BUSINESS STRATEGY

Model supermarkets opens in Namibia as it rebrands from Pick n Pay

By our African Marketing Confederation News Team | 2025

Franchise agreement with the South African retail group ends after 27 years, as Model gains ‘complete operational independence’.

Namibia’s new Model supermarket chain opened its doors on 1 July, as its parent company, the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, transitioned from a long-standing franchise agreement with South Africa’s Pick n Pay retail group. 

An artist’s impression of a rebranded Model outlet. Illustration: O&L

O&L gave notice last year that it was terminating its agreement with struggling Pick n Pay after 27 years. 

 

This is a return to its roots, as O&L first began trading as Model Supermarkets in the 1960s before it later switched to the then-thriving Pick n Pay brand as the local franchisee. 

 

In a statement posted on its website, O&L says it “gains complete operational independence, introducing a new retail system with full local control over operations, technology and supplier relationships”. 

 

The statement adds: “Model’s transition is not instantaneous but carefully phased. From 1 July, the old signage will start coming down and the Model brand will become visible in stores. This gradual transformation will unfold over the coming months and years.” 

 

First fully rebranded outlet in Windhoek 

 

Model’s Auas Valley store in Windhoek is the first location to undergo comprehensive renovation, with completion expected towards the end of September 2025. 

 

“The transition to Model signals the birth of a retail experience designed by Namibians, for Namibians,” says Sven Thieme, Executive Chairman of O&L Group. 

 

“At the heart of this transformation is a 100% Namibian buying team that will have complete autonomy to create product ranges that reflect local needs, preferences and values. 

 

“Our independence gives us the strategic freedom to build partnerships with local suppliers, invest in Namibian talent and shape a shopping experience that reflects our community’s values and aspirations.” 

 

Model says the shift creates “meaningful opportunities” for Namibian producers and suppliers who meet high quality standards to list their products directly, strengthening the local supply chain and supporting homegrown businesses.  

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    Dr Kin Kariisa

    Group CEO - Next Media

    Dr. Kin Kariisa is an extraordinary force at the helm of Next Media Services, a conglomerate encompassing NBS TV, Nile Post, Sanyuka TV, Next Radio, Salam TV, Next Communication, Next Productions, and an array of other influential enterprises. His dynamic role as Chief Executive Officer exemplifies his unwavering commitment to shaping media, business, and community landscapes.
    With an esteemed academic journey, Dr. Kariisa’s accolades include an Honorary PhD in exemplary community service from the United Graduate College inTexas, an MBA from United States International University in Nairobi, Kenya, a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from Huazong University in China, and a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Makerere University.
    Dr. Kariisa pursued PhD research in Computer Security and Identity Management at Security of Systems Group, Radboud University in Nijmegen, Netherlands. As a dynamic educator, he has shared his expertise as a lecturer of e-Government and Information Security at both Makerere University and Radboud University.

    Dr Kin did his PhD research in Computer Security and Identity Management at Security of Systems Group, Radbond University in Nigmegen, Netherlands. He previously served as a lecturer of e-Government and Information Security at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda and Radbond University in Netherlands.

    Dr Kin did his postgraduate courses in Strategic Business Management, Strategic Leadership Communication and Strategies for Leading Successful Change Initiatives at Harvard University, Boston USA.

    • Other current and previous roles played by Dr Kin Kariisa:
    • Lecturer of e-Government and Information Security to graduate students at Makerere University, Kampala and Radbond University in the Netherlands
    • Director of Eco Bank Uganda Limited, one of the largest banks in Africa
    • Chairman of the National Association of Broadcasters, an umbrella industry association for all Television, Radio and online broadcasters in Uganda.
    • Chairman of Board of Directors of Nile Hotel International, that owns the leading hotel in Uganda, Kampala Serena Hotel.
    • Chairman of Board of Directors of Soliton Telmec Uganda, the leading telecom company in Optic fibre business managing over 80% of optic fibre in Uganda.