Pride Milling expands into value-added foods with new extrusion plant
The extrusion plant positions Pride Milling to capitalise on growth in ready-to-eat and quick-cook food segments.
SOUTH AFRICA – South African maize and grain processor Pride Milling Company has commissioned a new, state-of-the-art extrusion plant at its Nigel facility, marking a strategic expansion into value-added, convenience-oriented food products and reinforcing its position in the evolving food market.
The Nigel extrusion facility was officially opened in late 2025, with stakeholders including government representatives and industry partners attending the ribbon-cutting event.
The facility’s advanced processing equipment is designed to convert raw grains into extruded products such as ready-to-eat snacks, breakfast cereals, and other convenience foods, categories growing rapidly due to shifting consumer preferences.
The event, attended by MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgop, Thebe Investment Corporation, and Pride Milling CEO Matshediso Marota, highlighted the company’s continued investment in innovation, local production, and community development.
CEO Matshediso Marota emphasized that the facility is a cornerstone of Pride Milling’s diversification strategy.
He noted that the new extrusion plant strengthens the company’s ability to innovate within the food manufacturing industry while expanding its role in supporting small-scale and emerging farmers.
“This facility allows us to go beyond traditional milling. We are investing in technology that adds value to our grains and opens up opportunities for product innovation that benefits farmers and consumers alike,” said Marota.
Extrusion technology applies high-pressure, high-temperature processing to transform grains into uniform, shelf-stable products, enabling the production of extruded snacks, instant porridges and plant-based formulations.
The project is expected to create employment opportunities, boost local grain demand, and promote inclusive rural economic growth.
Pride Milling, established in 2001 and headquartered in Pretoria, has grown into one of South Africa’s leading maize and grain processors with a diversified footprint.
The company operates multiple milling and processing facilities, producing white and yellow maize products, pulses, legumes and sorghum products, as well as pet food and animal feeds for commercial and industrial customers.
Its brands, such as Pride Super Maize Meal and the Drakensberg pet food range, are distributed nationally and targeted at export markets.
The extrusion plant represents a deliberate shift into higher-margin, value-added segments of the food market.
Traditionally focused on staple maize milling, Pride Milling’s investment reflects broader industry trends where convenience-driven product demand, from quick-cook meals to fortified snacks, is increasing across urban and emerging markets.
This strategic move aims to capture additional downstream value and support business-to-business clients seeking innovative food solutions.
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