Rumours abound about Merc’s East London plant
More and more rumours are surfacing about the possible sale, or part sale, of Mercedes-Benz’s East London manufacturing plant.
- Industry News
- 11 March 2026
Volvo Trucks South Africa has announced the appointment of Anders Friberg as the company’s new Director of New Truck Sales, effective 1 April 2024. He will be based at the Volvo Group Southern Africa headquarters in Johannesburg.
With extensive experience across the commercial vehicle industry and various international brands, Anders brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. Most recently, he served as the Director of Private Importer Development within Volvo Trucks International and has proven his capabilities in driving sales and implementing effective business development strategies.
His career journey includes pivotal roles within other premium truck brands, where he served as Area Sales Manager, Senior Area Sales Manager, Business Development Manager in Turkey, and Managing Director in Tanzania. Notably, his tenure as Sales Director for Scania South Africa and Export from 2016 to 2020, gave him valuable insight into the South African vehicle industry and market dynamics.
Anders says he is excited to be back in South Africa. “The local transport industry has very unique challenges in terms of operating conditions and logistical pressures. At Volvo Trucks we are committed to helping our customers face and overcome these challenges by providing the best products for the job at hand, as well as unrelenting support and quality services. I am excited about serving our customers and driving success, together.”
Waldemar Christenson, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks South Africa, says the local team is
delighted to welcome Anders.
"His extensive experience and profound understanding of the industry and the local truck market will undoubtedly drive our sales initiatives going forward, ensuring continued success for Volvo Trucks and our customers in the region."
In 2024, Volvo Trucks South Africa is celebrating its 24th anniversary in the country. The company has an assembly plant in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, and currently employs around 900 people at various sites across the country.
More and more rumours are surfacing about the possible sale, or part sale, of Mercedes-Benz’s East London manufacturing plant.
Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Tuesday (10 March) they would not let any oil and other related products out of the Middle East until United States (US) and Israeli attacks cease, prompting US President Donald Trump to threaten to hit Iran "twenty times harder" if it blocked exports.
With tensions and conflict in the Middle East raising concerns about global energy supplies, attention has again focused on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important oil shipping routes in the world.