KENYA – Naivas Supermarket is on the verge of making history by becoming the first supermarket chain in Kenya to achieve a triple-digit branch network.
The retail giant, engaged in fierce competition with QuickMart, has just opened its 99th store, marking yet another milestone in its journey to dominate Kenya’s retail landscape.
The newly opened store, located in Mombasa at Sabasaba, represents Naivas’ 11th addition to its presence in the coastal region and brings the supermarket chain tantalizingly close to the coveted 100-store mark.
In recent months, Naivas has been aggressively expanding its footprint in the country, securing prime locations both in new areas and spaces vacated by competitors.
Andreas Von Paleske, Naivas’ Chief of Strategy, emphasized the careful planning and strategic approach behind the retailer’s expansion efforts.
“Our goal is to offer customers new and convenient ways to access their essentials. Given the limited reach of modern retail in the area, the opportunities are vast, and we are dedicated to filling these gaps,” Paleske said.
Established in 1990, Naivas has witnessed significant growth and now stands as Kenya’s leading supermarket chain.
This expansion comes at a time when the Kenyan retail sector is experiencing a resurgence following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leading supermarkets have been securing prime locations in prominent malls, reflecting the renewed vibrancy of the sector.
According to the Kenyan retail sector report for 2023, the industry demonstrated stable overall performance, with an average rental yield of 7.5 percent, up from 6.8 percent in 2022.
The report noted a notable increase in the average occupancy rate, which rose by 2.1 percentage points to reach 79.4 percent in 2023. This growth has largely been driven by the rapid expansion of both local and foreign retailers.
Meanwhile, several retailers have embarked on aggressive expansion initiatives throughout the year, including Naivas Supermarket, which opened new stores across various counties, including Nairobi, Malindi, and Kisii.
QuickMart Supermarket also expanded its footprint by opening new stores in Nairobi’s Kileleshwa and Eastlands, as well as in Nyali, Mombasa.
Carrefour also entered the fray by opening new stores in Nairobi’s Eastleigh and Central Business District (CBD) in a bid to solidify its market dominance.
“Naivas’ relentless pursuit of expanding its branch network reflects the dynamic and competitive nature of the Kenyan retail sector, where major players are vying for market share and seeking to meet the diverse needs of consumers across the country.”
