Established in 1896, Agrico has evolved into the supplier of irrigation equipment in Southern Africa. Walter Andrag, managing director, alongside his cousin Roland Andrag, technical director, lead Agrico's mission to provide optimal irrigation solutions. Walter emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique needs of each farmer to ensure profitable farming through optimal use of resources. Roland highlights the company's focus on empathizing with farmers to tailor solutions effectively.
Agrico boasts a dedicated team across three factories and 40 branches in Southern Africa, driving innovation in irrigation. This team includes irrigation designers directly engaging with farmers, engineers focused on product research and design, a production team, and system managers ensuring seamless process integration. Roland notes the growth and vibrancy of their technical team, enriched by a blend of youthful dynamism and seasoned expertise.
Manufacturing locally in South Africa allows Agrico to align with farmer needs closely, providing customized products and solutions tailored for the South African and broader African market. Walter points out the advantage of having a significant portion of the value chain under their control, enhancing responsiveness to market feedback and needs.
Continuous expansion and innovation mark Agrico's recent milestones, with significant investments in PVC manufacturing leading to quality improvements and strong sales. Expansion efforts include opening new branches in Komatipoort and Empangeni, enhancing exposure to the sugar industry. Looking ahead, Agrico aims to expand its branch network and manufacturing capacity, maintaining a focus on customer service, competitive pricing, and reliable service provision.
Walter envisions Agrico's future continuing their commitment to the agriculture sector, emphasizing the importance of a long-term perspective and daily dedication to doing the right thing. Agrico's passion for contributing to national food security remains a core driving force.
Source: Farmer's Weekly