Popular retailing company, Shoprite is facing significant operational challenges in Nigeria, with several of its outlets shutting down and others operating at minimal capacity. Four years after its South African parent company exited the Nigerian market, the retail chain is struggling under local ownership.

Checks have confirmed the closure of Shoprite stores in Ilorin and Ibadan, while other outlets across Lagos and Abuja are experiencing low patronage and largely empty shelves. Moreover, the Kano branch had previously shut down in 2024.

Shoprite entered the Nigerian market in 2005 and grew to operate over 25 stores nationwide, employing more than 2,000 people. However, its operations have been severely affected by inflation, supply chain challenges, and broader economic pressures.

In 2021, Shoprite Holdings sold its Nigerian operations to a group of local investors, citing unfavorable market conditions as the reason for its exit. Since then, the brand has steadily lost market shares due to increasing competition and internal difficulties.

Industry analysts caution that without prompt restructuring efforts, Shoprite’s footprint in Nigeria could diminish even further.