Logistics 1 Oct 2025

Jacobs Transport: Forging a legacy of growth through strategic partnership

Jacobs Transport is a specialised transport enterprise founded in 1999 by brothers Gys and Jan Jacobs. The company started as a two-man operation with a single second-hand crane truck. Driven by a shared passion to fill a critical gap in the South African transport sector, they established their primary depot.

Jacobs Transport provides a comprehensive range of transport solutions, including abnormal loads, general freight and warehousing services, across South Africa and into neighbouring countries.

The problem

Like many ambitious startups, Jacobs Transport faced significant hurdles. Managing cash flow in a capital-intensive industry was a constant challenge, exacerbated by an urgent need for specialised assets beyond their initial single vehicle. This shortage severely limited their capacity to meet growing market demand and expand their service offerings.

“We experienced tremendous growth, achieving a 40% year-on-year increase. While this journey has been positive, it was not without its unique set of challenges,” says Gys Jacobs.

Their rapid success brought its own complexities. Scaling operations, acquiring new vehicles, securing larger premises and building a robust team required substantial financial backing and strategic guidance. They needed a financial partner capable of understanding and supporting this accelerated growth.

The solution

Recognising the need for a truly collaborative financial partner, Gys and Jan Jacobs chose us as their financial partner. This relationship, initiated with their transactional account, became the bedrock for their expansion. Our tailored solutions directly addressed Jacobs Transport’s critical needs, fuelling their journey from an ordinary business to a major player.

Through commercial asset finance, we enabled the strategic acquisition of a modern, specialised fleet, directly overcoming asset shortage and allowing for significant operational expansion. As the business outgrew its original space, commercial property finance facilitated the move to larger, purpose-built premises, providing the necessary infrastructure for their growing team and operations.

Beyond these, general lending provided essential working capital. Our commitment also extended to long-term sustainability, proudly facilitating the installation of solar and borehole water systems at their new facility, reflecting a shared vision for responsible growth.

The outcome

Today, Jacobs Transport stands as a beacon of success, a testament to the power of vision and strategic partnership. Our partnership has evolved from a mere financier to a trusted advisor, understanding and supporting Jacobs Transport’s evolving aspirations.

Gys Jacobs reflects on this journey, stating, "Standard Bank has been more than just a bank; they've been a true partner, understanding our dreams and helping us build something lasting."