Rudamans History

Established in 1896 in Barberton by Alfred Jackaman as A. Jackaman & Sons, Rudamans has a history stretching back over 100 years. Originally conceived as a small shop aimed at servicing the mining industry, the company thrived under the leadership of Alfred for the next 29 years.

During this time Alfred married Agnes Button and produced 6 children though this marriage. Of these 6 children the yoke of leadership was passed to his eldest son Laurie in 1925. Laurie, known through out the Lowveld as a superb sportsman gained prowess on both the tennis court and the golf course. He understood his market and used his sports knowledge to further advance the company. In 1970 the company, once again, moved down the line of successorship to his two sons, Terry and Lance. Terry decides to remain in Nelspruit and run the business, while Lance decided to try his hand out in business in Durban. Terry successfully ran the company for four years until fate stepped in and changed circumstances.

In 1974 the store was gutted by fire. A near fatal blow for the company. Terry approached David Rudge with a partnership deal. Combining their surnames the name Rudamans was conceived. Out of the ashes a new force to be reckoned with was born. A. Jackaman & Sons was relaunched under the new Rudamans Barberton banner a few months later. The business thrived for another 14 years, the partnership with David Rudge unfortunately did not. After 6 months David Rudge, feeling that he was not suited to the retail market, requested Terry to buy out his share of the company. During this 14 years expansion plans were put into place and, in partnership with his brother-in-law Roy Guthrie, in 1986 opened Rudamans Nelspruit. To this day both Terry and Roy remain as directors of Rudamans Nelspruit. In 1998 Terry finally put down the leadership 
banner deciding it was time to pass on the flame. Having joined the company in 1991 and 1995 respectively, Terry’s two sons, Wayne and Craig, now carry on the Jackaman tradition.

After investing in Rudamans Nelspruit they have successfully turned the company into a business synonymous with excellent service. Establishing strong relationships with the forestry, agriculture and gardening industries both Wayne and Craig see a bright future ahead for Rudamans Nelspruit. Realising that markets move on and times change Wayne and Craig have recently launched further divisions: Bike and Marine offers clients both agriculture and leisure equipment specialising in road and off-road motor bikes, quad bikes and boats. Their 4x4 division recently launched specialises in off-road 4x4 leisure equipment.

Through out its history the family’s philosophy of excellent service and attention to their client’s needs has earned them a reputation for outstanding product knowledge and a caring attitude to whom they regard as family: their clients.