This selection of large multinational companies in South Africa is dominated by the retail and financial services sectors. Major players include The Shoprite Group of Companies, a large-scale food retailer; Absa Group, an African financial services company; Pick n Pay, offering groceries, clothing, and general merchandise; and TFG (The Foschini Group), operating numerous specialty retail brands. These firms primarily serve the African continent, indicating a strong regional focus.
A notable pattern among these companies is their significant employee bases, with many employing tens of thousands of people, such as Standard Bank Group with over 70,000 employees and MTN with over 42,000. Most of these companies are headquartered in Johannesburg or Cape Town, reflecting these cities' roles as major commercial hubs in South Africa.
| # | Company | Employees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Standard Bank Groupstandardbank.com
Financial services provider focused on inclusive, sustainable economic development and growth across sub-Saharan Africa with ethical business practices. |
70,728 | |||
| 2 |
The Shoprite Group of Companiesshopriteholdings.co.za
Large scale food retailing across Africa providing affordable goods, financial services, and pharmaceuticals through innovative technology, data science, and sustainable community development initiatives. |
47,851 | |||
| 3 | 42,718 | ||||
| 4 |
Absa Groupabsa.africa
African financial services company focused on growth, with presence in multiple countries and insurance operations across the continent |
42,684 | |||
| 5 |
Pick n Paypnp.co.za
Operating diverse retail formats across Africa providing affordable groceries, clothing, and general merchandise while creating economic opportunities and social impact through various store channels. |
34,254 | |||
| 6 |
FNB South Africafnb.co.za
This company values 'help' and practices 'better business; better world' ethos, aiming to drive positive change in people's lives and communities |
32,630 | |||
| 7 | 31,000 | ||||
| 8 |
TFG (The Foschini Group)tfglimited.co.za
Operates thirty-five speciality retail brands across twenty-three countries, offering fashion, jewellery, homeware, and electronics through over four thousand outlets and a lifestyle e-commerce platform. |
29,353 | |||
| 9 |
SPAR South Africaspar.co.za
Supplying goods and services to over two thousand stores through distribution centres focusing on grocery, building materials, and pharmaceutical products for communities. |
24,203 | |||
| 10 |
Mr Price Groupmrpricegroup.com
Omni-channel value retailer specializing in apparel, homeware, and sportswear across South Africa and international markets through physical stores and a dedicated online platform. |
21,460 | |||
| 11 |
PEPpepstores.com
Africa's largest retailer with 2600+ stores offering clothing, footwear, homeware, FMCG, cellular products, services such as loans, and various financial transactions |
19,911 | |||
| 12 |
Old Mutual South Africaoldmutual.co.za
A pan-African financial services group offering solutions to retail and corporate customers, focused on creating positive futures for individuals, communities, and society |
18,394 | |||
| 13 |
Massmartmassmart.co.za
Operates over 300 stores across 8 sub-Saharan countries, leading market shares in general merchandise, liquor, home improvement, and wholesale food sectors. |
16,817 | |||
| 14 |
Vodacomvodacom.co.za
The company leverages technology and the power of humanity to achieve common goals, striving to go further together |
16,047 | |||
| 15 |
Discovery Limiteddiscovery.co.za
Leading global company innovating in health, life, and short-term insurance, promoting wellness and shared value through Vitality program. |
14,735 | |||
| 16 |
Mediclinicmediclinic.co.za
Private hospital group in South Africa and Namibia providing acute care, specialist services, and evidence-based care through a network of hospitals and clinics |
14,068 | |||
| 17 |
AB InBev Africaab-inbev.com
Producing and distributing a wide range of popular local and global beer brands across 12 African countries, fostering community and prosperity. |
13,599 | |||
| 18 |
Clicks Groupclicksgroup.co.za
Leading healthcare, beauty, and wellness retailer in South Africa with a network of over 850 stores and 670 pharmacies, committed to increasing access to affordable healthcare |
13,474 | |||
| 19 |
MultiChoice Groupmultichoice.com
