Your Trusted Partner in Quality Printing Since 1958
Our History
South Africa has always been generous in its welcoming embrace of immigrants to its shores from throughout the world, many of whom have arrived with nominal material possessions, but armed with a sound work ethic and a fierce determination to make a better life for themselves and their children. So too is the history of our family when our grandfather arrived in this country at the end of the Second World War and within a relatively short space of time was engaged in retail trade.
It was however only during 1958 that our father and current Chairman, Mohamed Sharif presumed to venture away from the safe and familiar terrain of retail trading and invested in a handfed Adana letterpress printing machine. Thus was Taj Printers born. This initiative was all the more laudable as neither of our parents had any technical expertise or any knowledge of the printing industry and that is why the story of the excitement with which the first wedding card was printed is still fondly narrated and nostalgically remembered, This printing press was housed in a tin shack adjoining the corrugated family home and served as the business home for almost the next two decades.
The challenges that faced a small family owned. capital intensive and technology driven business were daunting. more especially for one that was black owned during the height of the apartheid years in this country. We were. however extremely fortunate to have had a heightened sense of family and to be operating in a community which were supportive in their provision of capital and human resources if and when such needs arose. As children growing up. there did not exist any distinction between the personal and professional and our earliest memories as children were to assist in every way we could to advance and grow the family business. Whilst there was no compulsion to do so, all the children naturally gravitated to pursuing full time positions in the business in different capacities. In this regard. we were extremely blessed that our late and older brother Shahid embraced this challenge of joining the business at an extremely critical and crucial juncture and it was under his stewardship over the years that the business enjoyed unprecedented growth and organization. We continue to be motivated by his indomitable spirit.
We are particularly proud that the business today encompasses the involvement of three generations of family members and our parents and founders continue to maintain a keen interest in the affairs of the company. We are mindful of the legacy of the wont ethic and core values we have inherited and remain committed to pass them on. We recognize the challenge of ensuring that we remain a modern business wherein the latest technologically advanced innovations are regularly introduced to maintain the standards of quality and service our clients have come to expect of us. Above all, we acknowledge the support of our clients, suppliers and staff, some of whom are as old as this business today. Without your historical and continued support, this business would not have endured the passage of time.
Our Background
Taj Printers was established in 1958, operating from a tin shack in Asiatic Bazaar now known as Actonville. Our reputation grew on the fact that we thrived in “service excellence” and traditional family values, a benchmark that still exists in our current operation. Taj Printers has endured through many facets of the South African transformation process, having come from a previously disadvantaged background.
Over the years, we have affiliated ourselves with many projects and forums and have grown in both staff complement and production capabilities. We are now situated in Morehill, Benoni, conveniently off the Snake Road Offramp, leading off the N12 East highway.
Our Premises
With steady growth and the acquisition of new machinery, Taj Printers now occupies new premises totaling 4020 square metres of floor space. Our premises comfortably allows us to dedicate specific work areas for the different facets of our business. We are located in a safe and easily accessible area with quick access to the highway leading to either Johannesburg or Witbank. We have secure parking, and also provide a consultation office with some of the value added products we offer to customers.
Taj Printers new premises also houses Bonsai Papers and TBZ South Africa – two new businesses acquired by Taj Printers over the last few years. Not only do we cater for the commercial litho and web print industry, but are also paper and office stationery suppliers and are the sole official suppliers of TBZ International Wedding and Invitation Cards in South Africa.
Part of our premises includes a showroom for TBZ South Africa, where customers can view our selection of choice cards.
We have recently extended our premises by 1000 square metres by erecting a self standing building to accommodate our newly functional Web Printing division.
Our Mission Statement
“TO PROVIDE AFFORDABLE, QUALITY PRINTING, BACKED BY PROFESSIONAL SERVICE EXCELLENCE”.
Sustainable growth and good business ethic begins from within. Using our experience, resources and understanding the customer’s requirements are key in creating a sound union between ourselves and them. We believe that by consistently providing our customers with superior hands-on service, affordable pricing and high quality printing, we can establish lasting bonds with them, thus ensuring business growth and solidarity.
Our Goals
Growth and print technology advancements have always been a priority. We have invested in new and updated equipment and are abreast on the latest techniques and developments, making sure that our customers are competitive in the market. As we service a large sector of creative agencies, we have plans for an even more user friendly consulting environment and hope to give our premises a new and fresh appearance – a clear signal of our a intentions and dedication towards our clients. Equally in tune, will be various training programmes for our employees. Their education and understanding of our intentions also indicates their commitment towards progressing with the company.
Our Social Responsibility
Our business roots have always been community based. We have contributed to many initiatives stemming from individual, social, government and other organisations. On an overview, many small businesses have grown through our assistance and support. They are making good progress in the marketplace. We also contribute to various charities and organisations in an attempt to assist our community on social developments, through sport, education and other sectors that may assist in the wellbeing of society as a whole.
Our Employees
As we recognize that our employees are integral to our business, we continuously strive in assisting in their development, work ethic, skills and well-being. Our employees consist of South Africans from all walks of life, including many previously disadvantaged individuals who have since prospered in both knowledge and expertise from their association with Taj Printers.
We constantly motivate our staff, of which included are women and young individuals. We see them as the driving force into the future and also believe that we play some part towards enriching the country by equipping them with essential skills and employment.
An overwhelming majority of our staff began without any formal skills and today hold key positions in our operations. As we are affiliated with development structures, Taj Printers contributes towards training programmes that assist our employees in any skills that they may require.
In Conclusion
Taj Printers have clearly defined a path for the future and have come a long way since. Great strides have been made in terms of development, growth and technology. We are continually evolving and keeping abreast with the ever growing demands of our customers. Our participation in the print industry and those of the fundamentals of social development has always been a priority. With expansion and growth, we have also indirectly addressed the need for employment and have assisted indirectly in the process of social and economic development.
Taj Printers have certified accreditation for BEE status and is recognized by most government and social entities, given our exemplary record in their service. We continue to give opportunity to both our staff and customers we partner with.
Expand your potential by joining in our circle of entrepreneurship, service ethics, product variety and product quality.
Consider giving us your next print assignment or project and you will be pleasantly surprised.
Come and visit us at our premises and meet our friendly and professional staff.
More About Us
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