"While the investment of nearly R1-billion in a third furnace is big news, it's part of a much bigger story that includes laying the groundwork for growth, without losing sight of the customer,"says Stoney Steenkamp, the Divisional Managing Director of Nampak Glass.
This is a fine balance, which has been achieved by means of a carefully orchestrated strategy that has required time and patience. The Nampak group executive has played a key role in guiding the process, providing leadership and support every step of the way. "As a result, Nampak Glass is stronger now than it's ever been," says Steenkamp. "This is largely due to a number of significant investments, as well as a clear focus on the needs of the customer."
In line with the Nampak group's commitment of investing in core businesses, the 50% shareholding of German's Wiegand-Glas was acquired for R938-million, placing full ownership in the hands of Nampak, Africa's largest packaging company. A further R160-million was invested in a state-of-the-art cullet (waste glass) plant, providing a dynamic platform for improved recycling. According to The Glass Recycling Company, of which Nampak Glass is a founding member, all glass made in South Africa has a recycled content of at least 40%. This is the highest recycled content of all the packaging produced in the country.
