Cape Argus

The AVBOB Group declares R15 billion bonus to members after strong performance

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Jannie Venter, the Chairman of the AVBOB Board

Image: Supplied

The AVBOB Group delivered a solid business performance for the reporting year. With another successful year behind it, AVBOB remains encouraged by its shared value model which has guided the business for 107 years.

The bonus allocation of R15 billion to members, in the form of the 65Alive cash benefit, follows an equally substantial declaration to qualifying members announced in the previous year. Over the past two years, AVBOB has allocated a total of R28,1 billion to members in 65Alive cash benefits. 

AVBOB members are entitled to share in the profit of the business through bonus allocations and member benefits, which are available over and above the policy benefits. The 65Alive cash benefit can be claimed when the policyholder turns 65 year and your policy that has been in force for at least 10 years. As of June 2025, close to R100 million has been paid to members who received their 65Alive cash benefit.

At AVBOB’s 74th Annual General Meeting, held at the Group’s head office in Irene Link, Chairperson of the Board, Jannie Venter, described the historic bonus declaration as a demonstration of staying true to the founding principles of the business’s shared value model. The Board of Directors remains dedicated to enhancing member benefits and continually shape growth plans for the business to positively impact communities it serves.

Venter explains that the “organisation’s existence and growth is built on a people-first philosophy, and that socio-economic challenges and growing inequality demand that the organisation do more to help mitigate the challenges of poverty and unemployment”.

CREATING VALUE AND GROWTH

Despite a challenging and shifting global economic environment in which the Group operated, Venter emphasised that the business remains relevant in a fast changing and competitive landscape by investing in capability and pursuing measured growth.

The Group delivered strong results for the 2025 financial year, with total assets increasing to R48,4 billion. Demonstrating agility in a dynamic and challenging operating environment, AVBOB introduced a micro-lending product currently being rolled out to members through a phased approach alongside innovative digital solutions designed to enhance service delivery and ensure a member-centric experience. These initiatives remain firmly guided by the Group’s shared value philosophy and dedication to sustainable growth for our members.

AVBOB maintained its Level 1 B-BBEE rating, strengthening its commitment to transformation and inclusive growth. With approximately 2.9 million policyholders and more than 9.7 million lives assured, the Group continues to uphold its legacy as a trusted household brand for millions of South Africans. 

The 2025 financial year highlights

In the financial year ended 30 June 2025, AVBOB achieved the following:

  • The Group paid R3,3 billion in contract benefits and claims. 
  • The national footprint of funeral service, insurance and client service offices increased to a total of 385 offices.
  • Through AVBOB Funeral Service, members received R529,1 million in FREE funeral benefits.
  • AVBOB Member Rewards shared over R170 million and achieved an enrolment of 556 363 members.
  • As part of its investment in literacy and education, AVBOB refurbished 12 container libraries and donated 1 000 trolley libraries to underserved schools and education NPOs across the country.

ACHIEVEMENTS

The Group continues its’ positive role within the communities and environment in which it operates which entails being dedicated to ensuring that a responsible and sustainable business approach is at the heart of all its activities.

  • 2025/2026 Ask Africa Orange Index Awards

Winner – Best Funeral Service Category

  • Mossel Bay Readers’ Choice Awards 2025/2026

Winner – Best Funeral Service Category

  • George Readers’ Choice Awards 2025/2026

Winner – Best Funeral Service Category

  • The Best of Newcastle Business survey 2025/2026

Second – Best Funeral Service Category

  • Dundee Readers’ Choice Awards 2025/2026

Winner – Best Funeral Service Category

For the year under review, AVBOB was also recognised as a Top Employer for the eight consecutive years, which emphasises its commitment to social sustainability and human capital investment.