End of an era: Murray & Roberts Holdings Limited shuts down

Renowned South African engineering and construction firm, Murray & Roberts Holdings Limited (MRH), is officially closing down after more than 120 years of operation.

Source: Supplied.

The move comes after an extended period of financial strain that left the holding company insolvent once its key assets had been sold.

The company formally notified shareholders this week of its decision to cease operations. This follows in the wake of a creditor-initiated winding-up application filed in the Gauteng High Court. Herein, the firm announced it would not oppose the process due to its dire financial circumstances.

Murray & Roberts Limited, a separate legal entity from Murray & Roberts Holdings Limited, entered business rescue in November 2024, and by April 2025, an overwhelming majority of creditors (99.7%) approved a rescue plan. This business rescue process will not be impacted by the liquidation of Murray & Roberts Holdings Limited.

This marks a poignant end for Murray & Roberts Holdings Limited - a firm that built icons like the Carlton Centre, Gautrain, Sun City, Medupi Power Station, Cape Town Stadium, and Dubai’s Burj al Arab—even participating in the 2010 San José mine rescue.