Under New Ownership: SA's Forever Resorts Changes Hands as New Owner Shares What's Next
- Forever Resorts, which operates 16 resorts, hotels, lodges, and retreats across South Africa, has been acquired by Benus Trade and Invest
- Benus Trade and Invest is linked to Community Investment Holdings, a 100% black-owned, women-led company with a R20 billion group turnover
- Forever Resorts Managing Director Eugene van Jaarsveldt said the deal opens new doors for the group's strategic growth
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South Africa's well-known holiday brand Forever Resorts has changed hands. The hospitality group announced on 15 September 2026 that it had been acquired by Benus Trade and Invest, closing a significant chapter in the company's decades-long history while opening a new one.
Despite the ownership change, Forever Resorts confirmed it would continue operating under its existing brand name, with all 16 properties remaining fully operational. The group's portfolio spans locations from Warmbaths in Limpopo to Plettenberg Bay on the Garden Route, and includes names such as Gariep, Leopard's Trail, Loskopdam, and Phalaborwa Safari Park. Beyond accommodation, the brand also runs conference centres, wedding and function venues, water parks, and spa facilities.
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Who Is Benus Trade and Invest?
Benus Trade and Invest is an investment vehicle connected to Community Investment Holdings (CIH), a South African investment group founded in 1995 by Professor Anna Mokgokong and Joe Madungandaba. CIH is a 100% black-owned, women-led organisation reporting a group turnover of R20 billion. Its holdings include Afrocentric (Medscheme), Temp Coal, and Jasco Electronics.
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The group's involvement in the deal brings what Forever Resorts described as "local insight" and a grounded understanding of South Africa's communities, consumers, and diverse landscapes.
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A new chapter for the hospitality giant
Forever Resorts Managing Director Eugene van Jaarsveldt welcomed the development with enthusiasm.
"We are very excited about this next chapter of Forever Resorts, and look forward to working closely with our new ownership as we continue to build on the strength and potential of this remarkable business," he said.
Van Jaarsveldt also acknowledged the brand's deep roots in the country's tourism sector.
"Forever Resorts has been part of the South African hospitality landscape for several decades," he said, adding that the group's focus going forward would be on growth while maintaining its strong reputation.
The company said the acquisition positions the brand well for its next phase of expansion, combining its established market presence with the strategic backing of a major South African investment partner.
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Source: Briefly News
