Instead of simply highlighting its capabilities and technologies at this year’s Enlit Africa, industrial cooling specialists Industrial Water Cooling (IWC) will use the opportunity to make a statement by, for the first time, exhibiting under its new trade name NEXT Cooling.

In February, IWC and its affiliate AS Cooling Technologies India (ASCTI) officially joined the NEXT Cooling family, a member of Nooter/Eriksen, a global leader in heat recovery and steam generators. IWC has started the rebranding process and will trade as NEXT Cooling from now on; however, the company will still be registered as Industrial Water Cooling (IWC) in South Africa.

“Together, these three companies will begin a new chapter, united by a shared vision of excellence, growth and a commitment to delivering the most advanced cooling solutions to industry, including power generation, oil and gas, mining and minerals processing and other general industries,” says IWC marketing and communications manager Christine Storey.

She adds that the three companies’ combined capabilities provide a competitive edge by capitalising on a diverse portfolio of “world-class” projects, and open new opportunities to market their field-erected cooling towers, air-cooled condensers, bulk air coolers and slurry and solution cooling towers in key markets.

“As we embark on this exciting new chapter, our brand has evolved to reflect the bold vision that defines this union,” she enthuses.

Changing Colours Not Quality

Having been a permanent fixture at Enlit for the last ten years, IWC’s mandatory green pantone will be refreshed with the NEXT Cooling’s teal, and this transformation is more than just aesthetics – “it is a statement of intent”.

“The refreshed identity embraces dynamic colours and shapes, symbolising the perfect harmony between stability and innovation,” says Storey.

In terms of stability, the unification will elevate IWC’s deep-rooted expertise, proven reliability and industry leadership, while harmonising innovation across brands will aid IWC’s “relentless pursuit of progress, cutting-edge solutions, and the ability to challenge the ‘status quo’, in line with Enlit’s 2025 theme”.

“This powerful combination positions us as a true challenger brand within the cooling solutions space – one that not only competes but reshapes the industry with forward-thinking solutions and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” she asserts.

Importantly, NEXT Cooling’s new visual language is an “embodiment of who we are and where we are headed: a future driven by transformation, impact, and global leadership”.

With a well-established presence in South Africa and Australia through IWC, and in India through ASCTI, the group can leverage decades’ worth of expertise and the strong reputation for delivering advanced, reliable industrial cooling solutions to grow its footprint.

At the heart of IWC’s and ASCTI’s success are their “remarkable” team of professionals, including dedicated research and development experts from tertiary education institutions such as Stellenbosch University.

“Their skills and knowledge will further enhance our extensive range of cooling towers, bulk air coolers and air-cooled condensers,” Storey says.

New Name, Similar Message

IWC aims to drive five key messages to its existing and prospective clients as NEXT Cooling.

“Firstly, we aim to create exceptional client value by blending insight, innovation and technical excellence, thereby empowering clients to unlock efficiencies, ensure reliability and achieve sustainability goals,” Storey says.

This, she adds, will help clients effectively serve and invest in their organisations and communities.

The second message is to drive business growth and market expansion with its combined capabilities to strengthen its competitive position, capitalise on a diverse portfolio of “world-class projects”, and open new opportunities in key global markets.

Attracting and retaining top talent is its third message, as the company remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive and collaborative workplace and becoming an employer of choice for leading engineers and professionals in the cooling solutions industry.

“We must also mention demonstrating responsible leadership,” says Storey, citing the numerous International Organisation for Standardisation certifications and the company’s proven commitment to governance and sustainability, which has helped it set benchmarks for safety, quality and environmental responsibility.

Finally, “building a sustainable future together” is at the heart of this partnership and is a shared vision to create value for generations to come.

Key focus areas for the group include innovation through advancements such as hybrid cooling towers, plume abatement technologies and air-cooled condensers, says Storey.

Moreover, NEXT Cooling will continue to drive collaboration through client-based partnerships to develop custom-engineered solutions tailored to their unique project needs.

“We want to make a global impact, maintain local connections, and help support industries worldwide, all while fostering local growth through community engagement and supply chain development,” concludes Storey.