Uchumi appoints operations consultant to review business strategy

Uchumi supermarkets has hired an operations consultant as part of efforts to turnaround the business.

Peter Kamau takes on the role, overseeing the retailer’s operations as well as leveraging on strategic partnerships to grow revenues.

Uchumi Chief Executive Dr Julius Kipng’etich said the consultant would be an asset to the listed firm, contributing to the overall stabilisation and growth strategy.

“Peter’s knowledge of retail operations, local and international experience will be invaluable as we look to define more innovative solutions for our customers and endeavour to stabilise our business,” Dr Kipng’etich said.

His appointment comes just days after Chief Operating Officer Willy Kimani was poached back to Naivas Supermarket, leaving a leadership vacuum.

Uchumi has been consolidating its operations, closing non performing branches in hopes of turning around its declining fortunes. The retailer has been seeking government support to inject capital as well as shopping for a strategic investor.

Uchumi managed to strike a deal with its suppliers, who had threatened to wind up the company for failing to pay over Sh3.6 billion debt.

Mr Kamau has over 18 years’ experience in the private sector having previously worked at Bidvest Foods Kenya, Nairobi Kitchencare and Tusker Mattress.

“I look forward to maximizing the available retail opportunities with a view to stabilising and expanding Uchumi’s business,” he said of his appointment.