Trade and Industry Minister Dr Rob Davies has welcomed Whirlpool South Africa’s R100 million investment that is expected to create 100 jobs.
The multinational, which manufactures a comprehensive range of KIC brand refrigerators and freezers among others, this week launched a new range of 14 upgraded bottom mount fridges and a new model of twin-tub washing machines, which is set to revolutionise the entry point of the South African home appliance market.
The investment, said Minister Davies, bodes well for the economy.
“This increased and expanded investment reaffirms Whirlpool’s commitment to the country and the region, as it retains 1 000 jobs and brings about 100 new jobs. Industrialisation is a key pillar coupled with localisation. I cannot overemphasise the importance of the white goods sector and its contribution to the South African economy in terms of growth, job creation, localisation and exports.
“All these elements are critically important to the Industrial Policy Action Plan which underpins economic growth,” said Minister Davies on Friday.
The R100 million investment in the company’s plant, which is located in the Isithebe Industrial Park near Mandeni, includes large scale production equipment imported from Europe and India.
High level skills development will be at the forefront of the company’s skills development programme.
The Managing Director of Whirlpool South Africa, Michele Caputo, said that as the company expands its presence in Southern Africa, KIC and Whirlpool remain committed to providing solutions that will enable growth and sustain economic development.
“Whirlpool is keen to support the South African government’s localisation programme by partnering with local manufacturers to consolidate an integrated domestic supply chain,” said Caputo.
In October 2016, the dti launched the first phase of the revitalisation of the Isithebe Industrial Park. This formed part of the department’s national programme to revitalise the country’s industrial parks with the aim of boosting manufacturing and industrialisation by creating world class infrastructure for investors. – SAnews.gov.za
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