Naivas, Kenya’s largest retailer, has added two new outlets, bringing its total store count to 114 across the country as of March 31, 2026, according to financial disclosures from its parent company, IBL Group. The latest openings lift the chain from 112 stores at the end of 2025, when it launched its Mihango branch in Nairobi, a fast-growing residential area on the city’s outskirts.

Naivas’ expansion strategy boosts store base

The latest openings build on the retailer’s steady roll-out strategy, which saw its store count rise from 109 in the same period last year to 112 at the end of 2025, before reaching 114. The expansion includes growth in both established urban areas and fast-developing residential communities, reflecting continued demand for modern retail outlets closer to consumers.

In its nine-month results, IBL said the Kenyan retailer remained a key driver of group performance, supported by higher sales volumes and improved store productivity across its network. Naivas’ growth was driven by both new outlets and steady sales from existing stores. Like-for-like sales accounted for 65 percent of IBL’s retail revenue growth in the nine months ended March 31, 2026, underscoring the role of established branches in overall revenue gains.

Fresh tomatoes on display at Naivas Supermarket, highlighting the produce section.

Organized retail demand drives Naivas’ growth

Naivas operates a nationwide chain of supermarkets and hypermarkets offering groceries, fresh produce, household essentials, and general merchandise. Its continued expansion has strengthened its position in Kenya’s retail sector, where demand has been supported by urban population growth and shifting consumer preferences toward organized retail formats.

For IBL Group, Naivas remains one of the key contributors to its retail segment, which posted steady gains during the reporting period. Retail revenue rose 10 percent to MUR45.76 billion ($969 million), compared with MUR41.5 billion ($878.5 million) a year earlier. Operating profit from the retail division increased to MUR2.25 billion ($47.6 million), reflecting improved performance across core markets and tighter operational control in select units.

Two shoppers browsing products inside a Naivas Supermarket store in Kenya.

IBL Group’s revenue rises 15.2 percent

Overall group revenue climbed 15.2 percent to MUR94.8 billion ($2 billion), up from MUR82.3 billion ($1.74 billion) in the prior-year period. Operating profit rose 25.4 percent to MUR7.1 billion ($150.3 million), while earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation increased 19.4 percent to MUR11.2 billion ($237.1 million). IBL Group attributed the improved results to the consolidation of recently acquired businesses, including Naivas.

IBL Group said the integration of acquisitions continued to support earnings stability across its diversified portfolio. Naivas’ expansion comes at a time when competition in Kenya’s retail sector remains intense. The addition of new outlets suggests the company is maintaining a measured approach to growth while reinforcing its presence in key locations nationwide.