SOFTWARE development and industrial automation company S4 Group was named the overall winner of the Eastern Cape’s 2025 Exporter of the Year Awards.
The announcement was made at the prestigious Exporter of the Year Gala Banquet, held at the Tramways Building on 14 November.
The annual awards recognise and celebrate excellence among exporters in the Eastern Cape, providing businesses with an opportunity to reflect on their efficiencies, economic relevance, and competitive edge.
“Exporters and the related industry value chain play a significant role in driving the Eastern Cape economy, and these awards serve as a platform to acknowledge their contribution,” said Quintin Levey, Exporters Eastern Cape chairman.
This marks the third time in five years that S4 Group has received the coveted title, having previously won in 2020 and 2023.
Commenting on the win, Gideon Smith, manager at S4 Integration, said, “At S4, we take great pride in delivering world-class turnkey solutions that empower companies to enhance their efficiencies and optimise performance. Thanks to our team of highly skilled engineers and IT specialists who are dedicated to innovation, we’re able to provide cutting-edge, end-to-end industrial automation and machine-building solutions tailored to meet our clients’ unique needs. This award once again reaffirms our commitment to excellence and innovation.”
The event was made possible through the support of Standard Bank, the Platinum Sponsor for the evening. “Standard Bank is proud to celebrate the success of exporters who drive growth and innovation in the Eastern Cape and beyond. Our commitment goes beyond sponsorship – we partner with businesses by providing sector-specific expertise and comprehensive trade solutions that enable them to compete globally. These awards reflect the resilience and ambition of our clients, and we remain dedicated to helping them unlock new markets and opportunities,” said Leigh-Anne de Witt provincial head business banking coverage Eastern Cape.
Other event sponsors include Gold Sponsors Volkswagen Group Africa and OM & Barker; Silver Sponsor Kingfisher FM; Bronze Sponsors ISUZU, IDC and SJM Flex. The official Media partner of the event was The Herald while additional event elements were sponsored by BLG Logistics of South Africa, Eastern Cape Development Corporation, The Alternative Board, Barker Vignerons, LX Events and Magnetic Storm.
Congratulations to all the 2025 Exporters Eastern Cape winners:
- SJM Flex Environmental Practice Award – Merit Award – Lumotech
- SJM Flex Environmental Award – Merit Award – Isuzu Motors South Africa
- SJM Flex Environmental Award – Winner – Volkswagen Group Africa
- IDC Job Creator Award – Merit Award – Isuzu Motors South Africa
- IDC Job Creator Award – Merit Award – Volkswagen Group Africa
- IDC Job Creator Award – Merit Award – Steinweg Logistics
- IDC Job Creator Award – Merit Award – BLG Logistics of South Africa
- IDC Job Creator Award – Winner – South Africa Cargo Services
- Community Chest CSI Award (small and medium companies) – Winner – DG Incentives
- Community Chest CSI Award (large companies) – Merit Award – Isuzu Motors South Africa
- Community Chest CSI Award – Winner – Volkswagen Group Africa
- Best Provider of Service to Exporters – Merit Award for New Contracts – CMA CGM Shipping Agencies
- Best Provider of Service to Exporters – Merit Award for Growth and New Contracts – OM & Barker
- Best Provider of Service to Exporters – Merit Award for Innovation and New Contracts – BLG Logistics of South Africa
- Best Provider of Service to Exporters – Merit Award for New Contracts – DG Incentives
- Best Provider of Service to Exporters – Merit Award for Innovation and New Contracts – Steinweg Logistics
- Best Provider of Service to Exporters – Winner – South Africa Cargo Services
- Emerging Exporter Award – Merit Award – LDV
- Best Exporter – Small Business – Merit Award for New Contracts – OPM
- Best Exporter – Medium Enterprise – Winner – S4 Group
- Best Exporter – Corporate – Merit Award for Obstacles Overcome – Lumotech
- Best Exporter – OEM – Merit Award for Achievements and Skills Development – Isuzu Motors South Africa
- Best Exporter – OEM – Winner – Volkswagen Group Africa
