Richards Bay secures two major investors
Machinery and logistics company Lovemore Brothers and pipe manufacturer SPS Manufacturing will both put down roots in Richards Bay's Industrial Development Zone.
TRADE and Industry Minister Rob Davies on Friday revealed two more major industrial investors for Richards Bay.
Machinery and logistics company Lovemore Brothers and pipe manufacturer SPS Manufacturing will both put down roots in Richards Bay’s Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) with investments of R320-million.
Combined they are expected to create 242 jobs.
RBIDZ also officially opened its 42ha Phase 1A industrial estate adjacent to the Port of Richards Bay, with Davies, KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu, Department of Economic Development MEC Mike Mabuyakhulu, uThungulu District Mayor Thembeka Mchunu and City of uMhlathuze Mayor Elphas Mbatha among other guests.
‘It is clear the RBIDZ are now building serious traction with two more investors signing on and more still in the pipeline,’ said Davies.
‘When I was on this site (Phase 1A) a little less than a year ago, there were no roads and no lights – a far cry from the developed site we’re opening today.
‘Richards Bay has many advantages for industries and industrialisation must be at the heart of development for radical transformation.
‘This is what is necessary to move South Africa up on the value chain.
‘I’d like to thank the RBIDZ team and for the investments they have brought to the table.
‘The Department of Trade and Industry will support you as your work progresses.’
Mabuyakhulu also thanked Lovemore Brothers and SPS Manufacturing for investing in the ‘province’s biggest industrial hub’.
‘At the signing with investors for the RBIDZ last year, we made the commitment to the province and Bay community that this signalled the beginning of a new era.
‘Today we can say a metamorphosis has occurred and we are grateful to have you (Davies) as our biggest partner.’
