History

We stand proudly by our valuable legacy

Only by embracing change can we ensure that Merensky’s legacy keeps growing and its people continue achieving greatness in the world. Most importantly, we evolve in order to remain relevant, competitive and pioneering in all of the business units bearing this name.

Dr Hans Merensky, the son of German missionaries, was born in 1871 in the vicinity of Botshabelo near Middleburg. After nine years of studying, he qualified as a Doctor of Geology in Germany. He returned to South Africa for a sabbatical and never left.

In 1924 Dr Merensky discovered platinum in the Lydenberg district. He subsequently purchased the Westfalia farm near Tzaneen where he resided for the remaining years of his life.

Dr Merensky used Westfalia as a means to give back to the country he believed had given him so much. It was here that he pioneered sustainable forestry practices, water conservation and the prevention of soil erosion.

1949

Establishment of the Hans Merensky Trust; registration of Hans Merensky Holdings (Pty) Ltd

1973

Establishment of the Hans Merensky Foundation, replacing the HM Trust

2001

Acquisition of Singisi Forest Products (Pty) Ltd (ca 60,000 hectares)

2006

Establishment of HMH subsidiaries HM Timber Limited and Westfalia

2009

HM Timber Limited rebranded as Merensky

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We stand proudly by our valuable legacy. In order to ensure that this legend keeps expanding and achieving great things in the world, we embrace change. Most importantly, we evolve in order to remain relevant, competitive and pioneering in all of the business units linked to this name. Alone we are just you and me. United we are Merensky.