Retail shake-up continues as China Village adds branch in Juja

The new outlet follows the retailer’s first branch on Mombasa Road and joins competitors such as China Square and Pandamart in a market that has seen growing interest in imported household goods.

The Juja store, located on the mall’s first floor, stocks electronics, fashion items, household goods and gaming products. Its launch drew shoppers, influencers and entertainers, including Eric Omondi and King Kaka.

Henry Chen, managing director of the Juja branch, said the expansion is aimed at tapping into changing consumer habits and demand for a wide range of low- to mid-priced products. He noted that the decision to open during the festive period was strategic, given heightened spending and interest in household items.

“We want to keep stocking quality products that meet customer needs,” Chen said, adding that the outlet is running a 20% discount promotion until January 1.

Chen also disclosed plans to expand to Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret, with two additional branches expected in 2026.

The Juja hypermarket features a gaming zone equipped with Virtual Reality machines, which store supervisors say is intended to attract younger shoppers. “Many want a different gaming experience, and we’re offering that at accessible rates,” said supervisor Vanessa Nasyombe.

Shoppers at the launch cited variety and pricing as key draws. “They have a wide range of goods and gaming services,” said Ivy Waithera, a shopper and commercial model.

The outlet also includes a food section offering both Chinese and Kenyan dishes.

The opening comes at a time when foreign-owned retailers are gaining a stronger presence in Kenya’s retail sector, which continues to evolve following the collapse of several major local chains. Competitive pricing, broad product assortments and aggressive expansion strategies have helped Chinese retailers appeal to households facing persistent cost-of-living pressures.

Juja—anchored by a large university population and rapidly expanding estates—has become an attractive location for retailers targeting young consumers and first-time home buyers. For China Village, the new branch represents an attempt to position itself within one of the region’s fastest-growing commercial zones.