Provides entertainment platforms and content security services, delivering African storytelling to over 19 million people across 50 countries. |
13,144 | |||
| 20 |
Old Mutualoldmutual.com
Pan-African financial services company focused on meeting Africa's needs by supporting education, housing, small businesses, and infrastructure development. |
13,100 | |||
| 21 |
Boxer Superstoresboxerinvestor.co.za
Leading Southern African discount supermarket chain providing groceries, liquor, and building materials through integrated retail operations, distribution centres, and dedicated meat processing facilities. |
12,365 | |||
| 22 |
Dimension Datadimensiondata.com
Leading African technology provider offering systems integration, managed services, cloud solutions, business applications, customer experience, and intelligent security across Middle East and Africa. |
12,075 | |||
| 23 |
Standard Bank South Africastandardbank.co.za
Creating supportive environments to empower employees, delivering excellent client service, and contributing to sustainable growth across Africa. |
11,730 | |||
| 24 |
Ackermansackermans.co.za
Leading value fashion retailer offering affordable clothing for families, homeware, cellular products, and financial services through hundreds of stores across five different countries. |
11,395 | |||
| 25 |
Coca-Cola Beverages Africaccbagroup.com
Largest African Coca-Cola bottler with 14,000 employees, serving 800,000 customers across 14 countries with local and international brands. |
11,379 | |||
| 26 |
Transnet Freight Railtransnetfreightrail-tfr.net
A leading heavy haul freight rail operator with extensive infrastructure in South Africa and connections to other networks in the sub-Saharan region |
11,184 | |||
| 27 |
GOLD FIELDSgoldfields.com
gold mining company with operations in multiple countries, focused on creating value and fostering an inclusive, connected workforce |
9,997 | |||
| 28 |
WNS Global Services SA
Leader in business transformation with global BPM services, recognized across industries for operational excellence, leveraging state-of-the-art facilities and talent |
9,852 | |||
| 29 |
CCI Globalcciglobal.com
A leading BPO company in Africa, offering exceptional services across multiple industries with a global reach and a commitment to service excellence and advanced technologies |
8,840 | |||
| 30 |
Tiger Brandstigerbrands.com
Manufacture, market, and distribute everyday branded food, beverages, home, and personal care products across South Africa and Africa. |
8,640 | |||
| 31 |
Engenengen.co.za
African energy group marketing petroleum, lubricants, and convenience services through service stations across sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands |
8,593 | |||
| 32 |
Stanbic Bankstandardbank.com
Banking and financial services across Africa and emerging markets with focus on personal, business, corporate, investment, and wealth sectors. |
8,289 | |||
| 33 | 7,962 | ||||
| 34 |
Truworthstruworths.co.za
Leading fashion retailer with cash and account options, offering clothing, footwear, and accessories through multiple brands and large-format stores |
7,908 | |||
| 35 |
Life Healthcarelifehealthcare.co.za
Global diversified healthcare organization offering acute care, mental health, rehabilitation, renal dialysis, medical imaging, and radiopharmaceutical products and services. |
7,178 | |||
| 36 |
Harmony Gold Mining Company Limitedharmony.co.za
Gold mining and exploration company with operations in South Africa and Papua New Guinea, including underground and open pit mines. |
5,961 | |||
| 37 |
OUTsuranceoutsurance.co.za
An insurance company offering cash back bonuses for claim-free customers, multiple product lines, and a history of industry awards and recognition |
5,704 | |||
| 38 |
Unitransunitransafrica.com
A diversified logistical service provider in sub-Saharan Africa, offering supply chain solutions to global companies and contributing to economic development |
5,685 | |||
| 39 |
Imperialimperiallogistics.com
Provider of integrated market access and logistics solutions across healthcare, consumer, automotive, chemicals, industrial, and commodities sectors in Africa. |
5,554 | |||
| 40 |
South African Airwaysflysaa.com
Leading carrier in Africa, offering passenger and cargo transport services, maintenance facilities, catering, and regional flights within South Africa and internationally |
5,408 | |||
| 41 |
Nando's South Africanandos.co.za
