About

From Oep ve Koep to Dispens

The building that houses Dispens has a long, storied life. Originally a shark liver oil factory, it was reinvented in the 1980s as the iconic Die Winkel op Paternoster – a humble village store meets general dealer. Since 2009, it has been in the custodianship of the Van der Merwe family, known affectionately to locals as Oep ve Koep – meaning "open for business" in the West Coast vernacular. Dispens is the contemporary evolution of this beloved institution. It doesn't replace Oep ve Koep, but refines its purpose – paying homage to what came before, while deepening our focus on regional produce and quality craftsmanship. Although we now operate as Dispens, we're still "oep ve koep" every day.

Packaging, With Purpose

We aim for packaging that's as considered as the contents: Preserves and pickles in unlabelled glass jars – easy to reuse or return. Reusable tins for rusks and loose-leaf rooibos. Traditional kardoese – simple brown paper packets – for heerenbone, wild salt, and spices, all available by weight.