An investment of R60 Million into a new plant on Cape Road in Greenbushes, Port Elizabeth is tipped to bring employment to between 80 and 100 people from local communities in the Eastern Cape. This is according to Lighting Innovations Chief Executive, Brian Waddell.
Waddell says; “Since we established the company in Johannesburg in 1989, local content has been at the core of our business. Economic developments in the Eastern Cape, including the announcements of new projects in commerce and industry and in support of our business philosophy of proximity to markets, necessitated the investment in a larger factory, which will also supply customers in neighbouring markets.”
The Johannesburg factory will be relocated to the new 8000 square meter factory on Cape Road and initially produce fluorescent luminaires. These will be progressively complemented with a full range of products including architectural and customised luminaires, LED luminaires, floodlighting and trunking.
Anele Qaba, Director: Trade and Investment in the Economic Development, Tourism Agriculture division of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, said; “This is a critical investment for the Nelson Mandela Bay Region and the Eastern Cape Province as it will contribute immensely to job creation. Also of importance is that the investment is in line with the key objective of re-industrialisation of the Eastern Cape Province and is a symbol of confidence by investors in our region.”
Organised business welcomed the investment as Kevin Hustler, CEO of the NMBBC said; “The Chamber welcomes Lighting Innovations’ relocation of its manufacturing activities to the Eastern Cape as further proof that Nelson Mandela Bay is investor friendly. Supportive as we are of moves towards the diversification of the region’s manufacturing base to support innovation and a sustainable economy, this R60 million investment reflects positively on Nelson Mandela Bay’s ability to attract, support and retain investments.
“We look forward to a positive impact on the region in the form of the job creation possibilities this investment presents to the local community, and applaud the company’s stated intent to invest heavily in the development and training of their workforce here in the Eastern Cape.”
