Vida e Caffè says its expansion plans for Namibia remain unchanged following its acquisition by the Shoprite Group, with the coffee chain reaffirming plans to grow its footprint in the country.
The company recently opened its first Namibian outlet at Maerua Mall in Windhoek and has indicated that it is exploring additional locations as it seeks to tap into the country’s growing coffee shop market.
Vida e Caffè CEO Darren Levy exclusively told The Brief, the company would proceed with its existing expansion plans.
“The acquisition does not change Vida e Caffè’s plans for Namibia and we remain committed to our existing development plans for this market,” Levy said.
He said further expansion in Namibia would also create additional opportunities for local employment and skills development.
“We are delighted with the support that Vida e Caffè enjoys in Namibia, and as we continue to grow and expand, we will create more opportunities for local employment and skills development,” Levy said.
The value of Shoprite’s acquisition of Vida e Caffè has not been disclosed, with Levy saying the terms of the transaction remain confidential.
The transaction is also subject to regulatory approval.
Shoprite Group said the acquisition forms part of its strategy to pursue partnerships capable of opening new growth opportunities.
“Strategic partnerships play a key role in our business. That is why we are so excited to join forces with Vida e Caffè, a brand with an established presence and high levels of consumer recognition, to unlock additional growth opportunities for all parties involved,” the group said.
The transaction comes as Namibia’s coffee shop market attracts increased interest from regional and international brands, with several chains expanding into the country in recent years.
