Crane and hoist manufacturer Condra has acquired Optidrive variable-frequency drives distributor (VFDs) iTek Drives for an undisclosed amount.

The deal enables Condra to secure the supply of Optidrive VFDs, which optimise the operation of completed Condra cranes, delivering precisely variable motion during lift, cross-travel and long-travel and smoothly changing motor speeds to eliminate stepping, while optimising electrical energy use.

iTek is considered an important sales partner of UK-based Optidrive product range manufacturer Invertek Drives, which offers competitive pricing, through iTek, of up to 25% lower than the prices of competing brands.

The acquisition is a logical development of Condra’s long-standing use of Invertek’s Optidrive range, bringing together corporate synergies in vision and distribution likely to prove useful in improving both product delivery times and support for Optidrive installations across South Africa, says Condra MD Marc Kleiner.

“Condra already holds a substantial stock of this product at [its] Johannesburg factory so, combined with iTek’s own stock, the acquisition effectively makes it the country’s biggest supplier of Invertek drives.”

Kleiner highlights that customers will benefit from the increased level of competition in the drives market resulting directly from this increased stockholding.

“End-users will benefit from expanded technical expertise, including readier access to installation and repair skills delivered by an increased staffing that will soon include Condra technicians currently undergoing training and accreditation in drive programming and repair,” he continues.

In addition, there will be no changes to staffing at iTek Drives, with all personnel to keep their posts to ensure continuity.

“There will be no changes to iTek’s pricing, branding or staff. “The existing team will continue to run the agency as an independent business unit, selling and supporting Invertek drives as before.”

Distribution channels will remain confined to South Africa, with an option to extend distribution into sub-Saharan Africa at Invertek’s discretion.