Glodina Enters A New Era of Excellence

There’s a renewed sense of energy running through the corridors of Glodina. Machines hum with purpose, ideas flow freely, and a quiet confidence fills the air. As Glodina steps boldly into a new chapter, one truth defines our future: world-class quality can be proudly made in South Africa.

At the helm of this transformation is CEO Ismail Dockrat, whose leadership marks a pivotal moment for Glodina and for South African manufacturing at large. Under his guidance, Glodina is not only reclaiming its place as a household name but reshaping what modern, ethical, and sustainable textile production looks like today.

With over 25 years of executive experience spanning trade, investment, and advanced manufacturing, Ismail Dockrat brings more than expertise; he brings vision. His career has taken him from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition to Wesgro, Denel, and Totai, each chapter defined by transformation, innovation, and performance.

“I thrive on complexity,” Dockrat says. “I enjoy solving business problems, driving change, and making a meaningful impact.”

That same passion now drives Glodina’s revival. His focus is clear: to lead the Southern African market in premium-quality towelling by combining the precision of modern technology with the enduring spirit of local craftsmanship.

“Our mission,” he explains, “is not only to compete globally but to prove that South Africa can produce exceptional products that carry both integrity and innovation.”

Inside Glodina’s Hammarsdale facility, innovation and sustainability have become inseparable. Plant modernisation, energy-efficient systems, and water-saving dyeing processes are redefining how towels are made responsibly and resourcefully. The company’s commitment to organic cotton and waste reduction ensures that every product embodies both performance and purpose.

“Sustainability isn’t a section in our strategy,” Dockrat adds. “It’s the thread that runs through everything we do — from protecting jobs to protecting our environment.”

These initiatives have positioned Glodina as a benchmark for responsible manufacturing in the textile sector, setting new standards for efficiency, quality, and social impact.

Yet, behind every towel stands a person — skilled, passionate, and proud. Glodina’s success has always been built on the hands of its people, and that legacy continues stronger than ever. Through succession planning and skills development, we are nurturing a new generation of artisans, technicians, and innovators who are eager to carry Glodina’s name forward.

“We’re empowering young people at every level,” Dockrat says. “They bring fresh energy to our business, and we want them to feel the same pride that has carried this brand for more than 70 years.”

Nearly 300 employees form the heart of Glodina’s operations, each one part of a culture built on trust, transparency, and accountability. “Our people have pledged their commitment to this journey,” Dockrat explains. “Together, we’re building a company that reflects the very best of South African manufacturing.”

Glodina’s renewed membership with Proudly South African underscores our belief in the strength of local production. For Dockrat, the recognition is both symbolic and strategic — a testament to Glodina’s quality, ethics, and enduring heritage.

“This is about more than towels,” he reflects. “It’s about proving that South African manufacturing has the skill, heart, and discipline to compete with the world’s best.”

Through the revitalisation of brands, expansion into African markets, and the strengthening of local supply chains, Glodina is driving a quiet revolution — one towel, one job, one community at a time.

As Glodina moves forward, our focus extends beyond profit. It is about the strength of people, the pursuit of excellence, and a shared sense of national pride. Guided by visionary leadership and an unshakable belief in local potential, we are weaving together the threads of tradition and innovation into something timeless.

At Glodina, every towel tells a story — one of craftsmanship, courage, and community. And every story begins and ends the same way: Proudly made in South Africa.