Dunlop (Facebook)
The owner of Dunlop Tyres SA, Japanese giant Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI), is backing a R1.7 billion investment into the expansion of the local tyre production industry.
The investment will see Dunlop’s Ladysmith manufacturing plant in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) receiving new plant equipment and machinery that will boost passenger car tyre production capabilities, efficiencies and product offerings to better support local demand.
Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (SRSA), the local operations of SRI, announced the investment drive on Monday.
“With the backing of our parent company, we are investing significantly into our passenger car radial production facility to make a larger impact in the automotive industry,” says SRSA CEO Lubin Ozoux.
“The plant will be able to run a wider set of products, producing more tyres that meet and exceed OE [original equipment] specifications, and that are safety-tested for all South Africans.
“At the same time, it gives us the opportunity to continue our investment in our local community and municipality, creating a vibrant environment for us all to thrive [in].”
Ozoux notes the equipment additions at the plant will help reduce overall plant waste by 60% and further cut down on power consumption.
Good for jobs
SRI manufactures Dunlop tyres and distributes Sumitomo and Falken branded tyres in South Africa. The KZN plant produces a significant portion of the tyres on the country’s roads, reportedly holding about 20% of the local OE market.
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Ebrahim Patel says the investment is a welcome boost for the local automotive industry as it will help increase production, factory output and jobs.
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