More Than 60 Years Of Unitrans’ Commitment To Sub-Saharan Logistics
60 Years Of Unitrans
Unitrans’ rich history is a testament to our enduring dedication. Through our work over more than half a century, we actively support economic development across Sub-Saharan Africa. As a driving force in logistics and end-to-end solutions, Unitrans has enabled countless businesses to flourish in this dynamic region.
Humble beginnings
Unitrans’ story starts in 1892 with Thornton’s Transportation. Thornton’s Transportation was a family-run business established by Samuel Thornton. This solid foundation laid the groundwork for future growth and acquisitions. This included the 1962 incorporation of United Transport Company in South Africa.
United Transport
United Transport quickly rose to prominence. By the 1970s, United Transport had become South Africa’s largest road transport organisation. The company’s reach extended beyond freight haulage. United Transport encompassed passenger transport, tourism, and car rentals. During this time, we also established our Unitrans presence across Botswana, Malawi, and Lesotho.
A legacy of growth
The 1970s ushered in a period of strategic acquisitions for Unitrans. Companies like African Bus Services and Vaal Transport Corporation joined the fold. This era of acquisition solidified Unitrans’ dominance in the regional market. Unitrans went on to further expand its customer base. During this time, the team forged strong partnerships with the sugar cane industry.
An era of focused growth
The 1980s saw further strategic restructuring. Passenger and Freight divisions were established under separate holding companies. This enabled focused growth in each sector. 1987 marked a pivotal moment with the birth of “Unitrans” as we know it today. United Freight Transport officially adopted the Unitrans name. Unitrans then went public on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).
Strategic expansion
From the late 1990s onwards, Unitrans went on to make another series of strategic acquisitions. This extended the Unitrans service offerings and geographic footprint. Mega Bus and Coach and Unitrans Motors became part of the Unitrans family. This firmly established Unitrans within the passenger transport and vehicle distribution sectors.
Responding to consumer demand
During the 1990s, we also launched Unitrans Finance. This fulfilled the growing demand for consumer credit in the motor vehicle market. Unitrans continued to adapt to the evolving needs of the market. As part of a major restructure, Unitrans Supply Chain Solutions was established in 2006. This dedicated division focused on the increasingly sophisticated logistics landscape.
Unitrans Africa
Unitrans’ commitment to Sub-Saharan Africa remained unwavering throughout the 2000s. Expansion continued with the establishment of operations in Tanzania, Mozambique, Namibia, and Madagascar.
The year 2018 marked a significant milestone with the establishment of Unitrans Africa. This focused entity aimed to drive further growth across the continent. Leaning on several decades’ experience and well-established partnerships, Unitrans Africa continued to grow. Today, Unitrans Africa boasts a presence in 10 countries.
One Unitrans
In 2023, Unitrans began a new chapter. Unitrans strengthened its market position by merging the three distinct businesses (South Africa, Africa and Passenger) under one collective structure. In 2024, Unitrans now operates more than 5000 vehicles across the Sub-Saharan region. Our teams cover more than 100k hectares in the agricultural sector. Our passenger division safely transports more than 18 million people. With more than 10 million tonnes hauled, and 292 million kilometres travelled, the Unitrans legacy continues. As a critical partner to public and private sector organisations across the region, Unitrans continues to shape the future of logistics and supply chain solutions.
