft or attack.

Work with the KAT-7 project, part of the SKA project, has been a major focus recently with Etse actively involved in the development and maintenance of part of the receiver electronics. “Our developed subsystems are part of a state-of-the-art receiver system. Although the development phase is over, we continue to be closely involved in

a supporting role,” says Dr de Swardt.

With a team of nine highly-skilled and vastly experienced engineers Etse Electronics has the base to grow further into the market. Dr de Swardt says that component development is an area with potential and because 80% of

their work comes from referrals it is likely that they will be able to exploit this growth area.

T +27 (21) 880 1163 and +27 (21) 8802661F +27 (21) 880 1163

E [email protected]

you will have an instrument with a sensitivity of 1000m²/k. For serious astronomy these dishes would be too small on their own. They will only be around 15m high and 12m wide. A telescope like the Green Bank in America has a diameter of 100m and this has made significant scientific discoveries.”

The construction of the entire SKA is set to be complete in 2024, and with just under 3000 dishes to be made, every second is vital.

“MeerKAT antennas can be produced from nothing in around 50 days. When the process gets fully underway we will make one every two or three weeks,” says Mr Esterhuyse, then placement and installation becomes the next challenge.

The positioning of each antenna is vitally important and the hardware will be located in a massive ‘spiral’ arrangement across the host countries. Ms Bowler suggests

that the spiral formation is cost-effective and perfect for technical requirements. “The spiral layout has been chosen as this gives many different lengths, or baselines, and angles between antennas resulting in excellent imaging capability. The long baselines give the high resolution capability and careful antenna placement achieves a good distribution of distances and angles.

“The perfect layout would maximise the number of different baselines and angles between antennas. However the practicalities of construction and cabling between antennas mean that the spiral configuration is the best trade-off between imaging capability and cost.”

LONGEVITY With many scientific projects there has been a concern that the project may not have a long enough lifespan considering

COMPANY REPORT

PAGE 68 OCT 12

Picture by Maik Wolleben

OCT 12 PAGE 69


it will cost in total around €1500 million and take 16 years to move from concept to full operation. Ms Bowler says that it is not a concern for the SKA Organisation. “The telescope will have a lifespan of at least 50 years and will be continually upgradable to take advantage of advances in technology during this period.”

As the project moves through its various phases it will contribute to the economy in a big way; bringing investment into the country and creating employment are just two areas that will be helped by the project. Ms Bowler tells us that although there have been major difficulties with the global economic downturn, the project has no issues with finance and has a plan in place to ensure it is secure throughout. “The SKA already has a two-stage funding and construction plan, so not all the investment is needed at once. Phase one which will be 10% of the

full telescope is planned for construction in 2016 - 2020. Phase two, planned for 2020 - 2024, will complete the full telescope. Securing investment in installments reduces the risk associated with partners facing difficulties.”

There are many opportunities for South African businesses to be involved with the projects. Everything from construction, design and logistics through to engineering, technical support and communications will need to be serviced and maintained. Some businesses are already involved and, as President Zuma said, highlighting South Africa’s brilliant technology industry. Etse Electronics and EMSS are two companies at the front of their industries and they have been involved in the design of receiver antenna for the existing dishes. There are so many opportunities available and Ms Bowler tells us how people and businesses can get involved. “As the SKA project moves through the design,

development, construction and operational stages, industry will play a crucial role in the delivery and through-life support of the technologies and infrastructure. Businesses interested in becoming involved with the SKA project should contact their regional SKA industry representative, details of which are available online. Jobs in the SKA Organisation and in our partner organisations are advertised on the SKA website.”

While the project is still at a relatively early stage it is the perfect time to get involved. The only difficulty faced by the SKA Organisation is the cost implications of splitting the site between Africa and Australia as Professor Justin Jonas, associate director for SKA South Africa, highlighted recently. This is something which will undoubtedly not halt the progress of this history

making project.For more information on the SKA including jobs and

opportunities keep your eyes on IndustrySA and go to www.skatelescope.org/people-contacts/jobs/ or www.skatelescope.org/ska-industry/opportunities-industry/ ●

TIMELINE

2024 Full operation 2020 24 Phase two construction 2020 Full science operations with phase one 2016 20 Phase one construction 2013 15 Detailed design and pre-construction phase 2012 Site selection 2008 12 Telescope conceptual design


PAGE 70 OCT 12

Picture from www.ska.ac.za

ELECTROMAGNETIC SOFTWARE AND SYSTEMSTECHNOPARK, STELLENBOSCH

P.O. BOX 492, STELLENBOSCH 7599+27 (021) 880 1880WWW.EMSS.CO.ZA

REACHING FOR THE STARS EMSS Antennas is part of the EMSS group. Made up of three separate companies,

the group specialises in electromagnetic software and systems. EMSS Antennas is an industry leader in the development of custom antenna systems and related sub-components.

The group employs around 100 people in South Africa with 20 people working for EMSS Antennas. This year the group has reported a turnover of around R100 million and with the SKA project

gathering pace there are lots of opportunities for the antenna division to grow.“EMSS Antennas is ten years old this year and is at present devoting all resources to the South

African MeerKAT radio astronomy project. Our core capability is in electromagnetic theory and its applications, and over the last few years we have further refined our skill set towards the rather

unique needs of radio astronomy,” says Dr du Toit.

He is understandably very proud after the company was awarded a contract to design and develop the L-band cryogenically-cooled receiver systems for the MeerKAT. “We are very pleased with the outcome and look forward to the next phase where we carry it forward to the pre-production level. Most of the critical components have been prototyped and all measurable parameters were within

specification. All in all, 2012 was a good year!”

The company is made up predominantly of post-graduate engineers and the skill set is unique. Because of this EMSS Antennas have a great advantage when it comes to work with the SKA

project but Dr du Toit is keen to expand other parts of the business and work in different areas to ensure sustainability in the future. “Over the last few years we have honed and trimmed our

resources and capabilities to map very specifically to the generic radio astronomy receptor problem. It would be fortuitous for us to expand in a derivative line of business, which would allow a

seamless sharing of resources, and our challenge is to find this without putting our current main business at risk,” says Dr du Toit.

To make the business successful, it is not only a scientific mind that is needed. “What we add to the equation is a good work ethic, a can-do attitude and perhaps a healthy dose of self-imposed fear of failure,” says Dr du Toit. Add this to a capable team, an educated client and the correct funding, then

what you have is a company at the forefront of its industry.

COMPANY REPORT

In the summer President Zuma announced that the government was committed to expanding the country’s infrastructure. The improvement of major roads and the introduction of new water, rail and electricity projects, particularly in provinces which required more attention, would be at the top of the priority list for the government. Since taking power in 2009, Zuma has frequently reiterated his desire to unlock the country’s potential in terms of economic development and these on-going infrastructural projects could be going some way towards achieving the levels of growth that Zuma is looking for.

