tuskys news 002
TRANSCRIPT
ISSUE 002JULY 2016
THE LATE MZEE JORAM KAMAU, TUSKYS FOUNDERTHE LATE MZEE JORAM KAMAU, TUSKYS FOUNDER
OUR HERITAGE PARTNERSHIPS THAT BIND INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES
CSR ACTIVITIES <
TUSKYS GOT TALENT <
IT IS GODFIRST AT
TUSKYS
IT IS GODFIRST AT
TUSKYS
> INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES
> PICTORIALS
> HUMOUR
THE MAN WHOSE LEGACYCONTINUES TO TOUCH LIVES
THE MAN WHOSE LEGACYCONTINUES TO TOUCH LIVES
MY FATHER’SLEGACY LIVES
ON… DR. KAGO
TUSKYSINSPIRINGSTORY OFGROWTH
TUSKYS NEWS 1
10
WHAT’S INSIDEA sneak peak at what you’ll find in this issue
F O R E W O R D
25
11
12
17OUR HERITAGE
PARTNERSHIPS THAT BIND
INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES
PICTORIALS
SECTOR NEWS
INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES
STARS CORNER
HUMOUR
3
11
13
14
17
22
23
28
THE FOUNDERPG. 5
FROM THE CHAIRMANPG. 3
THE JOURNEYPG. 7
C O N T E N T S
17
TUSKYS NEWS2
Welcome to the second issue of TUSKYS NEWS
magazine, your favourite
companion that fills you in
with information about your
preferred shopping store,
Tuskys!
Well. Tuskys is 26 years and in this issue, we pay special tribute to the Tuskys Founder Mzee Joram Kamau, who though departed, left a strong brand and a legacy that will forever be echoed through generations. From meek beginnings, we bring you the Tuskys story that is a true reflection of the famous phrase, ‘Grass to Grace.’
We also celebrate our various strategic partnerships with other brands in this issue. In Africa, we have a saying that states, ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.’ For Tuskys, it has been a step at a time; not alone and fast but together and far. Read about these industry partnerships that are making things better.
We also give you a sneak peek of changing trends in the retail sector, the new entrants and how we are positioned to remain competitive.
And by the way, Tuskys got talent too! Get these and many more only in this issue!
Enjoy the read.
JOANNE WANJALA,
CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER.
WELCOME NOTE
FROM THE EDITOR
EDITORJoanne Wanjala
EDITORIAL TEAMKimathi Kariara, BM, BuruburuCollins AgaiYvonne Ndung’e
CONTRIBUTORSPeter KiraguEva NdiranguAnne KooriCollins Agai
PHOTOGRAPHYKush KurianAnne Koori
MARKETINGYvonne Ndun’geAnne Koori
TUSKYS BOARD CHAIRMAN Dr. John Kago Kamau
TUSKYS CEODan Githua
DIRECTORSStephen Mukuha KamauSammy Gatei KamauYusuf Mugweru KamauGeorge Gachwe KamauMary NjokiMonica Njeri (Deceased)
DESIGN & LAYOUTBluPrint Media - 0722 118258
TUSKYS NEWS is a publication of TUSKYS SUPERMARKET LTD.
© 2016 TUSKYS SUPERMARKET LTD. All rights reserved. Neither this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored
in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise,
without the prior permission of TUSKYS NEWS. TUSKYS NEWS is published every quarter, by The TUSKYS Supermarket Limited,
P.O. Box 54280 - 00200, Nairobi, Kenya
TUSKYS NEWS 3
FROM THE CHAIRMAN
MY FATHER’S LEGACY LIVES ON… DR. KAGO
TUSKYS BOARD CHAIRMAN DR. JOHN KAGO KAMAU
You may not have had a chance to meet or interact with him. But you may have heard about a noble man who planted a
gem in early 1980s far away in Nakuru, the gem that has blossomed into your favourite shopping store, Tuskys.
Departed from us 14 years ago. But we still feel him; walk with him; live with him through the golden gem that he planted. He may have planted it ordinarily. He must have been oblivious of what that seed could germinate into.
But the Tuskys seed planted nobly more than 26 years ago by a selfless man is now a source of life and livelihood to millions of people. In fact, the second largest Chain of Supermarkets in the region no longer belongs to my father, Joram Kamau; neither does it belong to the Kamau family alone. It bloomed and has over the years grown beyond us.
It belongs to Kenyans; the employees, customers, suppliers, business partners, and all other stakeholders who in one way or another interact with the brand. It belongs to people. It supports people. And indeed his legacy lives on…
Humble beginningsIt is amazing how a small family shop started off by a man who did not even have the privilege of attaining formal educa-tion in those hay days in the early 1980s has blossomed into an enviable business empire in less than 3 decades.
This is proof of good will from all stakeholders. From a small shop called Magic set up in Nakuru that used to trade in mattresses to a regional empire boasting of 51 branches in Kenya and 7 in Uganda, with other 4 stores lined up for opening, is no mean feat.
