Local manufacturer of electrical and consumer products Lesco has rolled out new semi-robotic production lines at its Johannesburg plant.

The third-generation South African manufacturer says the technological upgrade, combined with advanced use of AI on the factory floor, will aid in doubling Lesco’s total manufacturing capacity from five-million to ten-million units a year.

The company manufactures switches, sockets, adapters, extension cords and similar electrical products.

It currently supplies some of the largest retailers in the country, including Clicks, Build It, Builders, Makro, Buco, Mica Hardware, Cashbuild, Game, Chamberlains, and Leroy Merlin, among others.

The company also manufactures these products for property developer Balwin Properties.

“These are retailers that are playing a key role in ensuring that locally made products, created by an inclusive manufacturing operation, reach every South African household,” says Lesco CEO Jonathan Shapiro.

“They should be celebrated for sourcing their products so purposefully. By doing so, they are promoting job creation in such a critical sector of our society.”

Shapiro adds that no full-time jobs have been affected owing to introduction of the new technology.

“Lesco expects this to remain the case for both the near and long term. This commitment applies equally to all employees, including those with disabilities.”

The family business, which began in Shapiro’s father’s garage, currently employs more than 300 people.

The company sources 45% of its workforce from differently-abled organisations, support groups, schools and vulnerable communities across South Africa.

“Automation doesn't mean fewer jobs, it means different jobs,” says Shapiro.

“We made a deliberate and strategic choice to implement a semi-robotic system, rather than full automation.

“We want to show other businesses that you can innovate to be globally competitive, without sacrificing your social responsibilities.

“We also hope that this investment into technological and AI advancements will help inspire the youth from South Africa’s differently-abled community,” adds Shapiro.

“By introducing AI and automation into the workstream, we are sending a powerful message that disability is not a barrier to mastering the world’s most advanced technologies.

“For years, we have partnered with the Glen Oaks Academy in Kensington, and have placed their students in our work-readiness programme.

“In 2026, those students will be exposed to local manufacturing and automation, unlike our factory has ever seen before. It's a hugely exciting development for everyone in our circle,” says Shapiro.

At Lesco, all supervisors are sent for sign language training in order to ensure seamless communication with all deaf employees.

By June this year, the Lesco factory will also introduce an on-site occupational therapist and dedicated social worker to support their differently-abled staff.

A new partnership with a non-profit organisation will also see an additional 40 jobs created for members of South Africa’s differently-abled community.