EnergyDrive Systems purchases, installs, calibrates and monitors advanced energy savings systems in heavy industrial processes. Sana’s relationship with the founders of EnergyDrive Systems dates back to 2013. Over this period, we have had the privilege of watching the team successfully install ever larger and more complex energy saving solutions across South Africa’s most energy demanding sectors which has resulted in significant saving for their clients. EnergyDrive has successfully rolled out globally and is domiciled in the UK under holding company Apogee Sustainability Ltd to better service the growing client base. Their audited track record demonstrates that they are able to save clients in excess of 50% of their energy requirements. In November 2017, our long relationship culminated in Sana’s investment in EnergyDrive Systems and we look forward to the continued growth and success of the firm.

Ares is South Africa’s leading brand management platform. The business was founded in 2015 and has developed into a multi-brand platform respected globally by brand owners. Since inception the founders focussed on a direct-to-consumer model and then, together with Sana, invested purposefully in systems, processes and most importantly, people. Sana invested in the business in February 2020 and expects to continue investing and innovating as the market evolves. Notable brands currently on the platform include Under Armour, Crocs, Birkenstock, Vans, Hey Dude and 2XU.

Brenn-O-Kem, a family business since 1999 and headquartered in Wolseley in the Western Cape, acquires wine waste (wine lees and grape pomace) and extracts from it grape ethanol and tartrates. Grape ethanol is used in the brandy industry and tartrates are converted into tartaric acid and cream of tartar, which are used in the wine, food and pharmaceutical industries. Sana acquired a majority stake in June 2020 together with the highly experienced and devoted existing management team, with the founding family remaining invested with a small minority. We are incredibly pleased to co-invest with management and see huge potential in growing and developing such an important part of the South African agricultural industry.

Mine Support Products is a manufacturer and distributor of innovative roof-support and roof control systems for the mining industry. Technology coupled with an excellent understanding of the requirements of the mining industry has given this business the edge in continuing to grow and develop its product range and support its customers both locally and abroad. Sana and New Seasons partnered with the founding management team in acquiring the business from the parent company. The potential to continue to expand into new markets globally, innovate the product range and partnering with an excellent management team appeal greatly to our investment philosophy and style.