It is a measure of commitment and hard work from a man whose golden heart could charm and melt the hardest of hearts. Even as the business
OUR HERITAGE
4
FROM THE CHAIRMAN
grew, he never abandoned his true values of integrity, hard work, humility and good character.
Together with my mother Mama Hannah Wamaitha, they raised the 8 of us (5 brothers and 3 sisters) like any other ordinary person; a close-knit family with highly-guarded values and a heart for one another. He taught us the art of giving, the fear of God, the value of honesty and the good that comes from hard work.
He never liked shortcuts. Not my father.
And this is who we are in this business today. My brothers and I joined in the business and threw our energies towards the growth and expansion of the business based on these values.
With my father’s soft heart for the financially underprivileged, his embarked on a unique formula of locating the stores near bus stations and offering comparatively low prices. This, he believed, would give everyone a chance to get quality goods and products at low prices.
We have held onto this formula; expanding into the residential estates and peri-urban areas in line with our long term vision of becoming a successful brand on every street and corner. Even with his departure as the vision bearer, we did not relent to carry own and make him smile. My brothers and I have together guarded his honour and strived to maintain what he believed in most even in the dynamic business operating environment.
No Alcohol policyMany may have wondered why we have not scrambled for the ‘lucrative’ market segment of stocking alcohol in our stores. Our brand remains the only top tier supermarket that does not stock alcohol in all our branches. My father’s philosophy was, ‘good heath is wealth.’ He believed in promoting a heathy society free from alcohol that could encourage hard work free from the effects and impacts of alcohol.
Alcoholism remains one of the greatest huddles that the country is facing, with many of our youths becoming lazy, unproductive or incapacitated because of the effects of alcohol. As Tuskys, we still want to guard our future genera-tions with great honour.
The sky is no limitAs we continue to record phenomenal growth and favourable market reception across the region, we know that you the customer, the employee, the supplier, the business partner, and all the well-wishers are at the centre of it all. We also know that we have managed to stand the test of time for all these years, thanks to the good values inculcated in us at early stages.
With a heart to support local and build Kenya, we play a major role of growing the retail sector that collectively contrib-utes to over 30 per cent to the country’s GDP.
The grace has been sufficient. His legacy lives on…
THE LEGACY LIVES ON…
We have held onto this formula; expanding into the
residential estates and peri-urban areas in line with our long
term vision of becoming a successful brand on every street
and corner. Even with his departure as the vision bearer, we
did not relent to carry own and make him smile.
OUR HERITAGE
Joram Kamau’s Family in a past thanksgiving ceremony. Tuskys holds a thanksgiving ceremony annually to give thanks to God for protecting the
employees and the business throughout the year.
5
OUR HERITAGE
Many Kenyans may have simply moved on and forgotten about his silver hand
of giving and golden heart that could turn anything to something. Those who interacted with Mzee Joram Kamau, the Founder of Tuskys Empire, who passed on in 2002 describe him as a man who was full of humility, good character, God-fearing and who could go extra miles to help others.
His legacy lives on and as TUSKYS NEWS spoke to one of the longest serving employees Kimathi Kariara, BM, Buru Buru, Tuskys Chain still holds dear some of the values that define the present day business operations.
Here are some excerpts from the interview:
Q. In your own words, describe Mzee Joram Kamau?Mzee Joram Kamau was a soft spoken man with Godly loving heart and a true Christian in eternal life even after death. Every Morning, he used to visit several branches within Nairobi CBD to confirm the following;
• Whether the Prayers were conducted in those branches.
• Whether staffs had been served breakfast.
• To preach or share a word of God with staffs during the usual morning devotion.
• He also used to visit those branches just to interact with employees.
He lived a simple live like any other village man and loved to associate with the poor. For
MZEE JORAM, THE GREAT!
THE LATE MZEE JORAM KAMAU, FOUNDER OF TUSKYS
THE FOUNDER
6
Once a week, he spared sometime after closure of business preach to us mostly about integrity, Godly values. His favorite Bible Chapter was Psalms 133, which starts, ‘Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!’
Q. What were his last moments like?
On the fateful day that he passed on the night of December 17th, 2002, we had spent some time together, him specifically reading some specific bible verses mostly based on the art of giving. I remember him particularly telling us that everything that one owns belongs to the world and that however rich or poor one is, no one leaves the world with anything. That we should therefore teach our hearts to give and touch lives.
Little did we know that those were our last moments together.
Q. How was his relationship with his children and the Community at large?
Joram was a father who brought his children up in a Godly way. He used to have candid talks with them together and his greatest virtues that he inculcated in them was honesty and hard work. He was a good father and mentored them all.
He preached unity to them and nurtured their talents equally.
instance, how could you explain a situation where a man of his calibre travelling from Nairobi to Nakuru every weekend with public means? You could often see him boarding the famous Eldoret Express at the Machakos Country Bus stage just like any other Kenyan.
