Johnson Controls welcomes Kutana as investor

Phil Gregory, senior regional executive of Johnson Controls Global WorkPlace Solutions for the Middle East and Africa, said the relationship with Kutana underlines Johnson Controls GWS' commitment to South Africa and its transformation, as well as the advancement of the facilities management industry in the country. A key part of that commitment is the continued focus on all aspects of black empowerment and their pride in a high black economic empowerment status.

The investment in Johnson Controls GWS provides Kutana with access to the facilities management sector, while allowing both companies to leverage their combined markets, skills and expertise.

Investing in seven sectors

Kutana was established in 2009 by CEO Thoko Mokgosi-Mwantembe, along with Jacqueline Huntley and Janine de Bruyn as law and BEE investment experts respectively. The group specifically invests in seven sectors, namely financial services, industrial and consumer services, agriculture, media, telecom ICT, resources and energy, as well as property and facilities.

"Facilities management is definitely a growth sector, which made Johnson Controls GWS a company of great interest to us. Our approach is to get involved where we have the knowledge to add value in terms of relationships, business experience and development activities. Johnson Controls has values that are definitely aligned with ours, which is critical to us, as it is one of our three investment criteria. We would like to add value and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship," said Mokgosi-Mwantembe.