Future 50 - Powered by FNB Business and East Coast Radio!
East Coast Breakfast, in collaboration with business growth specialist Pavlo Phitidis, returns with Season 3 of Future 50, proudly powered by FNB Business and East Coast Radio. Tune in every Tuesday at 8:10am to hear Future 50 on air, or catch the podcast, as Pavlo shines a light on ambitious businesses shaping South Africa’s economic future. Entrepreneurs remain the backbone of progress, and each week one business takes centre stage, sharing its journey, challenges and practical steps to move forward. Future 50 is powered by FNB Business, the help behind over.
Episodes
The software company solving problems where reliability matters most
Converge Solutions founder Johann Joubert shares how a childhood accident inspired a mission to improve healthcare through technology, while decades of industry experience helped build a trusted software business serving hospitals, banks and insurers.
Business growth expert Pavlo Phitidis also explains why founders who want to scale need to stop being the bottleneck and start building systems th
How QualiPak JHB helps South African brands stand out on the shelf
Behind every successful product is packaging that captures attention. Graham Hepburn, founder of QualiPak JHB, shares how his business has spent more than 20 years helping brands launch smarter with flexible shrink-sleeve packaging.
He also reflects on the setbacks that shaped his business, while Pavlo Phitidis explains why partnering with growing customers is one of the smartest ways to build l
They risked their pensions to buy the company they worked for
Wayne Da Costa and Gideon Monyelekgau spent years learning every part of Tensile Rubber Hoses before making a life-changing decision. When the business came up for sale, they invested their pension savings to buy it.
They share how they transformed from employees into business owners, the lessons they've learned about manufacturing and customer relationships, and why backing local expertise cont
The father-and-son team future-proofing South Africa's water supply
Reliable water has become one of South Africa's biggest challenges, but for father-and-son team Pierre van Tonder Senior and Pierre van Tonder Junior, it became the foundation for a purpose-driven business.
In this Future50 episode, the founders of iWater Management share how a life-changing experience in Botswana inspired them to build integrated water solutions that help businesses, schools, re
The hardest business decision? Knowing what not to grow
In this episode, Guy Hamlin of Republic Lifestyle shares the journey of building a Durban-based manufacturing company that supplies everything from umbrellas and bedding to baby products, pet ranges and hospitality goods across South Africa.
Guy discusses the realities of competing against imports, adapting to changing retail trends and one of the toughest lessons in business: knowing when to wal
Deojay Petroleum KZN: The local business keeping industry moving
What does it take to keep factories running, fleets moving and businesses operating without costly downtime?
In this episode, we dive into the story of Deojay Petroleum KZN with owners Nisha Reddy and Trishen Naidu. From starting as employees under founder Jackie Leroux to leading a successful management buyout, they share how the company evolved into a proudly local manufacturer and distributor
Built in South Africa: The Hard Road Behind Supahot Geysers
Business owner Shaaz Moosa shared the real story behind building Supahot Geysers into a growing local manufacturing business in one of the toughest industries to crack.
From competing against major established players to rebuilding systems, partnerships and operations from the ground up, Shaaz unpacked the resilience required to grow a business beyond survival mode.
From Backyard Hustle to Timber Empire: The Pole Yard Story
What does it take to turn a small backyard operation into one of South Africa’s growing timber suppliers?
In this episode, we chat to Leeroy Deane from The Pole Yard about the journey from humble beginnings to building a multi-branch business supplying everything from decking and fencing to jungle gyms and custom timber creations across the country.
From Pinetown to the World: The Van Ryn Rubber Story
What does it take to turn a “boring” industry into a global success story? Van Ryn Rubber has been quietly doing just that for over four decades. From processing 500 tonnes of rubber a month to exporting to more than 30 countries, this Pinetown-based manufacturer is proving that consistency, quality, and mindset can take you far.
