Alfred Menhart, Reifenhäuser’s area sales manager, emphasises the synergy between the two companies: ‘By joining forces with Beswick, we are combining its extensive converting expertise with our advanced extrusion technology. Together, we’re establishing a one-stop shop for sophisticated equipment tailored to meet the evolving needs of our customers.’
This partnership is timely given the skyrocketing demand for advanced blown film technology in southern Africa. Riaan Hopley, web-fed product manager at Beswick Machinery, explains how the company’s established sales and service teams will play a critical role in this collaboration. ‘Our teams are equipped to provide exceptional customer service, ensuring that both existing and potential Reifenhäuser customers receive the highest level of support,’ he states.
Bruce Beswick, managing director of Beswick Machinery, highlights the specific advantages that Reifenhäuser’s technology will offer the local market. ‘The packaging industry is facing unprecedented challenges, especially in plastics. The future is in functional yet recyclable mono-materials, and Reifenhäuser’s commitment to developing sustainable high-barrier solutions will position our customers at the forefront of this trend,’ he asserts.
This strategic alliance enables Beswick Machinery to seamlessly integrate Reifenhäuser’s technology into its existing product offerings. Bruce elaborates on this integration: ‘Most Reifenhäuser users are already part of our customer base. We are enhancing our offerings without trying to enter new market segments, which can often be more challenging. Our expanded service teams, now operating from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, are fully prepared for this next phase of business growth.’
Training and support are paramount in ensuring that customers maximise the potential of their new Reifenhäuser equipment. Bruce outlines the training plans: ‘We’re implementing training programmes for our sales and service teams during upcoming local installations. This will be followed by advanced technical and process training at Reifenhäuser’s state-of-the-art technology centres and laboratories in Germany.’
Looking ahead, Bruce envisions a solid long-term partnership that enhances the user experience. ‘There’s already a strong installation base of Reifenhäuser machinery in the region. Our primary goal is to reinforce the trust users have in the brand and deliver real value to their ownership experience,’ he asserts.
As Reifenhäuser and Beswick Machinery embark on this exciting journey together, Bruce says customers can anticipate high-class technology and a dedicated support system designed to elevate their operational efficiency and sustainability efforts. ‘This partnership is not just about sales, it’s about supplying economical production lines for high-quality blown films that are shaping the market.’
For any queries, contact alfred.menhart@reifenhauser.com or riaan@beswick.co.za
