Johannesburg, November 28, 2024 – Innomotics, a global leading provider of electric motors and large drive systems, today celebrated the launch of its brand-new assembly centre in Midrand (South Africa). The facility provides enhanced production and delivery capabilities that match Innomotics’ premium product and service offerings.
The History Behind Innomotics
Around two years ago, Siemens announced that they were merging what was their large drives business unit with their low voltage motors business unit, into a dedicated motors and drives specialist for industry.
This was then ring-fenced as a separate subsidiary of Siemens and then put up for sale, and was the acquired by a large Private equity company in the USA called KPS Capital Partners, as of 1 October 2024.
KPS Capital Partners specialise in acquisition and focus on performance improvement of manufacturing-based companies. In general, they acquire businesses that have a big manufacturing base and then they focus on improving efficiencies. They currently own companies such as Briggs & Stratton, the diesel engines and petrol engine manufacturers.
New Owners, New Assembly Facility and New Brand
“The company had an existing facility in Isando for many years, but decided to invest in an upgrade to facilitate growth and announce the new brand at the same time”, says CEO Tim Waldyn, “We finally decided that we needed a new fit-for-purpose, and more modern premises”.
“It gives us a nice opportunity to show that the new brand is still very committed to the African market, we are investing in maintaining our presence here”, says Walwyn
“This is an exciting time for Innomotics as we plot our journey towards a high-powered, intelligent and sustainable future. The launch of this new facility is a testament not just to our regional growth, but also to our greater plans for our solutions and their role in propelling commerce, industry, and socio-economic development throughout South Africa,” said Tim.
Setting the stage for future business development
Located in the Johannesburg suburb of Midrand, with the Innomotics South African head office nearby, the new assembly centre will serve as the company’s local manufacturing and distribution hub for its geared motor (GM) and Low Voltage Motor (LVM) product portfolio.
The centre enjoys convenient access to key logistics systems and transport networks, resulting in reduced lead times and additional market benefits.
According to Walwyn, the main purpose of the new facility is to be able to meet demand quickly. And to be able to assemble at speed, reducing delays for customers needing new equipment or spares. “It takes 14 to 15 weeks to get things in from Europe, We can do it here in two weeks” he comments.
The centre will also facilitate and enhance Innomotics’ regional distribution and service partner networks, allowing for greater collaboration and delivery of quality, reliable geared motors to industries such as mining and manufacturing.
“Thanks to custom-designed architecture and an emphasis on achieving greater efficiency, the new centre offers an optimised production setup that enables us to increase our market share, as well as expand into underserved regions and key markets throughout Southern Africa,” Walwyn explained.
Stable Staff and Skills Development Focus
“For the last decade, we have been successful in retaining a stable and highly experienced team at both production and management levels, which can be a challenge for other businesses in this industry. That said, we are always eager to expand and discover new people and opportunities. This is why we have partnered with the local non-profit organisation Lepharo, which focuses on enterprise incubation and skills development, two core components of our environmental, social, and governance principle,” Walwyn added.
Backed by more than 150 years of engineering expertise, Innomotics offers reliable motion solutions for industries and infrastructure worldwide through its extensive portfolio of motors, drives, and other integrated solutions. The Innomotics SG Geared Motor portfolio is extensive and offers customers high levels of flexibility while guaranteeing performance and reliability.
“With this new centre, Innomotics is equipped to respond optimally to market requirements while also setting the stage for future business development. Our commitment to our customers and partners extends along the entire product value chain, and thanks to our portfolio of solutions, as well as our comprehensive suite of digital solutions, analysis and support tools, we’re ready to lead by example and set a new benchmark in reliable motion,” Walwyn concluded.