In this episode, we unpack the journey with insights from Shannon P
From Setback to Scale: How Wipe-it Rebuilt Stronger
Wipe-it chose to rebuild. Founded in 2002 by Fanus van Niekerk and now led by Gerbrandt van Niekerk, this South African hygiene supplier turned a tough setback into a powerful growth story. By doubling down on service, speed, and strong relationships, the business transformed into a national player serving industries from healthcare to hospitality.
In this episode, we unpack the hard lessons behi
How Elcarbo Is Redefining Industrial Supply
The tools. The PPE. The systems behind the scenes.
When everything works, you don’t notice but when it doesn’t, everything feels it.
Elcarbo Industrial Supplies, led by CEO Wendy Turton, started as a family business and grew from a car boot operation to a multi-branch supplier powering industries across South Africa.
Now, the focus shifts from supply to experience transforming PPE into something
From Footprint to Future: How Zebbies Electrical Can Plans Its Next Growth Move
Think about the last space you walked into.
The lighting. The switches. The fittings.
If everything worked seamlessly, you didn’t think twice.
If it didn’t, the entire experience felt off.
That moment isn’t by accident, it’s the result of infrastructure done right.
Zebbies Electrical, with 15 retail locations across South Africa, sits at the centre of that system. Supplying the components that
Packtech Tooling: Precision Engineering Learnt From the Factory Floor
Think about the last box you opened.
If it closed cleanly, folded perfectly, and looked sharp, you trusted the product inside.
If it didn’t, the brand felt weaker immediately.
That moment is not chance. It’s the result of systems working properly.
Packtech Tooling, based in Cape Town and led by Kim Naran, sits at the start of that system.
Packtech Tooling, a specialised manufacturing busi
From Backyard Ingenuity to Industrial Scale: The Blomo Plastics Story
From the unmistakable sound of childhood ride-on toys to industrial-scale packaging solutions, this is a proudly South African manufacturing story built on grit, engineering and adaptability.
In this episode, we unpack how Blomo Plastics was founded by Fritz Strydom Snr, who quite literally built his own machinery to start the business. What followed was decades of evolution from producing nearly
From Market Stall to Restaurant Brand: The Soul Souvlaki Story
What does it take to turn a single food stall into a recognised dining brand?
In this Future50 conversation, Dino Vlachos shares how Soul Souvlaki grew from a small stall at Market on Main into a modern fast-casual Greek dining concept.
We explore the early risks, the decision to focus on fresh, made-to-order food in every store, and how thoughtful design, strong franchise partners and disciplin
Legacy in Colour: How Olympic Paints Blends Family, Grit and Innovation
In this Future50 conversation presented by Pavlo Phitidis from Aurik and powered by FNB Business, we unpack how Olympic Paints has produced over 450 million litres of paint while evolving into a modern, innovation-driven manufacturer.
We explore the realities of second-generation leadership, why experience outside the family business matters, and how traditional manufacturing can embrace AI — fro
Flawless IT Solutions: From Bedroom Start-Up to Trusted IT Partner
From building computers in his bedroom at 18 to leading a national outsourced IT company, Wickus Aucamp’s journey with Flawless IT Solutions is a masterclass in long-term thinking and smart growth.
In this Future50 conversation presented by Pavlo Phitidis from Aurik and powered by FNB Business, we unpack how Flawless IT Solutions evolved from once-off hardware installs to structured, proactive IT
Pinnacle Stone: From a husband-and-wife team to a national surface supplier
Pinnacle Stone has carved out a name in South Africa’s stone and porcelain surface industry by focusing on one powerful promise: certainty. With operations in Johannesburg and Polokwane, the business supplies imported porcelain and sintered stone surfaces for luxury homes, commercial developments, kitchen studios, architects, and developers across the country.
In conversation with Pavlo Phitidis
From Supplier to Solution: How Supafoods Built More Than a Bakery Business
Based in Durban’s Umgeni Business Park, Supafoods has grown from a bakery ingredient supplier into a full-service solution for South Africa’s retail and independent bakeries.
