The majority of households in Kenya go to the supermarket for their shopping but did you know that Nakuru county is where most of Kenya’s biggest supermarkets started? Tuskys, Naivas, Quickmart, and Nakumatt were all founded in Nakuru.
For most shoppers, the choice of supermarket depends on convenience, price, class, ambiance, or consumer loyalty. Nakuru has a variety of options depending on your preference. Here are the best supermarkets you can go to.
1. Naivas Supermarket

If you’ve been to any Naivas supermarket recently, you know how classy they’ve become. This branch is no different. It has a beautiful open set-up, neat shelves, dim colors, and a food court. The food court is a must-visit if you go to Naivas. The hotdogs are amazing. It’s located in WestSide Mall which allows for ample parking (though you pay for parking) Whether it’s shopping or grabbing a bite at the food court, Naivas is the number one pick.
2. Gilani’s Supermarket

This is one of the oldest supermarkets in Nakuru. It’s located in the heart of Nakuru CBD opposite Rift Valley Sports Club. It’s so popular that it’s often used as a reference point if you get lost. Their key selling point is the low price of goods. The pricing is so good that you’ll find most parents doing back-to-school shopping here, and also shopkeepers get their goods at wholesale price at Gilani’s Supermarket.
3. Woolmatt Supermarket

It was formerly known as Nakuru Mattresses from which Nakumatt originated. In Nakuru, it retained the name Woolmatt and it has been a household name for ages. The brand is known for its great prices and thus, customer loyalty. There’s nothing flashy about the store. Everything’s where it’s supposed to be and is priced right. Simple, just like Nakuru.
4. Chandarana Foodplus

Chandarana Foodplus was recently opened in the new mall, Golden Life Mall, which is located some 5 minutes from Nakuru CBD on the Nairobi-Kisumu highway. If you’ve been to Chandarana Foodplus before, you know it’s famous for its fresh groceries and clean minimalistic look. This store is no different. It looks great and smells even better. There’s plenty of free parking in the mall and a coffee shop (Origin Coffee Kenya) opposite the supermarket. It’s new, it’s beautiful. I’m certain people in Nakuru will enjoy shopping here.
5. Naivas Super Center.

This branch has been open for quite some time. It’s located in the Super Center Mall which is right next to the Nakuru State House along Nakuru-Nairobi highway. It recently got renovated and now has that glow that the new Naivas stores have. There’s a lot of free parking space in the mall. The supermarket is huge but the design allows you to see almost where everything is. It offers convenience if you want to shop while on your way to Nairobi without accessing the CBD. There’s everything you need under one roof.
6. Cleanshelf Supermarket

Cleanshelf Supermarket was recently opened to replace Naivas, who had previously leased the space. It’s located along Kenyatta Avenue, next to Woolmatt. The location lack parking space which is a bummer coz the supermarket is a breath of fresh air. It’s neat and has a clean design. The staff are friendly so are the management who you’ll always spot moving up and down ensuring everything runs smoothly. They have really good pastry. It’s worth shopping in if you’re in Nakuru.
I am a charismatic 23-year-old student at the University of Nairobi. I enjoy traveling be it planned or impromptu. I also enjoy partying. I'll be there with a drink in my cup all through the night, chasing the sun. Life's too short not to choose the fast lane. Carpe diem!