OUR history
OUR hisory
Built over time. Growing with purpose.
Since 1998, Pareto has grown through thoughtful investment, patient stewardship and a long-term belief in the value of place.
What began as a focused property investment business has evolved into one of South Africa’s most significant property companies, with a portfolio that includes some of the country’s most recognised retail destinations, hospitality assets and Africa’s premier conferencing venue.
Every investment has been guided by the same principle: build lasting value for our shareholder while strengthening the communities connected to our portfolio.
A time line of growth
The foundations are laid
The EPPF Property Investment Department managed a diversified portfolio of retail, office and industrial assets. During this period, the Board approved the strategic use of its flagship regional shopping centres, including Cresta, Southgate, Westgate, The Pavilion and Tyger Valley, laying the foundation for what would become Pareto.
1997
Pareto is established
Pareto Limited, then known as Apollo Property Holdings Limited, was incorporated with a clear purpose: to invest in and manage immovable property through a long-term ownership model.
1998
Building an iconic portfolio
Over the next decade, Pareto steadily expanded its portfolio through carefully considered investments.
Key milestones included investments in:
• Sandton Convention Centre
• The Pavilion
• Tyger Valley Centre
• Mimosa Mall
These acquisitions strengthened Pareto's presence in South Africa's leading retail destinations while reinforcing its long-term investment philosophy.
1999 - 2008
Growing with conviction
As the portfolio evolved, Pareto expanded into additional strategic assets through investments in Menlyn Park, Westgate and Southgate, while simplifying ownership across key properties to strengthen long-term custodianship. This period marked the continued evolution of Pareto into one of South Africa's leading retail property owners.
2009–2015
A new chapter
Belelani Capital joined the shareholding alongside the Government Employees Pension Fund, supporting the next phase of Pareto's growth while maintaining its long-term investment focus.
2016
A single shareholder. Shared purpose.
The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) became the sole shareholder of Pareto Limited, reinforcing the company's commitment to responsible investment, sound governance and sustainable value creation.
2021
Expanding beyond South Africa
Pareto acquired a 25% shareholding in Atterbury Europe, establishing an anchor investment across Romania, Serbia and Cyprus. The investment reflected Pareto’s South African portfolio approach: dominant regional and super-regional shopping centres in urban areas with strong growth potential.
2022
Deepening European exposure
Pareto subscribed for a 30% shareholding in the Mall of Limassol, further strengthening the Group’s exposure to quality retail assets in Cyprus and extending its long-term growth platform beyond South Africa.
2023
A broader international footprint
Post financial year-end, Pareto acquired shareholdings in the Mall of Cyprus and Mall of Engomi, consolidating its position in Cyprus and complementing a growing Eastern European portfolio that includes leading retail assets in Romania and Serbia.