In this Future50 conversation, Marco Kotze shares how the business built long-term partnerships with retailers like SPAR and Pick n Pay, supported in-store bakers through hands-on training, and expanded into community feedi
CK Advertising: From professional sport to brand execution
What happens when a professional sports career ends unexpectedly? For Corne Krige, it marked the beginning of a new arena - business. In this episode, we explore the journey behind CK Advertising, a Cape Town–based branding and event solutions company built on resilience, reinvention, and practical execution.
From an informal handshake deal in outdoor media to establishing a structured branding b
Celrose Clothing: Building a Sustainable Future Through Skills and Innovation
In Tongaat, KwaZulu-Natal, a major clothing manufacturer is showing how South African industry can evolve — creating jobs, adopting new technologies, and building skills along the way.
Celrose Clothing is one of South Africa’s leading apparel manufacturers, supplying quality denim garments and other clothing to well-known local retailers. Headed up by John Comley, the business employs over 1,500
Ocean Plastic Technologies: Turning Plastic Waste into Community Value
Ocean Plastic Technologies, based in KwaZulu-Natal, was founded by Oliver Nudds with a clear purpose: to create practical, small-scale recycling solutions that make it possible to process plastic waste where it’s collected. What started as an idea during Oliver’s travels has grown into a business that is reshaping how recycling is done in both local and international settings.
Saddler Belts Explores Innovation While Staying True to Craft
Saddler Belts & Leathercraft, headed up by Andrew Fenwick, was featured in the KZN Future 50 earlier this year for its longstanding presence in the leather goods industry. Known for handcrafted leather belts and accessories, the Durban-based business has continued to grow steadily. While no major new retail contracts have materialised, both online and walk-in sales have shown positive movement—an
Where are they now: LIVClean Strengthens Position in the Industrial Cleaning Sector
LIVClean, founded by Matt Simpkins and Murray Gilson, continues to focus on delivering high standards in the industrial cleaning sector. Since their feature in the KZN Future 50, the business has worked on building long-term, sustainable contracts—particularly in sectors such as hospitality, where consistent service and operational certainty are key. The exposure from the feature has helped increa
Elangeni Buildings: From Family Foundations to a Smarter Way of Building
Elangeni Buildings, a family-run business in New Germany, KwaZulu-Natal, has been constructing homes and community spaces across South Africa since 1979. Founded by Rob Gibb, the business was established to provide a faster, more cost-effective alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar construction—without compromising on quality or compliance.
Firefly Fabrics: Enabling Local Designers Through On-Demand Textile Printing
Firefly Fabrics, based in KwaZulu-Natal, was founded in 2021 to provide South African designers with access to small-batch, high-quality digital printing. Headed up by Reshma Harilall and operating as a division of the Startex Group, Firefly Fabrics combines textile expertise, sustainability, and technology to support fashion entrepreneurs in a competitive market.
The business was established to
Pinetown Diff and Gearbox: Built on Experience, Driven by Values
Pinetown Diff and Gearbox, based in New Germany, KwaZulu-Natal, has been specialising in differential and gearbox repairs for cars and trucks since 2008. The business was founded by Nadeera Ramharakh, who currently heads up the company, bringing her technical experience and leadership to every aspect of the workshop.
Before establishing the business, Nadeera had built a strong career in workshop
Luminex Technologies: From a Market Gap to LED Screen Innovation in KwaZulu-Natal
Luminex Technologies is a KwaZulu-Natal-based LED screen solutions company Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic by Ashveer Ramdheen and Simeon Kistensamy. Their journey began when both founders faced challenges sourcing reliable LED displays, encountering poor service and limited after-sales support from existing suppliers. Recognising an opportunity to address this gap, they set out to establish
Grovida: Supplying Gardening Solutions Across KwaZulu-Natal
What began as a modest garden supply business in Durban in 1980 has developed into a trusted name in horticulture across KwaZulu-Natal. Grovida was established by Vincent Lourenco Snr out of a passion for gardening and a desire to provide reliable, quality products to both home gardeners and the wider agricultural sector. In its early days, the business offered just three items—compost, potting so
BTL Engineering & Project Management A Business Born from Adversity
BTL Engineering & Project Management, a KwaZulu-Natal-based business founded and headed up by Andrew Cunningham, has grown from modest beginnings into a specialist in structural steel fabrication and installations. The company’s work underpins essential infrastructure, from bridges and industrial facilities to commercial buildings across the province.
