Jan 16, 2024 | Press Release

Retail Supermarket Nigeria Limited (RNSL) operating as Shoprite Nigeria has announced the closure of its Ado Bayero Store in Kano, citing consumer buying power, high cost of doing business, rental cost and negative financial performance. Announcing the closure, in a statement issued on Tuesday, its Chief Executive Officer, Hubertus Rick, stated that while the outlet had been shut down from January 14, the retail chain still mules a two to five-year bullish growth plan for the Nigerian market.

He stated further that while the company would continue to close down stores that are performing sub-optimally, as the consumer economy tightens, it also plans to open four new outlets annually across the country, as guided by its retail market research.

Rick also said the decision was not made lightly, as the company understands the impact such action may have on its employees and the community.

He said, “After careful evaluation of the store’s financial situation and the current business climate, Shoprite believes it is the best course of action for the long-term growth of our organisation.”

Rick however assures of the company’s readiness to do business in Kano when the business environment becomes favourable; since Kano remains a big city with room for a Shoprite concept.

He also assures employees of the company, likely to be affected by the difficult decision of the company’s readiness to assist them during the transition period.

“We understand that this news may be difficult to digest, and we want to assure you that we are here to support you during this transition period. Your well-being is our top priority, and we will do everything we can to assist you in finding new opportunities within our company.

“We encourage you to apply for any vacant positions in our existing stores across the country through the Human Resources department. Additionally, we will be opening new stores in the coming months, and you are welcome to apply for employment there as well,” he stated.