EB construction could rely on the quality of AfriSam’s readymix concrete for the construction of a complex structure over a dam.
“It soon became clear that not many of AfriSam’s competitors could meet the high level of its service, as well as the breadth of products and solutions,” he says. “Our larger projects – especially those located some distance from the main urban centres – needed close collaboration combined with flexibility, while not compromising on quality.”
The relationship grew on the strength of the two companies’ shared commitment to the highest standards – whether in service, materials or final construction. Wagner highlights how much a contractor relies on supply partners’ ability to communicate and plan well – as well as to adapt plans when necessary.
“We are often in unusual situations which require both the contractor and supplier to go the extra mile,” he says. “Building in a sensitive wildlife area, for instance, would require readymix deliveries to meet certain unexpected conditions; AfriSam accommodates these in its stride, right from the call centre through to management and truck drivers.”
AfriSam’s depth of expertise – including its Centre of Product Excellence – and its choice of solutions for different applications, has also made a valuable contribution to EB Construction’s growing volume of contracts. At a recent project in the rural hospitality industry, the work included demolition, infrastructure, construction and structural engineering.
“We built the roads with interlocking pavers, so made use of AfriSam’s Roadstab stabilising cement in the sub-base, as well as AfriSam’s StarBuild 32 5N and AfriSam’s All Purpose Cement 42,5N for grouting on the paving,” he says. “AfriSam was also able to supply the readymix for the culverts and bases, and for the off-shutter concrete structure for a wedding venue.”
In addition, this project included a large steel structure over a dam, which required numerous large concrete plinths. AfriSam supplied about 36 m3 of readymix for each plinth, despite the considerable distance to the site. Wagner says he could also rely on the quality of AfriSam readymix, so there were never any issues when engineers required density tests, for example.
Wentzel emphasises that working with EB Construction has been positive for various reasons, including the regular communication during projects, and the feedback they constantly provide.
“Our long working relationship with EB Construction is a good example of how we position our business,” she says. “Good working partnerships are built on trust, which we develop over years of meeting our promises.”
