SOUTH African mining company, Menar, has acquired Springlake Colliery, an anthracite mine located in Dannhauser, from Mylotex. The acquisition was executed through a Sale of Assets Agreement between the two companies, signed in November 2024. The transaction was finalised and concluded on 01 May 2025, officially transferring ownership of the mine to Menar.
Under the previous owner, Springlake Colliery had been placed under business rescue, and Menar says it intends to invest in the mine to address the issues that led to that situation. The new owner says it aims to source suitable customers for the mine’s niche product.
“We are optimistic about Springlake Colliery’s future, considering the growing demand for high-quality energy sources globally. This acquisition takes us forward and highlights our diversification efforts as a company,” says Menar’s managing director, Vuslat Bayoglu.
Menar says it views Springlake Colliery as a strategic asset that strengthens its portfolio, aligning with the company’s broader vision to expand its footprint and pursue opportunities across the global anthracite value chain. Anthracite is a preferred reductant in key industries such as steel manufacturing and ferroalloy production, amongst other vital sectors. It has unique properties, like high calorific value and clean-burning characteristics.
Located in Dannhauser, approximately 45 kilometres from Newcastle, Springlake is an underground mine with the capacity to produce an estimated 60,000 tonnes of run-of-mine anthracite per month. The mine yields a niche product suitable for export markets in parts of Asia, Europe, and South America. It also supplies local customers.
Menar says it is well-positioned to optimise the mine’s operations, with a substantial track record of acquiring assets and turning them around. The company is confident that Springlake will continue to add value to South Africa’s economy while sustaining jobs. Currently, the colliery directly employs around 300 people, excluding contractors.
Menar hopes to strengthen its participation in the anthracite market by adding the KwaZulu-Natal-based Springlake Colliery to its portfolio.
