Diversification underpins UMS Group’s growth strategy

Although United Mining Services (UMS Group) was formed out of a business that was primarily focused on underground ore body access and related contracting work, the company is – in nearly five years of existence – punching above its weight with a growth strategy that hinges on diversification of its service offering and geographic footprint.

This, CEO Digby Glover and COO Murray Macnab tell Munesu Shoko, is supported by a 60-year industry track record and a team of experienced individuals who bring a wealth of knowledge to the business.

With its roots primarily in the shaft sinking business in South Africa, and the contracting work around it, UMS Group has, in less than five years, transformed its business to be a full turnkey solutions provider to the global mining and related sectors, offering a range of services from concept studies through to mine and process plant design, construction, commissioning, ramp-up and operation, among others.

A private equity business, UMS was formed in 2015 following the purchase of the old Shaft Sinkers business and its sister company, Mining Engineering Technical Services (METS). Having assisted Shaft Sinkers and METS prior to the business rescue process, the shareholders of UMS went on to purchase the two companies, along with some equipment and existing contracts.

The business took two major projects along with the purchase of Shaft Sinkers. One was the AngloGold Ashanti’s Kibali gold project in the DRC, which was completed successfully some two years

ago. The other one was the HZL project in India, which ended last year.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE PUBLISHED IN THE MAY 2020 ISSUE OF MODERN MINING