SOUTH AFRICA. Big Five Duty Free, Sub-Saharan Africa’s leading travel retail operator, has announced two key developments: the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer, Lloyd Mhlanga, and the addition of a new shareholder.
Big Five Duty Free said the moves underscore its commitment to investing in people, elevating service standards and driving a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s economy.
Big Five Duty Free has welcomed Maponya Investment Holdings as a shareholder. The Maponya family business, rooted in decades of South African entrepreneurship, brings patient capital and extensive experience in governance, execution and retail place-making to the company’s ownership structure.
The investment renews the partnership between the Maponya family and CAVI Brands. Together, they will support Big Five Duty Free’s next phase of sustainable growth and transformation.
Big Five Duty Free continues to benefit from a diverse shareholder base which includes Gebr. Heinemann, CAVI Brands, and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment women shareholders Zithezeva and Rumbi Investments.
Collectively, these partners contribute deep expertise across international travel retail, luxury beauty and corporate governance and remain actively engaged in driving the company’s growth and transformation, Big Five said.
As part of this evolution, Phathudi Maponya, who has acquired a significant equity stake, will assume the role of Chairman of the Board, steering Big Five Duty Free’s strategic direction and transformation agenda.
Maponya commented: “South Africa’s airports already offer inspiring getaways that reflect the spirit of our nation. With aligned South African capital and world-class partners, we are ready to elevate this experience to the next level, making our national airports feel unmistakably ours – and genuinely world class.”
Lloyd Mhlanga named CEO
In related news Big Five Duty Free has appointed Lloyd Mhlanga as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Mhlanga brings over 20 years of experience in retail management and international duty-free operations. He will lead day-to-day operations, drive commercial performance and oversee the next phase of expansion.
Mhlanga said: “I am honoured to lead Big Five Duty Free into its next chapter. Together with our employees, shareholders and the Heinemann network, our partnership will drive sustainable growth and reinforce our standing as the leading duty-free retailer in Sub-Saharan Africa.”
The leadership and shareholder developments are complementary steps towards building a more inclusive, ambitious and future-ready Big Five Duty Free.
Big Five Duty Free continues to expand and upgrade its retail footprint across South Africa’s major airports, while enhancing the traveller experience through services and a curated product assortment.
It is deepening partnerships with regional airport authorities and concession partners throughout Sub-Saharan Africa and continues to support South African SMEs, particularly women-owned enterprises.
Big Five Duty Free said is dedicated to building a dynamic, transformation-driven travel retail business to support South Africa’s economy.
All key partners have reaffirmed their commitment to the company’s shared vision and new structure. With a strengthened leadership team, diversified shareholder base and clear strategic direction, Big Five Duty Free said it is poised to accelerate its next chapter of growth and shape the future of airport retail in Sub-Saharan Africa. ✈
