- Business
- Motus Holdings Limited (MOTUY) is a South Africa-based diversified non-manufacturing automotive group focused on vehicle import, distribution, retail, rental, financial services, and aftermarket parts. The company operates through four primary segments: Import and Distribution, involving the importation and distribution of passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), and parts primarily in South Africa and select Southern and East African markets; Retail and Rental, encompassing new and pre-owned passenger and commercial vehicle sales, vehicle servicing, maintenance workshops, parts sales, and car rental operations in South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Australia; Mobility Solutions, providing fleet management, business process outsourcing, service and maintenance plans, warranty administration, and value-added products and services (VAPS) such as fintech and data solutions; and Aftermarket Parts, distributing, wholesaling, and retailing parts and accessories for out-of-warranty vehicles through owned and franchised stores, supported by distribution centers in South Africa, the United Kingdom, Taiwan, China, and other regions.
Motus Holdings represents leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) including exclusive distribution rights in South Africa for Hyundai, Kia, Renault, Mitsubishi, and Tata passenger vehicles, as well as Nissan in four East African countries and Haval in two East African countries; additional brands include Omoda, Jetour, Jaecoo, MG, and Chery, totaling 29 manufacturers and 39 brands across its network. The company maintains an extensive operational footprint with approximately 1,285 outlets globally as of mid-2025, including 933 in South Africa (335 retail dealerships, 125 car rental branches, 473 aftermarket parts outlets), 119 in the United Kingdom (86 commercial and 33 passenger dealerships), 47 passenger dealerships in Australia, and additional presence in Southern and East Africa and Southeast Asia. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Bedfordview, Gauteng, South Africa, Motus employs around 20,000 people and generates revenue primarily from South Africa (66%), the United Kingdom (25%), and Australia/Southeast Asia (9%).
Recent developments include the March 2025 divestiture of its UK Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van division to SAGA Truck and Van, enabling focus on core operations like its leading DAF dealership network; a February 2025 five-year partnership with Tata Motors to distribute passenger vehicles in South Africa and neighboring countries; a November 2024 CEO transition with Ockert Janse van Rensburg succeeding Osman Arbee; and earlier moves such as the 2022 acquisition of UK-based Motor Parts Direct and increased stake in pre-owned retailer GetWorth. In September 2024, Motus reported resilient performance amid economic challenges, driven by international expansion and diversification. The company continues to prioritize organic growth, portfolio optimization, and innovation across the vehicle value chain while advancing sustainability initiatives, including renewable energy sourcing and community investments.