Trade and Industry Minister Dr Rob Davies on Tuesday paid tribute to the late South African entrepreneur and businessperson Bertie Lubner.
“Bertie played a significant role in the industrialisation of this country through the companies that he founded and ran with distinction. He was also a strong advocate for human rights and an active philanthropist,” said Davies, who said he learned of Lubner’s death with great sadness.
Lubner, co-founder of the PG Group and founder of nonprofits such as Afrika Tikkun, passed away on Monday at age 85. He was also the founder of the Manufacturing Circle which has recently worked with the department of trade and industry to support the manufacturing sector.
“Bertie was a tireless advocate of the role that manufacturing should play in economic development, job creation, and the fight against inequality and poverty,” said Davies.
“His numerous contributions to this effort will be sorely missed. On behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and many friends and associates.”