African Group Lubricants (AGL), a subsidiary of the JSE-listed enX Group Ltd, acquired CERA blending facility, after securing long-term commitment with global market leaders – ExxonMobil and Quaker Houghton.

The acquisition increased AGL’s operational capacity by 500%, allowing AGL to offer toll-blending and warehouse facilities, and further securing future growth opportunities while enabling the company to more than double its permanent staff in the past three years.

“The long-term commitment from our principals cemented the investment case for the acquisition of the CERA plant.” said Mark Kerwan, AGL managing director.

The advanced lubricant blending facility located in Boksburg is independently owned, ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certified and is accredited according to ExxonMobil’s global quality standards.

As it stands, the company already offers lubricant solutions to key industries ranging from transportation to retail, industrial, renewable energy, containers (canning), steel, & others.

In addition to being awarded the rights to manufacture automotive lubricants in South Africa by ExxonMobil, AGL has also been granted local blending rights on certain product ranges for the mining, construction, and agricultural sectors where it will be expanding into.

“AGL’s vision is to further expand our locally manufactured product portfolio offering competitive solutions into the South African market space and surrounding countries,” Mark said.

The company’s success in offering world-class products at locally competitive prices is attributed to its ability to blend internationally acclaimed brands as well as its capacity to manufacture local products.

The manufacturing and distribution partnerships with global industry heavyweights ensure that AGL’s products adhere to international best practices, technological competence, and cutting-edge business solutions.

“Quaker Houghton is proud to be a long-term partner of AGL. Together we strive to empower our customers with full confidence that they can meet the future efficiently and with ease,” said Andrew Laurens, Quaker Houghton commercial director, Southern Africa, MEA.

AGL leverages the world-class expertise of each global partner’s research and development, experts, and technical teams to improve their customer services.

These teams develop new technology to ensure that products offered in the market are  highly efficient.

“Through collaboration and working for a shared purpose, we will move together towards increased success. We look forward to many years of partnership with AGL, delivering the best for our customers. Forward Together!” said Andrew.

As a result of these worldwide partnerships, this South African company can supply world-class products and services with innovative technology at affordable prices to the market. 

The added benefit of top-rated expertise has resulted in improved customer satisfaction and increased demand for AGL's products and solutions.

AGL provide customers with more than just product; they offer a comprehensive lubrication solution incorporating among others the Eclipse Magnetics range of filtration products.

The specialty services comprise of an in-house team of lubrication engineers who test equipment and conduct product trials at the customer site. These insights help AGL recommend a lubricant or grease tailored to the customer’s specific application, and equipment.

“This is to ensure that we provide optimal, energy and cost-saving solutions to our clients,” said Mark.     

AGL’s private label, Centlube, hosts a complementary range of ancillary products such as coolants, antifreeze, engine cleaner, and brake fluid.

By diversifying its product range, AGL now caters to a broader customer base and enjoys a strengthened position in the marketplace. 

“Eclipse Magnetics are delighted to be represented by AGL in South Africa. We have been really impressed with their excellent business and technical knowledge of the lubricants market. They have been instrumental in achieving sales growth and awareness of our products in the region. We believe that people power an organisation, and AGL have a first rate, highly professional customer focussed team which has been easy to      establish a successful partnership with,” said Dan Beaulieu, Eclipse Magnetics, UK.

To accommodate growth and expand its distribution, AGL plans to further expand in the Southern African market in the coming years. This growth will stimulate the local economy by creating employment opportunities and further cementing AGL's position as a leading player in the lubricant industry, locally and across Southern Africa.

With a proven track record, a growing market share, and the capabilities to expand its operations, AGL is well-positioned to achieve its growth objectives and to continue delivering exceptional value to clients. The increased capacity, skills, and products position AGL as one of the leading suppliers of premium lubricants, greases, and industrial fluids in Southern Africa.