One of the companies who have been very much involved in the infrastructure projects that have been so important to the country is Goba Consulting Engineers and Project Managers. Formed in 2001 following a merger between Goba Moahloli and Associates Inc and Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, the company specialises in managing industrial engineering projects. After being heavily involved in the construction of the stadiums for use in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Goba received praise from the industry and from the wider community. They picked up awards for unique design, civil engineering and technical excellence. These added nicely to a growing collection of trophies, all reinforcing the high-standards

set in terms of quality. All of these awards are helping Goba move towards achieving their long-term vision of being the leading provider of multi-disciplinary consulting engineering and project services.

Goba’s operations fall primarily under four main categories, namely: Transportation, water, mining and industrial, and structures and bridges. After a successful year in 2012 the company is building towards an even more successful year in 2013 with transportation in particular looking like an area with real growth potential.

THE PROOF’S IN THE PROJECTIn the transportation division Goba has worked with the private sector, parastatal organisations and public sector at all levels (national, regional and local). Transport Minister Ben Martins said, at the official opening of the second Congress of the African Association of Public Transport (UATP) in Johannesburg recently, that an effective transportation system is the pillar of growth and development in Africa. Goba’s transportation division has been running for 35 years and is now widely acknowledged to be one of, if not the best source

PAGE 72 OCT 12

Always Engineering Excellence

By Joe ForshawGoba (Pty) Ltd is one of South Africa’s most

high-profile engineering organisations with a

reputation for achieving excellence. We look at

their amazing history and exciting future…

By Joe Forshaw

for transportation engineering advice and expertise. Mr Martins said: “Other sectors of the economy such as agriculture, mining and tourism also depend on transport.” State owned company, Transnet, has announced over the past few months major investments into rail, port and road and in February Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan said that the country would have a pot of R4.5 trillion to draw on for infrastructure investments. This is clearly good news for Goba who have already been involved with major transportation upgrades and have been preparing for growth in the transportation division of their business which is already the largest of the four divisions.

Projects underway right now or recently completed include the Umgeni Interchange, Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), the upgrade and development of major road networks including Route 61

and the upgrade of Metrorail stations across the Western Cape. Goba is also involved in the Tunney Industrial Townships projects, the Road Enterprise Development Programme and further Metrorail upgrades for the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).

The company has also completed major projects including the Durban Harbour Services Tunnel Replacement, the Vaal River Eastern Subsystem Augmentation Project, the Berg River Dam upgrade, construction of the Durban Heights Booster Pump Station, design of a new vehicle and pedestrian access bridge over the N1 in De Doorns, construction of the N2 Interchange at King Shaka International Airport, surface infrastructure design at the SASOL mine in Thubelisha and infrastructure for the BHP mine in Klipspruit.

Goba take a slightly different approach to the work

GOBA

OCT 12 PAGE 73

VAUGHAN CHARLES ASSOCIATES

MTN’s vision is to become the leading telecommunications provider for emerging markets. They have a presence in Botswana, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland, Uganda, Zambia, Iran, Afghanistan, Benin, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Liberia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

It looks as though they are well on their way to achieving their vision. Their mission is to speed up the progress of the emerging world by enriching the lives of the people within it.

Are they achieving this mission? Get in touch and let us know. @industry_sawww.facebook.com/ECPindustrysa

PAGE 74 OCT 12

Quality Quantity SurveyorsVaughan Charles speaks to

IndustrySA about growth

into Africa and fantastic

relationships and projects with

industry leading businesses.

By Christian Jordan

The core business of Vaughan Charles Associates (VCA) is quantity surveying. After its establishment in 1995 the business has seen phenomenal growth and has been involved in some of the country’s major engineering projects.

Vaughan R. Charles is the managing director of the company and he has ambitious plans for the future. “I have a big expansion plan for Africa. Right now I’m focussed on the West Coast. I have work in Gabon, I’m starting to work in Benin and there are prospects in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. I will probably set up an office in Libreville, Gabon and then we can ply our trade in West Africa.”

The company has offices in major cities across the nation including Durban, Cape Town and Pietermaritzburg. With investments in infrastructure being encouraged by the government and the construction industry looking to shake the effects of the tough global economic climate the market is showing great opportunities for VCA and Mr Charles knows this. “We have been lucky and not felt the effects of the slowdown. I am very active in looking for work, I look ahead and pursue work for the next 5 to 10 years.”

The business compliments 18 people in Durban, 6 in Cape Town, 3 in Pietermaritzburg and 2 in Gabon. With trade in Africa set to grow, the number of employees in Gabon will likely increase in the coming months.

Although quantity surveying forms the core of the business VCA is capable of providing services in project management and construction costing consultancy. Mr Charles originally trained as a quantity surveyor before embarking on a career with various construction companies and setting up on his own in 1995. This versatility could be a reason why VCA works regularly with engineering giants such as Goba.

Mr Charles tells us about a few of the flagship projects that VCA has been involved in. “I done the King Shaka International Airport, I have worked on the Moses Madhiba soccer stadium, we are working on the IRPTN (Intergrated Rapid Public Transport Network) and various intermodal projects, most notably Bridge City, all with Goba.

“It’s all about creating relationships. We make promises that we can deliver on. Our relationship has been built over a couple of years and we have a synergy with our partners.”

While the relationship between VCA and Goba is strong it is clear that expansion into Africa is one of the main goals for future. “There are two major projects that are likely to come off in the near future - a business centre in Gabon and a Mariott Hotel, also in Gabon. In total these projects will be worth around €160 million.”

With aggressive expansion planned and over 17 years’ experience in the industry, VCA looks set to continue to grow its reputation as one of the markets leading organisations. ●

“I have a big expansion plan

for Africa. Right now I’m

focussed on the West Coast”

HEAD OFFICE DURBAN4 ROCKDALE AVENUE WESTVILLE 3630 T 031 266 8615 F 031 266 7216 E [email protected]

BRANCH OFFICE PIETERMARITZBURG135 MELSETTER ROAD WOODLANDSPIETERMARITZBURG 3201T 033 3876933 F 086 628 4017 M 083 656 8872 E [email protected]

BRANCH OFFICES WESTERN CAPE 8 LA MER21 SLUYSKEN ROADHOUT BAY 7806 T 021 790 1908 F 021 790 4550E [email protected]

QUANTITY SURVEYORS, CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS & PROJECT MANAGERS

COMPANY REPORT

PAGE 76 OCT 12

they carry out. A large emphasis is placed on the relationship between engineers and project manager and clients. They prefer to have a much closer affiliation with customers and the company works, in many cases, through partnerships and joint ventures. This allows for a genuine pursuit of excellence and not just an unrealistic target that is only in place because it has to be. The company’s excellent reputation has been bolstered by receiving ISO:9001 certification and being awarded membership to the Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA) and the Industrial Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC). Over the past few years the service excellence of Goba has been demonstrated on a number of occasions with the company receiving numerous awards (mentioned below).

FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH The drive for excellence is being directed from the top, by Trueman Goba himself. The executive chairman of the company is clearly not happy to just sit still, he

always looking to grow and the recent announcement of another merger was widely reported as a move that will make the company a fixture in the global market.

Goba will look to merge with Hatch and become part of the global Hatch group and function as a multidisciplinary and multi-sector engineering consultancy. Mr Goba will head up the new entity as chairperson as soon as approval is given by the competition commission of South Africa.

He said earlier this year: “The company’s vision for years has been to diversify into other sectors in order to offer clients maximum value on a much wider range of services.”

Martin Doble, Hatch global managing director for infrastructure added: “Hatch’s infrastructure business has grown steadily over the past few years and a big part of that growth has come from our work in South Africa with GOBA and Hatch Mott MacDonald on the Transnet program to transform the country’s industrial infrastructure.”

“ After being heavily involved in the construction of

the stadiums for use in the 2010 FIFA World Cup,

Goba received praise from the industry and from

the wider community”

GOBA

The global managing director of Hatch for Africa is Rory Kirk and he has said that the venture will allow for a combination of the two companies unique skills. “This will enable the proposed new entity to offer Hatch and Goba’s existing and future clients a more comprehensive approach to delivering projects.”

If the decision is taken by the competition commission to allow the merger then the two companies who have worked together previously will form a major force in the industry with a strong workforce

of well over 2000 people.

A FRUITFUL FUTUREDuring 2011/12 the Development Bank of South Africa approved R27.5 billion for infrastructure projects and has plans to continue to back these large scale investments which is good news for Goba. With the potential of the huge merger on the horizon and the money being pumped into projects there are massive opportunities available to the company in 2013. Something that will drive investors and clients towards Goba is the skill and expertise of their people and this is something which they have in abundance. This has been demonstrated recently when Nick van den Berg, head of structures and bridges in the Eastern Cape, was elected to join the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). Through this appointment Mr van den Berg will be responsible for representing the interests of professionals in the industry and ensuring that a high level of education and training of practitioners in

OCT 12 PAGE 77

the engineering profession is maintained. This follows his election as President of the Concrete Society of South Africa (CSSA) and proves that if you go with Goba you will be getting the best people out there, people who are masters of their trade and recognised as experts. Trueman Goba has previously been on the ECSA and was eventually elected as President, an aim which Mr van den Berg will no doubt be looking to pursue.

As the company grows and the market expands with the recovering global economy, there name Goba will become a brand that is recognised for quality, success and unrivalled industry knowledge. This is something which will give clients, suppliers, government and employees a great deal of confidence so it does make sense to ‘let Goba make a difference for you’, as the company suggests it can do. ●

A SELECTION OF GOBA’S AWARDS:2011: Backspruit Bridge Project – Project of the year – Transnet Capital Projects2010: Viaduct Project – Supreme winners of the master building association excellence in constructions awards IMESA Structures Award Mentoring Project – CESA Award2009: Berg Water Project, Franschoek –Fulton Award in civil engineering Moses Madhiba Stadium Project - Fulton Award in unique design aspectsSAICE Award for technical excellence iSimangaliso Wetland Park Development Project - SAICE National CommendationSAICE Durban Award for community projects Redevelopment of Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium – KPM Consortium Award2008: Berg River Dam Project –CESA-Glenrand MIB Award Best Paper on Tunneling –Alec Wilson Award

UNIPLAS PRODUCTS CC

MTN’s vision is to become the leading telecommunications provider for emerging markets. They have a presence in Botswana, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland, Uganda, Zambia, Iran, Afghanistan, Benin, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Liberia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

It looks as though they are well on their way to achieving their vision. Their mission is to speed up the progress of the emerging world by enriching the lives of the people within it.

Are they achieving this mission? Get in touch and let us know. @industry_sawww.facebook.com/ECPindustrysa

PAGE 78 OCT 12

Uniplas Products cc is a micro-enterprise established in 2008 by Mumtaz Taylor. The core business of Uniplas is to provide planning, procurement, contract documents, contract administration, cost management, quantity surveying and project accounting to the mining and construction industries. The services are carefully designed to meet the requirements of the client and exceed expectations. Based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, the company is a young black woman owned, level four BBBEE entity. “I started working in the mining and engineering sector in 1982. I was employed by a quantity surveying firm, thereafter I moved to an engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) consultancy. In 2007 I took the initiative and started my own little business,” says Ms Taylor, director of Uniplas.

Uniplas can see projects through from start to successful completion, close out and handover. The vast range of services offered helps to set the company apart from any competition and in the mining and minerals industry, one which is dominated by multi-national companies, the relatively small size of the business allows for flexibility and quick decisions.

Ms Taylor tells IndustrySA that growth is the goal for the company over the coming years and building on the strong experience already in place will help to add value. “To secure more projects in order to be an active participant in job creation is an important target. There are many opportunities for the company, however they

are outside of South Africa.”Work with engineering experts Goba has seen a

partnership flourish between the two organisations. Uniplas provided procurement and commercial services on two Goba coal mine projects in Secunda and Ms Taylor suggests that sustainable partnerships are the key to development. “Goba have shown exceptional commitment and support throughout this time.”

The business has seen success in 2012 and the most profitable area has been mining and minerals. Even with a tough economic climate Uniplas has managed to keep a constant flow of business but there is uncertainty on the horizon as Ms Taylor explains: “The country’s mining sector has been facing decline due to uncertainty from the government and more recently talk of increased taxes and export levies. In addition to this there is talk of the nationalisation of mines which makes shareholders nervous. Energy is expensive and labour costs are rising which means commodities would become expensive and we won’t have a market to sell to, clients will look for other international markets to buy from.”

The government is now actively encouraging investment into the construction industry through a massive state-led infrastructure drive. This will see huge finances pumped into the market which will benefit both Uniplas and Goba and hopefully create lasting opportunities. ●

Growth Is The Goal For Uniplas

By Joe Forshaw

Uniplas is a company with broad

expertise and vast experience,

servicing the mining, construction

and engineering industries for

nearly five years.

By Roland Douglas

“ To secure more

projects in order

to be an active

participant in job

creation is an

important target”

3 Oregon Place Northcliff Ext 15JohannesburgSouth Africa2195

T +27 11 021-9021F 0866 894 504M +27 82 331 [email protected] [email protected]

VAT Registration No 4060211606 CK Registration No 2002/059814/23

Servicing The Mining And Construction Industries

Uniplas Products cc is a young, black owned company based in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

Uniplas provides planning, procurement, contract documents, contract administration, cost management, quantity surveying and project accounting to the mining and construction industries. The services are carefully designed to meet the requirements of the client and exceed expectations

Uniplas has developed a fantastic working relationship with Goba, most recently demonstrated in Secunda where Uniplas provided procurement and commercial services for two of their Coal Mine Projects.

