In an effort to boost operational standards within South Africa’s automotive sector, the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) has actively supported two local enterprises in achieving ISO 9001 accreditation.
LWAMS Africa Group, a manufacturer of number plate holders based in Limeroc Business Park, recently completed the implementation of ISO 9001 standards with AIDC’s assistance. Established in January 2016, LWAMS supplies its products to major dealerships such as Nissan, Ford, and VW, employing a workforce of 19 individuals. Zwivhuya Nelwamondo, the company’s Founder and Director, expressed profound satisfaction with the ISO 9001 integration, affirming, “It has streamlined our operations significantly. Our production flow has improved, tools are better managed, and overall management has become more seamless.”
AIDC played a pivotal role in this transformation by assigning an engineer from their Supplier and Enterprise Development Department (SEDD) to guide LWAMS through the ISO 9001 certification process. Moreover, AIDC facilitated access to funding via its Business Development Programs, enabling LWAMS to secure AITF funding, fostering further expansion opportunities. Looking forward, LWAMS plans to invest in advanced machinery and establish an in-house laboratory to strengthen operational capabilities and better meet client needs.
Meanwhile, at the Automotive Supplier Park, Leloko Transport, a logistics firm with over 11 years of industry experience, underwent a similar transformation with AIDC’s support. Specialising in Just-In-Time (JIT) and Just-In-Sequence (JIS) transportation services for component manufacturers, Leloko recognised the increasing significance of ISO 9001 certification in meeting client demands for operational excellence.
Under the guidance of AIDC, Leloko Transport successfully implemented ISO 9001 standards and utilised an AITF capacity development grant to modernise their logistics systems. With a fleet of 16 trucks and a dedicated team of 30 employees, Leloko has optimised operations to enhance service delivery to their primary clients—component manufacturers supplying Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Lawrence Matsebula, COO of Leloko Transport, highlighted the strategic advantages of their location within the Automotive Supplier Park, which has enabled them to significantly reduce delivery times.
Looking ahead, Leloko Transport aims to expand its footprint by establishing offices in key provinces like Port Elizabeth and Cape Town, a strategic move to better serve clients and minimise operational costs. Matsebula emphasized plans for collaboration with other logistics firms and exploring advancements in IT solutions, as advised by AIDC’s Industry Development Executive, Anton Fiets.
