Barloworld has entered a new phase in the Group’s evolution as a privately held, South African-led industrial business, following the successful Entsha-led consortium acquisition and Barloworld Limited’s subsequent delisting from the JSE and A2X.
The Consortium is majority owned (51%) by Entsha, a 100% black-owned South African investment company associated with the Sewela family, with Zahid Group holding a 49% minority interest as a long-term financial partner.
The transaction is operator‑led and anchored by Dominic Sewela, whose leadership journey within Barloworld spans nearly two decades. He was appointed CEO of Equipment South Africa in 2007, advanced to Chief Operating Officer in 2011, and became CEO of Barloworld Equipment Southern Africa in 2012. He later served as Deputy Group Chief Executive from February 2016 before being appointed Group Chief Executive in February 2017.
“What this transaction does is bring together experienced executive leadership and patient capital that understands the business.” said Dominic Sewela. “Operating in the unlisted space gives us the strategic agility to focus on the core of our business — serving our customers in all market conditions and supporting the wellbeing of our employees. This transition allows us to move beyond the short term and adopt the long‑term perspective required to drive sustainable growth and create intrinsic value for all our stakeholders.”
The Consortium structure ensures continuity across the business. Zahid is a long‑term investor in Barloworld, having maintained a meaningful and enduring stake in the Group over many years. Their continued investment reflects sustained confidence in Barloworld’s leadership, strategic direction, and future as it transitions to private ownership. The structure also strengthens direct Black ownership and reinforces Barloworld’s longstanding commitment to broad‑based participation for employees and communities.
Barloworld will remain headquartered in South Africa, continuing to anchor its operations across Southern Africa and retaining the strong local identity that has defined the Group for more than a century.
Sewela concluded by describing the transaction as an unprecedented and defining moment in the South African landscape. He noted that, even amid ongoing market commentary, the Independent Board ensured strict governance at every turn and expressed his sincere gratitude for the Board’s diligence and dedication. ‘Their steadfast leadership has guided this process with integrity,’ he said.
About the transaction
The acquisition of Barloworld is led by Entsha, together with Dominic Sewela and the Sewela family, through a consortium comprising Entsha and Zahid Group. Entsha holds a 51% majority shareholding, ensuring Barloworld remains South African-led, while Zahid Group participates as a 49% minority partner as a long-term financial investor. Following the successful implementation of the transaction, Barloworld delisted from the JSE and A2X on 27 January 2026. Barloworld will remain South African-headquartered, with its existing management, staff and operations continuing as business-as-usual.