“I can proudly say that Goba have shown exceptional commitment and support throughout this time. I do believe that successful and sustainable partnerships are the key to sustainable development.”Mumtaz Taylor – MD, Uniplas.

COMPANY REPORT

South Africa is one of the world’s leading countries when it comes to events hosting. Recently the South African Association of the Conference Industry had its annual meeting in Pretoria and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk stated that the country has already secured over 200 international conferences over the next five years. In 2011 it is reported that the South Africa attracted nearly half a million business travellers and nearly half of those attended conferences and meetings in the country. To support and grow this market, along with tourism in general, the government has established the first South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB). The SANCB is tasked with co-ordinating national bidding, undertaking research, and collaborating with city and provincial convention bureaux and the business events industry to present a united front for destination South Africa, said Mr van Schalkwyk.

One of the businesses providing excellent service when it comes to event hosting and conference delivery is the Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC). The 200 events already planned for the next five years will bring over 300,000 delegates to the country and a predicted income of R1.6 billion – a figure which the JEC will look to take a slice of.

Mr van Schalkwyk said recently that besides the three big national convention centres in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, South Africa is home to numerous other facilities that give the world’s meetings and conference organisers the same quality, variety and choice that South Africa offers across the larger tourism sector.

With the government pushing hard for tourism and the related industry sectors to grow, it is refreshing to see that the industry is performing so well. Karabo Moikangoe is the sales and marketing executive for the JEC and he tells us that 2013 is set to be another successful year for the organisation.

“In our industry there is always a steady incline. We’ve been very fortunate and managed to secure a number of shows for the coming year. Some of the shows have moved to us from other venues so that is encouraging.”

BIGGER IS BETTERSo what is it that makes the JEC the facility of choice

for exhibitions, conferencing and events hosting in South Africa? The first stand out point is the sheer size. “There is no other venue that offers the size that we do,” says Mr Moikangoe. He goes on to tell us that location and the multi-purpose nature of the JEC are other selling points.

“We are a multi-purpose facility, for any organiser

PAGE 80 OCT 12

Size Matters

The Johannesburg Expo Centre has over 150,000m2

of conference and event space. We talk to the sales

and marketing executive, Karabo Moikangoe, to

understand what challenges face the business when

dealing with a space of this size.

By Christian Jordan

this facility really works. For ease of accessibility we are located in central Johannesburg. If you’re coming from the airport or any other direction there are at least three major arterial highways.

“We ensure we make it easy to build up and break down, this can be a headache for any event organiser. Because we are the biggest sometimes people will outgrow their current venues and then it makes sense to come with us and grow with us.”

The centre has 52,000m² of indoor space and 100,000m² of outdoor space with the ability to park over 15,000 vehicles. There is not another entertainment space in South Africa with this sort of convenience and it allows for a much more manageable process.

“We are probably the only venue that has proven we are able to successfully host more than two medium to large exhibitions at any one given time,” says Mr Moikangoe.

CHALLENGES AND TRIALS With the tourism industry in South Africa identified

by the government as an area with mass potential for growth and job creation it is important that the JEC maintains its position as one of Southern Africa’s leading national and international exhibition, convention and events centres and while this is part of the overall vision,

Mr Moikangoe says that further steps have been taken to secure business in the future. “A few years ago we made a decision to control our own destiny in the sense that we do own our own shows. We are actually the only venue in South Africa that owns or own shows. We own the Rand Show which is the largest consumer show in South Africa and we own the Johannesburg International Motor Show which is ranked in the top 8 in the world by OICA (International Organisation of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers).”

While expansion in this industry comes mainly through acquiring new business and building new relationships to grow the client base, part of the JEC’s expansion comes through securing their own business and in the future the organisation will look to purchase more shows.

You may think it would take an army of staff to organise, maintain and deliver events of the size which the JEC deals with but in fact there are only 14 permanent employees. A great deal of the work is outsourced and this makes operations easier as Mr Moikangoe explains: “We outsource a lot, anything from maintenance, gardening and catering to electricity and other power. It makes everything more manageable, especially during downtime. It also gets rid of the problem of massive overheads and leads to efficiency.”

JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRE

OCT 12 PAGE 81

COMPANY REPORT

One of the main challenges faced by the JEC is maintaining the facility. The immense size makes this a real challenge. “We’re dealing with such a large venue and the difficulty lies with ensuring all of the facilities are of high standard all of the time. All of the small jobs, whether it’s maintaining the toilets or the landscape, those jobs become difficult,” says Mr Moikangoe.

The Expo Centre is clearly doing a good job despite the challenges that it faces every month. At the EXSA (Exhibition and Event Association of Southern Africa) awards in 2011 the venue took home two accolades, namely Best Trade Exhibition (12,000m² and over)for the Automechanika SA exhibition and Exhibition of the Year for the Johannesburg International Motor Show. The venue has also been awarded the Diamond Arrow Award from PMR Africa as the best exhibition and events centre in Sub-Saharan Africa and Mr Moikangoe says: “We won that award in 2011 and back in 2007 so we will be looking to be successful in 2012 again.”

If the governments drive towards a more vibrant tourism industry comes to fruition over the next few

years and South Africa maintains its reputation for first class events hosting there is no reason why the JEC cannot go on to become not just Africa’s top venue but one of the world’s leading exhibitions, conference and events centres. ●

UPCOMING EVENTS:04.11.12 – Soweto Marathon02.12.12 – VW Car Show15.12.12 – EDM Fest Joburg

One of the JEC’s biggest achievements was when it successfully hosted the International Broadcast Centre (IBC) for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The IBC was the centre for all television operations, world news agencies and media outlets during the event. This was an immense undertaking and JEC’s selection (amidst fierce competition) speaks volumes about the centre’s facilities and capabilities.

PAGE 82 OCT 12

“ We ensure we make it easy to build up and break down, this can be a headache for any event organiser”

Growth into Africa is a major goal for Diligence

Security over the coming year.

By Joe Forshaw

Integrated Security Solutions regional directors, all with a shareholding in the company.

In the future the target for the company is to grow. There are opportunities on the continent with exploration into markets such as Malawi, Lesotho, Zambia and Mozambique already underway. This expansion would involve working with other local security providers which would in turn increase the human capital and bring that side of the offering in line with the security systems offering.

When talking about the future Changuion says: “One of the main goals for us is to contribute positively to the outlook of the industry in South Africa.” Working with various associations and bodies the company would like to influence how the consumer sees security and ensure that businesses know the importance of working with a reputable security company.

“Stakeholder relationships are very important to us as it is these relationships that will make or break the business,” says Chaguion. “What makes us different is our pro-active involvement with our customers. Our executive directors are available to our customers at any time and this sets us apart from the competition.”

