Bolt and Engineering Distributors (B.E.D.) has once again demonstrated its long-standing commitment to the South African and Pan-African steel industry, through two prestigious sponsorships – the Pan-African Trailblazer and Architecturally-Exposed Steelwork – at the 2025 Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) Steel Awards.
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The annual event, which celebrates excellence in steel design, innovation and construction, recognises the contribution of companies that drive progress in the sector through quality, sustainability and innovation. For B.E.D., the Steel Awards sponsorships are a reflection of its heritage and a reaffirmation of its company ethos and values.
“For over four decades, B.E.D. has proudly supported the steel industry. We see steel as a symbol of the sector’s strength, ingenuity, perseverance and craftsmanship – values that align closely with our own,” says B.E.D. CEO Mike Giltrow.
“Through our fastening, welding, cutting, grinding, bearings, personal protective equipment (PPE) and export capabilities, we have become part of the industrial backbone which enables these incredible projects to take shape,” he points out, noting that many in the industry have conveyed their appreciation to B.E.D. for their support of the Steel Awards – and of the industry as a whole.
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Recognising Pan-African innovation
The Export category award, presented by B.E.D.’s CEO Mike Giltrow as part of B.E.D.’s Pan-African Trailblazer sponsorship, celebrates individuals or teams who have made a significant contribution to advancing steel construction across the continent. This year’s winning project, the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) student centre, showcased exceptional design and engineering, featuring 200 tonnes of steel and 5,200 m² of precision metal cladding.
“The BIUST student centre represents exactly what the Trailblazer sponsorship is about: innovation, perseverance and excellence,” says Giltrow. “We are proud to support projects such as this: which push the boundaries of design, implementation and execution – proving that our pan-African steel supply chain skills and expertise can compete with the best in the world.”
Furthermore, B.E.D.’s pan-African Trailblazer sponsorship aligns closely with its expanding export division, which supports sub-Saharan African projects by providing the fastening, welding, cutting, and PPE equipment required for high-performance fabrication across the sub-continent.
“Our pan-African relationships are built on reliability, quality and collaboration,” Giltrow adds. “Despite challenges such as forex and market volatility, our export department continues to thrive – supporting our customers in Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and beyond.”
Architectural steel excellence
The Architectural category award, presented by B.E.D. MD Jan Viljoen as part of the company’s Architecturally-Exposed Steelwork sponsorship, honours projects in which steel is not just a structural necessity, but a defining design feature. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) headquarters in Centurion was this year’s winning project, embodying the essence of this award category.
“This project’s intricate curved trusses and complex, three-dimensional roof geometry exemplifies the versatility and beauty of architecturally-exposed steel,” Giltrow explains, adding that the design required a combination of rolled steel sections, tubular supports and precision fabrication to achieve its seamless aesthetic – all while meeting rigorous green building standards.
“This project perfectly illustrates how steel can combine artistry and engineering,” remarks Giltrow. “It is a reminder that innovation is not only functional – it can also be inspirational. For B.E.D., recognising such craftsmanship reinforces our belief in supporting quality at every level: from the smallest fastener to the most intricate welding job – and more!”
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Driving industry growth and skills development
As showcased at the Steel Awards, B.E.D. has grown into one of South Africa’s most respected industrial suppliers, with 15 branches nationwide and a strong network extending into the broader African continent. The company has long-standing relationships with world-class suppliers such as Fronius, SKF and CBC Fasteners – while also maintaining a proud commitment to supporting South African manufacturing:
“We are proudly local,” notes Giltrow. “Whether it is working with CBC on locally produced fasteners – or partnering with Fronius to introduce digital welding innovations, our goal is to strengthen the entire value chain of steel construction.”
In line with this vision, B.E.D. is developing a welding and cutting academy at its national distribution centre (DC), where young industrial artisans receive hands-on training in modern fabrication techniques. “It is not about earning points or compliance,” Giltrow comments. “We do it because it is the right thing to do: to give back to the industry which has given us so much!”
A future forged in steel
As South Africa’s infrastructure sector faces a growing list of challenges, B.E.D. remains positively and energetically focused on solutions. Its support of the SAISC Steel Awards reflects a shared belief in the future of the local and Pan-African steel sector.
“South Africa’s steel sector continues to punch well above its weight in terms of global industry quality and all-round excellence. We are proud to play our part in enabling that excellence: from fasteners and welding to training and export. Steelwork truly makes the dream work!” Giltrow concludes.
Also read: Export diversification key to SA’s growth
