On the back of a series of investments being made by their parent company, Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (Pty) Ltd (SRSA), Dunlop South Africa is proud to announce the opening of its 12 500 square metre property in Cato Manor, Durban, which will act as its warehouse and distribution centre premises. At full capacity, the site will house more than 200 000 tyres, which include SRSA’s flagship Dunlop brand, as well as Falken and Sumitomo Tyre brands.
At the opening event on 1 June, SRSA CEO Riaz Haffejee explained that the move from its previous location in Umbilo was spurred by the increasing demand into the rest of Africa, as well as for growth projections anticipated for the supply of tyres to manufacturers within the automotive sector.“The investment made in systems, the time spent planning, together with the technology and infrastructure invested in this new facility will position us to accommodate this demand and plans for future growth. We are proud to announce the beginning of a new era in Dunlop history,” said Haffejee.
The previously-occupied property in Sydney Road, Umbilo, was occupied for 80 years from 1934 – 2014, with Dunlop House being preserved as a heritage building. The current site, situated on the periphery of Westville, is well-positioned in close proximity to the N3, forming a central location to key arterial nodes, and lending several logistic, turnaround and efficiency benefits to the company. The property will house a 650 sqm technical examination centre for on-site consumer quality testing in addition to the 7200 sqm bonded warehouse facility.
The new site is leased to Dunlop by the Newlyn Group, represented by CEO Raj Balmakhun – successful Durban-based commercial property developers and landlords. Haffejee lauded the developer, Newlyn Group, on delivering a quality project within a record time of five months since the conclusion of the contract. More than 200 temporary jobs were created during the construction phase of the development, co-ordinated with the help of the local ward councillor.
Earlier this year, the company announced a R2bn investment made by Dunlop SA’s Japan-based owners, Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd., which is geared at upgrading, expanding and modernizing its Ladysmith production plant. It is also in the process of upgrading and expanding capacity it’s warehousing facility in Jet Park, Gauteng, scheduled for completion later this year.
