Windhoek: The OL Group on Tuesday announced the permanent closure of the Hartlief Shop and Bistro in Windhoek's Northern Industrial Area, effective 15 July 2026, following a comprehensive 12-month review of Hartlief's operations.

According to Namibia Press Agency, OL Group Executive Chairperson and Hartlief Managing Director, Sven Thieme, in a media release on Tuesday, stated that the closure was part of a deliberate assessment of all OL operating companies undertaken over the past two years, aligned to Vision 2029. The review confirmed that the Shop and Bistro operates outside Hartlief's core competency of meat processing and distribution and has not achieved the financial sustainability required to support the broader business strategy.

Thieme emphasized that closing the Shop and Bistro would simplify operations, reduce overheads, and redirect resources to strengthen Hartlief's core capabilities. This decision aims to ensure the company delivers industry-standard returns and builds a business that employees and the country can be proud of.

The closure would not affect the permanent employment status of affected employees. Thieme assured that where vacancies exist, and skills align, the company will prioritize redeployment within the Hartlief business. Additionally, short-term training or upskilling will be considered to support placement into available roles.

Despite the closure, Hartlief's full product range will remain available at retail stores nationwide. Customers can continue to access Hartlief products at the Hilltop deli in Windhoek's Kleine Kuppe suburb. Hartlief was acquired by the OL Group on 11 November 2019 and specializes in the manufacturing and supply of value-enhanced meat products.