L-R: Phathudi Maponya will assume the role of chairman of the board; Lloyd Mhlanga has been appointed chief executive officer of Big Five Duty Free.

Big Five Duty Free, Sub-Saharan Africa’s leading travel retail operator, has announced two major milestones in its strategic journey: the appointment of a new chief executive officer and the addition of a new shareholder to its ownership structure.

These developments mark a new era of growth for the company, reinforcing its commitment to investing in its people, elevating service standards and contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s economy.

Maponya Investment Holdings joins Big Five Duty Free

Big Five Duty Free has welcomed Maponya Investment Holdings as a new 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.

This move follows the family’s previous investment in CAVI Brands, with both entities now partnering again to support the next phase of growth at Big Five Duty Free.

The company continues to benefit from a diverse and longstanding shareholder base, including Gebr. Heinemann, CAVI Brands and its Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) women shareholders, Zithezeva and Rumbi Investments. Together, these stakeholders bring deep expertise in global travel retail, luxury beauty and strategic governance, and remain actively engaged in driving the company’s growth and transformation.

With this strengthened structure, Phathudi Maponya, who has acquired a significant equity stake, will assume the role of chairman of the board, guiding strategic growth and transformation.

“South Africa’s airports already offer inspiring getaways that reflect the spirit of our nation,” said Maponya. “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 appointed chief executive officer of Big Five Duty Free

Lloyd Mhlanga has been appointed chief executive officer, bringing more than 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. His in-depth knowledge of the company’s operations is expected to provide both continuity and value.

“I am honoured to lead Big Five Duty Free into its next chapter,” said Mhlanga. “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.”

A vision for sustainable growth and transformation in travel retail

The leadership and shareholder changes are independent but complementary steps toward a more inclusive, ambitious and future-ready Big Five Duty Free. The company continues to invest in expanding and upgrading its retail footprint at major South African airports while strengthening partnerships with regional airport authorities and concession partners across Sub-Saharan Africa. It is also deepening its commitment to supporting South African SMEs, particularly women-owned businesses and enhancing the traveller experience through tailored product assortments and bespoke services.

Big Five Duty Free remains dedicated to building a dynamic, transformation-driven travel retail business that reflects the diversity and innovation of South Africa. All key partners have expressed strong support for the company’s new structure and shared vision for the future.

With aligned leadership, empowered partnerships, and a clear strategic direction, Big Five Duty Free is well positioned to shape the next chapter of airport retail in Sub-Saharan Africa.

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