Coleus Packaging ramps up capacity with US$12M equipment upgrade at Johannesburg plant

SOUTH AFRICA – Metal closures manufacturer Coleus Packaging has unveiled a R200-million (US$11.85m) investment in advanced production equipment at its Alrode facility in Johannesburg, reinforcing its strategy to enhance efficiency, quality, and regional supply capabilities.

The newly installed equipment includes a high-performance coater and resizer line, alongside a state-of-the-art punching and lining machine supplied by SACMI.

According to Managing Director Ian Victor, the single punching and lining unit replaces two older lines while maintaining the same output with significantly improved operational efficiency.

The company is also set to install a new printing machine in the coming weeks, with further upgrades planned as part of an ongoing modernization roadmap.

The investment builds on a R30-million (US$1.78m) crown cork production machine commissioned in 2024, underscoring Coleus’ commitment to continuous technology renewal.

The upgrades align with Coleus’ integration into Guala Closures, following the group’s acquisition of Greece-based Astir Vitogiannis, which holds a majority stake in the South African firm.

As part of the global group, Coleus is subject to rigorous operational audits across Guala’s 37 manufacturing sites.

Notably, the Alrode facility recently earned recognition as the top-performing plant within the Guala network, an achievement Victor attributed to workforce consistency and a strong culture of continuous improvement.

Regionally, Guala Closures is accelerating its African footprint, having expanded into Kenya and Nigeria while strengthening supply chains into West Africa.

Coleus is now supporting distribution into Ghana and exploring further growth opportunities across Southern Africa.

The company’s operational advancements are complemented by strong compliance credentials. Coleus has renewed multiple ISO certifications, including ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety, and is pursuing ISO 50001 certification for energy management.

It also maintains food safety certification under the Food Safety and Compliance Alliance standards, ensuring alignment with global beverage industry requirements.

The investment follows a similar move made by Guala Closures recently. The company is in the process of acquiring Metal Crowns, a Kenya-based producer of metal and plastic closures.

The deal is expected to strengthen its industrial base in the region and expand its reach across key beverage markets.

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