With the experience and expertise to match an industry leading security offering, Diligence is going to play a big role in the security industry for the foreseeable future. ●

DILIGENCE SECURITY

What matters the most? The safety of your people and assets;

So why don’t you let Diligence Security SA through its integrated security solutions model – design unique security solutions for you.

We will take time to understand your security needs and develop solutions which minimise your risk and give you the peace of mind that enables you to concentrate on running your business.

And with dedicated employees throughout the country; you are assured of an effective integration of technology and highly-trained sector specific human resources which results in the delivery of an extremely efficient service delivery.

Diligence Security SA (Pty) Ltd

(A Division of Diligence Services Group (Pty) Ltd)

Diligence Services Group Pty LtdH/O: Gate no 2 , Nasrec & Rand Show Rd, Expo Centre – JhbTel (011) 494 3333/ 082 878 [email protected]

Diligence Security was founded in 1987 and after multiple acquisitions in South Africa the company is now a leading provider of integrated security solutions. Sindi Changuion is the sales and marketing director for the company and she tells IndustrySA about the success of the business to date. “We combine human resources and security systems. Originally we provided for the manufacturing industry but we have since grown to service the oil and gas and retail industries as well.”

The business has around 3000 employees nationwide with 500 located close to the company headquarters in Gauteng. With offices in Cape Town and Durban, the level three BBBEE company is perfectly suited to handle any security related issue.

An important contract for Diligence has been with the Johannesburg Expo Centre where they have had the opportunity to utilise their full range of capabilities as Changuion explains: “It’s one of those contracts where we really explored the full integrated security solution for the customer, using both manpower and technical security systems.”

Diligence has a state of the art control room situated at the Expo Centre, from where all sites are monitored 24/7 for complete peace of mind. There are also offices in Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth which are managed by

COMPANY REPORT

In South Africa one of the brands at the top of the perimeter fencing industry is Betafence. Established in 1998 in South Africa, the company forms part of a wider group – Betafence NV, headquartered in Belgium. At group level the company has around 2000 employees and generates around €400 million in sales. There are 11 production sites in ten countries and sales offices all over the world. Betafence NV has been operating for 125 years and is the world market leader in fencing solutions, access control for perimeter protection and wire mesh products for a variety of industrial applications.

One of the goals of the group is to grow their worldwide market share and South Africa will form a key part of that growth strategy. Highlighted, along with

India, China, Brazil and the Middle East, as a growing market, South Africa is becoming a bigger and bigger part of the Betafence business. Serving a range of different industries and supplying a vast list of products and services, the company is becoming the name synonymous with fencing solutions.

What sort of a business will require a perimeter fence? We are not talking about a wooden trellis around the lawn, we are talking about high-security, durable fencing for industrial applications to protect, control and contain. Betafence have provided fencing solutions for infrastructure and transport, industrial sites, retail buildings, sporting stadiums, public facilities, prisons, educational institutions, residential developments, golf courses and a long list of other industry sectors. The

PAGE 84 OCT 12

Securing What Matters

Betafence South Africa can protect what matters to you,

whether it is at home or within your business. With the brand

pulling on 125 years of experience, Betafence is the first stop

for all fencing solutions.

By Roland Douglas

range of different industries serviced shows the versatility of Betafence, they are able to offer high-security fencing designs (suitable for prisons and transport), versatile solutions which would suit commercial and industrial applications and also functional fencing, suited to residential or golfing resorts.

In the professional environment, their capabilities were demonstrated in the 2010 FIFA World Cup when Betafence supplied 60km of mobile fencing and provided solutions to three of the main venues. They also constructed barriers and other solutions for training facilities and hotels being used by the various national teams. Work with international sports events is something which Betafence (at group level) is well versed in, having previously been involved with the

football in Germany, Poland and Ukraine, the Olympics in China and the Olympics in London. Huge events on the horizon, namely the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games, both in Brazil, are opportunities that Betafence will look to take advantage of and use their experience to manage infrastructure issues effectively.

Don’t think that Betafence is only interested in working with professional partners. The company also has a very successful residential division which is capable of providing garden, driveway and swimming pool protection. The company says: “Your garden is an extension of your home and ensuring that you are able to secure what matters without being intrusive, is a priority for Betafence. We have extensive experience in supplying aesthetic and security fencing systems for all DIY and

BETAFENCE

OCT 12 PAGE 85

“ Combining its large geographic coverage,

a world-leading research and development

facility and innovation process”

COMPANY REPORT

PAGE 86 OCT 12

residential needs.”

DETECTION AND DETERRENCE The Betafence product offering comes under three main categories – detection and deterrence, fencing and gates.

The detection and deterrence products are mainly used to protect something. They can be to stop intruders and can come fully electrified. These products have proved to be especially useful across many industries from the prison service to mining to retail. The flagship fence that attracts a lot of attention from people looking for ultimate peace of mind is the Secura Pulse. The company says: “Secura Pulse consists of an unobtrusive network of wires carrying a powerful electric pulse around the perimeter and at access points.”

The fence is reliable, easy to use and easy to install while all the time providing intense security. “On contact, the intruder receives a powerful and controlled shock which deters potential intruders but does not raise an

alarm. If, despite the shock, an attempt is made to scale the fence or cut the electric fence wires, an alarm is then automatically transmitted to a controller,” say Betafence.

The Secura Pulse can be integrated into a system which incorporates different gates from the Betafence range to make weak points in the system stronger than ever. It is also safe, built in accordance with the European IEC/EN 60335-2-76 standard.

In the range of high-security products from Betafence you will also find the Motto and Razor Tape solutions. Both barbed wire in style. Both can be tailored to suit the needs of your business, the Motto perfectly suiting farming and the Razor Tape providing maximum deterrence, suitable for airports and military areas.

EXPERT R&DBetafence provides no less than 23 different types of panel, wire and mesh fencing, all suitable for

Efficient Simple And Fast Service South Africa.

The offices are situated in Johannesburg and Durban with Johannesburg serving as the head office, both offices run all export and import operations and the company has also expanded and opened Caspian Freight Transport, a fleet of ten long distance tri-axle trucks which run from Durban to Johannesburg and vice versa.

Both offices handle all aspects of export and import documentation. They have also built up and maintain good relationships with various shipping lines and transport companies across South Africa, thus offering clients the most competitive rates in today’s market.

There is no job too big or too small for Caspian Freight and Mr Naidoo has made this his slogan for the company: BIG ENOUGH TO COUNT, SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE.

His goal was to always make sure the client felt of utmost importance no matter what size the company would grow to, the satisfaction and needs of the customer are always the top priority. It is with this vision that he has trained his three children, Dorian, Tamara and Nerisa, together with his nephew Imraan, to run Caspian Freight with him, each Specializing in their own field. ●

CASPIAN FREIGHT CC

Caspian Freight CC was opened in May 1996 by its founding member Boyd Naidoo. Mr Naidoo’s experience in clearing and forwarding started at the age of 18 with his first job at Freight Services Ltd. Thereafter he moved on to Carlton Container Services in Johannesburg mainly focusing on exports. Mr Naidoo excelled in his field and after eight years at Carlton Containers he moved on to Cape Gate Pty Ltd a wire and steel manufacturer, where he became the shipping manager in the export and import department. This laid the foundation for Mr Naidoo’s vast knowledge in the exporting and importing of wire and steel.

