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O&L Leisure expands portfolio with iconic lodges …proposed merger subject to regulatory approval

O&L Leisure expands portfolio with iconic lodges …proposed merger subject to regulatory approval

O&L Leisure has acquired two exceptional hospitality properties in a merger that is subject to, amongst others, approval from the Namibian Competition Commission. 

The expansion directly supports the O&L Group Vision 2029, reinforcing O&L Leisure’s role in positioning Namibia as a premier global travel destination. 

The iconic properties are Le Mirage in the renowned Sossusvlei area and Divava on the scenic Kavango River. 

Sven Thieme, O&L Leisure managing director and executive chairman of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, advised: “This expansion marks a key moment in realising our Namibia Through Our Eyes vision, growing our presence across the country’s most coveted and storied destinations. These iconic desert and river locations perfectly embody this promise, bringing our unique hospitality approach to some of Namibia’s most treasured landscapes”.

“We don’t take our guests to just any place where there is a tree,” he stated while elaborating on the vision behind O&L Leisure’s selection process.

 “We take our guests to where there is a story, history and natural wonder,» he added. 

O&L Leisure now offers guests six unique Namibian destinations, featuring mountain retreats, the vibrant Atlantic coastline and extraordinary desert as well as wildlife experiences. 

These destinations showcase Namibia’s unparalleled natural wonders, including Sossusvlei with the world’s biggest dunes in the ancient Namib Desert, alongside wildlife experiences, where guests can encounter the Big Five across the exceptional properties.

The Namib Desert is considered the world’s oldest desert and the only coastal desert where huge dunes dramatically meet the Atlantic Ocean. Ad Bouman, speaking on behalf of the sellers, expressed confidence in the transition.

 «We are proud to share that our lodges, Le Mirage in the iconic Sossusvlei area and Divava on the banks of the Kavango River, will be joining the O&L Leisure portfolio. O&L is a well-established and respected player in Namibia’s tourism sector. We have full confidence that both lodges will retain their unique identity while gaining new growth opportunities. “We are especially reassured by their strong commitment to employee development and well-being – values that resonate with us,” he stated.  Bouman shared his optimism about how Le Mirage and Divava are expected to flourish further within the framework of O&L Leisure’s vision of ‘Namibia Through Our Eyes.’ 

By establishing a presence in these key areas, O&L Leisure is expanding their footprint while at the same time creating a seamless luxury circuit that showcases the full spectrum of Namibian experiences through the trusted brand lens of O&L Leisure. 

The addition of Sossusvlei and the Kavango areas to the portfolio enables O&L Leisure to offer guests a holistic journey through Namibia’s natural environments, rich wildlife encounters and deep-rooted cultural traditions. “We are committed to integrating Le Mirage and Divava into the brand’s portfolio of authentic, caring and passionate world-class experiences while honouring each region’s unique heritage,” Thieme noted. 

Enhancements will initially focus on aligning guest experiences with the exceptional standards found across all O&L Leisure properties. Both properties will continue operating seamlessly. 

Thoughtful integration ensures they embody the same level of excellence that defines the O&L Leisure brand. 

“We are extremely excited about these acquisitions, which add to our commitment to showcasing Namibia’s beauty, diversity and soul through our eyes,” Thieme remarked.

 “Every guest can now experience our Namibian story, with each property serving as a gateway to this incredible country,” he said.

O&L Leisure is owned by the Ohlthaver & List Group, which was founded in 191. 

It is Namibia’s largest privately held business enterprise.The group has diverse interests in various sectors, including hospitality, real estate, beverages and retail. 

The group’s vision, ‘To be a catalyst for positive change’, underscores its focus on delivering transformative experiences and driving positive impact in Namibia and beyond.