About Our Founders

Mark Harper and Sbonelo Mbatha

Mark and Sbonelo founded PetroCONNECT based on their wealth of experience in the energy industry.

Having been involved in the operation of multiple sites and the corporate affairs of major oil companies, our founders have identified the need for PetroCONNECT’s unique solutions within the industry. Given their objective view of the industry, they can provide solutions from both a dealer and corporate perspective.

Each with their own inspirational stories to tell, Mark and Sbonelo continue to offer effective, hands-on leadership and guidance to the PetroCONNECT team and our partners.

Our Brand Story & Purpose

Empowering people. Changing lives.

The stability of the industry is not only critical to its stakeholders but also to the entire country. To remain sustainable, the industry must confront ongoing challenges related to sustainability, ownership, and transformation.

Having personally navigated these challenges and gained a deep understanding of the pressures faced by those within the energy sector, PetroCONNECT was founded with a vision to play a proactive role in empowering all industry players. Our goal is to bring stakeholders together to collaborate and drive industry-wide solutions that ensure long-term growth and transformation.

PetroCONNECT was established to address these significant goals and to lead the industry into a prosperous future. Over time, we have expanded beyond the fuel retail sector to include the broader retail industry, partnering with brands such as Pick n Pay and Check Save as we recognised that our expertise in skills development could make a meaningful impact across multiple sectors.

Accreditations & Noticeable Stakeholders

Ready to take the next step

Empowering people. Changing lives.

Join the growing network of retailers, investors, and partners transforming South Africa’s retail sector. Whether you need accredited training or advisory support, PetroCONNECT is your trusted partner every step of the way.