German industrial parts maker Bosch Rexroth has opened its first go-down in East Africa in Nairobi, a move that signals the company’s push deeper into the regional market. The opening took place on Tuesday, November 20, 2018.
The Sh100 million facility, valued at about $1 million, will stock heavy machinery components including hydraulic pumps and filters, pumps, hoses, fittings, pipes and hydraulic valves. Customers will also receive training on how to use the equipment they buy from the site.
Country manager Gary Shaw said the Nairobi base gives the company a platform for wider growth across the region. “We now have a foot-print in Kenya that we can use to expand in the region. This will be the launch-pad for the regional hub in the next two years,” he said.
Shaw said Bosch Rexroth expects its strongest growth to come from East and West Africa, helped by business it has already won in the mining and transport sectors. The facility currently employs eight local staff, with more hires expected as operations expand.
He also said the new go-down will not interfere with the company’s distribution arrangement with Socabelec East Africa, which has been selling some of its products in Kenya.
Bosch Rexroth already operates three regional hubs on the continent. Its largest is in Johannesburg, which serves Southern Africa, while Casablanca covers North Africa and Ghana serves West Africa.
The company has been distributing equipment across Africa through Hytec Holdings since 1966. It now owns Hytec Holdings after completing a 100 percent acquisition in March.
Bosch Rexroth is the industrial subsidiary of Bosch Group, which also makes consumer products and mobility solutions.
