ABOUT US
Who we are
About Us
Founded in 1987 by J. Dean van Zyl, Shutterlock began as a mining supplies entity but has since evolved into a pioneering service provider for the industrial sector. Combining innovative solutions with an unwavering dedication to safety, Shutterlock is proud to be at the forefront of the mining and engineering industries.
With strong partnerships with global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Shutterlock continues to provide best-in-class products and services to meet the needs of industries ranging from construction to logistics.
Mission and Vision
Mission and Vision
Mission
We aim to foster a working environment where employees thrive and serve clients with unmatched dedication, ensuring exceptional service and on-time delivery that sets us apart.
Vision
To maintain our leading reputation as a trusted provider of globally recognised brands while achieving sustainable growth through quality, reliability, and superior customer service.
A Letter from Our Founder
J. Dean van Zyl – CEO
“As the founder and CEO of Shutterlock, my vision has always been to create a company that prioritises safety, quality, and customer satisfaction. With almost 4 decades of experience, we’ve grown from strength to strength, adapting to industry challenges while championing innovation and compliance. I’m proud of Shutterlock’s culture of safety first and the trust we’ve earned from our clients. We will continue driving excellence that raises the bar in industrial safety and reliability.”
History of Shutterlock
History and Milestones of Shutterlock
Since its founding in 1987, Shutterlock (Pty) Ltd. has grown from humble beginnings into a pioneering leader in the mining and industrial sectors. Established by the visionary entrepreneur J. Dean van Zyl as Shutterlock Mining Supplies CC, the company began its journey rooted firmly in South Africa’s mining industry. Over the decades, Shutterlock has evolved to become synonymous with innovation, industry expertise, and an unwavering commitment to delivering world-class lifting solutions.
With nearly four decades of experience, Shutterlock has consistently embraced change, adapted to evolving market demands, and achieved significant milestones that demonstrate its growth, resilience, and dedication to excellence.
(1987–1999)
The Early Years and Founding Vision
At its inception in 1987, Shutterlock Mining Supplies CC laid its roots in Randfontein, Johannesburg, at the heart of South Africa’s thriving mining industry. Under the leadership of J. Dean van Zyl, the company built its foundation on supplying dependable gear and solutions for mining operations. Mr. van Zyl’s vision to provide reliable, safety-centred products strengthened Shutterlock’s reputation as a trusted partner in the mining sector.
1992
Shutterlock secured its first agency agreement with McKinnon Chain, marking a significant shift towards representing globally recognised brands. This milestone was instrumental in solidifying Shutterlock’s position as a key player in the industry.
(2000–2010)
Expansion and Growth
The dawn of the new millennium ushered in a period of rapid growth and diversification for Shutterlock. By 2000, the company had significantly expanded its portfolio, acquiring the prestigious Platipus and Gripple agency agreements. These partnerships enabled Shutterlock to broaden its range of engineering and lifting solutions, catering to an increasingly diverse clientele. Simultaneously, Shutterlock took a significant step forward by moving into its current premises in Randfontein, providing the infrastructure necessary to scale operations and meet growing industry demands.
2000
Acquisition of Platipus and Gripple agency agreements to bolster its portfolio.
2007
Shutterlock became the official distributor for Crosby products in South Africa. This partnership brought an iconic global leader in rigging hardware into Shutterlock’s offerings, demonstrating its ability to represent and deliver top-tier brands.
(2011–2020)
Innovation and Recognition
With its reputation firmly established, Shutterlock continued to strengthen its commitment to supply excellence. The company’s distribution agreement with BRIDON in 2011 enabled it to supply international-standard mine winding and crane ropes, positioning Shutterlock to provide critical solutions for industries requiring high-performance steel wire ropes. Further diversification came in 2015 when Shutterlock added Jonsson Workwear, a trusted name in protective apparel, to its portfolio.
