CONTRACTORS’ CORNER
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Michael Toth: leading Stone Stamcor’s sales team into the future
base is methodical. Rather than casting a wide net, he focuses on identifying the company’s strongest markets and targeting similar customers. He also seeks opportunities to convert customers using competing products by emphasising Stone Stamcor’s advantages in local manufacturing, product quality, and service. New business development is another key focus, with targeted prospecting, industry networking, and engagement with wholesalers and industrial customers. Facing market challenges head-on Michael is candid about the challenges posed by imported products. His solution is to double down on local manufacturing, improving efficiency and expanding the range of locally produced items. This approach, he argues, not only ensures quality and reliability but also strengthens Stone Stamcor’s competitive edge. motivated and professional sales division driving the company’s long-term growth. He aims to foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement. His goal is to help Stone Stamcor expand its market presence and reinforce its status as Vision for the future Looking ahead, Michael envisions a in 2026—its 80th year of innovation, resilience, and contribution to South Africa’s industrial landscape. Over eight decades, Aberdare Cables has grown from a modest operation into a powerhouse synonymous with quality, reliability, and technological advancement. A legacy of excellence Founded in 1946, Aberdare Cables began its journey at a time when South Africa’s infrastructure needs were rapidly evolving. Initially serving the mining and electrical sectors, the company quickly earned a reputation for high-quality cables that met the demands of a growing economy. From these humble beginnings, Aberdare expanded its product range and operations, becoming a critical partner in national electrification, urban development, and major infrastructure projects. Commitment to innovation A key factor in Aberdare Cables’ longevity is its unwavering commitment to innovation. Throughout its history, the company has invested heavily in research and development, keeping its products at the cutting edge of technology. Whether pioneering fire-resistant cables, developing eco-friendly insulation materials, or adopting advanced manufacturing processes, Aberdare has consistently set industry benchmarks. In recent years, the company’s focus on sustainability has led to the development of greener cable solutions, reducing environmental impact while maintaining stringent safety and performance standards. Aberdare’s embrace of digital transformation, smart manufacturing, and automation has further reinforced its position as a forward-thinking industry leader.
lead by example,” he says.
Stone Stamcor, a prominent South African manufacturer in the electrical industry, has long been renowned for its commitment to quality, customer service, and local manufacturing. At the helm of its dynamic sales division is Michael Toth, the newly appointed Sales Manager, whose journey through the company exemplifies dedication and vision. A journey of growth and commitment Michael’s career at Stone Stamcor spans nearly a decade. Starting in Internal Sales, moving through External Sales, and now taking the reins as Regional Sales Manager, he describes this progression as deeply rewarding. What attracted him most to his current role was the chance to support the team, strengthen customer relationships, and actively contribute to the company’s growth—a company that, in his words, has invested in his professional development. Proud to represent a South African manufacturer, Michael believes that Stone Stamcor’s reputation for quality and service is unmatched. “It’s a privilege to be part of a company that continues to its traditional role as a utility service to become a key factor in project viability, cost competitiveness and long-term sustainability. According to SLR Consulting, the shift is being driven by rising energy costs, pressure to decarbonise operations, and the growing need for a secure, resilient power supply across mining jurisdictions in Africa and globally. Tasman Graham, Managing Director at SLR Consulting, says that mining companies increasingly recognise that energy decisions now sit at the heart of both operational performance and future growth strategies. “Energy has become a significant business risk in the mining sector, with direct implications for capital and operating costs,” Graham says. “At the same time, it presents a major opportunity to unlock efficiencies, strengthen resilience and support sustainability objectives.” He notes that the rapid improvement in renewable energy economics is reshaping how mines approach power supply, with solar and onshore wind, supported by battery storage, now frequently the most cost-effective option. “In many applications, hybrid energy systems are now the lowest-cost option even before climate considerations are taken into account,” he explains. This trend is particularly relevant in Africa, where many mining operations face grid instability, rising tariffs and long lead times for new transmission infrastructure. As a result, behind-the-meter energy solutions are gaining momentum, with mines investing in combinations of solar photovoltaic systems, wind generation, battery storage and diesel or gas backup. These systems not only reduce reliance on diesel but also enhance energy security
Sales leadership shaped by experience Michael’s hands-on experience, both internally and externally, has given him a thorough understanding of the company’s products, customers, and business landscape. He emphasises the importance of communication, teamwork, and relationship- building—skills he sees as essential for leading a successful sales team. Assessing the current landscape Stone Stamcor’s sales strategy is built on a foundation of quality, technical expertise, and customer service. Michael’s approach is to build on these strengths while seeking new growth opportunities. In his first 90 days, his priorities are clear: support the sales team, deepen customer relationships, and identify avenues for business expansion, all while maintaining the high standards customers expect. Strategic growth and team development Michael’s strategy for expanding the client highlights the broader developmental role that mining-led energy infrastructure can play. “Power solutions developed for mining projects can also support surrounding communities and local economic activity, strengthening the mine’s social licence to operate and contributing to regional development,” he says. According to SLR Consulting, successful energy strategies require an integrated approach that takes into account engineering, environmental, social, regulatory and commercial factors from the earliest stages of a project. The company supports mining clients throughout the full project lifecycle, combining expertise in energy advisory, environmental performance, water management and climate risk modelling to help deliver commercially sound, sustainable outcomes. Looking ahead, Graham believes the greatest opportunities lie in flexible, site- specific hybrid energy solutions aligned with life-of-mine requirements. “The future of mining energy lies in pragmatic, well-structured systems that balance cost, reliability and sustainability,” he concludes.
a leading South African manufacturer. With Michael Toth at the helm, Stone Stamcor’s sales division is poised for sustainable growth, built on strong relationships, innovative strategies, and a steadfast commitment to local excellence.
www.stonestamcor.co.za
Aberdare Cables celebrates 80 years of powering progress A berdare Cables, a leading name in the cable manufacturing industry, marks an extraordinary milestone Empowering communities and industry Beyond its commercial success, Aberdare Cables has made significant contributions
SLR Consulting highlights energy as a strategic growth driver for mining E nergy is fast becoming one of the most influential strategic considerations in modern mining, moving well beyond and offer attractive payback periods. Beyond operational gains, Graham
to South African society. The company strongly advocates local content and skills development, investing in training programmes and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in its supply chain. Its community outreach initiatives, including educational partnerships and electrification projects in underserved areas, have helped to empower thousands of South Africans. 80 years of partnerships Aberdare Cables’ journey has been shaped by enduring partnerships with customers, suppliers, and employees. The company’s success is a testament to the trust placed in it by utilities, contractors, and distributors across Africa and beyond. Many of Aberdare’s employees have devoted decades of service, fostering a culture of teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement. Looking ahead As Aberdare Cables celebrates its 80th anniversary, it is poised for the future. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, the company is well placed to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. Its commitment to quality, innovation, and social responsibility ensures that Aberdare Cables will continue to play a pivotal role in powering progress—both in South Africa and across the continent. The 80th-anniversary celebration is not merely a reflection on the past but a bold statement of intent for the future. Aberdare Cables remains committed to delivering value, driving technological advancement, and making a positive impact for generations to come.
www.slrconsulting.com
www.aberdare.co.za
SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 2026
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