Schneider Electric, the global leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, is celebrating 55 years of operations in South Africa, marking more than five decades of innovation, industrial development and partnership in one of Africa's most dynamic economies.

Since establishing its presence in the country in 1971, Schneider Electric South Africa has evolved alongside the nation's industrial and economic growth, helping businesses improve efficiency, resilience and sustainability through technology, expertise and local partnerships.

Today, the business operates across a wide range of markets and applications, from buildings, consumer packaged goods, data centres, digital energy, industrial automation, mining, power and grid infrastructure, and process industries. Through electrification, automation and digitalisation, Schneider Electric continues to help customers navigate increasingly complex energy and operational challenges while advancing their sustainability goals.

As South Africa continues to modernise its infrastructure, strengthen energy resilience and accelerate digital transformation, Schneider Electric remains focused on enabling organisations to become more connected, efficient and future-ready.

Five Decades of Partnership and Progress

Over the past 55 years, Schneider Electric South Africa has built a strong reputation as a trusted technology partner, supporting customers across industry, infrastructure, buildings and energy.

The company's success reflects a combination of global innovation and local expertise, backed by continued investment in skills development, transformation, community empowerment and customer success.

"Reaching 55 years in South Africa is a proud milestone for Schneider Electric and a reflection of the strong relationships we have built with our customers, partners, employees and communities," says Canninah Dladla, Cluster President, Sub-Saharan Africa, Schneider Electric.

"South Africa has always been a strategically important market for Schneider Electric. Our journey here demonstrates what can be achieved when innovation is combined with local understanding, technical expertise and a commitment to sustainable development.

"As we look ahead, the convergence of energy, automation and digital technologies will continue to reshape industries and infrastructure. We remain committed to helping our customers unlock greater efficiency, resilience and sustainability while supporting South Africa's long-term economic growth."

A Partnership Built on Shared Value Creation

A cornerstone of Schneider Electric South Africa's transformation journey has been its longstanding relationship with Community Investment Holdings (CIH), which holds a 20.1% stake in the local business.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to transformation, inclusive growth and sustainable value creation, reinforcing Schneider Electric's broader contribution to South Africa's social and economic development.

For Professor Anna Mokgokong, Chairperson of Community Investment Holdings and Non-Executive Director at Schneider Electric South Africa, the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the wider impact the business has made over the past five and a half decades.

"Fifty-five years gives us an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a long-term corporate citizen in South Africa. Schneider Electric South Africa's business has not only grown commercially, but has also created opportunities, developed people, supported communities and contributed meaningfully to a more inclusive economy.

"Our partnership with Schneider Electric is built on a shared vision for sustainable growth and meaningful transformation. Over many years, we have seen how collaboration between global expertise and local participation can create lasting value, strengthen industries and expand economic opportunities for South Africans.

"As South Africa continues its energy transition and industrial modernisation journey, partnerships such as ours will remain essential in unlocking growth, innovation and long-term prosperity. Schneider Electric's journey demonstrates that transformation and technological progress can, and must, move forward together."

Celebrating 55 Years of Impact

Over the past five decades, Schneider Electric South Africa has achieved several milestones that reflect its contribution to the country's industrial, economic and social development:

• Installed Base: Significant volumes of Schneider Electric products and solutions deployed across South Africa.
• Inclusive growth and meaningful local participation: longstanding commitment to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment, now at level 2 for 2026/2027.
• Local Manufacturing and Service Excellence: Supporting customers through a strong local footprint, technical expertise and lifecycle services.
• Skills Development: Continued investment in technical education and workforce development programmes to help build future-ready capabilities.
• Schneider Electric Foundation: Empowered more than 40,000 young peoplethrough electrical artisan skills training, creating pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and economic participation.
• Sustainability Leadership: Helping customers improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions and strengthen operational resilience across critical sectors.

Leadership for the Future

Schneider Electric's commitment to transformation and representation is also reflected in its leadership journey.

In 2025, Canninah Dladla became the company's first female Cluster President for English-speaking Africa and has since assumed leadership of the Sub-Saharan Africa cluster. Her appointment reflects Schneider Electric's ongoing commitment to developing diverse leadership that understands the unique opportunities and challenges facing African markets.

For Professor Mokgokong, this evolution is an important indicator of the company's broader progress.

"Leadership matters because it shapes how organisations connect with the people and communities they serve. The progress Schneider Electric has made over the years reflects a willingness to embrace change, invest in talent and create pathways for future leaders.

"As we celebrate this milestone, we should be equally proud of the partnerships we have built, the people we have developed and the opportunities we are helping to create for future generations.

"The relationship between CIH and Schneider Electric South Africa demonstrates the power of long-term partnerships to drive meaningful and sustainable impact. Together, we have helped build a strong foundation for growth, and we remain excited about the opportunities that lie ahead to support industrial development, accelerate transformation and create shared value across Southern Africa.

"Africa's future will require both technology and talent, and we all have an important role to play in bringing those two together."

Building the Next Chapter

As South Africa continues to expand and modernise its energy and industrial infrastructure, Schneider Electric remains committed to working alongside customers, partners, governments and communities to accelerate electrification, automation and digital transformation.

While the company reflects on 55 years of progress, its focus remains firmly on the future, helping organisations build more efficient, resilient and sustainable operations while creating lasting value for generations to come.