A NEW FINANCIAL YEAR, A CLEARER VISION
As the new financial year begins, BLACKMAGiC sets its strategic direction with ambitious growth plans across BML, ZEN Freight, and BMT.
LEADING FROM THE GROUND UP
EXCO is stepping out of the boardroom and onto the ground, launching weekly Toolbox Talks and site engagements to build a stronger culture across the Group
SAFETY FIRST, ALWAYS
A fire drill at Head Office reinforces the importance of preparedness, awareness, and accountability when it comes to protecting our people
1,000 TRAINS AND COUNTING
Kalagadi reaches a major rail milestone and BML played a powerful role in moving 895 of those trains from the Northern Cape to Port Elizabeth
We are at the beginning of the 2026 financial year (F’26), which commenced on 1 March 2026
A new financial period signals more than a change in calendar. It defines how we will conduct business, sharpen our focus, and execute our strategy for the 2026/27 financial year and beyond Our CEO, Mr Phume, has presented a clear and ambitious roadmap that positions the Group for intentional, sustainable growth.
At a Group level, BLACKMAGiC is committing to embedding ethical, environmental, and sustainable governance into the DNA of our businesses Environmental, Social, and Governance principles will guide how we manage our impact, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and reinforce internal governance standards.
Across our Business Units, the strategic focus is clear:
BML will position itself as the leading provider of Plant Hire to reputable mines in the Northern Cape In Gauteng, the focus is on becoming the leading provider of containerised and bulk cargo via rail to various ports for export In Port Elizabeth and Coega, the ambition is to be the market leader in Back of Port services ZEN aims to become one of the leading road trucking service providers within South Africa, delivering turnkey logistics solutions to clients in collaboration with BML
BMT aspires to be a leading energy storage service provider within Africa, actively participating in the decentralisation of the South African power grid To support the successful implementation of this strategy, the Executive Committee has been realigned to strengthen alignment, accountability, and strategic execution In this edition, we will provides further insight into the executive role adjustments
With these strategic shifts, we enter the new financial year with clarity, ambition, and unity. We wish all Magicians a focused and successful F’26 financial year.
Leading from the Ground Up: EXCO Strengthens Culture and Connection
As the Group sets its sights on ambitious business goals for the future, there is a clear understanding from leadership that growth must be supported by a strong culture and united team.
The Executive Committee has committed to building the business from the ground up by strengthening engagement across all levels of the organisation. Through site visits, tours, and the introduction of weekly Toolbox Talks, EXCO members are creating more opportunities to connect directly with teams on the ground.
These sessions are designed to share business updates, discuss operational matters, address concerns, and encourage open dialogue across the Group. More importantly, they reinforce the belief that progress is achieved when leadership remains close to the people who drive the business every day
By engaging directly with employees across BML, Blackmagic Tech, ZEN Freight, and the broader Group, EXCO aims to build a culture rooted in transparency, collaboration, and accountability.
This commitment reflects a simple but powerful principle: to take the company to the next level, leadership must remain connected to the foundation on which the business is built.
Future of Work in Focus:
BLACKMAGiC HR AT THE TABLE WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS
BLACKMAGiC Group HR recently attended an industry engagement hosted by Wamly, an innovative hiring platform designed to help organisations attract and manage top talent Representing the Group were Precious Sibeko and the Thandiwe Mpotwane , who joined other business partners at The Tryst in Kramerville, Sandton, for an insightful session focused on “10 HR & Hiring Trends for 2026 ”
The event created an opportunity to connect with fellow HR professionals, exchange ideas, and explore emerging approaches to recruitment in a rapidly evolving labour market Discussions centred around the future of hiring, technology in recruitment, and strategies organisations are using to secure top talent
Engagements such as these ensure that BLACKMAGiC remains informed, connected, and forward-thinking as we continue to strengthen our people strategy
FRAMING THE FUTURE: EXCO CAPTURES THE VISION FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER
The Executive Committee recently held a professional photoshoot to reflect the Group’s evolving direction and renewed strategic focus
The updated imagery will support BLACKMAGiC’s brand as the business moves forward into its next phase of growth, representing a leadership team aligned with the vision and ambitions for the future
MORE THAN A MEETING: HEAD OFFICE LAUNCHES WEEKLY TOOLBOX TALKS
Toolbox Talk
Head Office recently hosted its first official Toolbox Talk, introducing a new weekly platform designed to strengthen communication, alignment, and collaboration across the Group.
These sessions will provide teams with the opportunity to share business updates, discuss operational matters, and address any questions or concerns in an open and constructive environment
Taking place every Tuesday, the Toolbox Talk will become a regular touchpoint where employees from across the Group can stay informed, connect with colleagues, and contribute to ongoing improvements within the business
By creating space for consistent engagement, the initiative supports the Group’s broader goal of building a culture rooted in transparency, teamwork, and shared accountability
BUILDING CAPACITY: ZEN
FREIGHT ESTABLISHES OWN FLEET IN PORT ELIZABETH
ZEN Freight is currently in the process of setting up its own fleet in Port Elizabeth This development marks an important operational step, strengthening capacity and enhancing service delivery in the region
The establishment of an internal fleet will provide greater control, improved efficiency, and the ability to respond more effectively to client demands as the business continues to grow.
