About Bushtec

Luxury Tented Creations

For over five decades, Bushtec Luxury Tented Creations has been shaping remarkable experiences through engineering excellence, sustainable design, and unrivalled craftsmanship.

 

Every structure we create is an expression of precision – a blend of luxury, comfort, and technical innovation designed to perform beautifully in the world’s most demanding locations.

A legacy of craftmanship and innovation

Since 1970, Bushtec has been synonymous with quality, durability, and design leadership. As a division of Canvas and Tent, our heritage is built on supplying world-leading tented solutions to safari destinations, governments, conservation organisations, resorts, and adventure operators worldwide.

Our commitment to innovation continues to set us apart – from pioneering the iconic Meru range to redefining modern luxury tents that offer the flexibility, comfort, and performance demanded by today’s hospitality landscape.

Manufacturing exellence

Our in-house capabilities and quality control ensure superior results, every time. 

Complete supply chain control 

As a division of Canvas and Tent, our in-house manufacturing gives us full control over quality, consistency and delivery, ensuring every project meets the highest standard.

Meticulous quality assurance 

Every tent is carefully handmade, preassembled by skilled artisans and inspected before shipment, guaranteeing quality, flawless installation and complete peace of mind.

State-of-the-art R&D 

Our research and development lab brings together engineers, designers, and technical specialists who constantly push the boundaries of tented architecture and hospitality design, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the industry.

Global distribution network 

With a world-class and growing distribution network, our products reach clients across the globe – always designed to impress, and built to last.

A team of experts behind every build

With decades of mastery, our leadership, sales and design teams bring deep expertise and innovative thinking, ensuring every Bushtec project is crafted with intention, precision and purpose.

Bushtec leadership

Eric Goldblum

Group Chairman

Hans Hillebrand

Group CEO

Willem van Ree

MD at Canvas and Tent Manufacturing

Willie Burger

Deputy MD at Canvas and Tent Manufacturing

Frans Vermaas

Director – Bushtec Hospitality

Jaco Venter

CEO Bushtec Namibia

Brett Sinclair

Managing Director of Kalahari Kanvas 

Gary Flaks

Founding Partner and CEO, Canvas and Tent USA

Sales and design

Ruan Fourie

Sales Executive

Cheryl Oliver

Sales and Logistics Coordinator

Ina-Mari Ferreira

Sales Consultant

David Court

Sales Consultant

Louis Viljoen

Chief of Design

Christoff Koekemoer

Design Lead

Desmond Breedt

Project Designer

Etienne Hellerle

Project Designer

Trusted by globally respected brands

World-renowned hospitality leaders demand partners who deliver on every promise. That’s why they choose Bushtec; because when your reputation depends on reliable, seamless execution, working with experienced people you can count on really matters.

Sustainability at our core

We are committed to creating luxury experiences that respect the environments they inhabit.

Through responsible manufacturing, thoughtful material selection, and long-lasting construction, our structures minimise environmental impact while maximising guest comfort.

ISO 9001 certified

ISO 14001 certified

ESG sustainability principles

Let's create something remarkable

Ready to bring your vision to life? Our team is here to partner with you on your next extraordinary hospitality project. Let’s discuss how we can help create an unforgettable experience. 

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Eric Goldblum 

An industrialist and private equity investor with leadership interests across manufacturing, food production, property development, and hospitality infrastructure. As Group Chairman of Bushtec, Canvas and Tent, and Brenco Brands, he oversees global operations that design and deliver world-class tented structures for the hospitality, adventure, defence, and mining sectors. His business portfolio spans essential food manufacturing, commercial and industrial property, and strategic investments that support long-term sector growth. Eric is known for his decisive leadership and ability to build resilient, high-performance organisations. Outside of work, he is a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather who enjoys golf and time spent in the bush.

Hans Hillebrand

Group CEO of Canvas and Tent, parent company to Bushtec, overseeing global strategy, operational excellence, and market expansion across six continents. Known for people-centred leadership and executional rigor, Hans has strengthened the organisation’s global footprint through strategic partnerships in the US, GCC, Australia, Africa, and Europe. His background includes senior roles in financial services at J.P. Morgan, Standard Bank, and FNB, with a focus on international business and strategic growth. Hans holds an MBA from Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. He is also a proud father of two, balancing a demanding global role with a strong commitment to family life.

Willem van Ree

Senior Manager at Canvas and Tent with over three decades of experience in modular shelter systems, rapid deployment solutions, and technical product design. His background spans operations, procurement, compliance, and technical development, shaping a product range that serves luxury tourism, military, mining, and humanitarian sectors. Willem’s early training as a tailor provides a foundation of craftsmanship that continues to inform his approach to quality and precision. He is known for his practical problem-solving and deep product knowledge. Outside of work, Willem enjoys time in the bushveld, wildlife tracking, and hands-on DIY projects.

Willie Burger

Director at Canvas and Tent with 28 years of experience in the design, development and delivery of tented solutions. He specialises in the development of safari and glamping tents, modular shelters and technical product design. His career progressed from a sales and workshop management role to joining Canvas and Tent in 1997, where his expertise has been integral in shaping the business and its innovative product range and production facility. Willie values quality time with family, which keeps him grounded and inspired.