Africa Alternate Energy Solutions: Powering Smarter Energy Use in KwaZulu-Natal
Africa Alternate Energy Solutions (AAES), an independent KwaZulu-Natal-based business headed up by Muhammed Suleman, was established out of a growing interest in renewable energy and a drive to make sustainable power more accessible to South African businesses. What began as a technical passion soon developed into a full-scale operation offering long-term energy solutions tailored to local needs.
Akili Timber: A Local Business with Deep Roots in Richmond
Akili Timber, a sawmill based in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands town of Richmond, is steadily building a name for itself in South Africa’s timber industry. The business processes raw logs into planks, poles, and custom timber products, serving clients across various sectors. Located just one hour from Durban Harbour, Akili Timber is well placed to deliver quick turnaround times and reliable service to
KZN Businesses: Still Standing, Still Showing Up
In the latest KZN Future 50 feature on East Coast Radio, powered by FNB Business, the focus turned to something many local business owners are quietly facing — burnout.
Business strategist Pavlo Phitidis spoke candidly about what he’s seeing across the country: entrepreneurs who haven’t given up, but who are simply exhausted. Years of pushing through COVID, load-shedding, water cuts, red tape, an
The Gold Bar: Building a Modern Gold Recycling Business with Purpose
The Gold Bar, a proudly South African business headed up by Sholain Perumal, has grown from experience earned on the ground to a steadily expanding network of gold recycling stores in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. Today, it operates from six locations in leading shopping centres, offering customers a secure, transparent, and accessible way to exchange their old, broken or unwanted gold jewellery for
Where are they now: AV Company Lighting Up Bigger Stages
AV Company, headed up by Craig Browning, has continued to play a key role behind the scenes in South Africa’s events industry. Known for delivering lighting, video, live streaming, staging, and event technology for concerts and large-scale productions, the business built on the momentum of the KZN Future 50 spotlight to grow its presence. Since then, the team has expanded operations into Johannesb
Where are they now: Saikav Foods Grows Footprint in National Retail
Saikav Foods, under the leadership of Pregasen Francis, specialises in the production of pre-cooked legumes such as split pea dhal, sugar beans, and chickpeas. Since being featured on KZN Future 50, the business has secured a retail listing with Food Lover’s Market, significantly increasing its product visibility and access to consumers. In addition, Saikav Foods has entered into discussions with
Bedrock Group: From Local Foundations to National Concrete Expertis
Bedrock Group, a specialist concrete construction business based in Westmead, Durban, has become a leading name in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Founded and led by David and Greg Kitching, the company has built its reputation on innovation, precision, and a commitment to quality in the niche sectors of tilt-up and pre-cast concrete construction.
Adapting for Impact: Energywise Systems Refines Its Approach
After being highlighted in the KZN Future 50, Energywise Systems has focused on strengthening its internal strategy to better position the business for long-term growth. The company specialises in energy-efficient lighting solutions that help commercial, and retail clients reduce electricity consumption while also improving lighting design for productivity and sales performance.
Driving Safer Fleets: FleetCam SA Moves Forward
Since being featured on the KZN Future 50, FleetCam SA has continued to focus on improving safety on South Africa’s roads. The company specialises in vehicle camera systems and telematics that use artificial intelligence to monitor driver behaviour and detect fatigue. A 24/7 command centre is on hand to respond to alerts, helping fleet operators take action when drivers require support or further
Hall’s Retail: A Business Built on Chemistry, Family and Community Spirit
Hall’s Retail, a proudly family-run business in Pietermaritzburg, has steadily grown over the past three decades from a small adhesive supplier into a trusted name in industrial coatings and chemical solutions across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. But its success didn’t happen overnight—it’s a story of perseverance, innovation, and a strong belief in doing things properly.
