Acquisition to drive sustainable supply chain solutions

"The acquisition of SmartMatta demonstrates our commitment to constantly finding innovative ways to drive economic, social and environmental sustainability," says Steve Ford, CEO, Barloworld Logistics. "Indeed, our vision is to always provide clients with smart sustainable supply chain solutions that give them that critical competitive edge."

SmartMatta assists companies in reducing waste sent to landfill, as well as lowering resource consumption and harmful emissions - solutions that ultimately contribute to long-term growth and profitability.

A complex environment

As environmental awareness, sustainability and the associated legislation continue to become more prominent features of the local business ecosystem, these types of forward-thinking solutions are becoming increasingly critical for companies of all sizes and across sectors. "The demand for specialised, environmentally friendly services is on the rise," adds Ford. "As part of our commitment to building a focused environmental solutions business, we acquired the remaining stake in SmartMatta in April 2015."

SmartMatta has already been integrated into the solutions sets available to Barloworld Logistics clients through the business development team, and has also become a supplier to several businesses within the Barloworld Group. It has entered into an outsourced transport contract with Barloworld Transport (BWT) with some 40 vehicles on fleet, and will be servicing major Barloworld Logistics clients.

"SmartMatta creates sustainable solutions that deliver a return on environment for our clients and our planet," explains Marilize Worst, managing director, SmartMatta. "Now, as part of Barloworld Logistics, we can accelerate our exploration of new solutions and services, and fulfill our mission of zero waste to landfill."

Treading lightly on the environment

Having been in the waste management industry since 1988, SmartMatta was the first company to become ISO 14001 accredited by SGS in the sector. It currently services over 170 sites across the country, covering private sector industries in FMCG manufacturing, heavy industry, retail, distribution centres and packaging, as well as parastatal organisations.

"From waste disposal and management, to optimising energy efficiencies and educating workforces, we collaborate with clients to develop smart solutions that tread lightly on the environment - while always delivering measurable results," adds Worst.

SmartMatta also runs a dedicated training academy accredited by the Local Government (LG) SETA, and offers a variety of National Qualifications that are registered by the South African Qualifications Authority.