Worldwide fast-casual restaurant company specializing in spicy PERi-PERi chicken and sauces, with a history originating from Southeast Africa and Portuguese influence. |
4,887 | |||
| 42 |
Alexforbesinvest.alexforbes.com
Provides investment, retirement, healthcare, and administration solutions to corporate and individual clients across South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. |
4,608 | |||
| 43 |
RMB - Rand Merchant Bankrmb.co.za
Provides innovative corporate and investment banking services including advisory, funding, trading, and risk management across Africa and globally. |
4,478 | |||
| 44 |
Implatsimplats.co.za
A leading producer of platinum group metals with six mining operations in South Africa, North America, and Zimbabwe, offering toll refining services |
4,386 | |||
| 45 |
PwC South Africapwc.co.za
A trusted global firm in South Africa, providing tailored solutions and expertise in assurance, consulting, tax, and legal services across various industries |
4,161 | |||
| 46 |
sportscenesportscene.co.za
A leading retailer of trendy sneakers, apparel, and accessories from top streetwear brands for men, women, and kids across southern Africa |
4,065 | |||
| 47 | 4,023 | ||||
| 48 |
Hollywoodbetshollywood.simplify.hr
A sports and entertainment betting operator with a strong presence in South Africa and expanding internationally, focusing on community support and sports partnerships |
3,937 | |||
| 49 |
WBHO Constructionwbho.co.za
A leading construction business in Southern Africa, specializing in building construction, civil engineering, road projects, and prioritizing safety, quality, and empowerment |
3,913 | |||
| 50 |
Pioneer Foodspioneerfoods.co.za
A leading FMCG company in South Africa, producing and distributing a wide range of branded foods and beverages nationally and internationally |
3,704 | |||
Want more companies than this list?This page shows the largest ones only. Connect to Tamtam to see every company that matches, filter by size, industry or growth, and reach their decision-makers. | |||||
| 51 |
Builders: Warehouse, Express, Trade Depot, Superstorebuilders.co.za
Leading retailer in Southern Africa offering home improvement, DIY, and building materials with stores in multiple countries, tailored to meet customer needs |
3,498 | |||
| 52 |
SBV South Africasbv.co.za
Cash services provider safeguarding lives and economy with cash processing, transport, and ATM management solutions across Africa since 1986 |
3,445 | |||
| 53 |
Value Logisticsvalue.co.za
Providing comprehensive transport and logistics services including truck rental and customized solutions focused on trust and reliability for customers. |
3,426 | |||
| 54 |
Gijimagijima.com
This South African company provides comprehensive ICT solutions, including outsourcing, telecommunications, cloud services, data solutions, digital innovations, security, and human capital development. |
3,378 | |||
| 55 |
Stefanutti Stocksstefanuttistocks.com
A leading construction group in South Africa, offering infrastructure development projects across various sectors with a focus on safety and sustainability |
3,308 | |||
| 56 |
Vector Logisticsvectorlog.com
Supply Chain and Sales & Merchandising partner in Southern Africa Specializing in integrated, temperature-controlled network with multi-temperature vehicles for efficient deliveries |
3,184 | |||
| 57 |
Distellheinekenbeverages.co.za
A leading producer of distinctive alcoholic beverages with a global presence, prioritizing quality, excellence, and customer focus while investing in employee growth |
3,170 | |||
| 58 |
Bidvest Prestigebidvestprestige.co.za
Leading contract cleaning service provider in Southern Africa and Mauritius, offering innovative solutions in contract and specialized cleaning, training, event staffing, healthcare, and mobile toilets hire |
3,155 | |||
| 59 |
Airports Company South Africaairports.co.za
Management and operation of nine South African airports, international airport expansions, and partnerships to enhance global airport infrastructure and services. |
2,914 | |||
| 60 |
Hungry Lionhungrylion.co.za
Offers high-quality fast food products at affordable prices within a modern fast-food environment across 9 African countries. |
2,879 | |||
| 61 |
Ignition Groupignitiongroup.co.za
Ignition empowers consumers, entrepreneurs, and organizations by providing technology, media, telecommunications, and customer experience solutions tailored to individual needs |
2,866 | |||
| 62 |
