Java to open Sh50m outlet in Machakos

Java House has announced plans to set up an outlet in Machakos County, its latest branch outside Kenya’s capital, Nairobi. The outlet will be located at Crystal Rivers Mall and Residences in Athi River, bringing the total number of branches to 56.

Group Chief Executive Officer Ken Kuguru said the expansion is in line with the corporate ambition to grow its national and regional footprint.

Athi River and the wider Machakos County has a burgeoning residential and working population, Mr Kuguru said, adding that that the firm had already signed an agreement with Safaricom Staff Pension Scheme (SSPS), the developers of Crystal Rivers Mall and Residences to invest about Ksh 5o million in its new outlet that will occupy 2,800 square feet.

“We found Crystal Rivers to be a very strategic location for our new restaurant,” he said, “ideally positioned between Nairobi and Machakos, along Mombasa Road and right next to a rapidly expanding residential and commercial area.”

He said Java had sets its eyes on the emerging market which, while already positioned as a weekend outing destination, offered limited choices in Kitengela town. Java be seeking to plug the existing gap in the variety of restaurant offerings in the region.

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“Java will fit neatly into the Crystal Rivers Mall whose positioning is nearly similar as a family entertainment and fun destination,” said Mr Kuguru.

The new Java restaurant is expected open before December holidays just after Kericho and Eldoret branches, with a target of opening eight outlets by yearend.

Pension Secretary Richard Gitahi said Safaricom Staff Pension Scheme (SSPS) was keen to get the ‘Tenancy Mix’ correct at Crystal Rivers Mall, which has been positioned as a lifestyle mall, with unique wholesome offers for everyone – Dad, Mum and Kids as well as the business community.