The inaugural Top 500 Awards were held at Melrose Arch on Tuesday (7 March) listing the best-managed companies cross over 100 different business sectors in South Africa.

The ranking uses a methodology designed in conjunction with the University of Cape Town’s Development Policy Research Unit. It covers three key metrics including financial performance, empowerment, and policy and accreditation.

According to the criteria, the winning companies have to not only excel in their specific sectors, but also have to have a strong set of social, empowerment and development policies in place.

Anglo American South Africa was awarded the top prize as the best-managed company in South Africa, beating out stiff competition from favourites Naspers, Zeder Investments and Woolworths.

Other big award winners included Mercedes Benz South Africa, Woolworths, Adcorp, Bidvest, EOH and Flight Centre.

Viewed collectively, the companies standing for awards comprised the majority of the regional economy, employing over 800,000 people and contributing a total of R109 billion towards economic growth every year, said Ralf Fletcher, CEO of Topco Media.

Their importance was echoed by keynote speaker home affairs minister, Malusi Gigaba, who emphasised the importance of reigniting economic growth and building a South Africa that is inclusive to all.

The full list of winners in the biggest award categories are detailed below.