Kenya’s leading retailer Naivas opens new store in Ruiru to boost local economy

Naivas Supermarkets, Kenya’s leading retail chain, officially inaugurated its new store at Newgate Square in the Kamakis area of Ruiru on Friday. The expansion marks a major milestone as the company celebrates 36 years of operations in the East African nation.

The opening of the new outlet expands Naivas’ nationwide retail footprint to 114 stores, tracing a massive growth trajectory from a single neighborhood supermarket nearly four decades ago. Located along one of Kenya’s fastest-growing residential and commercial corridors, the Kamakis branch aims to meet the everyday needs of modern Kenyan households by providing affordable goods under one roof.

“Opening this store during our 36th year is an important milestone in the Naivas journey,” said Andreas von Paleske, Chief Executive Officer of Naivas Supermarkets, during the launch ceremony. “Kamakis is one of Kenya’s fastest-growing residential and commercial corridors, and we are delighted to become part of its everyday life. As Kenya grows, we will continue investing in communities.”

The retail giant noted that the expansion is designed to support local economic development. Beyond direct job creation, the new outlet is expected to strengthen market linkages for local farmers, manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers. Naivas is the first anchor tenant to open within the new Newgate Square commercial development.

The grand opening was attended by key industry stakeholders, including Wambui Mbarire, CEO of the Retail Trade Association of Kenya (RETRAK), and Polycarp Igathe, Group Director of Sales and Marketing at Kevian Kenya Ltd.

To cater to the evolving consumer habits of tech-savvy urban shoppers, the retail chain confirmed that it will also extend its digital and e-commerce services to the residents of the area, offering home and workplace deliveries alongside the physical store experience.