Staff Writer
The OL Group has announced the permanent closure of the Hartlief Shop & Bistro in Windhoek’s northern industrial Area, effective 15 July.
This decision follows a comprehensive review of Hartlief’s operations over the past twelve months, undertaken to ensure the business remains competitive, financially responsible and focused on its core meat processing and distribution capabilities.
The review confirmed that the Shop & Bistro operates outside Hartlief’s core competency and has not achieved the financial sustainability required to support the broader business strategy.
Despite the dedication of the team and sustained efforts to improve performance, closing the Shop & Bistro is the right decision, the OL Group said.
The group said this will allow Hartlief to consolidate resources and direct investment where it delivers the greatest long-term impact.
Hartlief’s full range of products remains available at retail stores nationwide and customers can continue to enjoy Hartlief favourites at the Hilltop deli in Windhoek’s Kleine Kuppe suburb, the group confirmed
“Closing the Shop & Bistro allows us to simplify operations, reduce overheads and redirect resources to where they will have the greatest impact, thereby strengthening Hartlief’s core capabilities and ensuring we remain on the right path to deliver industry-standard returns and build a business our people and our country can be proud of,” said Sven Thieme, OL Group executive chairman and Hartlief managing director.
The closure will not impact the permanent employment status of affected employees.
Engagement has already commenced with Shop & Bistro staff to explain the reasons for the decision and to present available options.
“Where vacancies exist and skills align, we will prioritise redeployment within the Hartlief business. Where feasible, we will also consider reasonable short-term training or upskilling to support placement into available roles,” Thieme added.
Hartlief Corporation Ltd Group of Companies consists of Hartlief Continental Meat Products (Pty) Ltd, Hartlief Continental Meat Products SA (Pty) Ltd and Farmers Meat Market Mariental Abattoir.
