Supermarkets in turmoil as heavy debt load weighs

Retailers in the Kenyan market are facing strong headwinds related to high operating costs, mounting supplier dues, and margin pressures that have pushed two retailers to the red.
The current suppliers’ disquiet at Nakumatt and loss-making position of Uchumi and Ukwala reveal a retail industry in turmoil.

Troubled Uchumi had to battle a winding-up suit early this year, triggered by mounting suppliers’ dues amounting to Sh3.6 billion.