After 15 years with Cape Gate, Mr Naidoo set out to open his own company, Caspian Freight CC, confident that he had gained the knowledge & expertise he would need to navigate the shipping field, he had also gained many contacts & built relationships with many companies in the wire & steel manufacturing trade.

Once Caspian Freight was opened, Dorian Naidoo, Boyd’s son, started working to assist him in the running of this new company. Caspian Freight’s first two clients were Cape Gate and African Gabions (Now Maccaferri) and they have remained loyal clients for the past 15 years.

The company now has two offices servicing some of the largest manufacturers and exporters of wire and steel in

“ The high-security mesh can deviate

bullets and is partly bomb proof”

different situations. Some are more heavy duty than others but they all provide high-security, defence and protection. The correct perimeter security can have so many unseen benefits it is now often part of fundamental planning and can have major effects on design of plots and design of security processes. Betafence can help with strategic planning and help get maximum payback from your perimeter fencing. This is why the company offers such a vast product range. They say that it is vital to consider your environment before considering what type of fencing is right for you. Betafence in South Africa undertakes a rigorous research and development program as well as an extensive testing procedure which makes the products suitable for the local market. The high-security mesh can deviate bullets and is partly bomb proof and that comes from understanding the needs of the market and investing in training and development. The company is particularly proud of its PVC coated products. The world class

manufacturing and coating facility is based in Paarl and PVC is applied to fencing products for corrosion resistance and aesthetics. The technology required to do this was not available in Africa until Betafence started PVC coating in 2008. The company says ‘our 10 year anti-corrosion guarantee on our PVC coated fencing systems is a first for South Africa and has set us apart from other fencing manufacturers’. This demonstrates the innovation that is on-going at the company and the details that are considered when looking to constantly improve.

With the construction, manufacture and mining industries all performing well there is undoubtedly opportunities coming for the company. Considering their ISO:9001 quality certification and their BEE accreditation, Betafence will prove that they are an industry leader and will continue to be innovative and committed within the fencing solutions industry. ●

PAGE 88 OCT 12

COMPANY REPORT

By Joe Forshaw

A breadth and depth of expertise and a team of committed professionals

their legal expertise, they provide effective, appropriate and efficient advice to solve the challenges that clients face and to help create opportunities that move their enterprises forward.

With a 100-year track record of providing legal services, Bowman Gilfillan is a premier South African-based corporate law firm.

The company’s network of expertise, however, extends much further than the country’s borders. Bowman Gilfillan Africa Group advises clients throughout Africa, while membership of the global network of commercial and corporate law attorneys, Lex Mundi, gives us access to more than 160 member firms globally. ●

BOWMAN GILFILLAN

Specialists in all facets of business law, Bowman Gilfillan provides a comprehensive range of legal services designed to meet clients’ needs and exceed their expectations.

As one of the oldest and largest law firms in Africa, Bowman Gilfillan are able to draw on a wide base of skills and expertise at all levels of experience and seniority to provide technically correct legal advice that makes business sense.

The company’s commitment to strategically sound advice requires that Bowman Gilfillan’s practitioners clearly understand client needs in the context of the broader issues at stake. By balancing these dynamics, and by applying

YOU PUT IT ON THE TABLE

At Bowman Gilfillan, we appreciate that for a true business visionary, it’s not about staying ahead of the curve, but defining it. Our role as your corporate legal partner is to enable the deals that will turn today’s inspired thinking into tomorrow’s business headlines – safely, smoothly, and with consummate professionalism.

Legal solutions that make business sense.

We’ll get it through the gate

Bowman Gilfillan Inc @BowmanGilfillan | @CompetLawAfrica | @_SocialMediaLaw | www.bowman.co.za | www.bowmangilfillan.mobi/

Johannesburg | Cape Town | Nairobi (Coulson Harney) Dar es Salaam (East African Law Chambers) | Kampala (AF Mpanga)

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COMPANY REPORT

General Motors Company (GM) is an American automotive company based in Detroit. The organisation was officially the world’s largest automaker, by vehicle unit sales, in 2011. With business underway in around 160 countries and over 200,000 employees, GM is a true international giant. Some of the world’s best known auto companies are owned by GM including Alpheon, Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall, Holden, and Wuling. The company was reported to have revenues of around $151 billion in 2011, a fact very much welcomed by the business following a few years of financial instability.

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) was formed in 1913 with the purpose of distributing Chevrolet

vehicles. In 1926 the company started manufacturing and producing brands such as Chevrolet, Oakland, GMC trucks, Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile and Vauxhall. In 2012 the assembly plant in Port Elizabeth employs around 2000 people and there is also a sales and marketing office in Johannesburg along with regional offices in Durban and Cape Town.

With 137 dealerships across the country, GMSA’s commitment to providing a quality service to its customers is not in question and MD Edgar Lourencon stated recently that commitment to the local community is also a priority. “While the primary focus of our business is the assembly and distribution of vehicles, we are equally committed to making meaningful and sustainable contributions towards the upliftment of our community,”

By Joe Forshaw

Community upliftment from GMSA

PAGE 90 OCT 12

GMSA is the South African

division of the world’s largest

automaker. IndustrySA takes a

look at their CSR projects and

other recent successes.

he said in a statement. GMSA is very much an active organisation when it

comes to social investment. Many organisations have a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme that never really follows through on the initial positive intention. In South Africa alone GM has multiple initiatives underway including management of the GMSAF (General Motors South Africa Foundation), an organisation which pioneers models for community development, sponsorship of various fundraising activities and promotion of other education based projects such as adoption of a class at Nkosinathi Foundation for the Blind.

One of the major initiatives underway right now is the Lapdesk project.

THE LAPDESK INITIATIVEOne of the major social problems in the country is that of unemployment. GMSA has identified education as a vehicle to combating the problem of unemployment and is investing significantly in projects to improve the quality of education across the nation.

Working in association with the Lapdesk Company, GMSA recently donated thousands of Lapdesks to learners in schools with a shortage of desks. Made from durable, childproof materials, the Lapdesks are designed to provide a solid surface for writing or drawing and are easily transportable for use at home, at school or anywhere, even in rural environments. The project was started by Archbishop Desmond Tutu in 2011 when he launched the TutuDesk Campaign. The Archbishop

GENERAL MOTORS SOUTH AFRICA

OCT 12 PAGE 91

COMPANY REPORT

“ While the primary focus of our business is the

assembly and distribution of vehicles, we are

equally committed to making meaningful and

sustainable contributions towards the upliftment

of our community”

PAGE 92 OCT 12

experienced the problem of not having a desk during his own education and he stated recently: “I went to school where there were no desks, when the teacher asked us to write something we knelt on the floor and used the benches we had been sitting on as desks.” The objective of the project is to provide 20 million children across Africa and South Africa with a Lapdesk by the end of 2015.

