FUCHS opens its expanded plant in South Africa

T he FUCHS Group, has officially inaugurated the expanded production facility in Isando, Johannesburg, South Africa. With an investment of EUR 26 million, this expansion strengthens the position of FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA in key industries such as automotive, mining, OEM, industrial and specialty. The official opening ceremony took place on February 26, 2025.

FUCHS’ growth strategy in South Africa began with opening a grease plant in 2018. Continuing this investment strategy, the company acquired a neighboring 3.2-hectare site in mid-2020. Phase 1 of the expansion saw the construction of a new warehouse and head office, both completed at the end of 2022. The new warehouse, which is 4.5 times larger than the previous facility, has significantly reduced congestion and improved storage capacity for raw materials, packaging, and finished products.

From L-R: Dr. Sebastian Heiner (Board Member & CTO), Dr. Ralph Rheinboldt (Board Member & responsible for EMEA), Paul Deppe (Managing Director FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA).

SOURCE | FUCHS SE

Phase 2 of the expansion included a new blending plant for oil lubricants, increasing production capacity by over 40% with additional mixing, base oil, and additive tanks. Storage capacity was significantly increased, and three filling lines were installed to improve efficiency. “The expansion enhances our production capacity, efficiency, flexibility, and the ability to deliver high-quality products to our customers,” said Paul Deppe, Managing Director of FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA and Regional Vice President for Sub Saharan Africa. “By leveraging advanced automation and quality control, we are strengthening our commitment to deliver effective performance at all times.”

“This is a major milestone for FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA”, stated Dr. Ralph Rheinboldt, Member of the Executive Board and responsible for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. “With this expanded capacity, we are wellpositioned to meet the evolving needs of African customers and drive future growth while reinforcing our technological leadership in the lubricants industry.”

The FUCHS Group has operated in South Africa since 1992 and employs just under 450 people. In 2024, FUCHS generated sales of EUR 125 million in South Africa. .