WHATBT INDUSTRIAL’S LATESTINVESTMENT MEANSFORYOU.A SNEAKPEEKINTO THEFUTURE
In the annals of African business, few narratives resonate as profoundly as that of Basil Read. From its modest inception in 1952, the company has evolved into a colossus within the construction and engineering sectors, leaving an indelible mark on South Africa's infrastructural landscape.
INDUSTRY FOCUS: ENGINEERING
PIONEERING SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS IN AFRICA'S INDUSTRIAL LANDSCAPE
In the heart of Benoni, Gauteng, South Africa, BT Industrial Group stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in Africa's industrial sector.
Founded by the visionary Kgomotso Lekola, the company has evolved from a modest enterprise into a multi-
award-winning manufacturing powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on industries ranging from mining and agriculture to construction and healthcare
A VISIONARY'S JOURNEY
Kgomotso Lekola's entrepreneurial spirit was ignited by a profound desire to address Africa's unique industrial challenges Recognising the continent's need for sustainable and efficient solutions, he
established BT Industrial with a clear mission: to engineer products and services that not only meet the demands of various industries but also promote environmental stewardship
MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Over the past decade, BT Industrial has achieved remarkable milestones:
Manufacturing Excellence: The company has become a leading manufacturer of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes, serving critical sectors such as mining, agriculture, bulk water infrastructure, and construction. These pipes are renowned for their durability and efficiency, contributing to the longevity and reliability of infrastructure projects across Africa
Engineering Innovation: Through BT Engineering, the company offers specialised design and engineering
g p p g y and water treatment plants. Their commitment to delivering costeffective, eco-friendly solutions has positioned them as a trusted partner
BT Industrial successfully attracted clients away from competitors by offering strategic guidance on more costefficient system designs, resulting in significant cost savings for those clients. CEO Kgomotso Lekola, highlights
So when our customers understood that dynamic, it made it easier to sell. It didn’t always work. Some people are obsessed only with price, and unfortunately those people I choose not to sell to them because otherwise you end up in the gutter and being a price player.
Kgomotso Lekola - CEO of BT Industrial Group
Industrial has been at the forefront of integrating sustainability into industrial practices Their investment in food-grade sustainable plastics and vascular access management syringes underscores their dedication to environmental responsibility and healthcare advancement
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
In October 2023, BT Industrial pledged a substantial R523 million investment aimed at creating 600 new jobs in Ekurhuleni This investment is allocated across three pivotal projects:
HDPE Pipe Manufacturing: A R325 million investment to enhance the production of HDPE pipes and fittings, bolstering water infrastructure and generating employment opportunities
Sustainable Plastics Production: A R76 million commitment to producing food-grade recycled plastics, addressing the global need for sustainable solutions and contributing to reducing ocean plastic waste
Healthcare Innovation: A R122 million investment in manufacturing vascular access management syringes, aiming to streamline medical processes, reduce waste, and improve patient outcomes.
These initiatives not only demonstrate BT Industrial's commitment to innovation but also highlight their role in driving economic growth and job creation in the region
IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY
BT Industrial's influence extends
beyond its product offerings The company's dedication to sustainability and innovation has set new standards in the African industrial sector Their approach to integrating environmental considerations into business operations serves as a model for other enterprises aiming to balance profitability with ecological responsibility
LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVE
Reflecting on the company's journey, Kgomotso Lekola states,
Our research estimates that approximately R2 5 billion is spent on vascular access management in South Africa
The BT range of prefilled syringes will save the national healthcare system approximately R1 5 billion by reducing preparation time by 98%, cutting medical waste by 80%, and enhancing patient clinical outcomes
Kgomotso Lekola - CEO of BT Industrial Group
This statement underscores BT Industrial's commitment to delivering a positive change in Africa's industrial landscape
As BT Industrial embarks on new projects and initiatives, they remains a pivotal player in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for Africa. Their unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community development continues to inspire and set benchmarks for the African industrial sector
BT Industrial Group
AFRICAN LEADERSHIP
REDEFINED
BOLDL
In the heart of South Africa’s industrial landscape, Kgomotso Lekola stands as a beacon of innovation and resilience As the Founder and Group Managing Director of BT Industrial Group, Lekola has transformed a modest venture into a continental powerhouse, redefining the manufacturing sector across Africa
Lekola’s entrepreneurial odyssey began with Africa Weather, a Johannesburgbased meteorological firm Acquiring a stake in 2013, he expanded its operations across Africa and into Australia, introducing SMS alert systems for insurance clients to mitigate weather-related risks This venture yielded a 300% return on investment, laying the foundation for his next ambitious endeavor
Identifying a critical gap in the supply of high-quality High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes for industries like mining and agriculture, Lekola founded BT Industrial Group Despite initial challenges, including a year-long delay in product certification, his unwavering commitment propelled the company forward
Under Lekola’s leadership, BT Industrial has evolved into a leading manufacturer of HDPE pipes, serving clients such as SASOL, Anglo American, Exxaro, and Netcare The company’s expansion includes offices in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, reflecting its growing footprint across the continent
Lekola’s innovative approach has garnered significant recognition In 2019, he was honored with the Industrialist of the Year Award by
President Cyril Ramaphosa
Additionally, BT Industrial was selected as one of seven national champions by the CEO Circle, highlighting its role in driving economic growth and employment in South Africa.
Lekola embodies a leadership style rooted in integrity, innovation, and inclusivity His strategic focus on reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for clients while maximizing Return on Investment (ROI) reflects a deep understanding of sustainable business practices
His commitment to empowerment is evident in BT Industrial’s status as a Level 4 B-BBEE company, emphasizing the importance of transformation and equitable growth within South Africa’s economy
An alumnus of the Gordon Institute
of Business Science, Lekola combines academic rigor with practical experience. Outside the boardroom, he is passionate about mentorship and community development, often engaging in initiatives that foster entrepreneurship and skills development among youth
Through BT Industrial Group, he continues to drive innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth, positioning Africa at the forefront of industrial advancement
Kgomotso Lekola, CEO of BT Industrial Group
