Pick n Pay Namibia, a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, has opened its second Pick n Pay Express Store following its decision to venture into the convenience retail space.
The retail giant’s second store located at the Namcor Soweto service station, becomes the second owner-managed Express Store in the network, the first one having already opened at Mile 4 at Swakopmund last year.
“I am very proud of the outcome of this project and would hereby like to thank everyone who has played a role in making this happen.The Pick n Pay Express Store brings opportunity for expansion, innovation and job creation. Together, we will create a future and enhance life in the Soweto community,” Pick n Pay Managing Director Graeme Mouton said.
Site Owner of the Pick n Pay Express/Namcor Soweto service station, David Ilonga said the development will create convenience to their customers.
“We believe that this new business will not only create jobs for people in the surrounding communities but will also eliminate the need for people to walk or drive long distances to access retail facilities and petroleum products,” he said.
The Pick n Pay Express Store venture by the O&L-owned retailer, comes after the retailer last year announced plans to launch two Pick n Pay Express stores as part of a venture into the country’s convenience retail space as it seeks to evolve and cater for increased customers’ needs amid increased competition in the segment.
This comes as Spar has partnered Shell in its convenience store rollout in Namibia, while OK Stores has joined forces with Puma Energy Namibia to open 12 new OK Express stores across the country.
Pick n Pay Namibia has previously stated it was not partnering Namcor, a recent entrant into the country’s fuel retail business for its rollout, although the two companies “have a good business relationship”.
Pick n Pay Namibia has also ventured into the value retail space through the lunch of the Supa Shop brand.
