Manufacturer of industrial robots, Yaskawa, has opened its new branch in KwaZulu-Natal, operating from the start of September 2023. The decision to relocate comes as a proactive response to the floods that impacted KwaZulu-Natal last year and highlighted the importance of securing the company's operations against future natural disasters. The new branch marks a significant milestone for Yaskawa, reaffirming its commitment to the region, ensuring business continuity, and reinforcing its resilience against potential risks.
Yaskawa has relocated to new premises in KwaZulu-Natal to continue its work in the region.
In the aftermath of the floods, Yaskawa recognised the need to safeguard its employees as well as its assets and operations against natural disasters. The floods posed a significant risk at the company's previous location and raised the possibility of a recurring risk. This motivated the decision to move to new premises. In its new location Yaskawa is better placed to withstand and mitigate future natural catastrophes.
Andrew Crackett, Managing Director at Yaskawa Southern Africa, comments, saying that in selecting the right location for the new branch undertook a thorough assessment, prioritising the safety and well-being of its workforce and its assets, as well as ensuring optimal accessibility. Situated in a prime area of KwaZulu-Natal, the facility provides greater flood resilience, strategic access to transportation routes, and proximity to key customers and partners. The company is also addressing sustainability concerns, installing a solar system at its new premises to secure electricity supply and alleviate pressure on the national grid. In addition, a backup water system has been installed to use rainwater for irrigation and sanitary use.
The new branch is built to accommodate Yaskawa's advanced manufacturing processes and robotics technology. “Robotic automation is becoming a necessity for almost any manufacturing company,” Crackett says. Speaking of Yaskawa’s contribution to the overall growth and development of the manufacturing and industrial sector in KwaZulu-Natal, he adds, “By supporting increased manufacturing, we can contribute to creating jobs that are so needed in South Africa – and to raising the country’s GDP.” The facility is designed to enable efficiency and innovation, where Yaskawa can continue to deliver advanced products and services to its clients in the region and beyond.
“The new branch also has a dedicated training centre for our customers to upskill their robot operators and programming teams,” says Crackett. And this goes beyond the borders of the province. He adds that the company has tentative plans to open a sales office in Cape Town, as this is the only major territory where it does not currently operate.
Yaskawa's decision to establish a new branch in KwaZulu-Natal reaffirms its commitment to the region's growth and development. Investing in a cutting-edge facility, it aims to advance industrial automation and technologies as well as contribute to local employment and economic prosperity. The company aims to play an integral role in the region's growth, creating a positive impact on the lives of the people it serves.
For more information visit: www.yaskawa.co.za