Need A Tool: Equipping KZN’s Builders, Makers and Fixers Since 1986
Need A Tool, a well-known family-run business in KwaZulu-Natal, began with a practical idea: provide good-quality equipment to people who need to get things done. Founded in 1986 by the late Bob Moore — a respected figure in the tool hire industry and one of the founding members of the Contractors Plant Hire Association (CPHA) — the business has become a trusted name for equipment hire in the prov
Want to apply for the KZN Future 50? Here's why it works!
The KZN Future 50, powered by FNB Business in partnership with East Coast Radio, highlights businesses that are helping shape KwaZulu-Natal’s economic landscape. The initiative offers more than just airtime — it serves as a launchpad for small and medium-sized businesses to grow their visibility, customer base, and market reach. Many featured businesses have reported tangible benefits, including i
Where are they now? Papini Trading: Strengthening Small Business Through Smart Growth
Since being featured on the KZN Future 50, Papini Trading — founded and headed up by Rasheed Patel — has refined its approach to strategic marketing. The business, which supplies curtain fabrics and accessories to independent window dressing fabricators, has used the exposure to increase brand visibility and improve customer engagement. This shift has enabled the team to connect more effectively n
La Vita Spas Expands Its Wellness Footprint Across South Africa
La Vita Spas and Hair Studios, based in KwaZulu-Natal, has grown into one of South Africa’s recognised names in wellness, beauty and self-care. The business began in 2002 when Rioma Cominelli opened the first branch in Musgrave under the name Cellu-Beauty. Her brother, Valerio Cominelli, later joined her to help grow the brand. Together, they laid the foundation for a national network of spas focu
Where are they now? Food Sock Grows with Practical Solutions for Local Communities
Since being featured on the KZN Future 50, Food Sock—run by Mike Nel—has continued to grow its footprint across KwaZulu-Natal and further afield. The business produces affordable, long shelf-life meal packs that can feed a family for around R10, making a real difference in areas where access to nutritious food is limited.
Over the past year, Food Sock has grown its sales by 10%, despite tough ec
Where are they now? Livecopper Builds Momentum in the Digital Retail Space
Since being featured on the KZN Future 50, Livecopper—founded by Alf Allingham and Andrew Davies—has continued to grow its presence as an online retailer of electrical and lighting products. Based in KwaZulu-Natal and serving customers across South Africa, the business has remained focused on making specialist products easily accessible through its e-commerce platform.
The recognition from the F
Big Five Accident Repair Centre: From Passion for Cars to a Durban Landmark
Big Five Accident Repair Centre, a proudly family-run business in Durban, has built a solid reputation in the automotive repair sector — not through gimmicks or grand claims, but through consistent workmanship and a genuine passion for vehicles.
Founded by Mano Nayager, a seasoned professional with over 36 years of experience, the company has grown into one of the city’s most respected panel sho
Alute SA: Helping Keep Workplaces Safe Across KZN
Based in Durban, Alute SA is making a difference in workplaces across KwaZulu-Natal. The company provides training, consulting, and equipment in the areas of health, safety, fire, and security—helping businesses stay compliant and, more importantly, safe.
From factories and warehouses to construction sites and engineering firms, Alute SA works with industries where safety really matters. Their te
KZN Future 50: Where are they now? Sparesboyz
Following their feature on the KZN Future 50, Sparesboyz has focused on building a stronger foundation to support long-term growth.
The business, headed up by John Hunt, supplies quality used and new non-original vehicle parts by salvaging usable components from accident-damaged vehicles. Since being featured, the company has restructured its leadership and appointed experienced managers.
This
KZN Future 50: Where are they now? Steelco
Steelco, a family-run business supplying steel products and roofing solutions to the construction and industrial sectors, was previously featured on the KZN Future 50 for its growth and contribution to the local economy.
