CEO’s Overview 2025
Nik Augoustatos interviews Warwick M Smith-Chandler CEO of Perfect Laser Technologies.
Warwick’s career highlights include the founding and listing on the JSE of Computer Warehouse in 1987. His passion for entrepreneurship and technology morphed thereafter into becoming publishing editor of business computer technology magazines. In 2014 he launched Perfect Laser Technologies, combining successfully high-tech manufacturing machinery with computerised systems whilst simultaneously guiding businesses throughout South Africa on how to effectively use digitally controlled machinery to expand or start a business. Perfect Laser Technologies operates a branch network throughout South Africa with its head office in Randburg Johannesburg.
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As the CEO of this company, my responsibility remains steadfast: to cultivate a culture that ensures every client receives a winning solution. My now 60-strong team and I push ourselves daily to simplify our clients’ businesses, fostering superior growth and profitability. We recognize that our success is directly tied to theirs, and this drives our unwavering commitment to excellence.
In a challenging economic and logistical environment, we remain resolute in our mission. South Africa continues to face headwinds, from rising operational costs to supply chain disruptions. However, we see these as opportunities to innovate and strengthen our services. Our nationwide network of technicians, support specialists, and managers works tirelessly to ensure that businesses of all sizes thrive. When our clients grow, they create jobs, sustain families, and contribute to the economy—an impact we take great pride in.
We understand that ‘good service’ is the enemy of ‘great service.’ To stay ahead, our team invests in continuous learning, up-skilling, and refining our processes. Our support lines remain open until 8 PM, we provide free machine training every Saturday, and we document our expertise within our cloud-based management system. This ensures that our growing team—now at 60 members—can onboard efficiently and that our clients receive the right advice, the first time. We don’t always get it perfect, but every day we strive to be better than yesterday.
Over the past few years, our company has evolved into a powerhouse of expertise in CO2 lasers, UV and eco-solvent color printers, CNC, sublimation, and fiber technology machines. Beyond hardware, our software proficiency has expanded, covering platforms like CorelDraw, Illustrator, Fusion 360, AutoCAD, and various operating systems. This comprehensive skill set empowers our clients to scale their operations effectively. The number of clients with multiple machines has now surpassed 150, and we are proud to maintain a 98%+ availability of critical parts.
Challenges remain. Airfreight costs have surged, fuel and electricity expenses continue to rise, and infrastructure challenges persist. Yet, rather than being deterred, we use these hurdles as catalysts for innovation. We are constantly refining our logistics and operational efficiencies to ensure that our clients receive the best possible support and service.
2025 marks an era of acceleration in customer success. Our online presence has grown significantly, with over 250+ five-star reviews on various platforms in 2024 alone. Our training programs remain a cornerstone of our offering, and our branch network has expanded to 12 locations across South Africa, bringing us even closer to our clients
One of the most rewarding moments in recent years was hearing from a long-time client who still holds onto their original invoice from our early days, reflecting on the trust and reliability we have built over time. That trust remains the foundation of everything we do.
The coming year will bring new challenges, but also new opportunities. We stand firm in our belief that through innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to our clients, we will continue to thrive together.
Warwick Smith-Chandler
Founder and CEO
January 2025