Our History
Although Universal only listed in November 2007, the underlying businesses are all well established businesses supplying a diverse range of blue chip clients in the local and international markets.
The Company was established in July 1996 as the holding company of Insulated Structures and Colcab. These businesses are the leading manufacturers of supermarket display cases and polyurethane insulated panels in SA.
With effect from November 2007 the group acquired the business of Macadams thereby expanding its business from the manufacture and supply of refrigeration systems and equipment to include the manufacture and supply of baking systems and equipment. With a history of more than 100 years Macadams is recognised as the market leader in the SA retail bakery equipment market.
Glacier Door Systems, a supplier of speciality glass and glass doors to the refrigeration industry, was acquired in March 2010 and a manufacturing license and technology sharing agreement was subsequently concluded with the world leader in this market, Anthony International (USA).
Business and Catering Equipment (“BCE”) was acquired effective from November 2010. BCE is Southern Africa’s leading supplier of kitchen utensils, industrial cookware and commercial kitchen appliances to the hospitality and foodservice industries, operating through an extensive network of 450 accredited dealers.