Since then, the company has made meaningful progress—both in how it operates and in how it serves its customers.
They have added key individuals to their leadership team, incl
I-Tech Solutions: Connecting Communities through Technology
I-Tech Solutions, based in Pietermaritzburg, has been helping businesses stay connected and secure since 2002. Founded by Clyde Langley and Brett Precious, two passionate tech enthusiasts, the company has grown from a small start-up into one of the trusted names in IT services across KwaZulu-Natal
KZN Future 50: Where are they now? Frozen Brands
In this episode of Where Are They Now?, we kick things off with Frozen Brands, the local frozen food company making big moves.
Led by Blake Edy, they’ve expanded into the Mauritian market, scaled up production, and are moving into a larger facility to meet demand—all while continuing to innovate with their nutritious frozen vegetable range.
Carmen and Pavlo unpack how they’ve turned exposure i
KZN Future 50: Where are they now? Royal Tyres
In this episode of Where Are They Now?, we hit the road with Royal Tyres, a powerhouse in the tyre supply industry.
Since their F50 feature, they've expanded across Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Australasia, while growing their local footprint in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
With funding from FNB Business boosting their purchasing power, Royal Tyres is setting the foundation for long-term d
Lechintech: Helping South Africa Improve Water Quality
Water is one of our most precious resources, and ensuring its quality is essential for both communities and the environment. Lechintech, a South African company specialising in chemical dosing control, is playing a vital role in improving water treatment processes.
Founded in 1987, Lechintech develops automated systems that help water treatment plants and industries measure and control the chemic
Impi Live: Shaping KZN’s Music and Sports Event Scene
Impi Live, co-founded by Andrew van Rensburg and Stu Berry, is a KwaZulu-Natal-based events company that has firmly established itself as a leader in live music, sporting events, and entertainment. The company’s portfolio includes a diverse range of events, from mountain biking and trail running to major music festivals like Splashy Fen.
The Print Shop: A Local Business Making Its Mark in Printing and Branding
The Print Shop, based in KwaZulu-Natal, began its journey as a small photographic shop run by Yasheen Panday’s father. Yasheen joined his father in the business, where he quickly developed a passion for the work and decided to take over the reins. What started as a family business in photography has now grown into one of the region’s most recognised printing and branding companies, serving not jus
Mandarin Parts Distributors: Supporting Local Communities with Affordable Auto Parts
Mandarin Parts Distributors (MPD) is a trusted name in South Africa, supplying reliable replacement parts for Chinese and Indian vehicle brands like Tata, Mahindra, GWM, Haval, and Changan. Founded by Henk van der Merwe, MPD set out to address a gap in the market by offering affordable spare parts for vehicle owners, mechanics, and fleet operators in South Africa, especially those who struggled wi
FDC Systems: Protecting Our Communities with Expert Fire Safety and Security Solutions
FDC Systems, based in KwaZulu-Natal, has grown into a trusted name in fire safety and security, protecting both people and property across the region. Originally founded in Pietermaritzburg as a fire detection and suppression business, FDC Systems quickly became known for its commitment to quality and its ability to meet the growing needs of its clients.
SealGlobal.Co: Leading the Charge for Sustainable Packaging in Our Community.
