Gaining a quantum leap in output literally overnight is an ambition for many businesses. When this feat also opens up opportunities to exploit new markets, it is something very special indeed.

Western Cape sand producer OJ Plant Hire recently experienced such a phenomenon with the purchase of a Sandvik QA331 mobile screen. The company was looking to increase yields from its sand mine and bought the machine on the advice of Innovexx Co., the regional distributor of Pilot Crushtec International products.

“We have, over the years built up a long-standing relationship with OJ Plant Hire.  We recommended the QA331 as the solution to the venture’s needs,” says Innovexx Co. director Alessandro Scherf.

And the results have exceeded all expectations.

“The original intention was to run the screen just a few days a week, however the quality of the finished product immediately stimulated significant growth in sales to local builders. The Sandvik is now working full time, producing volumes well in excess of the owner’s previous plant.”

OJ Plant Hire forms part of the Els Group, which has been a prominent player in Bredasdorp for well over 20 years. Its building-related interests include waterproofing, plant hire, building materials, hardware and construction.

Owner, Ockie Els, is more than satisfied with his new investment that has opened the door to several new business opportunities.

“Our Sandvik screen has given us the competitive edge in growing our business in the region. We are now looking to expand our client base in a number of different areas. Apart from giving us the ability to up the sale of building sand, we have access to additional volumes of sand for filling purposes and recently concluded a contract to supply ready mix.”

While the purchase of the Sandvik QA331 is proving to have been a far-sighted decision in production terms, Ockie has gained a great deal of confidence from the overall package which includes the ownership and operation of a major piece of capital equipment.

“What has impressed us is the after sales service we have received, not only in commissioning the unit, but a personal visit from a Sandvik executive from Sweden who was in the country at the time. The fact that our company operates a machine of this magnitude creates an enormous amount of goodwill with our customers and takes us to another level. I am positive it will create many exciting opportunities in the years to come,” says Ockie.