Africa's largest manufacturer of prefab and modular buildings Kwikspace offers proven capability and unmatched empowerment credentials.

“Kwikspace is a tried and tested company that can meet the toughest African conditions. Our product range is broad, our national footprint is extensive and our innovation keeps us ahead,” says Kwikspace CEO and FD Dirk Steinberg.

In an exclusive interview with Engineering News & Mining Weekly publisher Martin Creamer, he highlighted that by securing a Level 1 broad-based black economic empowerment (BBBEE) contributor status – one of the highest designations available in South Africa – Kwikspace offers clients real advantages, whether in tendering or preferential procurement.

Being 82.5% black-owned and 56.5% black-women-owned, for Kwikspace, transformation is not just a compliance exercise – it is a business model that empowers clients, employees and communities alike.

South Africa’s BBBEE framework was designed to drive inclusive growth and greater representation in business. For many corporates and public entities, choosing the right supplier is as much about meeting transformation goals as it is about securing reliable products and services.

“Most of our clients, particularly in the public sector, require higher levels of empowerment credentials for tendering processes. We’re proud that Kwikspace can meet those requirements. For the private sector, the preferential procurement benefits are equally valuable, with clients receiving up to 135% recognition on their BEE scorecards when procuring from us,” elaborates Steinberg, emphasising that the company’s business model drives transformation across the value chain.

Shareholding Reflects Confidence and Growth

Kwikspace’s ownership structure was bolstered when Vulindlela Holdings and Lehumo Women’s Investment Holdings increased their stakes following the exit of private equity partners. Having already been minority shareholders since 2022, they recognised the growth trajectory and return on investment potential of the business.

“This uplift in shareholding is testament to the confidence our shareholders have in the business and its future,” Steinberg notes.

Transforming Skills

Kwikspace’s transformation efforts are not limited to equity ownership. The company has embedded empowerment into its broader operations, from employee development to supplier partnerships.

Through its on-site training centre, Kwikspace offers accredited courses, apprenticeships and bursaries. In the last financial year, 29 graduates qualified and several of them, along with some interns and artisans, transitioned into permanent roles.

“Transformation must benefit more than just the shareholders. It must benefit employees, local suppliers and communities. We are proud that our model extends opportunities to many stakeholders, not only those within the business,” Steinberg stresses.

On the procurement front, Kwikspace has mapped out its high-spend areas and deliberately prioritised compliant black-owned vendors. This ensures that its empowerment commitment resonates throughout its supply chain.

The company’s senior executives have also invested personally in the business, ensuring they share directly in its successes.

“Our management team has been together for many years. They don’t just design and execute strategy – they have skin in the game. That ownership fosters accountability and provides a strong succession plan for the business,” says Steinberg.

Proven Solutions Across Africa

With more than 50 years in operation, Kwikspace has built a reputation for delivering modular solutions that meet Africa’s toughest conditions. Its projects range from massive 12 000 m² mining camps to small guardhouses, with applications in education, healthcare, government and commercial sectors.

The company’s product offering includes classrooms, offices, kitchens, ablution facilities and living quarters – all designed to be safe, durable and adaptable. Beyond manufacturing units for sale, Kwikspace also runs the largest modular rental fleet in South Africa, supported by a national footprint that allows it to serve clients across the country.

Driving Kwikspace’s ability to deliver is a culture of innovation. Its manufacturing facilities continuously refine designs, ensuring products are safer, stronger and smarter.

“Innovation is part of who we are. Our factories don’t just produce units, they test and improve them constantly. That’s how we’ve managed to remain competitive and reliable over five decades,” concludes Steinberg.