Foundation: 1995
Location: Durban und Pretoria
Management: Christo Nel, Mark Hodges
In 1992, Evan Thomas placed the first order for uvex products in South Africa. Shortly afterwards, “Thomas International” was founded – laying the foundations for what would later become the uvex occupational safety division in South Africa. Three years later, in 1995, uvex safety South Africa was officially established. From then on, distribution within the South African market was managed from two office buildings in Effingham and Pretoria respectively. The scope of orders quickly expanded beyond South Africa’s borders. Continuous expansion enabled the Pretoria office to move to a new, larger building in 2009. In 2017, uvex sports and HexArmor hand protection were launched on the South African market.
Evan Thomas placed the first order of uvex products, marking the start of operations in South Africa. “Thomas International” was formed, focusing solely on safety eyewear – laying the foundation for what would later become uvex safety South Africa.
uvex introduced hand protection to the South African PPE market, broadened its product offering beyond eyewear, and took a significant step toward comprehensive safety solutions.
uvex safety South Africa was officially established, marking a new era for the brand. The company also secured its first export order into Africa, expanding its footprint beyond South African borders.
uvex Holding Germany acquired its first stake in uvex Safety South Africa, solidifying the partnership and paving the way for greater collaboration and growth in the South African market.
Hearing protection was introduced to the South African PPE market, enhancing safety standards and providing high‑quality, locally produced solutions for noise protection across various industries.
Evan Thomas retired, passing the leadership baton to Darryl Jacobs as Managing Director. At the same time, Germany completed the full buyout of uvex Safety South Africa, marking a new chapter in the company’s history. The uvex head office also relocated to its current premises in Durban, signalling further expansion and a strong commitment to the South African market.
The Pretoria office was relocated to larger premises to support continued expansion. That year also saw the introduction of disposable coveralls and bump caps to the South African PPE market, enhancing the range of protective solutions.
EN‑approved prescription safety eyewear began local manufacturing in South Africa, combining global standards with local craftsmanship to deliver certified eye protection tailored to regional needs.
uvex sports was introduced to the South African market, bringing high‑performance gear to new audiences. At the same time, HexArmor gloves made their debut in the local PPE market, offering advanced hand protection solutions for high‑risk environments.
uvex safety South Africa celebrated three decades of protecting people at work. To mark this milestone, the company introduced uvex and Heckel footwear to the local PPE market, delivering advanced safety, comfort and innovation from head to toe.
