Future 50 - Powered by FNB Business and East Coast Radio!

In this episode of Where Are They Now?, we kick things off with Frozen Brands, the local frozen food company making big moves.

Led by Blake Edy, they’ve expanded into the Mauritian market, scaled up production, and are moving into a larger facility to meet demand—all while continuing to innovate with their nutritious frozen vegetable range.

Carmen and Pavlo unpack how they’ve turned exposure into expansion and what their success means for KZN’s food manufacturing industry.

In this episode of Where Are They Now?, we hit the road with Royal Tyres, a powerhouse in the tyre supply industry.

Since their F50 feature, they've expanded across Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Australasia, while growing their local footprint in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

With funding from FNB Business boosting their purchasing power, Royal Tyres is setting the foundation for long-term dominance. But what does this mean for businesses in KZN?

Pavlo and Carmen break down how their global success is driving local industry forward.

Listen for an inspiring look at growth, innovation, and the businesses putting KZN on the global map.

Water is one of our most precious resources, and ensuring its quality is essential for both communities and the environment. Lechintech, a South African company specialising in chemical dosing control, is playing a vital role in improving water treatment processes.

Founded in 1987, Lechintech develops automated systems that help water treatment plants and industries measure and control the chemicals used in water purification. By reducing the need for manual testing, these systems improve efficiency, accuracy, and water safety.

Impi Live, co-founded by Andrew van Rensburg and Stu Berry, is a KwaZulu-Natal-based events company that has firmly established itself as a leader in live music, sporting events, and entertainment. The company’s portfolio includes a diverse range of events, from mountain biking and trail running to major music festivals like Splashy Fen.

The Print Shop, based in KwaZulu-Natal, began its journey as a small photographic shop run by Yasheen Panday’s father. Yasheen joined his father in the business, where he quickly developed a passion for the work and decided to take over the reins. What started as a family business in photography has now grown into one of the region’s most recognised printing and branding companies, serving not just local residents but businesses across the area.

Mandarin Parts Distributors (MPD) is a trusted name in South Africa, supplying reliable replacement parts for Chinese and Indian vehicle brands like Tata, Mahindra, GWM, Haval, and Changan. Founded by Henk van der Merwe, MPD set out to address a gap in the market by offering affordable spare parts for vehicle owners, mechanics, and fleet operators in South Africa, especially those who struggled with high costs and poor aftersales service.

FDC Systems, based in KwaZulu-Natal, has grown into a trusted name in fire safety and security, protecting both people and property across the region. Originally founded in Pietermaritzburg as a fire detection and suppression business, FDC Systems quickly became known for its commitment to quality and its ability to meet the growing needs of its clients.

Founded by Doug Knox in 1966, SealGlobal.Co has been making a real difference in the world of sustainable packaging for over five decades. This South African company has worked tirelessly to create packaging solutions that are better for the planet and our communities. While the company has grown to serve clients across the globe, its heart remains firmly in KZN, where it is helping to lead the charge in reducing waste and supporting local industries.

Montusi Mountain Lodge, a family-run establishment set in the stunning Northern Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal, has offered guests a one-of-a-kind retreat since its establishment in June 2000. The lodge, founded by the Carte family, has evolved into a premier destination, providing a perfect balance of luxury accommodation and adventure, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Amphitheatre escarpment—one of the most iconic features of the Drakensberg.

Rotacon Engineering, a trusted name in manufacturing, has been a leader in precision engineering in KwaZulu-Natal for decades. Founded by Dennis Gillespie in Pinetown, the company has grown into a key player in the light to medium engineering sector, supplying high-quality components to industries that rely on precision and durability. Today, Rotacon is supported by partners Rachael Gillespie and Leonard Ndebele, ensuring the business continues to evolve while staying true to its engineering roots.