A major investment in local manufacturing is set to position Coleus Packaging as a key player beyond South Africa’s borders, while boosting jobs and skills development in the Alberton area.

Customers, suppliers, and business partners gathered at the facility for the official launch on March 20, where they were given a first-hand look at the upgraded operations and the scale of the investment.

@albertonrecordCustomers, suppliers, and business partners gathered at the facility for the official launch on March 20, where they were given a first-hand look at the upgraded operations and the scale of the investment. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za♬ original sound – Alberton Record

The company has invested approximately R200 million in upgrading its facility and equipment, marking a significant step towards achieving its goal of becoming Africa’s preferred metal crown supplier.

Speaking on the investment, managing director Ian Victor said the move was driven by the company’s long-term vision.

“Our equipment was antiquated and our processes required significant upgrades if we were to achieve our mission of becoming Africa’s preferred metal crown supplier through world-class manufacturing standards,” he said.

Quality products

The upgrades include expanding the factory footprint, installing three new SACMI punching and lining machines from Italy, and installing a new coater and printer from China.

Additional upgrades were made to existing equipment, while a further R100 million was invested in working capital.

These improvements are already enhancing efficiency and product quality, while reducing costs and increasing production capacity.

“The new equipment ensures better factory efficiencies, greater quality products, and allows us to expand into markets outside South Africa. On-time, in-full deliveries are already becoming the norm,” Victor said.

Team work is the answer

Addressing attendees during the launch, Victor also highlighted the role of employees in making the transformation possible.

“It’s easy as a managing director to speak about targets and strategy, but without the people on the ground, none of this becomes a reality. The team here is what makes everything work,” he said.

He added that the visible changes in the factory reflect the staff’s effort and commitment.

@albertonrecordA R200m investment by Coleus Packaging is set to strengthen South Africa’s manufacturing sector, create jobs, and position the company for expansion into African markets. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za♬ original sound – Alberton Record

“If you look at what has been done inside the plant, it’s quite exceptional. But it’s the people who made it happen,” Victor said.

Adding to this, safety, health, environment, and risk manager Claudette Naudé said the company continues to maintain high compliance and safety standards as it expands.

According to Naudé, the company has recently been reissued with several International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) certifications, including ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety, and is working towards ISO 50001 certification for energy management.

She added that Coleus has also been certified as food safe under the Food Safety and Compliance Alliance standards, reinforcing its commitment to quality and safety in production.

Improving job security

The development is also expected to strengthen South Africa’s position in global manufacturing by shifting focus towards exports.

“South Africa imports many manufactured goods. It is time we turn the tables and start exporting. We have the talent and now the equipment to support our objectives,” he added.

@albertonrecordThe company has invested approximately R200 million in upgrading its facility and equipment, marking a significant step towards achieving its goal of becoming Africa’s preferred metal crown supplier. Speaking on the investment, managing director Ian Victor said the move was driven by the company’s long-term vision. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za♬ original sound – Alberton Record

The expansion is set to create new job opportunities while also improving job security for existing employees.
Plans are already underway to send staff to Greece for specialised training in partnership with the company’s international counterparts.

The investment has been welcomed by Proudly South African, which views it as a strong endorsement of local industry.

According to CEO Eustace Mashimbye, the move aligns with efforts to drive localisation, job creation, and economic growth.

“This investment symbolises confidence in South Africa’s future. It strengthens the manufacturing base, creates jobs, and reinforces the value of buying locally produced goods,” Mashimbye said.

He added that investments of this scale help build a more resilient and globally competitive economy, while supporting local supply chains and small businesses.

Backing local industry

Coleus, which produces more than six billion metal crowns annually and supplies over 10 countries, is now looking to expand further into Africa.

The company is exploring opportunities in markets such as Nigeria, Ghana, Madagascar, Mauritius, and other Indian Ocean islands.

The investment also aligns with its integration into the global packaging group Guala Closures, strengthening its ability to compete internationally.

@albertonrecordA major investment in local manufacturing is set to position Coleus Packaging as a key player beyond South Africa’s borders, while boosting jobs and skills development in the Alberton area. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za♬ original sound – Alberton Record

Coleus recently earned recognition within the group, winning the award for best factory despite only joining in 2024.

It has also maintained high compliance standards, including ISO certifications for health, safety, and food safety.

As the company continues to modernise and expand, its leadership believes the investment sends a clear message about the importance of backing local industry.