One of Kenyans once largest supermarkets has proved that it has nine lives. We thought the retailer was going under but it has proved that it is here to stay.
Nakumatt has today announced its return to Uhuru Highway previously, Nakumatt Mega. The new space had previously been housing Ivory Lifestyle clothing store.
The launch of the Uhuru Highway branch marks the retailer’s seventh branch since it started picking the pieces after being haunted by debt.
Nakumatt has taken up space at the location of the original Highway Mattresses which was the precursor to Nakumatt Mega.
In 1989, Highway Mattresses, established its first store adjacent to the current Highway Mall building before expanding to the next building neighbouring the then Car & General showroom along Uhuru Highway.
Speaking when confirming the retailer’s return to its founding space, Nakumatt Holdings Administrator, Peter Kahi said that the return is symbolic of the firm’s commitment to return to a formidable retail player status in the coming years.
“Nakumatt is back at the same spot where it defined its growth trajectory more than two decades ago. This time round, the firm is committed to reclaiming its place in the local retail sector; albeit cautiously,” said Mr. Kahi.
Nakumatt has faced numerous set backs from closing its branch at Ukay Centre after it was demolished, to theft when it was forcibly evicted from its premises in Nyali.
Earlier this year, Nakumatt Holdings, announced that it had embarked on a business recovery programme dubbed Nakumatt BounceBack. As part of the recovery strategy, the firm has announced the optimum restocking of six key branches in Nairobi, Nakuru and Kisumu.
The retailer was brought to its knees with debt running into billions of shillings.
Are you excited about the return of Nakumatt?