Tony & Kevin Payne of Technogym Win ItalCham Business Persons of the Year 2025

Brothers Tony and Kevin Payne, the driving force behind Technogym in Southern Africa, have been named the ItalCham Business Persons of the Year 2025 at the recent ItalCham Business Excellence Awards 2025, in recognition of their role in expanding the brand’s regional footprint, investing in skills development and driving sustainable growth in a challenging economic climate.

The accolade comes on the back of a stellar year for the business, with Technogym South Africa recording a 29% increase in new equipment sales and a remarkable 58% growth in its Key Account Club segment. Under the leadership of the Payne brothers, the company also expanded its team to 93 employees, having added 14 new hires in 2024 alone.

The awards evening was part of a long-running charity gala hosted by the Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries. Since 1999, the event has brought together over 250 business leaders to celebrate achievement and strengthen ties between the Italian and South African economies.

“Tony and Kevin Payne’s success story is a testament to the power of bilateral trade partnerships and long-term vision. As the Chamber that originally introduced the brothers to Technogym Italy, we are proud to see how the connection has evolved into a thriving business that strengthens not only commercial ties between our two countries, but also drives local job creation, skills transfer and innovation,” said Pamina Bohrer, secretary general at the Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries.

The brothers’ journey over the past few years has been defined by agility and resilience. Navigating the immense disruption of COVID-19, which shuttered gyms, halted tourism and transformed the workplace, their entrepreneurial approach ensured Technogym not only survived, but thrived. Their decision to invest over a volatile period, including a new multi-million Rand head office, showroom and experience centre in Dunkeld, Johannesburg – launching later this year – speaks volumes about their long-term vision and belief in the South African health and wellness market.

“Our focus has always been on building for the future, even when conditions aren’t perfect,” says Kevin Payne. “This award is not just about the numbers, it’s in recognition of our team, the Technogym brand and our commitment to growth with integrity.”

A core part of the company’s success has been its investment in people. Over the past three years, Technogym South Africa has funded over 60 staff training trips to Italy and hosted Italian experts to train more than 450 professionals across the region, strengthening the industry from the inside out.

The brand’s latest evolution, Healthness™, represents the next frontier in wellness: a shift from fitness to proactive health prevention, powered by AI and decades of behavioural data. This forward-thinking approach aligns perfectly with the Paynes’ strategy rooted in purpose, powered by science and backed by real results.

Tony Payne adds, “Winning this award is a proud moment and a reminder of what’s possible when you stay the course, invest in your people and keep moving forward. Working together as brothers brings its own strengths too – it keeps us grounded, accountable and focused on more than just profit. Being recognised by the Italian-South African community, where family and legacy matter deeply, makes this especially meaningful.”

ItalCham Business Persons of the Year 2025 Past Winners

The Business Person of the Year award has a proud tradition of recognising exceptional leadership and innovation within the South African-Italian business community. Past recipients include Matteo Brambilla of Red Rocket (2024), Guido Giachetti of RDC Property Group (2023), Stefano Marani of Renergen (2022) and Fred Crabbia of Mining Pressure System (2018), as well as Giorgio Cavalieri (2019) and Paolo Cavalieri of Hollard (2014).

The ItalCham Business Excellence Awards ceremony took place on 22 May 2025, where both Tony and Kevin were present to accept this well-deserved honour.