The HIV/Aids epidemic is a significant challenge affecting most Bidvest companies in southern Africa. A Group HIV/Aids policy, which serves to guide businesses in developing appropriate programmes, has been developed. A copy of the policy is available on the Bidvest website and in the 2006 sustainable report. Bidvest companies are proactively tackling the epidemic, often in cooperation with unions. While a number of businesses are making progress and several have outstanding HIV/Aids programmes, many businesses still need to improve their response strategies. HIV/Aids is a complex issue and requires persistent work and creative initiatives to break down taboos and prejudices.

An HIV actuarial prevalence study has been conducted by an outside specialist as an initial step towards quantifying the impact of HIV/Aids on the Group along with an assessment of the HIV/Aids programmes in place throughout the Group. HIV prevalence rate is around 17,3%, which is an average and, given Bidvest's diversity, cannot be applied to any one business unit in isolation. Bidvest is considering how best to enhance existing programmes and assist in the development of a co-ordinated HIV/Aids strategy for the Group, but the basis remains decentralised.

 Bidvest is a member of SABCOHA, the South African Business Coalition on HIV/Aids, which gives the Group access to a best practice knowledge base and assists the Group to more effectively address HIV/Aids.