In this Farmer’s Inside Track podcast edition, managing director Michael Esmeraldo of Netafim South Africa talks about the company’s new thin wall drip lines, which offer cost-effective options for Mzansi’s farmers.
He also shares insights into their outlook for 2023.
“For years, we have been manufacturing heavy wall drip lines in South Africa for orchard crops, such as vineyards, macadamia nuts, avocados, and most citrus,” he says.
However, until recently, Netafim did not offer a product on the local market suitable for smaller crops like vegetables.
“This is where the thin wall products come in. They are mostly seasonal products suitable for vegetables such as tomatoes, pumpkins, watermelons, and all kinds of beans,” he explains.
Market changes
In the past, customers were undoubtedly interested in a durable, heavy wall drip line product. As time progressed, however, the demand shifted towards more cost-efficient options.
“Heavy wall products require a lot more raw materials to produce, making them more expensive. In contrast, thin wall products are more cost-effective,” says Esmeraldo.
In light of the economic challenges faced by South Africans, it was evident to the company that people were searching for cost-effective solutions.
The company established a shop in South Africa in 1992, importing irrigation products from Israel at that time. “In 1996, we began manufacturing locally at the premises in Kraaifontein and have since expanded our product portfolio,” he says.
Esmeraldo is proud of the company’s remarkable progress.
In this podcast episode, Esmeraldo also discusses:
- the importance of manufacturing thin wall drip lines locally;
- the 2023 plans for Netafim, and much more.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
Option 1: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices).
Option 2: Click here to listen on any Apple device.
Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast.
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