Engineering News reports that Metair has secured multiple contracts from Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) as the local arm of the US vehicle maker prepares to launch new vehicles for the local and export markets.  

Metair is a manufacturer, distributor and retailer of energy storage solutions and automotive components.  Metair CEO Theo Loock said:  “The investment approved by Metair’s board to support Ford is the group’s largest to date for a single customer and we anticipate that over 3,300 jobs will be created, with the largest portion in northern KwaZulu-Natal.”  Metair’s total funding requirements are estimated at around R1.3-billion, with the capital investment in property, plant and equipment anticipated at more than R900-million.  This commitment will include the construction of a new manufacturing facility in Stanger, northern KwaZulu-Natal.  A new logistics facility will also be established in Silverton, Pretoria, where Ford’s manufacturing plant is located.  In addition to Metair’s Hesto Harnesses, which will be the largest beneficiary in supplying a wide range of wire harnesses to Ford, a number of other subsidiaries will also benefit, including Unitrade, Automould and Lumotech, which will provide a variety of wires, plastic and chrome-plated parts, as well as headlights and taillights.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard at Engineering News

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