history background

Who we are

Our business was founded on electrical supply, and has since evolved to become a multi-disciplinary expert in the Energy and Sustainability industry. We have serviced the KZN and Gauteng Industrial and Commercial market for over 50 years.

We are passionate about managing, saving and generating energy for our customers. Our strong in-house Engineering and Project Management division design and complete turnkey Electrical, Lighting, Solar and Back-up Power projects.


What makes us different?

  • ESCO Level 1 registered Energy Company
  • Comprehensive support for component supply and maintenance
  • One turnkey solutions provider for all your energy needs
  • Experienced Solar EPC
  • Locally produced SABS approved lighting manufacturer on premises

We are the largest distributor of Schneider Electric products in South Africa! With over 35 years’ product knowledge and experience selling Schneider, our sales team provide the best technical advice on products. Armed with the largest stock holding, we offer the most competitive prices on Schneider Electric products.

We keep industry running efficiently

For fast, skilled support, choose Magnet!

quote delivery breakdown technical

Our highly experienced service-driven sales team is supported by a multi-disciplinary team of engineers and project managers.

Our industry and brand experts provide you with fast, skilled technical service in industrial supply and energy solutions.

Managing Director

Brian Howarth

Managing Director

Strategy & Communications Director

Nicole Snyders

Strategy &
Communications Director

Financial Director

Narasha Nel

Financial Director

National Sales Manager

Kevin Govender

National Sales Manager

National Technical Solutions Manager

Prithum Raggo

National Technical Solutions Manager

Our passion for keeping industry running efficiently started 50 years ago.

In 1972, Ernest and Janice Howarth opened a small business selling heating elements and “Magnet” wire. Brian Howarth joined his parents in the business a few years later. Together, the Howarth’s set the benchmark for successful family-owned operations in Durban at the time. With his daughter Nicole as one of his fellow Directors, Brian continues to lead the business to extraordinary new heights.

    Here are a few of our milestones:
  • 1972 – Magnet opens its doors
  • 1980 – We acquire the Telemecanique (Schneider Electric) distributorship
  • 1986 – Brian Howarth joins the family business
  • 2002 – We add Lighting Projects to our portfolio
  • 2002 – Our Richards Bay branch opens
  • 2004 – Narasha Nel (née Ramlutchman) is appointed as Financial Director
  • 2011 – We acquire an Eskom performance contract to the value of R140million
  • 2013 – Our Pietermaritzburg branch opens
  • 2014 – Our Johannesburg branch opens
  • 2017 – Nicole Snyders (née Howarth) joins as Strategy and Communications Director

We are passionate about solving your problems!

Our team of committed and motivated individuals work towards identifying your operational issues, and provide you with the most suitable products and services to keep your facility running smoothly and efficiently.

EFFICIENCY ab Inbev logo

"I would describe Magnet’s service as very efficient. The team is always willing to go that extra mile, proving their dedication and passion for providing exceptional service."

Plant Engineer
ABinBev

PROFESSIONALISM LHM logo

"What makes me happy about using Magnet is their professional approach and friendliness. I would highly recommend Magnet to anyone who appreciates value for money and reliable service."

Production Supervisor
L.H. Marthinusen

EXCELLENT STAFF global armature winders

"Magnet’s team of excellent staff always respond in good time, especially when we need urgent assistance."

Stores Controller
Global Armature Winders

24-HOUR SERVICE cataler logo

"Breakdowns are never an issue for me, knowing that I can rely on Magnet’s unfailing 24-hour service. No request is too much, Magnet always delivers. They make me feel as if I am their only customer and main priority."

Maintenance Manager
Cataler

COMPETITIVE PRICING sappi logo

"What makes me choose Magnet over similar service providers time and time again, is their competitive pricing!"

Electrical Engineer
Sappi

GUARANTEED RESULTS rcl foods logo

"Magnet has been servicing RCL for over 30 years. In all my time here, I have only ever known Magnet to deliver guaranteed results."

Procurement Manager
RCL Foods

Some highlights of awards and special recognitions which Magnet has received since 2008:

  • 2024 - Standard Bank KZN Top Business Award for the Leader of the Year presented to Brian Howarth
  • 2022 - Schneider Electric Partner of the Future Award for Digital Transformation
  • 2016 – Toyota Supplier Award for Achievement in M&F Consumables Supply
  • 2014 – etaAward Award for Innovation (Runner Up)
  • 2014 – TT100 Innovation Award
  • 2013 – Green Supply Chain Best Product Highly Commended Award
  • 2013 – SAEE Energy Project of the Year Award
  • 2012 – etaAward Industrial Category Winner
  • 2012 – IDC Business Partner Award – Sustainability Category Bronze Award
  • 2012 – Ernest Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist
  • 2012 – ECA (SA) Presidential Excellence Award for Best Contributor to Energy Efficiency
  • 2012 – FNB KZN Top Business of the Year: Finalist
  • 2011 – FNB KZN Top Business of the Year
  • 2011 – SAEE Energy Company of the Year
  • 2010 – etaAward Industrial Category Winner for proven application of sound energy efficiency principles
  • 2008 – etaAward industrial Category Winner for significant or continuous contribution to DSM programmes or initiatives
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