FOCUSED FOR GROWTH: STRATEGY AND NEW BUDGET APPROVED
With a clear strategy for growth in place and a newly structured budget, ZEN Freight is positioning itself to operate more effectively and sustainably
The refined financial and operational planning framework enables the business to optimise resources, improve processes, and execute growth initiatives with greater precision and confidence
PE CONTROL ROOM, TRACKING AND AI CAMERAS
ZEN Freight has successfully established the Port Elizabeth Control Room, alongside the implementation of advanced tracking systems and AI camera technology
These enhancements strengthen real-time visibility, operational monitoring, and driver oversight The integration of technology into daily operations reflects ZEN’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and modern logistics management
EXPANDING FOOTPRINT: ENTERING NEW MINING MARKETS
ZEN Freight is actively penetrating additional mines as part of its business growth strategy This expansion reflects a deliberate effort to diversify opportunities, strengthen market presence, and secure sustainable growth within the mining sector
KALAGADI HITS 1,000 TRAIN LOADS, BML PROUDLY DELIVERS 895 TO PE EXCELLENCE
Reaching 1,000 train loads is no small achievement, and we extend our congratulations to our valued client, Kalagadi, on this remarkable operational milestone since the commencement of their rail operations Of these 1,000 trains loaded, BML has successfully managed 90% of these trains from the Northern Cape, safely transporting and offloading them to our warehouse in Port Elizabeth This achievement reflects not only volume, but consistency, coordination, and a deep commitment to operational excellence
Behind every train is a team ensuring precision planning, seamless execution, and safe delivery This milestone is a testament to strong partnership, disciplined operations, and the collective effort of the BML team on the ground
We are proud to play a key role in this journey and look forward to many more milestones ahead
Junior HR Coordinator
SAFETY TALK & DRIVER ENGAGEMENT
Following several incidents in January and February, focused action has been taken to reinforce safety awareness. In the attached image, ZEN SHEQ Coordinator Sinovuyo Mlondleni leads a safety discussion on “Obeying the Traffic Controllers” with ZEN drivers and subcontractors These targeted safety talks address key operational risk areas, including near misses and findings from Planned Task Observations, with the goal of driving a positive safety culture and reducing incidents Through ongoing engagement and accountability, we continue to uphold our vision of being the trusted partner in Southern Africa for transporting, storing, and loading bulk commodities.
Kalagadi Manganese
A POWERFUL START TO THE YEAR: LEADERSHIP
VISIT INSPIRES THE NORTHERN CAPE TEAM
The Northern Cape team had the privilege of hosting the CEO and Group HR Manager in January for a meaningful engagement session.
The visit created space to reflect on 2025 acknowledging the challenges faced, the lessons learned, and the resilience demonstrated throughout the year It was also an opportunity to align on the vision for 2026, unpacking what lies ahead and the goals we aim to achieve as a Business Unit and as a Group
Beyond strategy and planning, the engagement served as a significant morale boost for the NC team Direct interaction with leadership reinforced alignment, strengthened connection, and renewed a shared sense of purpose as we step confidently into the new financial year
RESETTING THE STANDARD: SAFETY REFRESHER STRENGTHENS SITE OPERATIONS
Having experienced a few too many incidents over the months of January and February, the Acting site manager, together with the SHEQ officer decided to have an induction refresher on site with the operators in the second week of February
EXCELLENCE IN ACTION
Having experienced a few too many incidents over the months of January and February, the Acting site manager, together with the SHEQ officer decided to have an induction refresher on site with the operators in the second week of February
CEO Site Visit
Induction Refresher
TECH
NEW ENERGY AT BMT: WELCOMING GRANT FREESE TO THE TEAM
BLACKMAGiC Tech (BMT) is pleased to welcome Grant Freese to the team as the Business Unit continues to strengthen its capabilities and prepare for future growth
Based in Johannesburg, Grant brings valuable experience as a business development professional and fintech specialist, with a strong track record of building practical and scalable growth strategies across industries such as IT, SaaS, mobility, and digital services His expertise in identifying opportunities and driving innovation will play an important role as BMT continues to expand its presence within the energy and technology space
Beyond his professional achievements, Grant is a devoted family man who values purpose, impact, and meaningful work He aims to bring the same passion and energy he has for innovation into everything he does from his professional contributions to the relationships he builds within the team
WHEN THE ALARM SOUNDS: FIRE DRILL REINFORCES SAFETY AWARENESS AT HEAD OFFICE
The SHEQ team recently conducted a fire drill at Head Office in collaboration with Legacy Private Security Group (LPSG) to reinforce emergency preparedness Employees were reminded of the importance of clocking in and out using the gate scanning system, which helps safety teams quickly account for everyone in the building during an emergency
Legacy Security also advised staff to remain in their offices during incidents such as riots, robberies, or situations involving firearms, and to follow security instructions rather than approaching the scene The drill served as an important reminder that awareness and cooperation are key to maintaining a safe workplace Theses sessions served as an important refresher on key safety principles, including workplace safety awareness, safety signage, first aid procedures, and emergency readiness.
The BMT team looks forward to the fresh perspective, experience, and momentum Grant will bring to the Business Unit as they continue to grow and deliver forward-thinking solutions
Welcome to the BLACKMAGiC family, Grant where the real magic happens