2014
26% BBBEE Ownership — Demonstrating a strong commitment to social and economic transformation, Shutterlock achieved 26% Black Ownership, solidifying its place as a responsible corporate leader in South Africa.
2018
Shutterlock became the authorised distributor for KING air (pneumatic) hoists, furthering its product range with robust, precision-engineered lifting solutions.
(2021–2024)
Expanding Horizons and New Frontiers
The last few years have seen Shutterlock build on its well-established foundation while demonstrating its agility and forward-thinking approach. A partnership with KARAM in 2021 brought advanced fall arrest systems to its product range, further showcasing its focus on personal safety and compliance with global safety standards.
Launch of a State-of-the-Art Rope Storage and Handling Facility
The unveiling of a 1,400m² rope storage and handling facility reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and efficiency. Designed to house mine-winding ropes, this high-tech facility features a 50-ton overhead crane, advanced transfer capabilities, and full insurance for stored products.
A Legacy of Excellence
Throughout its history, Shutterlock’s commitment to innovation, safety, and quality has remained unwavering. With each milestone, the company has solidified its reputation as a standard-setter in lifting safety, rigging expertise, and industrial excellence.
This legacy has been made possible by a dynamic team of professionals, visionary leadership, and strong partnerships with globally recognised brands. Shutterlock continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, delivering world-class solutions that empower its clients and contribute to industry development.
Looking ahead, Shutterlock is poised to lead the way as a beacon of reliability and innovation in the industrial sector. With nearly four decades of expertise and a steadfast vision for the future, Shutterlock remains dedicated to surpassing customer expectations and ensuring operational safety across industries.
Explore what makes Shutterlock the trusted partner in industrial excellence by reaching out to us today.
Storage Solutions
Mine-Winding Rope Handling and Storage
A 1,400m² state-of-the-art handling and storage facility that includes a 50 ton overhead crane with 9 m of headroom for safe storage and handling of mine winder rope under ideal conditions. With provisions for insurance and direct transport to the site, this infrastructure is engineered to redefine operational reliability.
Mine Winder Rope Handling and Storage Facility
Shutterlock (Pty) Ltd. is proud to unveil its cutting-edge 1,400m² storage facility, purpose-built to meet the demanding requirements of mine winder rope storage and ensure enhanced operational reliability. Equipped with advanced features, this facility sets new benchmarks for safety, efficiency, and convenience, redefining the industry’s standards for handling such critical components. Strategically designed to cater to mining operations’ unique needs, this space represents Shutterlock’s commitment to innovation, client-centric solutions, and operational excellence.
Unparalleled Storage Capabilities
At the heart of this facility is its 50-ton overhead crane, a robust asset engineered to simplify the handling and storage of heavy mine winder ropes. With an impressive 9 meters of headroom, the crane offers exceptional clearance, accommodating large-scale equipment and high-capacity operations with ease. This extensive crane system ensures precision, safety, and efficiency during the loading, storage, and transport processes. The facility’s generous floor area, covering 1,400m², provides ample room to manage large quantities of mine winding ropes effectively. This spacious environment enables systematic organisation, reducing handling risks while ensuring safe and easy access to stored items. Whether clients need to store a single rope or several, this facility can adapt to a variety of operational needs.
Safe and Ideal Storage Conditions
Recognising that mine winder ropes require specialised care to maintain their performance and lifespan, Shutterlock’s facility is meticulously designed to offer ideal storage conditions. Advanced environmental controls ensure ropes are stored in a manner that minimises risk from wear, corrosion, or external damage. By preserving the ropes under optimal conditions, businesses can operate with peace of mind, confident that their key equipment is kept in peak condition. This focus on safety extends to storage protocols. Expert handling procedures, combined with high-quality storage solutions, ensure that every rope is securely maintained, adhering to strict safety standards. The facility’s safe storage conditions significantly reduce the risk of operational delays or unexpected equipment failure, offering clients complete confidence in their stored assets.
