At Invincible Valves, activity is constant and dynamic as the company continues to make significant strides in the valve manufacturing and reconditioning industry. The company’s recent endeavours showcase a commitment to quality, efficiency, and self-sufficiency. Managing Director Pam du Plessis tells us more.
The Invincible Valves management team has been bustling lately despite challenges such as ongoing power cuts, water shortages, and a not-so-great economic situation. Instead of backing down, the company saw this time as a chance to expand and improve its business as part of a broader growth strategy. Consequently, it has acquired a new factory near its current premises in Knights Germiston and has established a new machine shop.
Du Plessis emphasises the importance of diversification in the business landscape. “Operating a business in South Africa is challenging, requiring the ability to navigate various obstacles at any moment. We are exploring new sectors by diversifying our business, expanding our service offerings, and broadening our product range. This approach helps mitigate dependence on a single market or industry, contributing to our resilience.”
She says an integral part of the expansion and diversification strategy has been to reduce the company’s reliance on third-party suppliers, addressing customer demands for quicker turnaround times and absorbing some of the associated overhead costs.
“Our customers now demand faster turnaround times, and our new factory and machine shop enable us to meet those expectations. By handling more processes in-house, we absorb some of the price overhead and reduce outsourcing, resulting in improved turnaround times. This approach also grants us better control over the entire process and more effective cost management,” she explains.
For months, the Invincible Valves team has been working diligently to renovate and upgrade the new factory. “We added to the building, creating a space conducive to reconditioning and manufacturing. The final certificates are being obtained, and the facility will be fully operational in 2024.”
Du Plessis says despite the challenging conditions, she remains steadfast in her belief that through ongoing investment in their business and operations, they are making a difference, contributing positively to the economy, and providing employment and high-standard services in South Africa, across the African continent and globally.
Growing footprint
According to Du Plessis, the company has always been focused on having as broad a footprint as possible. “We don’t just operate in South Africa but across Africa and the rest of the world. Our move to diversify, innovate and invest speaks to growing this footprint significantly.”
The goal for 2024, she says, is to expand the business even more. And already, they are on track to do just that. The company recently completed a noteworthy project involving reconditioning valves for a uranium plant in Namibia. Invincible Valves’ expertise saved the client a substantial 42% by reconditioning valves, making them fit for purpose and ensuring efficiency comparable to brand-new valves. This success reflects the company’s dedication to cost-effectiveness and its ability to deliver on a global scale.
With the market going through ups and downs, price remains a crucial consideration for project owners. “The valve industry is extremely price sensitive and, in the current economic climate, we forecast that reconditioning of valves will see an increase, particularly in South Africa where this has not been a trend.”
She says the company has also expanded into the rubber lining aspect of the business and is increasingly being used by other manufacturers for rubber lining valves. Having purchased a 10-metre-long autoclave, Invincible Valves can now rubber line pipes, addressing a need in the market. The acquisition of this equipment and the expertise and skills to rubber line further emphasises the company’s commitment to diversification.
“Moving forward, our strategy remains centred on diminishing our dependence on external sources,” Du Plessis elucidates. “This involves bringing the production of our actuators in-house. Considering the challenges at the ports, it’s evident that we need to enhance our self-reliance. Waiting weeks for containers to clear is not viable. Passing such costs to customers isn’t always feasible, so we aim to minimise risks as much as possible.”
The company has also invested in generators and is looking at various solar solutions to reduce the impact of loadshedding on its business.
Strong outlook for 2024
Du Plessis expresses optimism for 2024. Despite South Africa gearing up for elections and the metals industry engaging in negotiations with unions over wage increases, she asserts that Invincible has a resilient and dedicated team that is steadfastly committed to delivering products of exceptional quality.
“We have confidence in our ability to attain our established goals. Our investments extend to both our facility and our team. With the right organisational culture in place, we are diligently working towards achieving our growth targets,” she says. “We are incredibly customer-centric, dedicated to providing the best product, optimal pricing, and efficient lead times. When we talk about the customer being king at Invincible, it’s not mere rhetoric; it’s a philosophy we live by. Our Invincible range boasts a superior product, verified through extensive testing, including weight testing, where our product surpasses standard steel. Numerous successful projects substantiate our confidence in the superiority of our product, each speaking for itself in the long run. The recurring business we attract is the true testament to our quality.”
