By Ejiofor Toochi
Lately, customers walking into Shoprite stores in Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Ilorin, and other cities have encountered a stark contrast to what they once knew: near-empty shelves, closed outlets, and limited products. Many of these stores have been closed temporarily, and some remain shut for weeks.
Daily Trust noted that while Shoprite stores in Ilorin and Ibadan have shut down, other branches, including those at Ikeja City Mall and Jabi Lake Mall in Abuja, now display mostly scanty shelves. Earlier this year, a viral video from the store in Akure revealed nearly empty shelves, prompting questions from local shoppers. Recall also that in January 2024, Shoprite shut down its Kano branch, citing the store’s financial situation and the prevailing business climate.
When Shoprite entered Nigeria in 2005, it quickly became the face of modern retail, introducing a new style of shopping. But 16 years later, in 2021, Shoprite Holdings Limited sold its Nigerian operations to Ketron, a company owned by a group of local investors led by Persianas Investment. The decision was linked to harsh business realities and unfavourable market conditions.
Since then, Shoprite’s early monopoly has faded. The chain now faces stiff competition from emerging shopping malls and local supermarkets. Stores like Spar, Jendol, and Bokku have grown into household favourites, winning customers with their convenience, competitive pricing, and strong presence in residential areas.
What Shoprite is Saying
Shoprite has dismissed rumours of leaving Nigeria, clarifying that the empty shelves and temporary store closures observed in recent weeks are not signs of withdrawal but part of a broader restructuring. According to Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited (RSNL), which operates Shoprite in the country, the company is undergoing a “business reset” to adapt to Nigeria’s economic realities.
The firm explained that its old model of large-format stores, heavily dependent on imports and high operating costs, was no longer sustainable. To remain competitive, Shoprite intends to transition towards smaller, more efficient stores, prioritise local sourcing — with over 80 per cent of products expected to be Nigerian-made — and introduce more private-label items. This strategy aims to reduce costs, improve affordability, and enhance its cultural relevance in the Nigerian market.
The company emphasised its commitment to remaining in Nigeria and developing a more resilient and affordable shopping experience for its customers. The big question, however, is whether these changes will be enough to revive Shoprite’s business in the country.