Protea Hotels by Marriott庐bit.ly
African hotel group with over 100 hotels in 9 countries, offering superior service, diverse accommodations, and recognized with multiple prestigious awards |
2,860 | |||
| 63 |
Naspers Limitednaspers.com
Global consumer internet company investing in technology and ecommerce businesses, empowering people and enriching communities worldwide. |
2,856 | |||
| 64 |
Adcorp Groupadcorpgroup.com
A workforce solutions provider offering diverse talent management solutions in various industries and regions to shape markets and economies |
2,851 | |||
| 65 |
Premier FMCG (Pty) Ltdpremierfmcg.com
A South African-based organization with a strong distribution network across multiple regions, focusing on various categories and brands, with a commitment to growth and innovation |
2,759 | |||
| 66 |
Nashua LTDnashua.co.za
Empowering businesses with future-proofed communication technology, promoting remote work flexibility, and supporting economic growth through tech innovation since 1973 |
2,755 | |||
| 67 |
PathCarepathcare.co.za
PathCare Laboratories is a network of pathology labs offering a wide range of testing services for medical, veterinary, environmental, and industrial purposes with a focus on quality and innovation |
2,755 | |||
| 68 | 2,719 | ||||
| 69 |
Southern Sunsouthernsun.com
Leading hospitality group in Southern Africa and beyond, offering luxurious hotels, resorts, restaurants, conference venues, and banqueting facilities with a focus on service excellence and sustainability |
2,705 | |||
| 70 |
Barclays Africa Group Limited
The company underwent a name change to Absa Group Limited and aims to have one brand across all operations Follow their new LinkedIn page |
2,671 | |||
| 71 |
Cape Union Mart Groupcapeunionmart.co.za
A retail division in South Africa offering outdoor adventure gear, trendy apparel, accessories, and unique home goods across three distinctive chains |
2,635 | |||
| 72 |
Spur Corporationspurcorporation.com
A growing multi-brand restaurant franchisor with distinctive atmospheres, offering quality meals and family-friendly experiences through over 600 outlets worldwide |
2,613 | |||
| 73 |
Bearing Man Group (Pty) Ltd t/a BMGbmgworld.net
Distributes and manufactures engineering consumables, bearings, power transmission, and hydraulics while providing technical resources, field services, predictive maintenance, and project engineering across Africa. |
2,604 | |||
| 74 |
DRA Globaldraglobal.com
An international group specializing in engineering, project delivery, and operations management in the mining industry, offering services across various commodities worldwide |
2,502 | |||
| 75 |
Virgin Active South Africavirginactive.co.za
A part of the Virgin Group, Virgin Active Africa aims to make exercise irresistible through innovative gym experiences and a passion for customer service |
2,488 | |||
| 76 |
KPMG South Africakpmg.com
Global network of firms providing audit, tax, and advisory services to clients worldwide, with a focus on risk management and seizing opportunities for sustainable growth |
2,464 | |||
| 77 |
AECI Miningaecimining.com
Provider of state-of-the-art mining chemicals and explosives to optimize mineral processing and enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in mining operations globally |
2,463 | |||
| 78 |
Mukurumukuru.com
Leading fintech platform in Africa offering affordable and reliable financial services, including money transfers, funeral cover, and prepaid cards, with multilingual customer support channels |
2,369 | |||
| 79 |
Skynet Worldwide Expressskynetworldwide.com
Global courier service provider offering international, same day, and domestic deliveries with secure, innovative logistics and eCommerce solutions. |
2,315 | |||
| 80 |
The Aurum Institutelinktr.ee
African organization with 21 years experience leading efforts to eradicate TB and HIV through research, treatment, and collaboration with various sectors |
2,249 | |||
| 81 |
Deloitte South Africadeloitte.com
A leading professional services firm in Southern Africa providing tax, audit, consulting, and financial advisory services to help companies succeed |
2,190 | |||
| 82 |
Zutarizutari.com
The company is an infrastructure engineering and advisory practice that maximizes the value of water, transport, energy, resources, and built-environment projects |
2,131 | |||
| 83 |
Vox Telecomvox.co.za