GMSA head of public policy and corporate affairs, Shibishi Maruatona, recently met with Archbishop Tutu to pledge the company’s ongoing support saying: “We are committed to supporting the community in which we operate by supporting sustainable educational projects and to this end have already donated over 5000 Lapdesks to a number of schools in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Gauteng regions.”

Archbishop Tutu went on to say: “As a result of these donations, General Motors contributes to the literacy development of pupils, which has the potential to fundamentally change learning outcomes.”

SALES LEVEL OFF Away from the CSR projects GMSA continues to perform well, despite sales figures levelling off for the month of September. The company took 11.6% of the market in September according to NAAMSA (National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa), with the Chevrolet brand performing particularly well in the small and medium sized car segments.

The Spark was ranked as the 7th most popular small car and the Chevrolet Utility was again the top selling vehicle in the sub one ton LCV segment.

“For some time the motor industry has expected a levelling off in sales and the first evidence of this came in September,” says Malcolm Gauld, GMSA’s vice President, sales and marketing. “Month-on-month growth for September 2012 versus 2011 was just 1.4% with 55,097 vehicles delivered in the past month compared to 54,357 for the same period last year.

“The effect of the cooling off in demand for new vehicles during September is best illustrated by the realignment of year-to-date growth numbers. The total market is now a more realistic 10% up on last year, down from its peak of 11.3% at the end of August. Passenger vehicles are up by 11.5% and light commercial vehicles a welcome 7.3% above last year.”

Another model which has received praise from members of the automotive industry is the Opel Meriva. Launched into the South African market in March this year, the Meriva has been named as one of 12 finalists in the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists’ (SAGMJ) COTY (Car of the Year) competition sponsored by Wesbank. Now in its 28th year, The Guild’s COTY competition is the most prestigious motor vehicle award in South Africa. The winner of the competition will be announced in March after a series of rigorous tests are undertaken by members of SAGMJ. “We are excited by the fact that the membership has recognized the Opel Meriva Cosmo for the innovation and advanced technology that this vehicle has introduced to the small MPV market. We look forward to the dynamic testing phase of the contest where we believe the excellent driving dynamics of the Opel Meriva will come to the fore,” said Mr Gauld.

The Meriva has new suspension, electro-hydraulic power steering, complex hydro-formed pressed steel sub-frames, it is certified with a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and BS braking and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems that are programmed to intervene if a loss of control of the vehicle is detected by strategically placed sensors. Part of the ECS includes traction control, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, and electronic drag torque control. The car is a testament to the innovation at GM and the cherry on top is the new latest generation advanced technology 1.4 litre turbo-charged engine. A product of Opel’s strategy of extracting more performance and economy from down-sized capacity engines, this engine produces 103

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Rex Diff & Gearbox is one the leading specialists in Southern Africa for the repair, maintenance and supply of both new and remanufactured service exchange differentials and gearboxes, propshafts, clutches and steering boxes.

RDG is extremely proud to be associated with General Motors South Africa and their Dealer organisation as their approved service provider.

DRIVEN BY PERFECTION

Tel: 011 823 6024/28

RDG Innespark (Jet Park)

Tel: 031 569 6869

RDG Durban

Tel : 011 826 2722

RDG Commercial Jet Park

Tel: 021 3851949

RDG Cape Town

Tel: 041 586 3616

RDG Port Elizabeth

Tel: 011 8234393/83

RDG Boksburg JHB

Tel: 011 823 5850

RDG Differential Jet Park

RDG MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

Find us on Facebook: Rex Diff & Gearbox

RSA Rex Diff SA (Rdg)

www.rdg.co.za

COMPANY REPORT

PAGE 94 OCT 12

kW @ in the range of 4900 – 6000 r/min with 200 Nm of torque delivered across the range of 1850-4900 r/min. Continually variable valve-timing on both the inlet and exhaust camshafts ensures optimised performance and economy. The six speed manual gearbox is just one of a host of other practical advances and Mr Gauld suggested that the SA automotive industry has seen great leaps forward, with the Meriva providing the perfect example. “The past twelve months have seen a high level of new model activity in the South African Motor industry with some excellent high-tech products made available to local buyers.”

A RUBY ANNIVERSARYOne reason to celebrate at GMSA recently was the 40th anniversary of the relationship with Isuzu LCVs. The Japanese brand is one that has played a major part in the growth of the Far-Eastern motor trade. 40 years ago GMSA began local production of the Isuzu based light commercial vehicles and since then the activity has gone from strength to strength turning the brand into one the country’s major players.

“The Isuzu name is recognised worldwide for its leadership and innovation and at GM Africa we are proud to be part of this international leading brand,” comments Mr Lourencon. In 2003, Isuzu produced more than 16

million diesel engines as the company fought a hard battle to overcome an economic crisis in Asia, and met the challenge by achieving its recovery target in April 2004 – a full year ahead of schedule.

Isuzu in South Africa continued to build its brand reputation and market share, firmly entrenched as one of the premier pick-up brands despite the 4th generation KB reaching the end of its lifecycle. In 2004, GM regained full control of the South African operation and, after putting R500 million into tooling and facilities, welcomed the start of production of the 5th generation KB range. The sixth-generation KB will be introduced to the market in 2013 and following an announcement that GMSA has reached an agreement with Isuzu to study expanding exports of its Isuzu LCVs in sub-Saharan Africa, a recent visit to South Africa by Isuzu Motors Limited chairman and director, Mr Yoshinori Ida, reinforced the Japanese company’s commitment to Africa. During his trip, Mr Lourencon said that after producing more than 500,000 Isuzu KBs since the 70’s, the South African plant’s manufacturing capabilities are well equipped to handle any increase in production volumes, adding that the product is famous for its durability, quality and reliability and therefore it is perfectly suited for the difficult conditions of African terrain.

GMSA is a wholly owned subsidiary of the General

GENERAL MOTORS SOUTH AFRICA

OCT 12 PAGE 95

Shibishi Maruatona & Archbishop Desmond Tutu

COMPANY REPORT

Motors Company and through this connection they share the benefits of GM’s global design, engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, sales and capital investment resources. With this is mind it is easy to say that GMSA will continue to grow and cement its position as a market leader but with an uncertain economic market and cost–based pressures it will be important not to switch off – something which the organisation is only too aware of.

