Industry Awards

2024 marks the 60th anniversary of Sassda, one of the world’s oldest stainless steel associations and the authoritative voice of stainless steel in Southern Africa.

In tandem with this, the 2024 Sassda Columbus Stainless Awards are hotting up, as we fast approach the submission closing date of 8 July 2024. The award winners will be announced at a Gala Dinner at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, Johannesburg on September 19, 2024, that will feature MC Alan Committie and world-class entertainment from the Justin Serrao Band.

Celebrating excellence and innovation

The 2024 awards aim to honour excellence and innovation within the stainless steel industry under the theme “A Legacy of Brilliance.” Which reflects the enduring impact of stainless steel on various sectors. Sassda Executive Director Michel  Basson comments; “This theme acknowledges the material’s durability, versatility, and aesthetic qualities, which have made it indispensable in modern innovation.

“The awards also honour industry leaders and professionals who have dedicated themselves to maintaining and enhancing this legacy through their pursuit of excellence.” Basson adds; “The stainless steel industry continues to lead in technological advancement and sustainable development.

The 2024 Sassda Columbus Stainless Awards will highlight these contributions, underscoring the essential role of stainless steel in fostering a  sustainable future. The awards will recognise exceptional achievements in categories ranging from architectural design to engineering innovation.”

He elaborates that participating in the Sassda Columbus Stainless Awards provides a range of benefits. Firstly, it offers industry recognition,  acknowledging a company’s accomplishments and contributions to the stainless steel sector. Secondly, it presents networking opportunities, enabling entrants to connect with industry leaders, potential clients, and collaborators at the awards ceremony.

In addition, it provides market exposure by showcasing projects and innovations through Sassda’s extensive network and media coverage. Lastly, it fosters employee motivation by celebrating each team’s hard work and dedication which boosts morale.

A rallying call

Sassda therefore encourages all industry players to participate in the 2024 Sassda Columbus Stainless Awards by submitting their top projects and innovations. The awards encompass a broad spectrum of categories:

• Sustainability - Recognises a sustainable innovative new product or project impacting energy use, environmental improvement, recycling/material use, or life-cycle costing.
• Duplex Stainless Steel - Highlights the use of this specific grade of stainless steel in applications demonstrating innovation and life-cycle costeffectiveness, covering both projects and products.
• Ferritic Stainless Steel - Celebrates the use of Ferritic stainless steel in products or projects showcasing innovation, life-cycle cost-effectiveness, substitution, and growth potential.
• Austenitic Stainless Steel - Honours the use of Austenitic stainless steels in projects or products demonstrating innovation, life-cycle cost-effectiveness, substitution, and growth potential.
• Export Achievement - Recognises significant growth in export sales through innovation, quality, and effectiveness (volume, value, or both).
• Business Excellence - Awards businesses building sustainable, long-term, thriving enterprises demonstrating innovative use of stainless steel in
  product design and development.
• Lifetime Achievement - Celebrates individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Sassda and the stainless steel industry.
• Overall, Winner - The most successful and outstanding winner from all categories.

Submission guidelines and important dates

To enter the 2024 Sassda Columbus Stainless Awards, industry players must submit detailed applications outlining their project, product, or innovation. Submissions should include high-quality images, technical specifications, and a narrative highlighting the project’s significance. The judging panel, composed of industry experts, will evaluate each entry based on innovation, sustainability, and overall contribution to the industry.

For more information, submission guidelines, and entry forms, go to https://sassda.co.za/sassda-columbus-stainless- awards-2024 or email awards@sassda.co.za and a Sassda staff member will contact you to assist with entry completion and submission.