Raubex divisions cut ERP implementation from 3 years to 5 months with Acumatica switch

After a stalled three-year ERP project, construction materials suppliers Raumix and Tosas transitioned to Acumatica Advanced Construction Edition, gaining faster implementation, integrated operations, and improved access to critical data.

Raumix and Tosas, both part of the Materials Handling and Mining division of Raubex, sought a modern ERP solution after abandoning a legacy system that took over three years to implement without meeting operational needs. Raubex, listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, is a leading infrastructure development and construction materials group comprising around 30 entities in roadworks, civil engineering, mining, and materials supply. Raumix is a major supplier of aggregates and sand to the construction sector, while Tosas manufactures and supplies bituminous products for road paving.

The previous ERP implementation faced high consultancy costs, complex customisations, and limited integration between modules, creating inefficiencies and frequent system outages. Critical functions such as weighbridge integration, mobile access, and inventory management were lacking, and basic updates often disrupted operations.

When evaluating alternatives, executives compared SAP Business One, a local construction ERP, and Acumatica Cloud ERP. They selected Acumatica Advanced Construction Edition for its user-based licensing model, integrated credit and inventory features, open API for third-party connectivity, and minimal need for customisation. The platform’s compatibility with weighbridge software was a key factor for Tosas, while Raumix required seamless integration between stock management and finance.

Implementation partner Astraia proposed a phased rollout, completing deployment in just five months, three for planning and two for execution. The approach allowed both companies to transition smoothly, drawing on Astraia’s experience with the legacy system.

Today, Raumix and Tosas have real-time access to operational and financial data from offices, mobile devices, and construction sites. This has improved decision-making speed, increased productivity, and reduced reliance on paper-based processes. Features such as Acumatica’s fixed asset module and compatibility with Excel-based reporting through Velixo have streamlined administrative tasks and enhanced traceability from purchase requisitions to bank transactions.

The improved efficiency and transparency have prompted other Raubex entities to evaluate or adopt Acumatica, with plans to expand functionality further, including project accounting and other modules aligned with the platform’s development roadmap.

“Acumatica is built with a holistic view with modules designed to connect seamlessly,” says Paul Jankowitz, Chief Financial Officer of Tosas.“There aren’t legacy issues or connectivity issues between modules. You can tell bright minds were creating Acumatica resulting in an intuitive system I’m sure will be able to adapt with the times. This is just a nicer, cleaner, newer, and tidier design language and design.”