Mercedes-benz drives diversity

MERCEDES-BENZ South Africa’s East London manufacturing plant marked a milestone with the celebration of two anniversaries: 25 years of women on the manufacturing production line and the construction of the C-class vehicle.

It was in 1994 during South Africa’s political transition to democracy when the first group of women started working on the manufacturing production line of Mercedes-benz South Africa (MBSA) in East London, Eastern Cape.

Twenty-five years later the company continues on its diversity journey, by reflecting on the pioneering spirit and contribution that women have played in the plant’s success. The women of 1994 have paved way for the younger generations to advance in other areas of the automotive supply chain. MBSA employs more than 1 700 women who continue to manufacture the much-loved sedan for local and international markets.

Building on a rich heritage of 71 years of manufacturing in South Africa, the plant also celebrates 25 years of manufacturing the C-class sedan. As one of four Daimler plants that manufactures the luxury sedan, the plant continues to serve as a benchmark for quality, innovation, technology and transformation for Daimler plants across the world.

The first C-class, the W201 model, rolled off the line in 1994, and women formed part of this feat.