Remarkable success stories often have humble beginnings. This is the journey of Bernhard ‘Kiepie’ Herholdt and the Herholdt’s Group. Kiepie Herholdt’s passion for electricity began early. At just 18, in 1959, he became one of South Africa’s youngest qualified electricians. In 1964, Kiepie co-founded Power Electrical Contractors in Bloemfontein. The company quickly secured major contracts, including the University of the Free State’s library and Universitas Hospital’s Medical Faculty. After selling his shares, Kiepie founded Herholdt’s Electrical Contractors in 1974 with Frikkie Esterhuizen. They built a thriving business, moving to 3 Maroela Street in 1983.
In 1986, HEG Properties was established, followed by Herholdt’s Electrical Wholesalers in 1989. The Lighting Division opened in 1995, featuring a showroom and warehouse. In 2010, Herholdt’s expanded to Kimberley, led by Kiepie’s son Heine. This led to the creation of Herholdt’s Renewable Energies in 2016. In 2018, a new branch opened in George, offering electrical, lighting, and renewable energy products.
With rising demand, new offices and warehouses were established in Gauteng and Cape Town in 2020. In 2021, Adenia acquired 78% of Herholdt’s Group, aiming to triple its size within five years. From humble beginnings to industry leader, the Herholdt’s Group now serves both national and international clients. Visit Herholdt’s Group today to learn more…