Barry Pottinger, owner of the Minuteman Press franchise in Boksburg, has completed the largest volume acquisition for any Minuteman Press centre in South Africa, acquiring 31-year business Wilpro Printers from original retiring owners Willie and Petro Viljoen. The acquisition was made official on 1 January 2026 and Wilpro is now operating under the Minuteman Press Boksburg banner.
Previously teachers, Willie and Petro Viljoen opened the doors of Wilpro Printers in 1994. Willie said, ‘We started the business in 1994 in our study with one Risograph duplicator. We were both teachers and the uncertainties around the new government in South Africa made us think about our future as government employees. Most of the business came from our friends, colleagues and our church. Before we knew it, the business grew and more space and machines were needed.’
He continued, ‘We operated from our four garages for the next 20 years while still teaching and raising three children. The children helped where they could as they got older but none of them were interested in taking over the business. We grew to the point where we could resign from teaching and go into business full-time. In 2022 we moved to another site with more staff and a quieter home life. Now at the age of 67, we decided to retire and sell the business.’
The Viljoens were contacted by Minuteman Press right around that same time. Willie said, ‘The process with Minuteman Press was smooth from the beginning and made us feel safe. Minuteman Press International Regional VP, South Africa Rob Greyling was a key player in our sale. We could ask any questions and raise any concerns. Without Greyling and Minuteman Press, it would have been a steep mountain to climb to sell the business. We sincerely appreciate his guidance.’
From the buyer’s perspective, Barry Pottinger saw this acquisition as a ‘no-brainer’. Pottinger said, ‘Wilpro was a supplier of ours for perfect bound books for many years. It was a print shop I personally admired because I saw how well the business was managed. Wilpro always provided great quality and customer service, which aligns with what we do at Minuteman Press.’
Pottinger went ahead with the acquisition for three key reasons:
– Wilpro was a well-respected printer in the industry with over 30 years of service.
– They offered something different to their customers, so it complemented Minuteman Press’ service offerings very well. Pottinger now has the opportunity to service those clients with their offerings.
– It was a well-run, profitable business.
Pottinger said, ‘It was an absolute pleasure working with Minuteman Press on this acquisition. All dealings with the sellers and myself were handled extremely professionally by Rob. He was always available to answer my questions and get the required information from the sellers or MPIHQ when needed.’
Greyling said, ‘I was happy to work with the Viljoens and Pottinger to help them come to an agreement on the sale of Wilpro Printers to Minuteman Press in Boksburg. I wish the Viljoens all the best on their retirement and congratulate Pottinger on his acquisition that will help expand his business in Boksburg.’
MINUTEMAN SOUTH AFRICA
https://minuteman.com/za