Founded by Doug Knox in 1966, SealGlobal.Co has been making a real difference in the world of sustainable packaging for over five decades. This South African company has worked tirelessly to create packaging solutions that are better for the planet and our communities. While the company has grown to serve clients across the globe, its heart remains firmly in KZN, where it is helping to lead the ch
Montusi Mountain Lodge: A Family Legacy in the Northern Drakensberg
Montusi Mountain Lodge, a family-run establishment set in the stunning Northern Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal, has offered guests a one-of-a-kind retreat since its establishment in June 2000. The lodge, founded by the Carte family, has evolved into a premier destination, providing a perfect balance of luxury accommodation and adventure, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Amphitheatre escarp
Rotacon Engineering: Precision, Innovation, and a Legacy of Expertise
Rotacon Engineering, a trusted name in manufacturing, has been a leader in precision engineering in KwaZulu-Natal for decades. Founded by Dennis Gillespie in Pinetown, the company has grown into a key player in the light to medium engineering sector, supplying high-quality components to industries that rely on precision and durability. Today, Rotacon is supported by partners Rachael Gillespie and
Saddler Belts & Leathercraft: Crafting Leather Excellence, a Family Tradition
Saddler Belts & Leathercraft, a proud family-run business based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, has been creating high-quality handcrafted leather goods since 1990. What began as a small family venture, led by Andrew Fenwick’s father, has blossomed into a well-established brand, recognised for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Today, the company continues to be driven by the Fenwick
LIVClean: A Story of Growth and Social Impact in Cleaning Solutions
LIVClean’s story began in 2001, founded by Murray Gilson and Matt Simpkins, driven by a commitment to excellence and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the cleaning industry. What started as a small operation has grown into a leading provider of cleaning and hygiene solutions across South Africa. Today, LIVClean operates in all nine South African provinces, employing 3,000 staff and serving a
Aldora Wholesalers: Crafting Quality Footwear for South Africa and Beyond
Aldora Wholesalers, based in South Africa, has grown from modest beginnings into a prominent name in the footwear industry. Renowned for its dedication to crafting genuine leather shoes, Aldora has established itself as a leader in quality and innovation, blending traditional techniques with modern design to cater to a diverse clientele.
National Packaging Systems: Supporting Local Innovation in Packaging
National Packaging Systems (NPS) is a well-known name in KwaZulu-Natal, playing a key role in the packaging machinery industry since 1983. From its humble beginnings to becoming a leading manufacturer, NPS has always stayed focused on creating solutions that meet the needs of both local and international businesses.
Starting with vertical form, fill, and seal machines, NPS now boasts a wide range
Skipper Tent Trailers: A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Innovation
Skipper Tent Trailers, based in Park Rynie, KwaZulu-Natal, has become a trusted name in the world of caravanning and camping. The business, which blends a rich family heritage with modern design, traces its roots to the Kerkhof family’s passion for the outdoors and travel
As fuel prices rise and many seek more affordable travel options, the Skipper Tent Trailer has emerged as an ideal solution fo
AV Company: Pioneering Event Technology Excellence
AV Company began its story with a vision for excellence in audio-visual solutions. Founded by Craig Browning, the company has grown into one of South Africa’s most trusted names in event technology. Today, Craig leads the business alongside his son Keagan, with a shared dedication to quality, innovation, and impeccable service.
From modest beginnings, AV Company has become a go-to technical partn
Envirosan Sanitation Solutions: A Purpose-Driven Approach to Sustainable Sanitation
Envirosan Sanitation Solutions, founded by Brian Lewis, is a company driven by a deep sense of purpose and has become a global leader in providing dignified, sustainable sanitation solutions to communities in need. As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Brian Lewis has guided the company to focus on improving sanitation in underserved areas, offering innovative products that prioritise safety
Retail Branding Solutions: Crafting Excellence in Signage
Retail Branding Solutions (RBS), founded by Riekert Wilken, is a KwaZulu-Natal-based branding agency dedicated to providing comprehensive signage and point-of-sale solutions for a diverse array of clients. Formed through the merger of two well-established companies, RBS draws on decades of experience in the signage fabrication industry, establishing itself as a reliable partner for businesses aimi
FleetCam SA: Revolutionising Road Safety Through Innovative Telematics
FleetCam SA is making significant strides in the transport and logistics industry with its advanced vehicle camera and telematics solutions. This dynamic company has developed a range of innovative technologies designed to enhance safety and efficiency on the roads.