Leading telecom operator offering voice, data, and collaboration services across southern Africa for both business and consumer markets. |
2,101 | |||
| 84 |
ENSensafrica.com
Provides comprehensive legal services across Africa, specializing in commercial law, tax, forensics, and intellectual property with extensive experience. |
2,101 | |||
| 85 |
Studio 88 Group of Companiesstudio-88.co.za
A leading fashion and footwear retail chain in South Africa, offering exclusive releases and top international brands in vibrant store settings Expanding presence in Africa |
2,065 | |||
| 86 |
Comair Limitedcomair.co.za
An innovative and diversified aviation group operating airlines, training, catering, hospitality, and travel services in South Africa and beyond |
2,047 | |||
| 87 |
Entelectculture.entelect.co.za
Software engineering company delivering world-class solutions to industries with highly skilled staff, custom systems design, career development opportunities, and rewards program for high performers |
1,997 | |||
| 88 |
Airlinkflyairlink.com
A premium airline in South Africa with the largest network in 15 African countries, known for exceptional on-time performance and service excellence |
1,992 | |||
| 89 | 1,991 | ||||
| 90 |
Seeff Propertiesseeff.com
A leading South African organization specializing in various aspects of the real estate industry including residential sales, rentals, property development, and commercial properties |
1,961 | |||
| 91 |
Bidvest International Logisticsbidvestil.com
Global transport and logistics provider offering end-to-end supply chain management solutions with a personalized approach, international network, and industry expertise |
1,889 | |||
| 92 |
Right to Carerighttocare.org
The company provides innovative HIV/TB care, pharmacy automation, male medical circumcision, and cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment services through research-driven solutions |
1,871 | |||
| 93 |
BDO South Africabdo.co.za
A leading provider of audit, advisory, and tax services in South Africa, offering practical solutions through exceptional client relationships and global network support |
1,862 | |||
| 94 |
Dimension Data Middle East and Africadimensiondata.com
Specialist IT services and solutions provider helping clients with IT infrastructure planning, building, support, and management across multiple regions |
1,836 | |||
| 95 |
Empact Groupempactgroup.co.za
A purpose-driven company providing catering, cleaning, and facilities management solutions in Southern Africa with a focus on creating value and making a positive impact |
1,832 | |||
| 96 |
Scaw Metals Groupscaw.co.za
A leading South African integrated steel maker producing specialized products for mining, infrastructure, construction, power, oil and gas industries worldwide Commitment to safety and zero harm |
1,822 | |||
| 97 |
Famous Brandsfamousbrands.co.za
A leading franchisor in the restaurant industry with a diverse portfolio of much-loved brands, offering innovative food services solutions and sustainable growth |
1,754 | |||
| 98 |
Afroxafrox.co.za
Supplier of gases and welding products, services, and technologies to healthcare, hospitality, food, beverage, energy, mining, steel, and automotive sectors. |
1,749 | |||
| 99 |
the dti (Department of Trade and Industry: Republic of South Africa)thedtic.gov.za
Facilitating economic transformation, industrial development, and inclusive growth in South Africa through strategic objectives and creating a conducive environment for investment and trade |
1,743 | |||
| 100 |
Super Groupsupergroup.co.za
Broad-based supply chain management business with expertise in vehicle dealerships, fleet management, and international operations, providing comprehensive products and services |
1,699 | |||
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Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Nov 12, 2026.
More company lists in South Africa
- The largest companies in South Africa 1,847
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- Manufacturers in South Africa 196
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- IT services companies in South Africa 60
- Logistics companies in South Africa 60
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The same list elsewhere in South Africa
- Multinational companies in Gauteng 268
- Multinational companies in Western Cape 92
- Multinational companies in Johannesburg 131
- Multinational companies in Cape Town 78
- Multinational companies in Sandton 25