Nigeria: New Outlets Take Over Shoprite Stores

One year after Shoprite closed most of its stores in Nigeria, new retail outlets are taking over some of the former Shoprite spaces. The South African retail giant operated in Nigeria for nearly two decades before exiting the country in 2021, citing the high cost of operations and changing business conditions.

The franchise was transferred to Ketron Investment Limited, a local investor group led by Persianas Investment, after Shoprite's exit. However, by September 2025, most of the surviving Shoprite outlets in Lagos, Ibadan, Ilorin, Abuja, and Port Harcourt had closed down.

The new owner, Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited (RSNL), is undertaking a comprehensive business model reset to align with Nigeria's economic realities. As part of this new model, 80% of RSNL's products are now sourced in Nigeria, reducing the company's dependence on imported products.

This shift in strategy is designed to stabilise operations for long-term growth, addressing the challenges posed by Nigeria's economic climate, including exchange rate volatility and rising inflation. While some former Shoprite locations remain locked or show signs of deterioration, the takeover by new businesses marks a new chapter for the retail spaces.

## What happens next The future of retail in Nigeria looks set to be shaped by local players, with RSNL's new business model aiming to become less dependent on imported products. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the new outlets will fare in the competitive Nigerian market.

## Why it matters The exit of Shoprite marked the end of an era for one of Nigeria's most recognisable supermarket brands. The takeover of former Shoprite spaces by new businesses is a significant development, indicating a shift in the retail landscape. With RSNL's focus on sourcing products locally, the company is adapting to Nigeria's economic realities, which could have a positive impact on the local economy.

The new business model is a response to the challenges posed by Nigeria's economic climate, and its success will depend on the company's ability to navigate these challenges. As the retail sector continues to evolve, the outcome of RSNL's new strategy will be closely watched, with implications for the broader Nigerian economy.