Experience Engineering Excellence with Onvlee

Welcome to the Onvlee legacy, rooted in shared values and a commitment to excellence.  Our family business brings generations together to create a unique blend of tradition and innovation across a diverse range of industries.

Our Journey of Engineering Excellence and Reliability

Kees Onvlee, a Dutch Merchant navy engineer, started his journey at Shell in the Netherlands. En route to Australia in the 1950s, he paused in South Africa and decided to stay. After a decade at General Motors, he fulfilled his lifelong ambition in 1965 by founding Onvlee Engineering in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, turning his dream into a thriving reality.

1965

 Founded by Mr Cornelis (Kees) Onvlee

Founded in Port Elizabeth by Mr Cornelis (Kees)  Onvlee who was originally born in the Netherlands. Single 60 ton press facility 600m2. General Motors was our first customer

1985

Growth

Onvlee Engineering had grown into a thriving business with multiple stamping press lines serving the automotive industry

1989

Contract To General Motors in Germany

Onvlee won first export contract to General Motors in Germany

1990

Catalytic Converter Industry

Onvlee begun supplying parts to the catalytic converter industry

1993

Satellite Dishes

Onvlee branched out into satellite dishes and sold more than two million units

1995

Manfacturing Window & Door Frames

Onvlee began manufacturing window and door frames for low cost-housing in South Africa

2000

Change of Leadership

Robert Onvlee, son of Cornelis Onvlee, appointed as managing director

2006

Manfacturing Aluminium Walkways

Onvlee began manufacturing aluminium walkways for the bulk liquid container industry

2007

Introduced CNC Machining Division

Onvlee increased capabilities through the introduction of a CNC machining division

2012

New Premises

Relocated to larger premises

2018

Robotic Welding

Introduced first robotic welding cell

2019

Renewable Energy

Branched out into renewable energy components for the solar industry

2021

Change of Leadership

Justin Onvlee, son of Robert Onvlee, appointed as managing director

2022

Adoption of New Technologies

Onvlee Engineering plans to position itself at the forefront of new industries and new technologies

2024

Rebranding

Introducing our New Brand & Logo as we pave the way for innovation and progress in emerging industries and technologies.

2024

Expansion of Solar Division (850m2)

Engineering ventures into the solar division, illuminating pathways towards sustainable energy solutions.

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Our Commitment to Quality and Excellence

Onvlee Engineering is committed to quality and excellence that drives innovative solutions.

Trusted by industry-leading companies around the globe

What We Value

At Onvlee Engineering, our story is built on honesty, dependability, innovation, exceptional customer service, adaptability, and a profound reverence for family—the core values that form the backbone of our commitment to excellence and integrity. Our pledge to our customers is more than a promise; it is a lived experience, guiding every facet of our work. This rich tapestry of values shapes our company culture, driving us towards new heights in everything we do.

Excellence

We strive for excellence in every aspect of our business, from product development to customer service.

Integrity

Integrity is at the heart of our operations, ensuring transparency, honesty, and trustworthiness.

Reach Out for New Horizons

Discover our range of superior, reliable products and solutions for your needs.

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