Dear Members and Partners.

On behalf of OCCA Northern Section Committee I welcome you to our 60th AGM.

As we reflect on the activities, progress and challenges faced over the past 12 months, I am proud of the resilience and collaboration that continue to define our association and its members.

Industry overview:
The coatings industry has faced a dynamic landscape this year, marked by fluctuating raw material prices , increasing environmental & safety regulations and a renewed push toward sustainability and innovation. Despite global economic pressures, our sector remains a critical player in the manufacturing, construction and infrastructure, industries with a steady focus on product performance, environmental/safety compliance and customer satisfaction.

The economic climate somewhat stabilised after May 2024 elections due to confidence in the new GNU government. The implementation of US tariff charges in 2025 will drive an additional cost into the market of affected raw materials & finished products. Q2 2025 has started off with a weaker rand which will lead to increased market pricing.

On the positive side, electricity supply remains steady – which assists in keeping production running.

Key Achievements:
Membership growth : our growing influence and the trust the industry places in our work was reflected in a successful CFA show in June 2024. The show was well attended drawing new members from attendees. Our membership increased to 96 compared to 85 members last year.

Our focus in the last 12 months was to clean up our membership list and encourage adherence to membership fee subscriptions.

Events & training:

Events & training: In October 2024 we hosted a mini technical symposium , drawing 26 attendees across the industry. Our advocacy efforts around sustainability regulations and compliance standards was showcased through the presentation of the lead replacement topic during the mini symposium. These discussions were presented to assist members with a smoother transition of replacing lead in paint & coatings formulations.

In addition, our regular online training seminars were held and offered to all OCCA members. Webinar recordings are available on our website.

Financial Performance:
The Northern Section remains in a sound financial position. Revenues were generated from CFA 2024 event participation and increased efforts put into monitoring adherence to membership subscriptions. Income was also generated from interest on investment account. Contributions from mini symposium entry fees was minimal as the target was to break even. Please refer to the detailed financial report from our honourable Treasurer.

Challenges:
While we celebrate our achievements, challenges persist.

• Supply chain disruptions and pricing volatility continue to affect production schedules and profitability.
• Regulatory complexities on lead replacement remain a burden for our members.
• There is an ongoing skills gap in technical roles within the industry highlighting the need for more targeted training and outreach.

Looking Ahead:

• Efforts to strengthen ties with Academia (Tertiary institutions) to support innovation and formulating skills. This can also be used to target a younger age bracket to subscribers as OCCA members.
• Deepen our engagement with standards bodies.

In closing, I wish to thank all members of the Committee for their service during the year.

A big thanks goes to Beverley van Niekerk, our admin secretary who from her home in Somerset West has faithfully recorded our minutes and agendas, kept us looking professional and keeps the membership communications going.

Thanks also to Danny, for controlling the finances.

Dieter with Graeme handling the education portfolio.

Sean for arranging events.

Preshinee and Marilyn – thank you for your contributions in your new roles in the committee.

Special thanks to Evert for your guidance and mentorship as a newbie Chairperson.

The time has come for nominations of new committee members. Please submit your completed voting sheets to Beverley van Niekerk.

Thank you all for your contribution in shaping the future of the coatings industry. I am looking forward to another successful year ahead.

Thank you

Sabelo Dladla
Chairperson – Northern Section