The Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group is one of Namibia’s most iconic and influential conglomerates, known for its diverse business interests spanning multiple industries, including manufacturing, hospitality, retail, and real estate. With a rich history, an unwavering commitment to innovation, and a strong focus on sustainability, O&L has firmly established itself as a key player in the Namibian economy. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the O&L Group, its origins, key business divisions, notable achievements, and its ongoing efforts to shape Namibia’s future.
What is Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group?
Founded in 1919 by the visionary Namibian entrepreneur Ohlthaver & List, the O&L Group has grown from a small family business into one of Namibia’s largest and most influential corporate entities. The company’s roots lie in the early days of Namibia’s history when it began as a trading company involved in importing and distributing goods. Today, the O&L Group operates as a diversified conglomerate with multiple subsidiaries and interests across various sectors.
O&L’s core values of excellence, innovation, and sustainability are evident across its operations. The company’s mission is to positively contribute to Namibia’s economic development, promote job creation, and drive sustainable growth. With its impressive portfolio of brands, O&L has earned a reputation for quality products, exceptional service, and a deep commitment to the Namibian community.
Key Divisions of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group
The O&L Group’s diverse portfolio spans several industries, with notable subsidiaries and brands in each sector. Below, we’ll explore the key divisions that make up the O&L Group and the major contributions they bring to Namibia’s economy.
1. Manufacturing and FMCG: Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL)
One of the standout brands under the O&L Group umbrella is Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL), the country’s premier beer manufacturer. NBL has long been a leader in the production of beer, soft drinks, and other beverages in Namibia. The company’s flagship product, Windhoek Lager, is a beloved local beer that has gained international recognition for its high quality and distinctive taste.
NBL’s success can be attributed to its commitment to producing premium products using high-quality ingredients, as well as its sustainability efforts, such as water and energy conservation initiatives. With a long-standing history of social responsibility, NBL supports various local initiatives and strives to be an environmentally conscious company.
In addition to beer production, NBL also manufactures soft drinks, bottled water, and other non-alcoholic beverages. The company’s well-known products include Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, and other popular soft drink brands that are distributed throughout Namibia.
Key Products:
- Windhoek Lager
- Windhoek Draught
- Coca-Cola, Sprite, and Fanta (under license)
- Bottled water and soft drinks
2. Retail and Hospitality: O&L Leisure
Another significant part of the O&L Group is O&L Leisure, which operates a portfolio of high-end hotels, resorts, and lodges across Namibia. The company is dedicated to providing top-tier hospitality services and creating memorable travel experiences for both local and international visitors.
O&L Leisure operates well-known brands such as:
- The Stellenbosch Wine Estate: A luxurious resort offering vineyard tours, wine tasting, and fine dining experiences.
- The Desert Hills Lodge: Located in the stunning Namib Desert, this lodge provides a perfect blend of comfort and adventure amidst the iconic sand dunes.
- The Sossusvlei Lodge: Nestled at the entrance to the Sossusvlei dunes, this lodge is one of the most popular destinations for those looking to experience the beauty of the Namib Desert.
By combining exceptional service with stunning locations, O&L Leisure has become a key player in Namibia’s tourism and hospitality sector, contributing to the country’s growing reputation as a world-class travel destination.
3. Real Estate and Development: O&L Development
Ohlthaver & List also has a significant presence in the real estate and property development sector through its subsidiary, O&L Development. This division is responsible for developing both residential and commercial properties in Namibia, contributing to the country’s urban development and economic growth.
O&L Development has played a major role in creating modern, sustainable communities and office spaces throughout Namibia. One of the company’s most notable developments is the Windhoek City project, a large-scale urban development initiative that aims to provide affordable housing, commercial spaces, and a variety of lifestyle amenities to the city’s growing population.
Key Real Estate Projects:
- Windhoek City development (affordable housing and commercial spaces)
- Mixed-use developments in urban centers
- Retail and office complexes
4. Agriculture: O&L Agriculture
As part of its commitment to supporting Namibia’s agricultural sector, Ohlthaver & List also operates O&L Agriculture, which focuses on the production of high-quality agricultural products. This division is involved in the farming of various crops, as well as livestock farming, with a particular focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
O&L Agriculture is dedicated to using modern farming techniques to increase productivity, minimize environmental impact, and ensure the long-term sustainability of Namibia’s agricultural industry. The division is also actively involved in supporting local farmers through various initiatives aimed at improving agricultural practices and promoting food security.
Key Agricultural Products:
- Crops such as maize, wheat, and vegetables
- Livestock farming, including cattle and sheep
- Sustainable farming initiatives
Commitment to Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility
One of the most notable aspects of the Ohlthaver & List Group is its strong commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The company places a significant emphasis on ensuring that its business operations are environmentally responsible and aligned with global best practices in sustainability.
O&L has implemented several initiatives across its divisions to reduce its carbon footprint, conserve natural resources, and promote biodiversity. These include water and energy conservation programs, waste reduction efforts, and the adoption of renewable energy sources. Furthermore, O&L actively supports community development projects in education, healthcare, and social services, making a positive impact on the lives of Namibians.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
As one of Namibia’s largest private sector employers, the Ohlthaver & List Group plays a crucial role in job creation and economic growth. The company provides thousands of direct and indirect jobs in Namibia, spanning various industries, from manufacturing and retail to hospitality and agriculture. Through its diverse business operations, O&L contributes to the overall economic stability and prosperity of the country.
Moreover, O&L has made significant investments in infrastructure and development, particularly in areas such as urban development, agriculture, and tourism. These investments not only benefit the company but also help strengthen Namibia’s position as a competitive player in the global market.
The Future of Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group
Looking ahead, Ohlthaver & List is focused on continuing to innovate and expand its business operations. With a strong commitment to sustainability, community development, and diversification, the O&L Group is poised to remain a key driver of Namibia’s economic growth for many years to come.
As the company continues to strengthen its position in key sectors, such as manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and agriculture, O&L is well-positioned to support Namibia’s long-term development goals and contribute to the country’s economic and social progress.
The Ohlthaver & List Group is much more than just a conglomerate—it is a cornerstone of Namibia’s economic development and a symbol of corporate responsibility, sustainability, and innovation. Through its diverse business interests and commitment to Namibia’s growth, O&L has made a lasting impact on the country’s economy while improving the quality of life for Namibians.
Whether through its world-class breweries, luxurious resorts, or sustainable agricultural practices, the Ohlthaver & List Group continues to shape the future of Namibia in positive and meaningful ways.
