A South African family business is proving that AI and automation can grow manufacturing output while protecting vulnerable workers and creating more inclusive employment opportunities.
While global conversations around Artificial Intelligence often focus on job losses and automation fears, South African manufacturer Lesco is taking a different approach — using technology to protect jobs rather than replace them.
The third-generation family business this week announced the launch of new semi-robotic production lines powered by advanced AI systems across its factory operations. The upgrade is expected to increase output between four and ten times depending on the production line, while safeguarding all permanent jobs and every role occupied by differently abled employees.
Lesco currently sources around 45% of its workforce from differently abled organisations, schools, support groups and vulnerable communities across South Africa. These positions have been formally ring-fenced as part of the company’s automation rollout.
The company manufactures switches, sockets, adapters and extension cords supplied to major South African retailers including Clicks, Makro, Cashbuild, Game and Leroy Merlin among others.
According to Group CEO Jonathan Shapiro, the company deliberately chose semi-robotic systems over full automation to maintain employment while improving competitiveness.
“Industrial innovation in South Africa should always be underpinned by an ethical commitment to inclusivity. We are proud to confirm that we are evolving with today’s technological advancements, without displacing the vulnerable workers from our country’s differently-abled community,” said Shapiro.
Founded in Shapiro’s father’s garage, Lesco now employs more than 300 people and plans to double manufacturing capacity from five million to 10 million units annually through the new technology investment.
The company is also integrating technology into youth empowerment and skills development initiatives. Through its long-standing partnership with Glen Oaks Academy in Kensington, learners participating in Lesco’s work readiness programme will now gain exposure to advanced manufacturing, AI and automation systems.
“We also hope that this investment into technological and AI advancements will help inspire the youth from South Africa’s differently abled community. By introducing AI and automation into the workstream, we’re sending a powerful message that disability is not a barrier to mastering the world’s most advanced technologies,” Shapiro added.
Beyond manufacturing upgrades, the company is also expanding workplace support systems. All supervisors undergo sign language training to improve communication with deaf employees, while an on-site occupational therapist and social worker are expected to be introduced by June 2026. A new NPO partnership will also create an additional 40 jobs for differently abled South Africans.
Lesco is a member of Proudly South African, which praised the company’s balance between industrial innovation and inclusive employment.
According to Proudly South African CEO Eustace Mashimbye, Lesco’s model demonstrates how smart technologies can improve productivity while preserving human capital and strengthening local manufacturing value chains.
Despite embracing AI and automation, Lesco says its long-term vision remains deeply human-focused.
“Progress does not have to come at the cost of the vulnerable. While the future may be semi-robotic, it will also always be fully human,” said Shapiro.
