ERP modernisation to support complex industrial operations

How Sturrock & Robson Industries uses ERP technology to support operational integration and long-term growth

Sturrock & Robson Industries is a fourth-generation family-owned group operating across multiple industrial sectors. Its portfolio includes Martin and Robson (SA), LAS, and Pandrol, each serving distinct markets and operational models.

Martin and Robson (SA) operates as a magnetite supplier to the South African coal industry, managing the value chain from sourcing to technical support. LAS delivers fuel management systems for petrochemical and industrial applications, while Pandrol supplies railway products such as fastening systems and welding equipment.

Given the diversity of its operations, the group requires integrated systems capable of supporting different business models, geographies, and regulatory environments.

The need for ERP modernisation

As part of a broader IT modernisation strategy, Sturrock & Robson Industries identified limitations in its legacy ERP platform. The existing system did not fully support the group’s structural complexity, project-based operations, or plans for regional expansion.

Key requirements for a new ERP included the ability to manage multi-company structures, handle industry-specific processes, and support transactions across regions, while remaining flexible enough to adapt as the business evolves.

“As Group IT Manager, my role is to align IT strategy with business objectives while building an infrastructure capable of supporting the company’s growth,” said Nazeem Aberdeen, Group IT Manager, Sturrock & Robson Industries. 

Implementing Sage X3

Following a structured evaluation process, the group selected Sage X3 as its ERP platform. The system was implemented in 2019 and deployed within a virtual data centre to support centralised operations.

In 2023, the company upgraded to Sage X3 Version 12, ensuring continued access to updated ERP capabilities and system enhancements. Version 12 introduces an API-driven framework and supports GraphQL, enabling integration with other systems and facilitating the development of additional functionalities over time.

Supporting intercompany operations

One of the key objectives of the ERP implementation was to streamline intercompany transactions, particularly the movement of magnetite between Martin and Robson (SA) and other group entities and customers.

Using Sage X3, the company aligned inventory, logistics, and financial processes across business units, supporting coordination between operations and improving visibility across the group.

Project management integration

Between 2024 and 2025, Sturrock & Robson Industries began implementing the Sage Project Management (PJM) module to support project-based operations, particularly within LAS.

The PJM module supports the full project lifecycle, from quoting and planning through execution and completion. LAS uses the module to manage petrochemical and fuel management projects, which typically range from three months to one year. The system enables the allocation of products, internal resources, and external suppliers within each project.

Because PJM is embedded within Sage X3, it integrates directly with sales, procurement, manufacturing, and finance. This integration provides consolidated project oversight and supports downstream processes, including the transition from project delivery to long-term maintenance contracts, which are linked to customers and sales orders within the ERP.

An ongoing transformation process

Technology modernisation at Sturrock & Robson Industries is approached as a continuous process rather than a single initiative. Following the core ERP implementation, the focus has shifted toward refining workflows and improving process efficiency across business units.

“Technology enhancement is an ongoing process. The current focus is on streamlining workflows through phased improvements, while maintaining system security and operational continuity,” Aberdeen explains.

Technology as an operational enabler

By adopting Sage X3, Sturrock & Robson Industries established an ERP foundation designed to support operational integration, project management, and future system evolution. The platform enables the business to manage complexity across its group structure while maintaining flexibility to adapt to changing operational and market requirements.