Pick n Pay takes full control of its 13 stores in Botswana
Retailer shifts from franchise model to corporate ownership, with plans for store refurbishments and expanded product offerings
BOTSWANA – All 13 Pick n Pay outlets in Botswana are coming under the full control of the Pick n Pay Group as the retailer moves away from its franchise-based operations in the country.
The company has completed the acquisition of its stores from former master franchise holder NTS, a change it says will allow direct investment in the Botswana business.
According to the Pick n Pay Group, taking over ownership means it can upgrade facilities, improve service, and expand the variety of goods on offer to customers.
Graeme Gathmann, executive for the Rest of Africa division, said the buy-out agreement enables the retailer to inject fresh capital into the Botswana stores, refurbish them to meet company standards, and ensure consistent stock quality and availability.
He confirmed that the transition will not result in job losses, with all 1,200 positions retained and existing staff continuing to operate in the same locations.
Store upgrades planned
The company’s first round of renovations will begin with one of its flagship outlets in Gaborone, which will be redesigned in line with Pick n Pay’s current store specifications.
Once completed, the store will have a wider fresh food selection, an expanded hot foods section, a new butchery, and an added liquor department.
Grocery options are also set to grow, with an emphasis on offering more cheese varieties and an increased range of chocolates, biscuits, and sweets.
Pick n Pay says it will also strengthen its sourcing network by working more closely with local farmers and suppliers in the meat and produce sectors.
This, the company says, will ensure customers have access to consistently fresh, locally grown products.
Focus on customer experience
Gathmann added that the retailer’s aim is to provide a more convenient and consistent shopping experience for all customers across its Botswana locations.
The acquisition marks a shift in the way Pick n Pay operates in Botswana, moving from indirect management under a franchise system to full corporate control.
This change gives the retailer the ability to directly oversee daily operations, implement company-wide upgrades, and set uniform quality standards across all outlets.
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