About Us

Rennies Ships Agency

Steeped in history and trading since 1849 when John Thomson Rennie founded the company so many years ago, the clear vision of the founder lives on today!

John T. Rennie and his sons were instrumental in developing the fledgling shipping industry of South Africa in the early days and throughout the 1900’s, pioneering shipping cargoes and moving people into and out of South Africa as the economy blossomed. The company steadily grew in influence and stature over the years. Although no longer a family business, the name the founders gave to this company continues uninterrupted for more than 150 years.

Still regarded as industry leaders, maintaining the vision and entrepreneurial spirit instilled by the founders more than a 150 years ago, the company is a dynamic and modern organisation with high tech systems, structured into specialist teams focussed on meeting individual needs and demands as the shipping industry moves into the 21st century. It is still a very personal business.

Rennies Ships Agency is now wholly owned by The Bidvest Group Limited which is a company listed on the Johannesburg, Sydney and Luxembourg Stock Exchanges, providing secure financial support as well as backing from the largest freight group in Africa. The Group's activities span a full range of related services including Terminal Operations, Stevedoring, Travel, Clearing & Forwarding, Surveying, Logistics and Road Haulage services.

In Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Botswana and Namibia, operations include a full range of services under the banner of Manica Freight Services and Ocean Liner Services - also part of the Bidvest Group.