Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) shone a spotlight on excellence under the theme Rising as One, recognising the resilience, dedication, and performance of its dealer network at the prestigious 2025 Dealer of the Year (DOTY) awards. Twelve awards across seven categories highlighted the outstanding contributions of dealers and general distributors who navigated one of the toughest years the commercial vehicle industry has faced, demonstrating remarkable strength, adaptability, and unity.
Orbit Commercial Vehicles Cape Town rose above the rest, claiming the 2025 Overall Dealer of the Year for the fourth time, while also securing the EliteClass winner title for Southern Africa for the second consecutive year. This achievement positions them to represent the region at the global Daimler Truck EliteClub event later this year, celebrating top-performing partners worldwide.
The DOTY awards are more than a ceremony; they are a celebration of the people and partnerships that keep Africa moving. Under the theme Rising as One, the event reflected on how collective effort mirrors the power of the ocean – where waves, currents, and tides unite to create momentum strong enough to reshape coastlines. Despite turbulent market conditions, the dealer network’s collaboration and shared purpose propelled DTSA through the challenges of 2025.
Maretha Gerber, President and Group CEO of DTSA, praised the network: “Our purpose at DTSA is clear – For all who keep Africa Moving. Despite stormy waters in 2025, I am extremely proud of our dealers and distributors for coming together and delivering on our collective purpose. Yet in a sea of strong waves, one crest rose the highest: Orbit Commercial Vehicles Cape Town, consistently delivering world-class service and excellence.”
Mike Honiball, CEO of Daimler Truck Financial Services South Africa, also congratulated the dealers who excelled in financial services. “De Wit Motors Commercial Vehicles Ermelo and Ronnies Motors Commercial Vehicles East London showcased exceptional performance in Mercedes-Benz Trucks and FUSO respectively. Excellence in finance strengthens customer trust and supports a seamless ownership experience, made possible through our professional dealer network.”
Among the celebrated winners, Garden City Commercials Pietermaritzburg took top honours in both Mercedes-Benz Trucks and FUSO Trucks for Best Retail Sales Dealer. Customer Service and Parts awards went to De Wit Motors Commercial Vehicles Ermelo and Motus Daimler Trucks Rustenburg, while Sandown Commercial Vehicles Bus Centre and Orbit Commercial Vehicles Cape Town were recognised for bus service excellence. Export partners Technica Industrial in Mozambique and Naledi Motors in Gaborone demonstrated impressive performance, and TruckStore accolades again went to Orbit Commercial Vehicles Cape Town.
The DOTY awards exemplify how commitment, teamwork, and shared vision drive progress across the commercial vehicle sector. As DTSA and its network look ahead, the spirit of Rising as One will continue to inspire excellence, innovation, and a stronger, more connected future for all who keep Africa moving.
