Local manufacturer Pratley’s emphasis on research and development (R&D), policy implementation and diversification have contributed to the company’s success throughout its 75 years in existence.

CEO Andrew Pratley noted during a seventy-fifth-anniversary celebration on September 28 that he was “not naïve to think that 75 years guarantees another 75 years”.

“That requires constant adaptation and agility, but we will continue to do what we do best and leverage our strengths. We are good at producing highly innovative and unique products, and at the core of that is good R&D.”

In this vein, Pratley has at least two new adhesive products in the pipeline, including a possible new adhesive range. It also has at least one new electrical product to be launched early next year.

The company also launched its Pratley Flameproof Ex d Envirobox electrical termination product in March this year.

“We have improved many of our production processes and streamlined a lot of procedures,” Pratley added, stating that “we try and produce products which have very unique attributes to them, which you won't find anywhere else in the world …”

Meanwhile, the company’s export market has witnessed significant growth, owing to a favourable exchange rate and additional resources aimed at expanding that side of the business.

“Our efforts are bearing fruit, with more international customers becoming aware of our products and innovations.”

However, Pratley highlighted that South African political challenges and energy constraints had impacted on businesses in South Africa, adding that market expansion into Africa was key to tackling these challenges.

He said Africa offered growth opportunities for the company’s electrical, mineral and adhesive ranges.

“The pace at which change happens these days is eyewatering, especially in a South African context. One needs to adapt very quickly to survive and thrive. Our core policies will always remain in place, but certainly from a growth perspective, we will accelerate growth internationally, especially into Africa.

“A company is gauged by the company that it keeps, and we have kept good company over the years. Ultimately, the sentiment is sincere gratitude to all of our employees, customers and suppliers for 75 years of Pratley,” he concluded.