The changing consumer lifestyles are pushing the leading supermarket chains to embrace 24-hour operations.
This trend, sparked by increased urbanisation, hectic schedules, and a surge in demand for convenience, is taking off in Nairobi and other major cities.
With an influx of international retail chains setting high standards, local supermarkets have swiftly responded by extending shopping hours.
Retail giants such as Naivas, Quickmart, and Carrefour are leading the charge.
Naivas Supermarket is the latest to adopt this trend with the opening of a second store in the Kilimani area of Nairobi at Wood Avenue that has taken its local tally to a total of 107 stores countrywide.
Naivas Chief of Strategy Andreas Von Paleske cited customer demand and the desire to provide flexible shopping options as key motivators for the transition.
“This new 24-hour store provides our customers with unparalleled convenience and access to We are committed to serving the community and providing an exceptional shopping experience,” Von Paleske said.
The retailer has also been converting select stores in Nairobi to round-the-clock operations, beginning with their outlets in Westlands and Kilimani, areas known for high traffic and a blend of residential and commercial activity.
The move to 24-hour shopping is also being fueled by the growing gig economy.
Services like Uber and Bolt have seen an uptick in late-night activity, indicating a broader shift in urban mobility and lifestyle.
“We acknowledge the requests of our customers, and that’s why we saw the need to bring another store to address the ever-growing population of Kilimani. It is a growing area, and the demand is what made us come here again.” Naivas Operations manager Cyrus Mathenge stated.
Additionally, as many Kenyans juggle multiple jobs, having the flexibility to shop at unconventional hours provides a significant convenience.
The retailer is also looking to open additional Naivas branches in Hurlingham, Tilisi, and Mavoko.
Quickmart, another player in Kenya’s retail sector, has also extended hours at its busiest branches, particularly in high-density residential neighborhoods, aiming to capture late-night shoppers and shift workers.