Retail chain Naivas has opened its fourth branch in Nakuru bringing the retailer’s branch network to 71. Naivas’ chief commercial officer Willy Kimani confirmed the report and said they have taken over space vacated by Tuskys. The new outlet is located along the main street, Kenyatta Avenue
Naivas, just like collapsed Nakumatt and struggling Tuskys, traces its root in Nakuru before its expansion countrywide. Tuskys shut its Kenyatta Avenue branch in January, the last out of the four in the town where the chain was founded in the 1980s.
Back to the roots
“Naivas started in Nakuru and we are back to make our presence felt in the South Rift region. We intend to maintain growth plans this year with a strategic focus on undeserved and high-value urban locations. Despite the impact of Covid-19 on business and the economy, we remain resilient in our expansion strategy,” said Mr. Willy Kimani.
Mr Kimani recalled that former chairman and the founder of Naivas, Peter Mukuha Kago, had wanted to have a branch at the heart of Nakuru town, but was not lucky.
“I am happy his wishes have been fulfilled today. The outlet will be stocked with a variety of quality products to choose from, ranging from fresh produce, branded food, general household items, electronics among many others,” he added.
The new Naivas branch raises competition in Nakuru where last week Cleanshelf opened its first outlet on the same street. Other retailers in the town include WoolMart and QuickMart with two branches each while homegrown Gilanis has maintained its only branch.
