- China Square launches a 75,000-square-foot outlet at Two Rivers Mall, Nairobi, marking its sixth branch in Kenya.
- The retailer plans further expansion, with a seventh branch set to open at Greenspan Mall in Donholm next week.
- Two Rivers Mall’s occupancy rate rises to 95% following China Square’s entry.
- The company overcame initial resistance in 2023 to establish a strong presence in Kenya’s retail market.
- Centum Investments is transforming Two Rivers into a hub for commerce and innovation, bolstered by China Square and other key players.
China Square, a personal and household merchandise retailer, has inaugurated its sixth Kenyan outlet at the expansive Two Rivers Mall in Nairobi. This new 75,000-square-foot store reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to expanding its footprint across the country.
Strategic Expansion in Kenya
Since its debut in 2022 at Kenyatta University’s Unicity Mall, China Square has rapidly grown, leveraging competitive pricing to attract customers. The retailer’s additional branches include:
- The Waterfront Mall, Karen
- Lang’ata Hyper Mall
- Nyali Bazaar Mall, Mombasa
- Mega City Mall, Kisumu
The upcoming opening at Greenspan Mall, Donholm, marks the company’s seventh location as it explores further growth opportunities, particularly beyond Nairobi.
Impact on Two Rivers Mall
China Square’s new store has significantly boosted Two Rivers Mall’s occupancy, which now stands at 95%, according to Centum Investments CEO James Mworia. The addition of China Square, alongside prominent brands like Carrefour, has increased foot traffic and enhanced the mall’s attractiveness as a retail destination.
“Two Rivers is one of the biggest malls in Kenya, has a lot of potential, and offers good parking,” noted Lei Cheng, China Square’s Managing Director, emphasizing the strategic importance of this location.
Controversy and Market Position
Despite facing criticism from local traders and political factions in 2023 over its low prices, China Square has cemented its place in Kenya’s retail sector. Its ability to navigate these challenges underscores its resilience and appeal to consumers seeking affordable products.
Broader Vision for Two Rivers
Centum Investments is positioning the Two Rivers development as a hub for commerce and innovation. The area’s transformation is further supported by the entry of Teleperformance, a French call center and services firm, into the Two Rivers International Finance & Innovation Centre (Trific).
Trific, a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) spanning 64 acres, is part of Centum’s larger vision to make Two Rivers a focal point for economic activity in Kenya.
China Square’s expansion and the ongoing development at Two Rivers Mall signify a dynamic shift in Kenya’s retail landscape. As the company continues to grow its presence, and with Centum Investments driving innovation, Two Rivers is set to become a thriving hub for business and shopping in the region.
