South Africa’s most iconic family holiday brand is coming home.
In a major shift for the local hospitality sector, Forever Resorts has been acquired by Benus Trade and Invest, an investment firm associated with South African group Community Investment Holdings (CIH).
From the mineral springs of Warmbaths and Badplaas to the scenic heights of Blyde Canyon, the beloved portfolio of resorts, lodges, and campsites will remain under its familiar name - promising business as usual for loyal holidaymakers, alongside fresh local investment for the future.
A familiar holiday brand
Forever Resorts operates a portfolio of resorts, hotels, lodges and scenic retreats across South Africa. Its accommodation includes luxury lodges, self-catering chalets, log cabins and caravan and camping facilities.
The group is also known for resorts built around natural hot springs and water attractions, including Warmbaths in Bela Bela and Badplaas. Other properties are located in destinations such as Blyde Canyon, Gariep and Plettenberg Bay.
Guests can choose from activities including hiking, game drives, boating, fishing, ziplining and quad biking. The group also offers conference, wedding and function venues across its portfolio.
Business continues as usual
Despite the change in ownership, Forever Resorts said guests and employees can expect continuity across the business.
Forever Resorts managing director Eugene van Jaarsveldt said the acquisition creates an opportunity to build on the group’s existing position while developing its future.
“We are very excited about this next chapter of Forever Resorts, and look forward to working closely with our new ownership as we continue to build on the strength and potential of this remarkable business.”
Van Jaarsveldt said the company’s history in South Africa remains an important part of its identity.
“Forever Resorts has been part of the South African hospitality landscape for several decades. What makes this business truly unique is not only the scenic destinations where we operate, but also the people who bring those destinations to life and the memories they create for our guests.”
He added that guests and employees would remain central to the business.
“Our focus has always been about people, our guests, our team and the communities we are privileged to serve. They remain at the heart of everything we do.”
Looking ahead
Under the new ownership, Forever Resorts said it will continue developing its accommodation, leisure facilities and guest experiences while exploring opportunities for growth.
Its offering includes warm water swimming pools, water parks, hot mineral springs, hydros and spa facilities alongside outdoor activities and family entertainment.
Van Jaarsveldt said the group would focus on protecting the reputation it has built while strengthening relationships with guests and partners.
“As we look to the future, our focus remains on building on the reputation of Forever Resorts, driving continued growth, nurturing the valued relationships that have contributed to our success, exploring new opportunities, and continuing to create safe, innovative, and extraordinary experiences for our guests.”
New ownership
CIH was founded in 1995 by Prof Anna Mokgokong and Joe Madungandaba. The South African investment group has interests across sectors including healthcare, technology and telecommunications, power and energy, mining, logistics and infrastructure development.
As the new custodian of Forever Resorts, CIH said it is committed to preserving the brand’s heritage while developing its properties and ensuring they remain accessible to South Africans.
Van Jaarsveldt said the group was ready for the transition.
“Together with our new ownership, our passionate team, and our Forever Family of guests and partners, we are embracing this transition from a position of strength and are truly excited about this new chapter in the Forever Resorts story.”
lutho.pasiya@nationalmg.co.za