We will be following the success of GMSA and their social initiatives in the coming issues of IndustrySA so keep an eye out for the follow up to this piece towards the end of 2012. ●

1913 GMSA established and began with distributing Chevrolet vehicles

1926 GMSA starts assembling vehicles, producing brands such as Chevrolet, Oakland, GMC trucks, Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile and Vauxhall

1986 GM disinvests from South Africa due to political pressure

1987 Delta Motor Corporation is formed1997 General Motors Corporation purchased 49%

stake in Delta Motor Corporation2004 GM Returned to South Africa by purchasing

remaining 51%

PAGE 96 OCT 12

Chevrolet Spark

As a seaport-oriented logistics service provider, the BLG LOGISTICS GROUP specialises in automobile, contract and container logistics with its subsidiaries and holdings.

The BLG LOGISTICS GROUP is active with, in some cases very complex, logistics services for its clients from industry and trade in Europe, North and South America, Africa and Asia.

Its services range from sea goods handling and warehousing to full supply chain management with integrated value-added services.

The clientele includes leading international companies from the automobile and automobile supplier industry, the electrical and electronics sector, the areas of consumer goods and furniture, as well as numerous shipping companies.

Locations across South AfricaPort Elizabeth - Logistics services in South AfricaDurban - Importing and exporting, and preparation of ready-made vehiclesEast London - Exporting for the automobile industryPretoria - Supply Chain Management for the automobile industryCape Town - Performing export services for the automobile industry

ContactManaging Director Shane GerberTel +27 41 503 4400Cell +27 (0) 83 629 6144Email [email protected]

www.blg.de

INDUSTRY RECOMMENDED

AUTOMOTIVEGENERAL MOTORSA wholly owned subsidiary of the multinational General Motors Company manufacturing distributing through 137 dealerships in SA.www.gmsa.com

REX DIFF & GEARBOXSpecialists in repair and refurbishment of a number of automotive components, the preferred supplier to many leading vehicle manufacturers.+27 11 823 4393www.rdg.co.za

BLOW MOULDINGHABITAT INDUSTRIES The market leader in providing blow mould tooling and mould manufacturing.+27 21 557 9255

HABITAT MOULD SERVICES Multi-national Mould servicing and damage repair.+27 21 557 9255www.habitatindustries.co.za

CHEMICALSVIKINGA major distributor of a range of agricultural chemicals used to protect crops from threats such as weeds, disease and insects.

+27 21 907 3000www.viking.co.za

DEFENCEDENEL LAND SYSTEMS A landward defence system solutions business with its primary focus on the South African National Defence Force’s requirements as prime contractor+27 12 620 9111www.denellandsystems.co.za

QMUZIKEstablished as a niche supplier of solutions which enable clients to turn IT into a competitive advantage.+27 12 640 3500 www.qmuzik.com ZITERA HOLDINGSSpecialises in products, hardware services, software services and full turn-key solutions engineering.+27 12 665 2065 www.zitera.co.za ELECTRONICSEJE ELECTRICALOur main objective is to address the demand that exists for service and repairs of Siemens Sinumerik CNC and Simodrive servo drives products.+27 11 979 5080 www.ejeindustrialelectronics.co.za

ENERGYCHEVRON / CALTEXA true pioneer in the South Chevron in South Africa markets its products under the Caltex brand, one of South Africa’s top four petroleum brands. www.caltex.com/za

ENGINEERINGGOBAGOBA consulting engineers and project managers.+27 11 236 3300 www.goba.co.za

EVENT HOSTINGJOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRESouthern Africa’s leading national and international exhibition, convention and events centre. +27 11 494 1920www.expocentre.co.za

FENCING BETAFENCEThe industry leader in manufacturing innovative Architectural and Security fence and gate systems.+27 21 868 7300www.betafence.co.za

FRUITKARSTEN FRUITSA huge enterprise which includes fruit farms and packing facilities located in both South Africa’s

This is the first installment of our Industry Recommended directory, a list of companies across a range of industry sectors over SA.

YOUR INDUSTRY, THEIR FUTURE, OUR SOUTH AFRICA

PAGE 98 OCT 12

YOUR INDUSTRY, THEIR FUTURE, OUR SOUTH AFRICA

Orange River and Western Cape regions.+27 54 491 9300www.karsten.co.za

LASERSAFGENDesigns and manufactures laser alignment products and the distribution of imported laser, surveying and locator products.+27 11 466 2055www.afgen.co.za

LEGALBOWMAN GILFILLANLeading African corporate and commercial South African law firm with professional lawyers providing legal advice and services in all areas.+27 11 669 9000 www.bowman.co.za

LOGISTICSCASPIAN FREIGHTA logistics service provider handling transportation services and supply chain solutions throughout South Africa.+27 11 444 4786www.caspianfreight.co.za

BLG LOGISTICSA subsidiary of the BLG Logistics Group with branch offices located in Port Elizabeth, Durban, Pretoria and East London.+27 41 503 4401www.blg.de

MACHINE TOOLINGWD HEARN One of the oldest and largest machine tool companies in South Africa, offering a wide agency portfolio which covers virtually all manufacturing needs. +27 21 534 5351www.wdhearn.co.za

MININGFOSKORA proudly South African producer of phosphates and phosphoric acid with international exposure.+27 11 347 0600 www.foskor.co.za

PACKAGINGREDFERN LABELSManufacturer of a wide variety of customized labels either in roll or sheet form. We print stationery labels, blank labels, customised printed labels and many more.+27 21 552 9680 www.redfern.co.za

POWERJUST BATTERIESAn industrial battery company specializing in the design, manufacture and supply of industrial battery solutions.+27 11 023 8846www.justbatteries.co.za

SCIENCESKAThe world’s biggest radio telescope - and one of the biggest scientific projects - ever.www.ska.ac.za

ETSE ELECTRONICSSpecialise in electronic design, research and development, consultation and manufacturing.+27 21 880 1163www.etse.co.za

EMSS ANTENNASOffer a world-class EM and antenna analysis service, and also excel in the development of custom antenna systems and related sub-components.+27 21 880 1188 www.emss.co.za

SECURITYG4SThe world’s leading international security solutions groupwww.g4s.co.za

DILIGENCE SECURITYOne of the nation’s most respected and trusted security and event management companies, offering a full spectrum of services.+27 11 494 3333www.diligencesecurity.co.za

SURVEYORSVCAEstablished in 1995 as a leading quantity surveyor involved in

some of the country’s major engineering projects.+27 31 266 8615

UNIPLASBased in Johannesburg, Uniplas provide a huge range of services to the mining and constructions industries from planning and procurement through to project accounting.+27 11 021 9021

X-RAYPANALYTICALThe main supplier of X-ray analytical instrumentation in the South and Southern African region.+27 11 577 0880www.panalytical.edx.co.za

For more information about how your company can be recognised for excellence across many areas please get in touch.

Your Industry, Their Future, Our South Africa

INDUSTRY RECOMMENDED

OCT 12 PAGE 99

IndustrySA Issue 4

Documents

Transcript of IndustrySA Issue 4