In the road freight industry, long-term partnerships between fleets and OEMs are often the quiet advantage that keeps the best operators consistently ahead. Tip Top Milk’s latest acquisition of 21 Mercedes-Benz Actros 2645 Pure units underscores exactly that. By expanding its Mercedes-Benz fleet to 155 trucks, the dairy logistics specialist is demonstrating the real-world benefits of brand loyalty – predictable performance, dependable support and a supplier that understands the business almost as well as the operator does. For Tip Top Milk, this milestone is not just another fleet refresh but a reaffirmation of a relationship that has powered its growth since 2010.
A business built on values and vision
Founded in 2010 by the late Beyers de Bruin with “a lot of faith” and a single Dyna 3500 milk tanker, Tip Top Milk has grown into a 36-million-litre a month operation running from three depots and employing around 200 people. Yet the company insists it has not moved an inch from its original ethos.
“Our business is built around people, our customers and our employees,” says CEO David de Jager. “We pride ourselves on doing what is right and being honest in everything we do.”
The connection with Mercedes-Benz Trucks runs just as deep. “In 2010, Mercedes-Benz Trucks was the only truck brand willing to take a chance on us,” de Jager says. “That’s where Beyers’ love for the brand started.”
Partnerships that deliver under pressure
The operational relationship between Tip Top Milk, Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Motus Daimler Trucks Airport has matured into what de Jager describes as a dependable, no-excuses partnership.
“Ruan Pienaar and the team have been exceptional. Their support is unwavering, and they never make excuses. It’s a pleasure doing business with them,” he says.
Reliability is non-negotiable in milk transport. “We have a truck in our fleet with over a million kilometres on the clock,” de Jager notes. But he is quick to add that longevity isn’t the whole story.
“No matter how reliable a truck is, repairs will eventually be needed. That’s where Mercedes-Benz Trucks truly stand out – the availability of parts makes all the difference and keeps our business moving.”
Dealer proximity also meets the uptime brief. “There are at least two dealerships along one of our major routes, which means support is readily available,” he says.
That support recently proved its worth after an accident. “We contacted Motus Daimler Trucks Airport on a Saturday afternoon with an urgent need to replace one of our trucks. By Tuesday, the new truck was delivered. That level of responsiveness and support is a testament to Mercedes-Benz Truck’s commitment.”
Technology turning drivers into top performers
Tip Top Milk uses Fleetboard extensively to sharpen its operational edge. The telematics platform underpins the company’s driver bonus system and has helped transform fleet behaviour.
“Thanks to driver training and the information provided by Fleetboard, the average driver scores have improved from 8.9 in 2014 to 9.4 in 2025,” de Jager says. The outcome is less downtime, more fuel saved and lower maintenance spend.
But ergonomics and hardware still matter to the people who spend their lives in the cab. “Mercedes-Benz Trucks are not only the most aesthetically pleasing trucks on the road – they offer a host of features and benefits that support our operations,” de Jager explains.
Above all, he keeps the spotlight on his team. “Our drivers spend countless hours behind the wheel every day and their comfort directly affects their performance and well-being. That’s why we choose Mercedes-Benz Trucks: they deliver unmatched comfort, helping us take care of the people who keep our business moving.”
Olaf Petersen, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Daimler Truck Southern Africa, says the loyalty goes both ways: “Tip Top Milk is a trusted company that keeps Africa moving. Fifteen years ago, we saw their vision and potential and today we’re proud to be one of the leading brands behind their business.
“We sincerely thank David and the entire Tip Top Milk team for their loyalty over the years. Their continued trust inspires us more than ever, to support their business as it grows from strength to strength.”
Editor’s comment: Tip Top Milk’s story is a case study in how belief, operational discipline and supplier alignment can build a national logistics force from modest beginnings. In a sector buffeted by tight margins and infrastructure pressures, the company’s willingness to invest in premium equipment and long-term partnerships stands out. This latest fleet expansion is not just another delivery – it’s a reminder that when operators and OEMs pull in the same direction, the results speak for themselves.
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