Techplas COO Jason Smith’s journey in the plastics industry began in 2008 at Lapack, a pharmaceutical and cosmetics packaging company, before moving on to Boxmore Packaging and Adventure Automotive. During Covid-19, he partnered with CEO Sivan Pillay, a seasoned industry expert, to launch Techplas Services in 2021. ‘Sivan’s background in polymers, FMCG and pharmaceutical packaging development and processing is a major asset,’ Jason comments. ‘Since then, we’ve seen steady growth. This year is shaping up to be particularly promising.’
Jason says Techplas Services’ robotic automation systems are designed for high-performance efficiency, ensuring precision and productivity for their customers. Based on customer requirements, Techplas Services can include camera inspection.
One of Techplas’ standout projects involves HellermannTyton South Africa, a manufacturer of cable ties. Techplas Services supplied eight robots for automation, including take-out robots and pick-and-place systems. More recently, Techplas Services integrated component shufflers into their operations, further streamlining efficiency.
‘In HellermannTyton’s moulding division, steel components are inserted into the mould before injecting the plastic,’ Jason explains. ‘This ensures that the final product is formed with integrated inserts.’
According to Sivan, Techplas Services is built on a foundation of service excellence and people development. ‘As we expand, we’re formalising our apprenticeship programme and actively growing our team by adding two more skilled technicians,’ he enthuses. ‘Our commitment is to create value at every stage of the value chain, ensuring that our employees, customers and suppliers benefit from meaningful, mutually rewarding interactions.’
Equipment portfolio
Techplas supplies a robust range of plastic processing equipment, partnering with leading international brands such as Dakumar (injection-moulding machines), Alfa (robotics), SMC (extrusion blow-moulding and injection blow-moulding equipment), Xinzheng (high-speed packaging lines, palletisers, leak testers and weight checkers), and Xiecheng (ancillary equipment). Techplas has also partnered with companies that manufacture single stage PET and PP ISBM equipment, two stage ISBM equipment, closure slitting and folding automation and automation for assembling closures, such as two piece closures for dish detergent and sports drinks bottles.
Jason notes that perceptions have shifted. ‘Rather than investing in a machine for 30 years, companies now run it for about 10-15 years, then replace it with the latest technology.’
Flagship innovation
Techplas is gearing up to make a major impact at Propak Africa 2025, taking place at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg from 11-14 March. ‘We’ve secured a 120m2 stand in the dedicated plastics hall (Hall 5, Stand D31),’ Jason shares.
A key highlight at Techplas’s stand will be the unveiling of Dakumar’s DFS series injection-moulding machine, designed for thin-wall food packaging. ‘This machine features energy-efficient, low-inertia technology, servo-driven systems and infrared heating,’ he asserts. ‘Not all competitors have adopted these innovations, which gives us a significant edge.’ The DFS series, combined with advanced in-mould labelling (IML) technology, enhances efficiency while ensuring high-quality production.
Beyond machinery, Techplas prides itself on its exceptional service and after-sales support. ‘Many competitors struggle with response times, often taking days to assist customers,’ Jason notes. ‘We differentiate ourselves with rapid response – often within 24 hours. That’s what sets us apart; we don’t just sell machines – we keep them running.’
Sivan adds: ‘we’re a projects driven company that focuses on the project starting from packaging design, to material selection depending on the barrier and processing requirements and technology selection.’
Despite being a relatively new player, Techplas is making waves in South Africa’s plastics sector. ‘We often hear: “We’ve never heard of you before,”’ Jason admits. ‘That’s why we’re ramping up our marketing efforts, especially through platforms such as PPM. Our priority is to build our profile, introduce ourselves to more customers and showcase what we can do.’
With strong industry relationships, innovative technology and a commitment to service, Techplas is set to become a powerhouse in South Africa’s plastics manufacturing landscape. Watch this space!
Get in touch with Techplas Services. Contact Sivan Pillay on +27 (0)83 635 3051 or Jason Smith on +27 (0)63 011 8452.
