New factory for Karoo Catch

Karoo Catch has recently started with the construction of its new agro processing factory in the industrial area of Graaff-Reinet. Ken Light, Managing Director of Karoo Catch said, “It represents just another step in the commercialisation of this community business. We are very excited about what the future holds.”The factory is being built by a local contractor that employs local community members.

The “ground breaking” ceremony was recently held on the site. The Dr Beyers Naude Municipality was represented by the mayor, Mr Deon De Vos. He along with Reverend Madeley turned the soil, and represented the communities commitment to the project. Other VIP’s incl uded Pastor Maya and representatives from the Industrial Development Corporation, the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Department of Agriculture and the Food and Beverage SETA. All the organisations represented have been staunch supporters of the business and have a vested interest in its success.

Karoo Catch plans to commission the factory in March 2019. It will start processing 120 tons of fish per month in the first few months, and this will gradually increase to 180 tons per month. The factory will employ in excess of 150 people from the community. The site can accommodate the expansion of the facility.