RS South Africa, a trading brand of the LSE-listed RS Group plc, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, marking three decades of supporting local industry, enabling innovation and building strong customer partnerships around the country.
Brian Andrew and Tsakani Jonas, the company’s first employee.
Since entering the South African market in 1996, RS has established itself as a trusted partner to engineers, technicians and businesses across key sectors. Supporting maintenance, repair and operations (MRO), as well as design and manufacturing environments, the company plays a consistent role in helping industry operate efficiently and adapt to changing demands.
Today, RS South Africa provides access to over 800 000 industrial and specialist products, supported by advanced digital tools, technical expertise and efficient delivery solutions. This extensive offering enables customers to streamline operations, improve productivity, and respond to increasingly complex industrial challenges.
As a Level 2 B-BBEE contributor, RS South Africa is committed to driving transformation and inclusive growth. This includes supporting local supplier development, investing in skills development, and creating opportunities across the value chain. By aligning its business with South Africa’s broader economic priorities, RS continues to contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive industrial future.
“Reaching 30 years in South Africa is a proud milestone for us,” says Brian Andrew, Managing Director of RS South Africa. “It speaks to the strength of our partnerships, the trust our customers place in us, and our commitment to supporting innovation and industry growth.”
This local success is underpinned by the strength and heritage of RS Group, a global provider of product and service solutions for industrial customers. Originally founded in 1937 as Radiospares, the business has evolved as technologies have advanced, expanding its offering, embracing digital transformation, and enhancing the customer experience.
Over the decades, RS has demonstrated a forward-thinking approach, from early catalogue innovation to launching internet trading and, more recently, developing platforms such as DesignSpark and its RS PRO range of own-brand products. This global capability enables RS South Africa to bring world-class solutions and expertise to the local market.
In 2022, the business entered a new chapter, with Electrocomponents rebranding to RS Group and RS Components becoming simply RS, reflecting a more unified, modern and forward-looking identity.
“As we look ahead, we remain focused on making it easier for our customers to do business and continuing to bring the latest technologies and solutions to the market,” adds Andrew.
“Our focus has always been on more than supplying products. It’s about delivering value, building lasting relationships and ensuring our customers have the tools and support they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive and evolving environment,” he says.
Today, RS operates as a global solutions provider, connecting customers to products, services, and expertise that drive efficiency and innovation. With sustainability, digitalisation, and customer success at the core of its strategy, RS South Africa is well positioned for the future.
As the company celebrates its 30th anniversary, it reflects on its legacy and continues to shape the future of industry, enabling progress, innovation and resilience around South Africa.
For more information visit: RS South Africa