Trailer manufacturer Alf Finn Road Industrial Trailers (Afrit) held a two-day expo last month at its dealership in Boksburg, Gauteng, to demonstrate the company’s ability to deliver products to specific customer requirements.

A total of 65 trailers, of which 15 were different derivatives and many others new designs, were displayed.

“This event was different from others, as it brought together Southern Africa’s leading transporters that have insight into current and future market demands,” says Afrit marketing coordinator Rynhardt Steenkamp.

The aim was to provide customers with an opportunity to interact personally with the Afrit sales and design teams to discuss their personal and market requirements. In addition, they were also exposed to future Afrit designs.
“It was all about giving our customers a voice and showing that we are ready to listen, which will lead to more innovative solutions being developed to the benefit of all our customers,” says Afrit sales director Leon van de Wetering.

Some of the challenges facing the trailer industry include the competitiveness of different trailer manufacturers trying to gain market share in South Africa. “The competition is healthy, as it prevents us from becoming complacent,” notes Steenkamp.

Afrit notes that sustainability is critical; hence, its continuous efforts to improve on all the areas within the company.

“Customers are looking for customised products. Each trailer operator has different needs and Afrit intends to meet these needs and exceed expectations by delivering trailers that are superior in quality and durability,” says Steenkamp.

The company highlights that another demand among customers is fuel efficiency. “People are attracted to fuel-efficient operators because the carbon monoxide emissions released by their vehicles are reduced and, therefore, there is less impact on the environment,” Steenkamp says.

Afrit aims to deliver the lightest possible trailers to give customers the opportunity to earn maximum payload while also saving on fuel. “We use numerous production processes that enable us to deliver lightweight trailers that are unlike any other within our industry,” Steenkamp says.

The company says its biggest potential for growth is in the African market. “There- fore, it is important that we understand the needs across the border,” he notes, adding that Afrit aims to further expand into African markets.

Consequently, the company has invested a lot of time in African countries, visiting potential and existing clients. “The results have been more than satisfactory and we look forward to future prospects in these countries,” Steenkamp concludes.