Zahid Group leads Barloworld management buyout deal

Zahid Group has spearheaded a consortium to complete the strategic management buyout of Barloworld Limited, taking the 123 year old South African industrial group into private ownership

The move underscores strengthening commercial links between Saudi Arabia and South Africa and highlights Zahid Group’s sustained confidence in South Africa as a long term investment market.

The transaction builds on Zahid Group’s existing minority stake in Barloworld and brings together two established Caterpillar dealers with deep regional roots. Zahid Group has more than 75 years of operating history in Saudi Arabia, while Barloworld has served the South African market for over 96 years.

Under the revised ownership structure, Barloworld will continue to operate as an independent South African business, retaining its brand identity and existing executive leadership team.

As part of the new arrangement, Zahid Group will take representation on the Barloworld board, supporting closer strategic alignment and future growth initiatives. These include collaborative programmes focused on skills development and youth upskilling across both countries, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives.

The buyout represents a landmark moment in Saudi and South African commercial relations and reinforces Zahid Group’s long term commitment to sustainable growth, industrial capability and international partnership.