The African trucking market is often discussed in terms of vehicles, technology and infrastructure. Yet the real foundation of long-term growth lies in something less tangible – a strong, capable and aligned dealer network. Recognising this, UD Trucks Southern Africa used its 2026 Annual Importer and Dealer Conference to bring together partners from across Southern Africa and the wider continent, reinforcing the relationships and competencies needed to support its expansion ambitions across Africa.

Held at Sun City from 3-4 June under the theme “Own the Future”, the conference placed an unprecedented spotlight on Sub-Saharan Africa, dedicating its opening day entirely to SSA markets. The move reflected UD Trucks Southern Africa’s growing focus on strengthening its continental footprint and aligning partners behind a shared vision for sustainable growth.

Africa takes centre stage
The annual conference remains a key platform for aligning importers and dealers around strategic priorities, sharing best practices and recognising excellence across the network.

This year marked a significant milestone as the first day focused exclusively on SSA markets, creating an opportunity for partners from across the continent to collaborate, exchange knowledge and align on future growth opportunities.

“As customer expectations and the transport industry continue to evolve, our dealer network remains one of our strongest competitive advantages. By driving network excellence, strengthening capabilities, and expanding our market presence, we are positioning ourselves to capitalise on the significant growth opportunities emerging across the region,” said Fabrice Gorlier, Senior Vice President International Sales at UD Trucks.

A key feature of the SSA programme was the UD Champions initiative, which recognised top-performing professionals across service advisory, technical expertise, parts sales and driver training. The programme highlighted the role that skills, competence and customer focus play in supporting dealer performance and customer satisfaction.

The evening awards ceremony also recognised outstanding importer performance, with Motruck Eswatini named SSA Markets Medium Importer of the Year and Nors Namibia receiving the SSA Markets Importer of the Year award.

Direct engagement with global leadership
The second day opened with a Dealer Council meeting attended by members of the global executive leadership team, giving dealers an opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers on issues shaping both the business and the broader transport industry.

Subsequent business sessions focused on market trends, customer expectations, operational excellence, retail performance and future opportunities for the UD Trucks network.

Reflecting on the importance of the gathering, Filip Van den Heede, Managing Director of UD Trucks Southern Africa, said: “The Annual Importer and Dealer Conference remains one of our most important platforms for aligning the network around a shared vision, strengthening collaboration, and recognising those who consistently deliver excellence.

“As we continue to evolve our business and expand our presence across Southern Africa and the broader African continent, our dealers remain at the heart of our success. Their unwavering commitment to our customers, our products, and our brand enables us to deliver on our promise of Going the Extra Mile every day, while positioning us for sustainable growth in the years ahead.”

Celebrating dealer excellence
The conference concluded with the 2026 Dealer Awards, recognising dealerships that delivered outstanding performance and customer value across the network.

Among the major winners were:

• Service Dealer of the Year (Medium) – UD Trucks Lichtenburg
• Service Dealer of the Year (Large) – McCarthy Commercial Vehicles Alrode
• Medium Dealer of the Year – UD Trucks Ermelo
• Dealer of the Year – CMH Commercial Pinetown

Graham Kolm, General Manager: SSA Markets at UD Trucks Southern Africa, said the dedicated focus on Africa reflected the company’s confidence in the region’s future.

“The decision to dedicate a full day to SSA Markets reflects the growing importance of our business across the African continent. We see significant opportunities ahead and are committed to working closely with our partners to strengthen market presence, develop capabilities and unlock sustainable growth. Owning the future means investing today in the relationships, skills and foundations that will drive our success tomorrow.”

Closing the conference, Marle Visagie, General Manager: Retail and Competence Development at UD Trucks Southern Africa, reinforced the importance of people development in building a successful dealer network.

“Strong dealerships are built by strong people. By continuously investing in competence development across our network, we equip our teams with the skills and confidence needed to support customers and adapt to an evolving transport industry. This commitment not only strengthens the customer experience but also reinforces the long-term value of investing in the UD Trucks brand.”

Editor’s comment: Truck manufacturers can launch products, introduce technologies and pursue new markets, but sustained growth ultimately depends on the strength of the network supporting customers on the ground. UD Trucks Southern Africa’s decision to dedicate a full day to Sub-Saharan Africa signals a recognition that future growth will be driven not only by vehicles, but by capable partners, skilled people and trusted relationships. Building that continental network today may prove one of the company’s most important investments for tomorrow.

Click on photographs to enlarge