PRATLEY CELEBRATES size , our contribution to the intellectual property of South African industry is unique .” Their focus on providing high external service levels , in order to retain customers and secure their loyalty to its brands and products , is a strategic driver for the Group . “ In order to achieve this in a South African context , we pretty much have had to do everything ourselves . Hence we make every single thing we produce . This even extends to the design of the bottle and the nozzle used for our Superglue , as well as all of the associated tooling ,” Kim highlights . This strategy has enabled the Group to maintain its agility in tough trading conditions and ensure its self-reliance .
Remaining a family-owned business is a central part of the group ’ s success , with Kim ’ s son Andrew joining the Group in 2005 after completing a degree in information technology , and youngest son Charles entering the business in 2009 having completed his mechanical engineering degree . The family-run business is evidence that teamwork is crucial to the company mix .“ Corporate culture is under-valued globally , with insufficient attention paid to its impact in financial analysis , for example . This has been one of our defining strengths over the years .” Kim is proud of the large number of people who began working for the
Group and who have subsequently retired successfully at Pratley . Staff retention remains high , as does the Group ’ s considerable investment in attracting top skills .
Looking ahead to the next 70 years , Kim emphasizes that the Group ’ s strategy is to respond appropriately to volatile market conditions . Being involved in mining means it also needs to be sensitive to the issues surrounding legislation and regulation in this critical industry . “ While on the one hand companies cannot be cavalier about taking risks , they cannot grow either if they do not . Managing risk is therefore very important , and means striking a balance between financial responsibility and growth .”
The Pratley Group ’ s track record over the past 70 years speaks for itself , but it gives both its customers and staff a high level of confidence in the future . “ Our growth has been bolstered largely by our R & D drive , which consistently produces patented products . Every time we bring out a new product , it is the most exciting moment for me .” Kim smiles .
Watch the video of the previous stunt .
Article by Lori Booth
AFRICAN DESIGN MAGAZINE © | JULY 2018
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