By: Stefan le Roux - Managing Director

As we mark 45 years on African soil, Wacker Neuson’s journey in South and Sub-Saharan Africa stands as more than a business success story – it is a story of deep-rooted partnerships, trust earned over decades, and a future being built with every project we support.

From our beginnings in 1980, Wacker Neuson has grown from a small affiliate into a regional leader in light and compact equipment. Our foundation has always been built on more than machines: we build relationships, confidence, and capacity across industries. And while the scale of our operations has expanded – with a strong presence across Southern and Sub-Saharan Africa – our purpose remains clear: to be the partner our customers never change.

Industry-Aligned, Customer-Centric

Operating today from our upgraded headquarters in Robertville, Johannesburg, we support a wide range of professional customers in sectors such as infrastructure development, civil construction, plant hire, agriculture, and renewable energy. Our business model is designed for accessibility and agility – enabling our customers to receive the right solution, at the right time, wherever they are.

A major step in enhancing this model was the expansion of our facility to include a dedicated test pit – a permanent demo area that brings hands-on experience directly to our customers and dealers. It’s a natural evolution from our early days of “on-the-road” demonstrations, once conducted with a single truck travelling across the country. Today, customers can still experience our equipment live on their sites – but they also have the opportunity to visit our premises and witness full operational demonstrations, training sessions, and product comparisons, all in one place.

A Strategic Dealer Network Built for Africa

A key strength in delivering on our promise is our expansive and committed dealer network. Operating across South Africa, Botswana, Swaziland, Namibia, Mozambique, Mauritius, and other African nations, our dealers ensure that Wacker Neuson is always close to where it’s needed most.

More than a distribution model, this network represents strategic, on-the-ground partnerships. Our dealers are fully trained and integrated into our systems, offering not only sales but also dependable aftersales support, technical expertise, and customer care. Their local insights – backed by our global standards – enable us to provide true best-fit solutions. Whether in rural construction zones or urban regeneration projects, our network ensures uptime, speed, and continuity.

Technology That Works Where It Matters

Wacker Neuson’s reputation is built on tough, reliable machines that perform in Africa’s challenging environments. But today, our customers expect more than iron and hydraulics – they expect intelligence, integration, and insight. We’ve responded.

Our digital toolbox now includes advanced telematics systems, giving operators and fleet managers real-time data on machine usage, fuel efficiency, and maintenance needs. It’s about giving our customers control – reducing downtime, cutting costs, and enabling smarter planning.

We’ve also introduced Smart Glasses technology into our support system, allowing remote diagnostics and virtual technical assistance. A technician on-site can now connect with a Wacker Neuson expert anywhere in the world, in real time, seeing what they see and solving problems faster than ever before.

Meanwhile, our zero-emission line-up – including battery-powered rammers, excavators, and internal vibrators – continues to support the industry's shift to more sustainable, efficient worksites, especially in enclosed, urban, or environmentally sensitive areas.

To ensure these innovations translate into real-world value, our Training Academy plays a vital role. Designed to upskill our dealer network across Africa, it equips teams with the technical expertise and digital know-how needed to support customers effectively. From the first interaction to aftersales service, Wacker Neuson ensures consistent, knowledgeable support – wherever our machines are at work.

A Philosophy of Partnership

There is no one-size-fits-all solution in this industry – nor should there be. Our customers, whether large-scale contractors or independent builders, all want the same things: reliable tools, insightful advice, and responsive support. That’s what we deliver.

We work hard to earn and keep our customers' trust – by being present, being prepared, and being real partners. Our philosophy is simple: our customers never change their partner. We achieve that by standing behind what we sell, showing up when needed, and enabling worksites to run smoother, safer, and more efficiently.

Looking Ahead: Building Africa’s Next Chapter

Across the continent, Africa is building – physically, economically, and technologically. From megacities to micro-projects, Wacker Neuson is there: offering high-performance technology, tailored solutions, and a dependable hand.

Our journey is far from over. In the years ahead, we will continue to scale our presence, elevate our offering, and explore innovations that unlock greater productivity and sustainability. Whether it’s expanding our zero-emission range, deepening data-driven support, or enhancing our digital infrastructure, we’re shaping the future of construction – not by chasing trends, but by listening to the real needs of real people.

As we celebrate 45 years of doing business in Africa, we do so not as outsiders, but as long-standing partners, deeply embedded in the continent’s growth story. Together with our customers, dealers, and dedicated teams, we will continue to build the infrastructure, industries, and impact that shape Africa’s next chapter.