By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Standard Bank
Johannesburg | Business & Finance
Standard Bank has reinforced its position as a leading financier of complex transactions after playing a pivotal role in supporting Sanlam Private Equity in its acquisition of Medhold, a prominent supplier of medical devices and surgical supplies across South Africa and selected African markets.
The transaction, which was first announced in October 2025 and has now received regulatory approval, marks a significant milestone in strengthening healthcare infrastructure and supply chains on the continent.
Strengthening a Critical Healthcare Player
Medhold operates across both private and public healthcare sectors, supplying a diversified portfolio of medical devices and surgical consumables sourced from leading global original equipment manufacturers. Beyond distribution, the company provides essential after-sales services, including maintenance and repairs, ensuring continuity of care and operational reliability for hospitals and surgical facilities.
The acquisition positions Medhold for its next phase of growth, with access to strategic capital, operational expertise and governance support aimed at expanding its footprint and enhancing innovation in the healthcare sector.
A Long-Term Growth Partnership
Sanlam Private Equity, part of Sanlam Alternative Investments, is recognised for its long-term, hands-on approach to investing in established mid-market businesses with strong growth potential. Its investment philosophy centres on formalising, professionalising and scaling businesses that form the backbone of the South African economy.
According to Paul Moeketsi, the investment reflects a commitment to building resilient, well-governed companies that can drive inclusive growth. He noted that strengthening governance, supply chains and operational capacity in businesses like Medhold ultimately supports innovation and job creation in critical sectors such as healthcare.
Bespoke Financing for Complex Deals
Standard Bank acted as the sole investment bank and Mandated Lead Arranger, structuring an innovative funding solution tailored to support the acquisition. The deal underscores the bank’s expertise in leveraged and structured finance, as well as its ability to deliver bespoke solutions for strategic transactions.
Marisane Thobejane, Executive Vice President for Leveraged Finance at Standard Bank Corporate and Investment Banking, said the transaction highlights the bank’s capability to enable client success through innovative funding while deepening long-standing partnerships with key clients.
Echoing this sentiment, Kgomotso Sebopelo, Vice President for Diversified Industries at Standard Bank CIB, emphasised that the deal demonstrates the bank’s strong support for the healthcare sector. She added that the transaction will help ensure the continued supply of essential medical equipment while enabling Medhold to expand, innovate and diversify its offering.
Driving Impact Beyond the Transaction
Beyond the balance sheet, the acquisition reflects a broader commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery across South Africa and the region. By pairing Sanlam Private Equity’s active ownership model with Standard Bank’s financing expertise, the partnership is expected to unlock sustainable growth, enhance operational resilience and support improved access to critical medical supplies.
As healthcare systems across Africa face increasing demand, the Medhold transaction stands as an example of how strategic private capital and tailored financial solutions can work together to deliver long-term economic and social impact.
