DURBAN SOUTH PANEL AND PAINT EXPAND TO MEET DEMAND
Durban South Panel and Paint has grown steadily over the past 25 years to become one of the most trusted vehicle body repair businesses in KwaZulu-Natal. From the beginning, the focus has always been on good-quality work and looking after customer’s needs. As cars have become more advanced and customers expect faster and better service, the business has continued to improve how it operates.
To keep up with growing demand and to maintain high standards, Durban South Panel and Paint has recently expanded its operations. Part of this expansion includes investing in new technology that helps improve the quality of paintwork and speeds up the repair process. The company partnered with Celette South Africa to install a modern Celette Vortex RG1 spraybooth. This new spraybooth allows the business to repair and paint more vehicles each month while still delivering the high-quality finishes customers expect. On average, the company repairs around 250 vehicles per month, and the new equipment helps manage this workload more efficiently.
Most of the company’s work comes from insurance claims, along with fleet and private vehicle repairs. Over the years, Durban South Panel and Paint has earned more than 35 approvals from vehicle manufacturers (OEMs). These approvals mean the business meets very strict standards set by manufacturers for repair quality and repair methods. One of the company’s biggest achievements was becoming the first Toyota Approved body repair shop in KwaZulu-Natal, highlighting its commitment to quality and professionalism.
Durban South Panel and Paint offers a complete repair solution, making the process easier for customers. Services include accident repairs, towing, vehicle transportation, secure storage, and vehicle salvaging. The business employs around 50 skilled staff members and works closely with reliable suppliers. Strong internal systems set by the owner Mark Kruger, with his passionate and knowledgeable leadership has seen the company grow from strength to strength over the years ensuring work and repairs are done quickly and smoothly, reducing delays and stress for customers.
The newly installed Vortex RG1 features powerful thermal ventilating units that ensure uniform airflow from the diesel Riello combustion system throughout the entire cabin, a critical factor in achieving flawless paint finishes. Its full-size structure, measuring 7 110 x 3 600 metres, incorporates galvanised floor grates that enhance heat insulation and operational efficiency. The Celette Vortex booth is offered in both diesel and LPG gas heat exchanger options.
The spraybooth’s construction includes 50 mm double galvanised panels filled with EPS insulation, ensuring durability and optimal temperature control. Bi-folding front doors with observation windows, a full-size operator’s side door, high-intensity lighting delivering 800 Lux with LED colour-matching technology, and EU5 fine ceiling filtration all contribute to a controlled and precise painting environment. An automated temperature and pressure control system, managed through a digital touchscreen display with service interval notifications, powers the 16 kW Vortex design, further enhancing productivity and finish quality.
This expansion reflects Durban South Panel and Paint’s simple business philosophy: focus on what you do best and do it well. Under Kruger’s leadership the business has grown and evolved into one of Durban’s A grade repair centres, by investing in people, technology, and strong partnerships, the company continues to deliver quality repairs, excellent service, and peace of mind to every customer.
By Jay Groat
