Pretoria - Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies has welcomed 3M’s R120 million investment that will expand the company’s operations in South Africa.
“Such investment is important and demonstrates the confidence that 3M has in the long-term future of South Africa as a regional manufacturing hub,” said Minister Davies of the science and technology company’s investment.
On Friday, Minister Davies said the investment is a major boost for the manufacturing sector, as the enhancement is designed to improve productivity and will position the Maple Park plant in Pamona, Kempton Park, as one of the globally competitive locations within 3M.
The investment will create jobs for an additional 75 skilled individuals, with more opportunities arising across the company due to the extension of 3M’s domestic operations.
Managing Director of 3M South Africa, Ismail Mapara, said the company believes that the investment in manufacturing and the creation of new jobs further cements its history in South Africa and commitment to the same growth and skills upliftment initiatives that the Department of Trade and Industry (dti) promotes.
“Our US $500 000 automotive line investment offers 3M customers the high quality products and service they expect, but with even more agility now that we are able to manufacture our film products for the industry with only a ‘to-scale’ drawing of the vehicle,” said Mapara.
He said the fully-automated scourer production line comprises equipment tailor-made for the South African market and built within the country with the support of local and international 3M engineers.
“The US $800 000 scourer production technology ranks as among the best in the world, and is now the fastest line in the 3M network,” said Mapara.
Mapara said to ensure both operational safety and efficiency, 3M is employing experienced individuals from within the industry, while developing skills among new employees. – SAnews.gov.za
