Workers welcome O&L split from PnP

. . . no job losses guaranteed

The National Union of Namibian Workers (NUNW) has applauded the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group for ending its franchise agreement with South African-owned retail giant Pick n Pay.

The union is calling on other local businesses to follow suit.

During an interview with Desert Radio yesterday, Job Muniaro, the union’s secretary general, said the move is good for the country as the business would be fully Namibian owned.

“I will congratulate O&L for taking that decision to make the company locally owned, with no strings attached to any other name,” he said.

Muniaro said this means money would not be leaving the country going to the franchisor, which is beneficial to the economy.

He said there would be no job losses as the shop would not be closing, but rather just undergo a name change.

“The shop is not closing, it’s just the name that is going to change. There are no consequences in terms of job losses. The leadership of O&L has proven that it can do business independently,” Muniaro said.

He called on other businesses to follow the example of O&L in localising businesses.

“We are also hoping that all Namibian companies would follow that example in making sure they are fully Namibian owned,” he said.

Muniaro said O&L’s decision to protect its reputation was wise.

In a media statement issued yesterday, O&L said the franchise agreement would come to an end in 2025.

According to Sven Thieme, O&L Group executive chairman, the group has formally notified Pick n Pay South Africa of its decision and commits to a 12-month transition period from 1 July to 30 June 2025 to ensure a smooth transition.