FleetCam SA’s mission is clear: to transform how fleet management operates, providing real-time insights that protect drivers and i
Saikav Foods: Bringing Traditional Indian Flavours to Modern Homes
Saikav Foods, a KwaZulu-Natal-based company, began its journey in 2010 with a singular focus: to provide convenient, high-quality Indian cuisine for busy individuals and families.
Founded by Pregasen Francis, Saikav was inspired by a longing for the comfort food of his childhood—dhal, a traditional dish that often requires hours of preparation.
Recognising the needs of modern consumers, Franci
EWaste Africa: Driving Innovation in Responsible E-Waste Management
EWaste Africa, a leading waste management company in KwaZulu-Natal, was founded by Pravashen Naidoo in 2013, driven by a vision to tackle the growing challenge of electronic waste (e-waste) disposal.
Securing technology and distribution rights from UK-based Balcan Engineering, the company set out to revolutionise e-waste recycling across South Africa.
In 2014, they received a Hazardous Waste M
Classic Plastics: From Trading to Manufacturing Excellence
Classic Plastics, a KwaZulu-Natal-based business, began its story 17 years ago with a simple yet transformative idea—meeting the everyday plastic packaging needs of households and businesses.
Founded by Sunil Heeramun, the company has since grown into a significant player in the plastic packaging industry, producing a range of products that have become essential in both homes and industries.
F
The Great Cleaning Company: Affordable and Sustainable Cleaning Solutions
The Great Cleaning Company, founded by Dustin Fleischer, has been supplying affordable, high-quality cleaning chemicals, detergents, and hygiene products to households and businesses for over 30 years. Offering everything from toilet and dish cleaners to car and carpet care products, the company has become a trusted name in the cleaning supply industry.
Pavlo Phitidis has more in this week's KZN
Goscor Lift Trucks: A Legacy of Innovation and Community Impact
Goscor Lift Trucks, a family-owned business in KwaZulu-Natal, has been a leader in industrial warehousing equipment solutions since 1984. Headed up by Michael Keats, the company began as a legacy lift truck provider and has since evolved into a dynamic player in the materials handling sector, specialising in forklifts and lifting solutions. Its journey is built on a foundation of quality, partners
Solarvest: Transforming KZN with Renewable Energy, One Home at a Time
In Episode 2 of Season 2 Pavlo Phitidis features Solarvest.
Solarvest a local, family-founded business, has been lighting up homes and businesses in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) since the day Anton Lotriet took a bold step into the world of renewable energy.
What began as a simple idea—to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources—has grown into a leading company that’s changing how the people of KZN
Wedgewood Nougat: From a Family Kitchen to Global Success
In Season 2 Episode 1, Pavlo Phitidis features Wedgewood Nougat.
Wedgewood Nougat is a cherished family-run business in KwaZulu-Natal, began its journey in 1999, born from a mother’s love for culinary innovation and her determination to support her family. When Gilly Walters, a natural culinary pioneer, set out to recreate the famous Montélimar nougat she had encountered in France, she couldn’t h
Confirmed: KZN Future 50 Season 2 with a proud new partner
ECR Breakfast and Business growth specialist Pavlo Phitidis celebrate those getting it right through the KZN Future 50. This weekly profile of a forward-focused business shows how they can grow and how growth brings a better future to us all. Now Pavlo Phitidis has announced season 2 of KZN Future 50, and FNB Business is on board!
East Coast Board (Pty) LTd - Episode 50
East Coast Board, a prominent board manufacturing business in KwaZulu-Natal, is managed by Salona Lutchman Sewgoolam and Sandheer Sewgoolam. Founded in 1997 by Ramesh Lutchman, the business started with modest resources but has since grown significantly under the stewardship of the second generation.
Learn more about East Coast Board, this week's KZN Future 50 featured business...
Beapo - Episode 49
Beapo, founded by Siyabonga Gule, is making waves in the business community of KwaZulu-Natal. Specialising in strategic sourcing, Beapo helps businesses optimise their supply chains, focusing on cost efficiency, reliability, and certainty. This service is particularly important for large organisations with complex procurement needs.
