Creating a new paradigm in fixed asset management

The Photla journey is more quest than journey - a quest for efficiency and reduced cost, a quest for unparalleled quality and the creation of a new paradigm in fixed asset management.

It began in 2005 when Hennie Steyn, the then CEO of Kalibrate, used his vast knowledge of facility management to ask two pertinent questions; ‘is it possible to bring down the costs associated with facilities management?’ and ‘can a facility be operated more efficiently if the right decisions are taken during the design and construction phases?’

At the same time, Hennie became increasingly concerned about the state of the construction industry, particularily quality standards. He saw that many operators were unconcerned about quality, preferring to undercut competitors by quoting the lowest possible price. This resulted in substandard construction which, in turn, had severe structural and maintenance implications.

Asking questions is one thing. Finding answers and making them work in the real world is quite another. This is exactly what Hennie did.

The first company in the Photla Group was Kalibrate Facilities Management - one vital link in the fixed asset management chain. Hennie realised that if he was to implement his vision of integrating the links of the value chain to optimise fixed asset management, he will have to acquire construction and property management competence. This insight led to the launch of SKT Construction and the acquisition of MetroProp Property Management.

Gaining the financial freedom to apply the newly acquired value chain, in a way that will unlock long term value made sense, and as such Pendo Investments was a logical next step.

The journey is interesting and fulfilling. It will lead us to new places and a better future. On this journey the Photla Group of companies prefer ‘walking with’ their key stakeholders. We want to take our clients, employees, and the industry with in defining a new paradigm for sustainable end-to-end fixed asset management.