China Square, a rapidly expanding retail chain specializing in personal and household merchandise, has increased its presence in Kenya by investing KSh 600 million in a new outlet at Two Rivers Mall and KSh 300 million in Greenspan Mall.
These strategic investments bring the total number of China Square branches in Kenya to six, underscoring the company’s commitment to the Kenyan market.
The Two Rivers Mall outlet, which opened on January 10, 2025, spans 75,000 square feet, making it one of the largest stores in the chain.
To celebrate the launch, China Square offered a 20% discount on all in-store items and selected appliances from January 10th to 12th, attracting a substantial number of shoppers eager to take advantage of the promotions.
Lei Cheng, Managing Director of China Square, highlighted the strategic importance of the Two Rivers location, citing its accessibility, ample parking, and significant foot traffic as key factors in the decision to invest in the mall.
“Two Rivers is one of the biggest malls in Kenya and has a lot of potential,” Cheng noted.
The expansion into Greenspan Mall in Donholm is scheduled for January 13, 2025, further extending China Square’s reach within Nairobi.
This growth is part of a broader strategy to establish a nationwide presence, with plans to open additional outlets in other major cities and towns across Kenya.
China Square’s journey in Kenya began in 2022 with its inaugural store at Unicity Mall near Kenyatta University.
The retailer quickly gained popularity due to its wide range of products including electronics, clothing, and household items offered at competitive prices.
This pricing strategy has been a cornerstone of its success, appealing to cost-conscious consumers and contributing to the rapid expansion of its customer base.
However, the retailer’s aggressive pricing has not been without controversy.
In early 2023, China Square faced opposition from local traders and certain political figures who accused the chain of creating unfair competition.
This led to a temporary closure of its Unicity Mall outlet.
After discussions between the Kenyan government and the Chinese business community, the store reopened, and China Square has since continued its expansion unabated.
The entry of China Square into Two Rivers Mall has had a positive impact on the mall’s occupancy rates, increasing them to over 95%.
James Mworia, CEO of Centum Investments Company Plc, one of the mall’s owners, stated that the presence of China Square is expected to boost foot traffic, thereby enhancing sales for other businesses within the complex.
China Square’s expansion reflects a broader trend of international retailers entering the Kenyan market, introducing more competitive pricing and a diverse array of products.
While this offers consumers greater choice and value, it has also sparked discussions about the impact on local businesses and the retail landscape.
As China Square continues to grow, it remains focused on balancing its expansion with sustainable business practices, including sourcing a portion of its products from local manufacturers.
This approach not only supports the local economy but also helps the retailer adapt to the unique preferences of Kenyan consumers.
China Square’s substantial investments in Two Rivers Mall and Greenspan Mall signify a strong commitment to the Kenyan market and a strategic effort to broaden its footprint across the country.
As the retail chain continues to expand, it will play a big role in shaping the future of Kenya’s retail sector, offering consumers a blend of affordability, variety, and convenience.
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