Frans Vermaas

Director of Bushtec Hospitality with more than two decades of industry experience developing luxury tented camps in premier destinations around the world. He leads with a strong understanding of client vision, ensuring each project reflects Bushtec’s signature quality, innovation, and design excellence. Frans oversees teams that transform concepts into world-class hospitality environments. Outside of work, he enjoys time in nature with his wife and two sons, where he finds inspiration for the experiences he helps create. 

Jaco Venter

Jaco has a focused leadership approach centred on sales strategy, customer relationships, and value-driven solutions for the tourism industry. With three years of industry experience, Jaco plays an active role in supporting the design process, ensuring that client vision is aligned with practical execution and commercial viability. His strength lies in building lasting partnerships and sourcing high-quality, value-focused products that enhance both guest experience and operational efficiency.

 

Jaco has a deep appreciation for the outdoors and draws inspiration from Africa’s landscapes. Outside of work, he enjoys camping, wildlife, photography, and travelling across the continent.

Brett Sinclair

Brett has a strong background in remote luxury hospitality operations across Southern Africa. Having managed high-end lodges in Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia, Brett brings a deep understanding of the operational demands and guest expectations within the luxury safari sector.

 

He oversees all Botswana operations and manages projects in neighbouring countries, ensuring seamless execution, quality delivery, and strong client relationships across the region. His hands-on leadership style and practical field experience enable him to navigate the complexities of remote environments with confidence and precision.

 

Outside of work, Brett is driven by adventure. Whether riding motorbikes, flying aircraft, or scuba diving, he gravitates toward outdoor pursuits that reflect the same energy and boldness he brings to his role.

Gary Flaks

Originally from South Africa, Gary Flaks moved to the United States in 2007 after successfully founding, expanding, and selling the now 600+ store Rage Stores retail chain. From 2007 to 2010, he served as Divisional Vice President at The Children’s Place Retail Stores before returning to his entrepreneurial roots.

 

He went on to found Launch Footwear and develop VitaFilta, an innovative line of water coolers and filtration systems. In 2016, Gary established Canvas and Tent USA, introducing the Bushtec brand to the American market.

 

Under his leadership, Bushtec has become the nation’s leading name in luxury canvas tents, with more than 100 projects completed across 30 states. A Chartered Accountant (CPA equivalent), Gary combines deep corporate expertise with a proven entrepreneurial track record spanning retail, consumer products, and hospitality.

 

A lifelong sports enthusiast and avid golfer, Gary lives in the Atlanta area with his wife and three children.

Ruan Fourie

A Sales Executive with over six years of experience in luxury hospitality and tented accommodation solutions. He partners with clients across global markets to translate their vision into functional, durable, and beautifully designed structures. Ruan is known for his clear communication, relationship-driven approach, and strong problem-solving ability. Outside of work, he enjoys travelling, sports, hunting, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Cheryl Oliver

A Sales and Logistics Coordinator with over a decade of experience in sales, international logistics, and client account management. She coordinates the finer operational details that ensure smooth project execution across global markets. Cheryleena is known for her organisation, clear communication, and ability to manage multiple project variables. Outside of work, she enjoys time with family and draws inspiration from hospitality and design.

Ina-Mari Ferreira

A Sales Consultant with over two decades of hospitality experience, offering a well-rounded understanding of operations, logistics, and client service. Her background as a chef and later in operations enables her to guide projects with detail, practicality, and care. Ina-Mari is known for building strong client relationships and navigating complex hospitality requirements with confidence. Outside of work, she enjoys camping, birding, and rock climbing – places where she reconnects with nature.

David Court

A Hospitality and Tourism Consultant with more than three decades of experience across Africa’s safari, tourism, and mobile camp sectors. He specialises in building strategic relationships and developing sustainable, high-quality hospitality experiences tailored to unique environments. David supports corporate, tourism, and safari markets by facilitating partnerships that combine authenticity with operational expertise. Outside of work, he enjoys travel, conservation, and time with his children.

Louis Viljoen

Chief of Design with almost two decades of experience shaping luxury tented structures for global tourism markets. He leads the creative and technical design direction for Bushtec, blending structural precision with aesthetic expression. Louis is known for pioneering award-winning tent designs showcased at the African Tourism Indaba since 2014. Outside of work, he values creativity, family, and building – whether through sketches, tools, or hands-on projects.

Christoff Koekemoer

A Senior Designer with nearly a decade of experience at Bushtec, specialising in construction detailing and project design management. He transforms creative concepts into buildable, design-led solutions that merge function, form, and client vision. Driven by precision and collaboration, Christoff has a design philosophy that creates spaces that tell stories, making every project reflect innovation and technical excellence. Outside of work, he enjoys the outdoors, sports, and time spent exploring new adventures.

Desmond Breedt

A Project Designer with extensive experience in architectural design and project coordination. He specialises in main area layouts and site-specific planning, blending creative problem-solving with technical precision. Desmond has contributed to numerous international projects, ensuring design integrity from concept to completion. Outside of work, he values innovation, structure, and creativity in all aspects of life.

Etienne Hellerle

A Project Designer with over a decade of architectural experience, including three years in luxury tented lodge design. His expertise spans concept development, master planning, and site surveys – always guided by creativity and environmental sensitivity. Outside of work, he finds inspiration in nature through camping, hiking, and birding – experiences that influence his thoughtful, balanced approach to design.

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+27 (0)73 332 9725 or info@bushtec.net