In November, Mann+Hummel opened an office in Johannesburg and therefore for the first time has its own business premises on the continent of Africa. The filtration specialist with headquarters in Ludwigsburg, Germany, founded a sales office in August that will conduct its business from the South African metropole of Johannesburg.

Initially six employees will work at the new office. They will primarily support automotive aftermarket customers and industrial customers in the southern part of the African continent. Starting in 2017, Mann+Hummel will also supply customers from a logistics center in Johannesburg.

As a result of this new location, Mann+Hummel is now represented on all continents and is therefore able to further pursue its strategy of being close to customers. Josef Parzhuber, president & general manager Automotive Aftermarket at the Mann+Hummel Group, says: "South Africa is the largest automotive market on the continent of Africa and is characterized by good market conditions with regard to its political and economic stability. This step allows us to strengthen our position as a global company. We are close to our customers in terms of location and the solutions we offer."

Mann+Hummel is increasingly focused on the African continent. The filtration specialist is not ruling out additional future actions. Parzhuber explains: "We are currently examining the possibilities for further commitments in other African countries. The markets in Africa have enormous potential and offer Mann+Hummel opportunities for growth."