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The journey over the past 60 years has been shaped by perseverance through economic and social challenges, as well as an unwavering commitment to delivering superior products and services. As they reflect on their history and growth, it’s clear that the foundations that have been built are as durable and brilliant as the anniversary stone that symbolizes 60 years—the diamond.
Sheeting manufacturing facility in Brakpan, Johannesburg.
KLINGER first entered the South African market in 1926 through a partnership with the National Trading Company, which was appointed as the sole distributor. For 38 years, they worked tirelessly to meet the needs of an evolving industrial market. By 1964, the growing demand for gasket sheeting across the region made it clear that it was time to establish a local manufacturing presence. This led to the opening of Richard Klinger Inc.’s first sheeting plant in Brakpan, Johannesburg, which became a cornerstone for operations in the region.
From this pivotal moment onward, KLINGER South Africa continued to expand both its geographical footprint and product range. In 1996, they embarked on a new chapter of growth by signing a joint venture with National Trading Company, resulting in the creation of KLINGER NTC. This venture enabled them to acquire Turner & Newall, a renowned local manufacturer of gaskets, engineering plastics, and gland packing. Just three years later, KLINGER South Africa was born when they acquired full ownership of NTC.
Between 1999 and 2001, KLINGER South Africa expanded significantly, opening their locations in key industrial hubs: Secunda, Durban, Richards Bay, and Sasolburg. This period of growth was driven by increasing demand for their products and services across the country. KLINGER Field Services, (now known as KLINGER Engineered Solutions) launched in 2005, providing a new dimension to their offerings, specializing in on-site bolt torquing, tensioning, and QR inspections.
The Cape Town facility celebrated the anniversary along with all the other locations nationwide.
In 2010, the acquisition of Wright Seal & Plastics brought KLINGER into Cape Town, further solidifying its presence across South Africa. Three years later, they expanded again, acquiring the BAARS Group, which introduced valves and instrumentation to the growing product range. This acquisition also saw the opening of a new location in Port Elizabeth.
Subsequent years brought additional expansions, with KLINGER opening locations in Middelburg, Nelspruit, Mossel Bay, and Rustenburg to meet the growing needs of their clients. In 2019, KLINGER Pipe Products was added to the portfolio through the acquisition of Thomas Pipe Products, offering comprehensive pipe product solutions to the market. Most recently, KLINGER Thermal Insulation was introduced through the acquisition of Intertherm, further broadening the service offering to include cutting-edge insulation solutions.
Celebrating 60 years in any in the try is a remarkable achievement, and KLINGER South Africa’s ethernet has been nothing short of exceptional. In the same way that diamonds are forged under intense pressure, KLINGER has thrived in the face of economic shifts and evolving industrial landscapes. Their durability, brilliance, and value are qualities that mirror the characteristics of a diamond—resilient, timeless, and indestructible.
The diamond, as a symbol of their anniversary, reflects the core of what KLINGER South Africa has become over the past six decades: an organization built on strength, longevity, and unmatched excellence. Like a diamond’s brilliance, their success shines through their ability to adapt, innovate, and continuously meet the demands of their clients across diverse industries. Their products, much like the facets of a diamond, are crafted with precision, durability, and a commitment to quality that stands the test of time.
Reflecting on this significant achievement, Phillip Herbst, Managing Director of KLINGER South Africa, shared his thoughts: “To celebrate 60 years in any terms is a wonderful milestone to reach. Reflecting on the history of KLINGER fills one with pride and fulfilment. It is such an honour to be part of this magnificent milestone and to be able to participate in contributing to great successes over the years. I wish everything of the best for this company and its people going into the future.”
As they celebrate 60 years of operation in South Africa, they are reminded of the many challenges they’ve overcome and the significant strides they’ve made. From a small manufacturing plant in Brakpan to an expansive network of locations across the country, KLINGER South Africa has grown into a treated leader in trial sealing, fluid control, and other engineered solutions.
With their robust product portfolio and a legacy of innovation, KLINGER is positioned to face the future with confidence. Their commitment to excellence, adaptability, and customer satisfaction will continue to drive their success for decades to come. The journey may have started 60 years ago, but they are just getting started. Their diamond jubilee is not only a time to look back with pride, but also to look ahead with optimism and determination.
A commemoration plaque is proudly displayed in the Executive Boardroom at headquarters in Wadeville presented by Managing Director, Phillip Herbst.
As they commemorate this milestone, they look back on 60 excellent years of growth, service, and innovation, but they are also looking forward with excitement to the many more years that lie ahead. KLINGER South Africa’s legacy of resilience, brilliance, and unwavering value will continue to shine brightly in the years to come—them like a diamond. Here’s to the next chapter in their history, and to the bright future that awaits KLINGER South Africa.
KLINGER has been the world’s leading manufacturer and provider of industrial sealing, fluid control and fluid monitoring systems for more than 130 years.
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