Naivas Supermarket, Kenya's largest retail chain, has grown from a single family shop in Nakuru to a national brand with over 110 outlets. Founded in 1990 by Peter Mukuha Kago and his children, the business has evolved from a majority family-owned enterprise to a mixed-ownership structure. The Mukuha family retains a 49% stake, while Mauritius-based IBL Group holds a controlling 51% stake through its vehicle Mambo Retail.
The founding family, the Mukuhas of Nakuru, played a significant role in establishing and growing the business. Peter Mukuha Kago, the founder, passed away in 2010, leaving his children to take over the business. His sons, David Kimani Mukuha and Simon Gashwe Mukuha, were instrumental in the company's growth, with David serving as CEO and Simon as chairman. The family's dedication and hard work saw the business expand to include wholesale and distribution services, leading to its registration as a company in 1993.
The Mukuha family's ownership structure is comprised of David Kimani Mukuha (25%), Simon Gashwe Mukuha (25%), Linet Wairimu Mukuha (15%), and Grace Wambui Mukuha (15%). Peter Mukuha Kago's will stipulated that his 20% shares would be distributed among his children. Simon Gashwe Mukuha, who passed away in 2016, was appointed sole administrator of the founder's estate in 2010. The family's shares were re-distributed according to the founder's will.
In 2023, IBL Group purchased 40% of Naivas's shares through its subsidiary Mambo Retail and raised its stake to 51% in 2024. The company's ownership structure now includes IBL Group, a Mauritian conglomerate, as the majority owner. Arnaud Lagesse serves as the chairman of IBL Group. The investment from IBL Group has contributed to the company's growth and expansion.
Andreas von Paleske became the CEO of Naivas Supermarket in November 2025, marking the first time a non-family member has led the company. David Kimani Mukuha, the outgoing CEO, will remain engaged with the business as a board adviser. The decision to appoint a non-family professional was a deliberate strategy to institutionalize the company and safeguard its future.
Naivas Supermarket has achieved significant revenue growth, posting Ksh114.45 billion (~$19m net profit) in revenue for FY2025, up 21.6% year-on-year. The company's growth and expansion have been fueled by its strategic partnerships and investments. Early institutional investors, including IFC, Amethis Finance, DEG, and MCB Equity Fund, exited by 2022.
The company's history dates back to 1990 when it was founded as Gitwe General Stores in Rongai, Nakuru. The business has undergone significant transformations over the years, including its rebranding as Naivas Supermarket. Today, Naivas Supermarket is a leading retail chain in Kenya, with a strong presence across the country.
Key points
- IBL Group holds a controlling 51% stake in Naivas Supermarket through its vehicle Mambo Retail.
- The Mukuha family retains a 49% stake in the company.
- Andreas von Paleske became the CEO of Naivas Supermarket in November 2025, marking the first time a non-family member has led the company.
