A family business founded on the principles of innovation and efficiency, FinnBUILDER® leverages its unique building system to revolutionize construction practices in South Africa and the Continent. Our journey began with the vision to offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional brickwork. Today, we proudly provide a comprehensive selection of concrete slip form moulds designed to empower individuals and businesses in creating sturdy and energy-efficient structures.

FinnBUILDER® homes built since 1946 are still in excellent condition. 

We have consistently committed ourselves to enabling self-sufficiency in construction, making building dreams an attainable reality. Our DIY solutions, coupled with professional training options, allow customers to construct varied structures, whether residential, commercial, or industrial. For those seeking expert assistance, our network of Licensed FinnBUILDER® Contractors are readily available to ensure that their projects meet all standards of excellence.

Our distinctive construction method, which replaces traditional brickwork with a no-slump concrete and slip-form technique, sets us apart in the industry. This innovative approach not only reduces costs but also enhances the strength and durability of the buildings. Through this process, we prioritize sustainability without compromising quality or performance, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly construction practices.

FinnBUILDER® is winner of the All Africa Innovative Housing competition run by the South African Government, the NHBRC and ABSA Bank.

Our story began in the farmlands of the sundrenched Free State Province of South Africa. The world was still in the grips of WW2 and times were tough for everyone. Farmers were doing their best to feed the nation and their livestock while contending with the ever challenging seasons of rain and drought. 

One farmer used these times of adversity to innovate and solve common problems facing farmers in his area. The farmer was Frank Finnemore (Snr.) and he called his invention the Finnemore Movable Mould.  It was a Circular mould and it was an instant success with farmers in the area!  The Government at that time had given farmers a specification to build brick reservoirs but most of them leaked like a sieve! Frank’s Circular mould enabled farmers to build strong, concrete reservoirs which incorporated steel reinforcing and which did not leak or bust. Examples of these original reservoirs are still in use today!

Encouraged by this success, Frank went on to design straight movable moulds for building houses and various farm structures.  The moulds were exhibited at agricultural shows across the country and sold through mail order.

One of the earliest structures built using the Finnemore Movable Moulds was the Morgan Bay Hotel in the Eastern Cape in 1946.  This popular resort hotel still stands proudly on the beach front and is a testament to the durability of the FinnBUILDER technology.

Today, the founder’s grandson, also named Frank, continues to manage this innovative business.  The FinnBUILDER moulds have been re-engineered to improve functionality and new moulds have been introduced to cater for various building applications.  The FinnBUILDER footprint into Africa continues to grow with projects and Licensed FinnBUILDER Contractors in 7 African countries and one Licensee in Mexico.

Our commitment to building excellence remains a priority through the manufacture of precision made steel building moulds, compliance with the national building code and the NHBRC, specialised FinnBUILDER Training and our Quality Management System.

Our focus as we move into the future is aimed at offering an affordable and durable building solution that reduces and recycles waste on building sites and makes use of locally sourced building aggregate to lower the carbon footprint.