Mercedes-Benz and M+Z Motors Celebrate 90-Year Partnership in Namibia

A Triple Milestone in Windhoek

M+Z Motors in Windhoek hosted a celebration this week marking the Mercedes-Benz '140 Years/140 Places' world tour stop in Namibia. The event commemorated three anniversaries: 140 years since Karl Benz developed the first practical motor car in 1886, 120 years of M+Z's presence in Namibia, and a 90-year official partnership between the two companies.

As part of the global celebration, Mercedes-Benz is driving an iconic S-Class across 140 countries. Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare made a brief appearance at the event to add an event sticker to the touring vehicle.

A Partnership Rooted in History

The relationship between Mercedes-Benz and M+Z Motors dates back to 1936, when the Namibian company began representing the German manufacturer's commercial vehicles. Passenger vehicles were added in 1938, and M+Z formally established its passenger-car operations in 1956.

M+Z dealer principal Richard Slamet welcomed international delegates from Mercedes-Benz Germany and South Africa, along with local industry leaders and government officials. He reflected on the deep roots linking the brand to Namibian history, telling guests: "Tonight we have three numbers that tell quite a story: 140 years of Mercedes-Benz, 120 years of M+Z, and 90 years together in partnership."

"When you consider that M+Z has represented Mercedes-Benz for 90 of its 140 years, you realise just how deeply our histories are connected," he said.

Slamet traced the company's origins to Lüderitz, under founders Hermann Metje and Heinrich Ziegler. "Our journey began 120 years ago at Lüderitz with Hermann Metje, later joined by Heinrich Ziegler," he said. "What started as a small business in construction and building materials would grow, adapt and ultimately become the M+Z we know today. Even after Heinrich Ziegler's passing during the First World War, Hermann Metje chose to retain his partner's name, and more than a century later, the names Metje and Ziegler still stand together."

He also recalled that in October 1938, M+Z delivered a Mercedes-Benz 170 V Cabriolet to Jurgen Voigts. In 1956, M+Z Motors & Engineering was established, officially bringing Mercedes-Benz passenger cars into what was then South West Africa.

Looking Ahead

Slamet stressed that the dealership's role extends beyond selling vehicles, with a focus on electric mobility and artificial intelligence. "We are custodians of the Star in Namibia," he said.

The evening concluded with official acknowledgements of the international executive team, including group managing director Ekko Eisenberg and group financial director Hendrik Venter. Representatives from the Namibia Tourism Board and visiting delegates from Germany and South Africa were also acknowledged. The S-Class continues its journey across the globe.

Market Context

The milestone comes as Mercedes-Benz continues to rank among the world's leading luxury vehicle manufacturers. The Business Research Company estimates that Mercedes-Benz Group AG accounted for 54% of global luxury-car market revenue in 2025, placing it second behind BMW AG, which held a 06% share. The same estimates put the global luxury-car market at roughly 54 billion in 2025, with the 10 largest companies accounting for 77% of the market.