1935-2025 | A Journey Through Time, Forged by Generations

Step back in time with us, to an era where the clink of steel and the spirit of innovation built a legend: McKinnon Chain. Our story begins in 1909 with the formation of the McKinnon Chain Company in the USA, merging to become Columbus McKinnon Corporation by 1929. A true pioneer, Columbus McKinnon introduced alloy chain to the world in 1933. The demands of World War II dramatically increased the use of chain for lifting, towing, and securing military equipment, solidifying Columbus McKinnon Chain’s reputation as the most respected chain and component manufacturer globally. Initially, their steel chain reached South Africa through a manufacturers' representative in Johannesburg.

The growing local market soon signalled the feasibility of local manufacturing. Julius F. Stone and Archie L. McKinnon embarked on initial visits to South Africa in 1934, cementing the decision for local production at the Vereeniging site in Steel Road, Peacehaven, chosen for its proximity to Iscor (now ArcelorMittal South Africa) for local steel supply. Local chain production officially commenced in August 1935. Fourteen experienced employees from Canadian and American Factories trained local personnel. Bruce McKinnon was appointed the first Works Manager. Notably, Izak F. Wentzel, an original Machine Operator, rose to Technical Director. By December 1935, W. Grant Mackenzie was appointed Managing Director, and within eighteen months, the entire Vereeniging Factory staff comprised solely South Africans.

The McKinnon Group enjoyed a global position as the foremost chain manufacturer, with Vereeniging experts ensuring they remained at the forefront of developments, a commitment highlighted by the 1984 opening of new factory and offices in Ring Road, Vereeniging.

The tales of those years paint a clear picture. Piet Otto, a former McKinnon Chain Director and shareholder, recalls the 1970s "Agency" division, managed by two classic Italian gentlemen, Renato Corte and Mario Vechiatto. "We, at chain division, were jealous of these guys because they drove company Alfa Romeos, stayed in the best hotels and regularly travelled to Italy on business," Piet shares with a smile. This Agency imported diverse agricultural equipment, like the Nardi Caterpillar deep soil plough and the Nardi tractor, still popular in South Africa today. They also brought in Bongiovani brick and block making machines. While funded by the chain division, causing some friction, Agency was eventually sold to its management, finding success.

However, the journey wasn't without its challenges and rivalries. Mario Vechiatto later imported chain-making machines from Italy, leading to the formation of Titan Chain in Alrode, Gauteng, manufacturing mild steel chain in opposition. Keith Hutcheson, McKinnon's last Cape Town branch manager, eventually joined Titan Chain, which later became part of Haggie. A key figure at Haggie Chain was Silvio Pellizon. McKinnon management made him an offer he couldn’t refuse to join them, seeing it as a way to mitigate this growing competition.

During this period, a pivotal moment arrived when Columbus McKinnon Chain in the USA decided to sell its non-American companies. Mr. Stone, who held South Africans in high regard, gave the McKinnon senior management team, under Alex Steppe, the first chance to buy out the company. Faced with a counter-offer from Haggie, our dedicated management team successfully secured financing. In 1984, McKinnon Chain management purchased the company from Columbus McKinnon, exceeding Haggie's bid and becoming fully owned by McKinnon Management.

Despite this triumph, the corporate landscape continued to evolve. While McKinnon Chain was independently owned by its management, John Feek’s determination led Haggie to acquire a part of McKinnon Chain in 1993, ultimately owning it by 1999. Through these transitions, staff loyalty was remarkable, navigating upheavals like vacating the Randburg offices for the Haggie Campus in Germiston, and later the amalgamation in Vereeniging. In 2006, McKinnon Chain was bought by Scaw Metals Group. Today, McKinnon Chain trades independently, following the Barnes Group’s acquisition of Scaw Metals.

As we look back, we see solid foundations laid by pioneers and generations of dedicated employees have built a company of unwavering quality. Our legacy is defined by innovation, resilience, and a deep commitment to excellence.

Looking ahead, McKinnon Chain is already forging the path for the next nine decades of innovation and leadership. Cutting-edge research like the Zinc-Tough™ project, testing new chain coatings in the harsh St Francis Bay sea, promises unprecedented durability and extended lifecycles. Furthermore, our plating research with the University of Pretoria, underway in the second half of 2025, aims to reduce baking times. To our current team: you carry the torch of this widely respected company with its rich history. We have absolute confidence in your ability to continue to elevate our beloved McKinnon Chain for generations to come.

Article Credit:

This article draws its historical content from "Vereeniging, South Africa, 1892 - 1967" by Ramon Lewis Leigh, shared courtesy of Mooivaal Media. We extend special thanks to Piet Otto, former McKinnon Chain director, for generously sharing his invaluable memories.