In the dynamic mining and rock processing landscape, proximity to customers and swift access to support services play a pivotal role in maintaining operational efficiency and building lasting relationships.

Mining and rock excavation company Sandvik Rock Processing recognises this critical aspect and has strategically leveraged Sandvik’s extensive footprint across Africa to provide timely assistance and bolster customer engagement in the region.

This recognition enables the company to provide the same high standard of support for all its products, including the Sandvik, Kwatani and Schenck screening products, which are supported under the umbrella of Sandvik Rock Processing following the acquisition of Kwatani and Schenk by Sandvik Rock Processing in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

The acquisitions served to better align crushing and screening products for Sandvik Rock Processing, consequently enabling the company to provide a comprehensive range of solutions for such applications.

From small to large products, Sandvik Rock Processing’s screen options complement its crushers. This versatility extends to customising solutions to fit every customer’s unique requirements and existing setup.

The company’s commitment to customer proximity is underscored by the establishment of regional and in-country offices in various African nations, says newly appointed Sandvik Rock Processing Africa VP Tarynn Yatras.

This strategic move enables the company to provide consistent, high-quality support for its products and, consequently, to service equipment more regularly and according to original-equipment manufacturer standards.

“By having a local presence, Sandvik Rock Processing can provide tailored support that aligns with the specific needs and challenges of each region, setting itself apart from competitors and cultivating enduring customer relationships,” Yatras adds.

One of the cornerstones of Sandvik Rock Processing’s success on the continent lies in its investment in workshop facilities and spare parts warehousing in multiple countries, including regional offices in South Africa, for Southern Africa; in Zambia, for Central Africa; and in Ghana, for West Africa.

Sandvik also has offices in nine other countries.

Having these facilities closer to customers enables Sandvik Rock Processing to offer in-country refurbishment services, which significantly reduces transport costs and turnaround times, as well as operational downtime.

The local footprint also gives Sandvik Rock Processing easier access to customers’ sites, consequently enabling the company to become more familiar with their specific challenges and requirements.

This approach not only enhances efficiency but also contributes to sustainable operational practices, Yatras says, adding that this approach is pivotal for the growth of Sandvik Rock Processing’s screening business.

A distinctive feature of Sandvik Rock Processing’s approach is its commitment to providing on-the-ground support throughout the life cycle of screens, as its local presence allows for deploying technicians and specialists who offer personalised and enhanced assistance.

“By engaging closely with customers, Sandvik Rock Processing gains a deeper understanding of clients’ needs and can align its offerings accordingly.”

However, to maintain high standards of customer support, the company engages in technical training initiatives.

“By developing the spare parts holding capacity of in-country offices and training local personnel, we ensure that maintenance, repairs and refurbishment are conducted in line with these global benchmarks. This commitment to quality strengthens long-term relationships with customers and solidifies Sandvik Rock Processing’s position as a trusted partner in the industry,” Yatras tells Mining Weekly.

Its regional and in-country offices, such as those in West and Central Africa, enable the company to build on existing competence, and empower local teams, through its workforce development initiatives, with the necessary skills to provide support and service, thereby reducing dependence on centralised resources.

The company invests in training and upskilling local employees, often collaborating with global product specialists to ensure diversified knowledge transfer, says Yatras.

“This approach not only empowers local talent but also has a positive impact on the communities in which Sandvik Rock Processing operates,” she says, adding that complying with local laws and regulations enhances the company’s standing, contributing to its role as a responsible corporate entity, regardless of where it operates.

Enhanced Product Diversity

The acquisitions of Kwatani and Schenck by Sandvik Rock Processing have significantly expanded the company’s product offerings.

Kwatani was brought into Sandvik’s fold in December 2021. Initially, Sandvik followed a gradual approach to the integration, allowing the company to maintain its distinct sales channel.

Sandvik subsequently acquired the mining division of Schenck Process in October 2022, which included Schenck’s South Africa entity Schenck Process Africa.

The acquisition encompassed manufacturing and engineering capabilities, which Yatras adds “essentially solidified” the company’s screening offering for the mining sector.

From early in 2023, the integration of both the Schenck and Kwatani businesses into Sandvik’s operations started; consequently, the screening divisions of both entities were merged and aligned under the banner of Sandvik Rock Processing.

While previously focusing primarily on crushing solutions, owing to Sandvik Rock Processing’s strong offering for the mining sector, these acquisitions have now bridged the gap in the screening segment for Sandvik Rock Processing, the integration of which will result in a unified sales channel, providing customers with a comprehensive suite of products and services.