After a decade at the helm of Crown Publications and SparksElectrical News, Karen Grant has transitioned from her role as publisher to managing director, passing the publisher’s torch to Wilhelm du Plessis. We sat down with Wilhelm to learn about his vision for the magazine and what makes Sparks an essential read.
Ilana Koegelenberg (IK): Tell us about your career and how you became publisher at Crown.
Wilhelm du Plessis (WDP): My career began in academia, where I earned my master’s degree at 23 and lectured university students. Alongside my studies, I worked as a freelance writer until an opportunity at De Kat magazine prompted me to leave academia for publishing – a field I've remained in ever since.
My publishing journey has spanned customer, consumer and business-to-business sectors, with my Crown chapter beginning in 2009 as editor of Construction World. By 2017, I had taken on the role of deputy publisher whilst continuing to edit both Modern Quarrying and Capital Equipment News.
What keeps me here? B2B publishing represents the most authentic form of our craft, yet it increasingly calls for innovative approaches. Though distinctly different from customer and consumer publishing, B2B offers tremendous scope for innovation – particularly in recent years. I am committed to pursuing this innovation and delivering content that truly delights our targeted audience.
IK: The electrical sector in South Africa faces many unique challenges… What's your view on the role of trade media in supporting this industry?
WDP: The significance of trade media is profound. While some may fail to recognise its distinctive value, trade publications play a vital role in keeping their audience informed about the latest products and services, whilst showcasing industry achievements that inspire growth.
Crown's portfolio extends beyond the electrical sector to encompass mining, construction, capital equipment and manufacturing publications. These specialist media channels deliver value that social media simply cannot replicate. Our challenge at Crown lies in creating high-calibre publications for sectors under pressure, maintaining exceptional standards, and ultimately supporting these industries' contributions to South Africa's development.
IK: You’ve worked with many publications in many industries before, what is your view on Sparks? Why is this magazine, and this industry, so special?
WDP: Sparks is distinct from other magazines at Crown – not just because of its tabloid format. Its distinctive dual role sets it apart: whilst providing electrical contractors with comprehensive coverage of innovations and products, its unique selling proposition lies in serving as a forum for this predominantly owner-operated sector to celebrate its people and achievements. Indeed, Sparks fulfils both a vital social function within its community and the essential role of industry informer.
IK: Why do you think Sparks has existed for over four decades? How did we get this far?
WDP: Sparks' remarkable longevity stems from its unique physical format and its loyal readership – a testament to the dedication of past editors, designers and sales managers who consistently delivered content that readers eagerly consumed, whether in print or online. Whilst trade magazines fundamentally serve as platforms for advertisers, Sparks has maintained strong commercial support throughout its evolution. Now, it continues to adapt as print, online, social media and events play increasingly integrated roles in reaching our audience.
IK: Why should people read Sparks or subscribe to our digital offering? What’s in it for them?
WDP: Since you (Ilana) took the helm as editor of Sparks late last year, you've strengthened the magazine's core mission – delivering targeted industry information whilst leveraging its position as a specialist publication. Sparks maintains its unique personal touch, reflecting an industry where many businesses are owner-operated. This personal connection creates genuine pride when companies see themselves featured, whether readers access these stories in print or online.
IK: How do you think the nature of trade publications is changing locally, and do you think print still has a role to play in the future?
WDP: The boundaries between customer, consumer and trade publications have blurred, with trade media now incorporating elements from both spheres. It's an exciting time as our industry navigates fresh demands – not only to inform but to create content that is visually compelling, innovative and captivating in an era of endless choices.
Beyond the physical publication, my vision for Sparks – and indeed all Crown publications – is to develop comprehensive media brands. These would encompass print and digital magazines, websites, newsletters, events, webinars and innovative advertising opportunities that align with each brand's identity.