Modern Mining November 2021

COVER STORY

Astec’s enhanced support and local boost uptime for mines

At a time when the mining sector is seeking to ramp up production amid a favourable com- modity cycle, uptime is a parameter of significance. Leveraging its fortified new regional structure, an expanded dealer network and the full-fledged Astec Johannesburg manufac- turing facility, Astec Industries Africa and Middle East (AME) is positioned to deliver signifi- cant uptime and value for mines, writes Munesu Shoko .

T o take advantage of the prospect of a new mining super-cycle, mining companies are ramping up production. Uptime is crucial to tapping into this ‘commodity bull run’. With an enhanced sales and aftermarket support structure – reinforced by the newly-created regional structure and new dealer partnerships – Astec Industries Inc. has placed uptime at the heart of its latest strategy in sales region AME. Astec Industries Inc. created a new International Business division in 2020 as part of its international expansion strategy, with regional sales organisations established to improve customer interaction and support of the complete range of Astec products. Astec Industries AME, as one of the newly-cre- ated regional sales organisations, is responsible for business relationships in Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia. The AME offices are based in Elandsfontein, Johannesburg, with regional sales managers positioned strategically within the region to support the expanded dealer network and customers. The issue of local procurement has been attract- ing more attention in the mining industry in recent years. Leveraging the capabilities of the local Astec Johannesburg manufacturing facilities, mines

operating in South Africa, for example, can meet their local procurement requirements. “Our Astec Johannesburg manufacturing facility falls in line with the Mining Charter requ i rement s for l oca l manufacturing,” comments

Johan Goosen, MD of Astec Industries AME. “It also benefits local mining by helping it to meet local pro- curement targets.” The Johannesburg manufacturing facility is integrated into the complete Astec supply chain to be able to supply most product offerings from this factory. Local manufacture also reduces procurement costs, increases supply chain resilience and reduces lead times for mines, especially at a time when the coronavirus pandemic has wreaked havoc to the global supply chain. Strong dealer network The recent appointment of additional dealers further benefits customers by enhancing the supply, distri- bution, support and after-sales service of Astec’s Material Solutions product range across the region. Through Astec Industries AME, Astec has entered

Astec AME has made a significant investment in a solar energy plant at its Astec Johannesburg manufacturing facility.

into a strategic dealer partner- ship with Unatrac, a division of Egypt-headquartered Mantrac Group, one of the largest and most popular Caterpillar dealers in the world. The group, founded in the 1950s, has established itself as a reputable distributor and service provider of industry- leading brands and premium products. “Teaming up with Unatrac, part of Mantrac, a reputable capital equipment group in the region, demonstrates Astec’s commitment to meeting, if not exceeding, the expectations of our customers in the region,”

10  MODERN MINING  November 2021