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!

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.

Brian Howarth

Chairman

Hilton Fortmann

Managing Director

Nicole Snyders

Strategy &
Communications Director

Narasha Nel

Financial Director

Kevin Govender

National Sales Manager

Prithum Raggo

National Engineering and Implementation 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
2024 – Hilton Fortmann joins as Managing Director. Former MD, Brian Howarth, presides as Chairman.

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

"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

"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

"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

"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

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

Electrical Engineer
Sappi

GUARANTEED RESULTS

"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 - Schneider Electric Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Brian Howarth
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

Who we are