Standard Bank partners with Metair Investments to support the automotive industry
Standard Bank, the biggest bank in Africa by assets, has collaborated with Metair Investments Limited (Metair), to restructure Metair’s debt.
The bank acted as Mandated Lead Arranger and Global Coordinator for the balance sheet restructure including refinance of existing debts, enabling Metair to rebalance a shareholder at one of its subsidiaries (Hesto) and achieve their long-term financing turnaround strategy.
Metair operates through two segments: Automotive component manufacturer and Aftermarket Parts and Services. The company is valued at over R1.1 billion on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.
“We always work closely with partners, where possible, to find innovative solutions to financial challenges that affect key sectors of the economy. We are invested in co-creating with our clients on long-term solutions, and we are particularly proud to have found a practical way to help Metair return to a financially sustainable position,” says Brydone Graham, Head of Debt Financing Solutions at Standard Bank Corporate and Investment Banking.
The debt restructure allows Metair reduce debt and rebalance its repayment profile to match earnings growth and cash flows.
“We are pleased to have a working relationship with a trusted lead financial partner that understands challenges across key sectors of the economy and is positioned to support with innovative financial solutions. We believe that with this new debt arrangement, Metair Group will be in a stronger position to deliver value in a way that benefits the wider automotive sector,” says Paul O’Flaherty, Chief Executive of Metair Investments.
The automotive sector has been one of the shining lights in the South African economy. According to NAAMSA, the automative industry association, new vehicle export sales saw a significant increase of 31.1%, reaching 39,477 vehicles in March 2025. This marks a 15.7% increase compared to March 2023.
“The industry is a key part of South Africa’s economy, and we believe that deals like this will serve the sector and benefit the country in the long-term,” concludes Graham from Standard Bank.