Southern Sun’s $45 million Sandton acquisition falls through 

Southern Sun, one of Southern Africa’s largest hospitality groups, has informed shareholders that its planned acquisition of half the Sandton Consortium properties will not proceed. 

The properties are currently owned by Liberty and property investment company Pareto, holding 75% and 25% stakes, respectively.

The portfolio includes Sandton Sun, Sandton Towers, Garden Court Sandton City, the Sandton Convention Centre, and Virgin Active Sandton, all located in Johannesburg’s “Africa’s richest square mile.”

A failed purchase 

Southern Sun had announced in February 2026 that it and Pareto were seeking to acquire Liberty’s 75% stake in the consortium. Under the proposed deal, Pareto would have increased its holding to 50%, with Southern Sun taking the remaining 50%.

The total value of Liberty’s interest was R1.10 billion ($67.5 million), meaning Southern Sun’s portion would have cost approximately R735 million ($45 million). 

However, on 9 March, Southern Sun said the deal would not move forward. Pareto exercised its pre-emptive right, a legal provision that allows existing shareholders to buy additional shares before they are offered to outside investors. “As a result, the parties have terminated negotiations,” the company said. 

Law firm Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr has noted that in property deals, pre-emptive rights ensure current owners can maintain their ownership share if they wish. In this case, Pareto’s decision blocked Southern Sun’s acquisition.

Southern Sun’s Regional Footprint 

Southern Sun operates over 85 hotels, 250 conferencing venues, and more than 300 restaurants across Southern Africa, the Seychelles, and the Middle East.

Its portfolio ranges from economy brands like StayEasy and SUN1 to full-service hotels including Southern Sun Hotels, SunSquare, and Garden Court. 

Luxury properties include Sandton Sun & Towers in Johannesburg, Beverly Hills in uMhlanga, Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa in Hermanus, 54 on Bath in Rosebank, and Mount Grace Hotel & Spa in Magaliesburg. 

Located on Rivonia Road in Sandton, Southern Sun Sandton offers convenient access to Sandton City, Nelson Mandela Square, and the Gautrain Station.

The hotel blends comfort and style, serving both business and leisure travelers who want to explore Johannesburg’s attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues.