Innovation and progress in the spotlight at the 5th AmberMacs expo

This year, the popular AmberMacs Expo was once again held in White River, just north of Mbombela in Mpumalanga. Thousands of visitors from across the country attend this annual event, which was started by Philip Moufarrige, owner and Managing Director of AmberMacs, to create awareness about macadamia farming in South Africa and to promote this versatile agricultural product.

ProAgri attended the event, where impressive products were showcased, industry experts presented insightful talks, and farmers enjoyed networking and exchanging stories. The well-known economist Dawie Roodt provided a macro-overview of the South African economy, while Philip delivered an engaging presentation on the current state of the local macadamia industry.

This year’s turnout impressed Philip and his expo team with the growing number of visitors. “At all levels, the expo was very well received. The feedback from both visitors and speakers was positive,” says Andri van den Bergh, organiser of the event. “This year we saw an increase in visitors, which is very exciting for us. The networking evening was well attended, and everyone enjoyed the opportunity to connect.”

Philip Moufarrige, Owner and Managing Director of AmberMacs, during his presentation at the expo. (Source: AmberMacs)

Farmers struggle with crop protection

Dr Schalk Schoeman, who delivered a presentation on the practical aspects of biological insect management in macadamia orchards in the Lowveld, says that, because Mpumalanga is the largest macadamia-producing region in the world, this justifies the continued existence of the expo.

“Crop protection is my specialty, and at the moment it’s a very serious challenge for farmers. It would add value to the expo if an informal working group session could be arranged to communicate directly with farmers, rather than necessarily presenting a formal lecture.”

In addition to the biological exhibits that impressed him, Schalk says, “I especially enjoyed Dawie’s lecture on macroeconomics. The presentations by Philip and Allan Duncan (‘a three- to five-year outlook on the macadamia industry’) also stood out for me. Something we can focus on in the future is value addition.”

Willie Bester, Mbombela Sales Representative for Hitachi Construction Machinery, with the Hitachi BX100 TLB at the expo.

Hitachi BX100 TLB impresses visitors

Willie Bester, Mbombela Sales Representative for Hitachi Construction Machinery, enjoyed engaging with potential clients at the expo. He is enthusiastic about the product that Hitachi showcased at the event.

“We exhibited a Hitachi BX100 TLB (Translation Lookaside Buffer). Many visitors were not aware that we have a TLB in our range. It is performing really well because the machine offers excellent quality and, at a price of just under R1 million, it is far more affordable than those of our competitors,” says Willie.

He adds that Hitachi’s newly launched ZX480U Mini Excavator is selling exceptionally well, particularly in the Cape.

The well-planned layout of the expo, entertainment by singers such as Barto and Coenie Naudé, and the insightful presentations stood out for Willie. “We received many enquiries about our products from new clients and gained excellent exposure on both days of the expo.”

There’s a wonderful, lively atmosphere among the visitors and exhibitors. (Source: AmberMacs)

‘Market is ready for efficient and sustainable solutions’

Dean Mouton, marketer for Etec, enthusiastically spoke about the fully electric vehicles they showcased, namely the Bike Bakkie, Blitz Cruiser, Apex and Rugon 2.

“Our Rugon 2 attracted the most attention. Our electric vehicles are ideal for farms, estates and businesses because they are quiet, reliable and cost-effective, with no fuel expenses. Since our vehicles do not use fuel, are affordable and require minimal maintenance, you save money.”

He particularly enjoyed “speaking to so many people who are interested in our products and receiving first-hand feedback. There was definite interest. We provided quotations to potential buyers and connected with other businesses interested in becoming Etec dealers.”

Technological advancement and the rapid pace at which the industry is developing were highlights of the expo for him. “The innovation on display confirms that the market is ready for more efficient and sustainable solutions.

“I would recommend the expo because it is an excellent networking and learning opportunity where visitors can discover new products, explore trends and make valuable connections,” says Dean.

Farmers pack the lecture hall to the rafters. (Source: AmberMacs)

Celebrating a successful expo

In addition to the lectures, exhibitions, delicious food and refreshments, the atmosphere was almost tangible. Many people struck up friendly conversations and quenched their thirst with ice-cold beer – and soon no one even noticed just how hot the Lowveld can get!