Built to keep South Africa moving.
AfriGrid delivers fuel & lubricants through a lean, decentralised network—so businesses get the right product, on time, at a fair price.
About afrigrid
Our Journey
Our story begins far from the world of lubricants and fuels. Before AfriGrid Lubes was established, our founder built a diverse and robust career in the media industry—starting as a sound engineer, later growing into videography, gear management for Kreative Afrika, and digital video editing for mainstream television. This journey led to collaborations with prominent broadcasters such as SABC, Moja Love, Newsfield Gathering for CNN, and others.
Through these experiences, a deeper awareness emerged: an understanding of the pressing challenges within the automotive ekasi economy. The widespread use of unrefined lubricants, incorrect oil choices, and black-market products was placing thousands of vehicles at risk daily. This realisation became the spark that would ultimately shape the future of our business.
Humble Beginnings
A defining moment arrived when a colleague received an opportunity to supply recycled oil across the border. Seeing potential, our founder purchased two barrels 209L of 15W40 engine oil and began a small decanting operation.
However, customers were cautious. Unbranded oils weakened trust, and after nine unsuccessful attempts to sell, one truth became clear—credibility, consistency, and quality were the non-negotiables of this industry.
About afrigrid
Our Journey
Our story begins far from the world of lubricants and fuels. Before AfriGrid Lubes was established, our founder built a diverse and robust career in the media industry—starting as a sound engineer, later growing into videography, gear management for Kreative Afrika, and digital video editing for mainstream television. This journey led to collaborations with prominent broadcasters such as SABC, Moja Love, Newsfield Gathering for CNN, and others.
Through these experiences, a deeper awareness emerged: an understanding of the pressing challenges within the automotive ekasi economy. The widespread use of unrefined lubricants, incorrect oil choices, and black-market products was placing thousands of vehicles at risk daily. This realisation became the spark that would ultimately shape the future of our business.
Humble Beginnings
A defining moment arrived when a colleague received an opportunity to supply recycled oil across the border. Seeing potential, our founder purchased two barrels 209L of 15W40 engine oil and began a small decanting operation.
However, customers were cautious. Unbranded oils weakened trust, and after nine unsuccessful attempts to sell, one truth became clear—credibility, consistency, and quality were the non-negotiables of this industry.
Research. Adaptation. Breakthrough
Determined to succeed, a new strategy emerged: selling decanted oil at cost while studying customer preferences for more reputable brands. Without a vehicle, our founder travelled over 100 km to source stock, often reinvesting every cent of profit into transportation. Over time, patterns in consumer behaviour revealed clear brand loyalties.
This insight sparked the next major shift—specialising in a single, trusted lubricant brand.
Operating from a modest table at a busy four-way intersection, working seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., the mission continued. Yet without an official brand partner, earning customer trust remained difficult, often forcing prices to remain extremely low.
The Turning Point: Shell Comes On Board
One night, driven by persistence, our founder reached out directly to Shell and shared the complete journey.
That message changed everything.
Shell recognised the vision, resilience, and potential of the business. Soon after, AfriGrid Lubes was appointed as an official Shell Authorised Reseller, gaining access to premium-quality lubricants and supplier networks backed by more than 30 years of industry credibility.
From that moment, AfriGrid Lubes transformed into a trusted, fast-growing provider of premium automotive solutions.
Research. Adaptation. Breakthrough
Determined to succeed, a new strategy emerged: selling decanted oil at cost while studying customer preferences for more reputable brands. Without a vehicle, our founder travelled over 100 km to source stock, often reinvesting every cent of profit into transportation. Over time, patterns in consumer behaviour revealed clear brand loyalties.
This insight sparked the next major shift—specialising in a single, trusted lubricant brand.
Operating from a modest table at a busy four-way intersection, working seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., the mission continued. Yet without an official brand partner, earning customer trust remained difficult, often forcing prices to remain extremely low.
The Turning Point: Shell Comes On Board
One night, driven by persistence, our founder reached out directly to Shell and shared the complete journey.
That message changed everything.
Shell recognised the vision, resilience, and potential of the business. Soon after, AfriGrid Lubes was appointed as an official Shell Authorised Reseller, gaining access to premium-quality lubricants and supplier networks backed by more than 30 years of industry credibility.
From that moment, AfriGrid Lubes transformed into a trusted, fast-growing provider of premium automotive solutions.
Decentralised Growth: Empowering Independent Resellers
As AfriGrid Lubricants, we have developed and implemented a forward-thinking strategy of decentralisation. Today, our operations are strengthened by a network of 20+ fully trained, independent automotive oil resellers and wholesale petroleum licence holders, operating across multiple provinces.
Our network is proudly intra-provincial, 80% female and 20% male, reflecting our commitment to economic inclusion, empowerment, and equal opportunity within the automotive and petroleum sectors.
Expansion and Infrastructure
With the backing of a globally respected brand and a growing nationwide presence, our services expanded rapidly into:
Diesel supply
Gas supply
Lubricant retail and distribution
We have invested in more than 10 brand-new, 1000L roadworthy and safety-compliant diesel bowsers, available for both operational use and affordable rental. Our foundation remains built on integrity, quality, and reliability—values that continue to define us.
Decentralised Growth: Empowering Independent Resellers
As AfriGrid Lubricants, we have developed and implemented a forward-thinking strategy of decentralisation. Today, our operations are strengthened by a network of 20+ fully trained, independent automotive oil resellers and wholesale petroleum licence holders, operating across multiple provinces.
Our network is proudly intra-provincial, 80% female and 20% male, reflecting our commitment to economic inclusion, empowerment, and equal opportunity within the automotive and petroleum sectors.
Expansion and Infrastructure
With the backing of a globally respected brand and a growing nationwide presence, our services expanded rapidly into:
Diesel supply
Gas supply
Lubricant retail and distribution
We have invested in more than 10 brand-new, 1000L roadworthy and safety-compliant diesel bowsers, available for both operational use and affordable rental. Our foundation remains built on integrity, quality, and reliability—values that continue to define us.
Our Services
We proudly provide premium automotive solutions, including:
Correct Oil Recommendations
Expert guidance to ensure every engine receives the correct lubricant for optimal performance.
OBD Diagnostic Scanning
Professional diagnostics for accurate and efficient vehicle fault detection.
Oil Change Services
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Car Wash Services
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Our Promise
AfriGrid Lubes stands today as a testament to resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence. From humble beginnings to becoming a recognised provider of premium fuels and lubricants, our mission remains steadfast:
To protect engines, empower motorists, uplift communities, and strengthen the automotive economy through trusted, world-class solutions.