He was simple and noble at heart.
Q. What relationship did you have with him?
He was like a father to me, a friend, a mentor, my hero.
Our paths crossed way back in 1992 in Nakuru, my home town. By then, he only had Magic Super Stores.
Whenever I went shopping, I could say hello to him and the bond grew tremendously with time especially when we became friends with his children.
When I joined Tuskys later in January 1997, our bond grew as we used to work together in Tuskys’ second branch that we used to call Tusker 2 in Nairobi’s Mfangano Street.
Here, he was like a father to me; showering me with great advice about living a Godly and righteous life and business in general.
When I was transferred to Magic Nakuru in 2002, he accommodated me at his home in Section 58. Here, we lived an ordinary life and most of the time, he could spare some time and narrate to me about his life, his successes and struggles.
Q. How long did you work under him?
I worked with him for more than 12 years until his death. We were stationed at the former OTC Branch before moving to Nakuru with him. I was the custodian of his salary and he could introduce me to all his visitors and talk about my relationship with him.
His greatest wish was to have everyone around him happy. He could also make sure that each of the workers received their dues in time. His greatest wish was to see every branch open with prayer, a practice that has now become our tradition at Tuskys. He valued prayer a lot and used to believe that a business whose foundation is built on prayer flourishes.
THE FOUNDER
…how could you explain a situation where a man of his calibre travelling from Nairobi to Nakuru every weekend with public means? You could often see him boarding the famous Eldoret Express at the Machakos Country Bus stage just like any other Kenyan. He was simple and noble at heart.
OUR HERITAGE
MR. KIMATHI KARIARA, BRANCH MANAGER, BURUBURU
7
THE JOURNEY
TUSKYS INSPIRING STORY OF GROWTH SECOND TO NONE
IN THE RETAIL SECTOR
By Peter Kiragu
The story of Tuskys Supermarket is perhaps one of the most inspiring in as far as the retail industry is concerned. From very humble begin-nings in Nakuru where it started as a single small shop, Tuskys is today one of the largest retail chains in the country and a familiar
household name.
With 54 branches spread throughout the country, it is unlikely to miss a Tuskys shop in all the major towns of Kenya. And with seven branches in Uganda and growing, one can foresee the leadership position that Tuskys will be holding in that country in the near future.
That is why today if you were to ask a random question for people to name the supermarkets best known to them most, Tuskys would probably be among the
OUR HERITAGE
Tuskys first wholesale shop in Rongai, Nakuru
With 54 branches spread
throughout the country, it is
unlikely to miss a Tuskys shop
in all the major towns of Kenya.
And with seven branches in
Uganda and growing, one can
foresee the leadership position
that Tuskys will be holding in
that country in the near future.
8
THE JOURNEY
top two if not the top. That is where the Tuskys brand now stands in the market. A top brand well known for its unique positioning as the supermarket where you get the best at the most competi-tive prices.
Today if the founder, Mr. Joram Kamau, was to wake up from his rest he would most likely be a happy man. The humble business he started 25 years ago from proceeds of sale of a bull has blossomed to be one of the biggest supermarket brands in Kenya and fast growing in Uganda.
However, he would probably need to ask someone to help him locate his businesses. When he died in 2002, his shops were known as Tusker Mattresses. Today, they are called Tuskys Supermarket since 2007.
But with this realization, Mr. Kamau would jump with joy and hug his children and employees of Tuskys for raising one of the most formidable retail chains in
the region within such a short period of time.
Even though he is not there anymore to celebrate this commendable growth, Mr. Kamau’s children with the able assis-tance of qualified and professional staff continue to stir the business into higher heights.
The Tuskys brand is a store that stands for freshness on the market and has been a key player in making the market mature and positioning the retail sector as a globally competitive segment of the economy.
Today, apart from providing normal conventional super-market services, Tuskys has become a pioneers in the provi-sion of unique ‘Fresh Concepts’ or private label products in the form on in-store Bakeries, Delis, Butchery, whole milk dispensers or the so-called milk ATMs, water dispensers as well as a wide range of locally sourced fresh fruits and vegetables.
These services are offered in the various shops which range from Mega Supermarkets to convenience stores referred to as ‘Chap Chaps’ depending on the community needs around the
OUR HERITAGE
1982
1983 1990
1989 1998(August)
2000
20042010(March)
2014
20151997
2000
2006
2010
2015
2011Joram Kamau opens his firstStore (Jolly Grocery) inNakuru
Second store, GitweGeneral Stores openedin Rongai Nakuru
Mfangano St.Store opens
Tusker Mattresses opensits 2nd store near theOTC bus Terminus
Two additional storesPioneer (September)and Express (December)opened in Nairobi
Tusker Mattressesrebrands to Tuskys
Your Friendly Supermarket
Tuskys revamps thelogo and adopts a newmarket positioningstatement
Silver Jubilee.
From humble beginings the
Tuskys brand celebrates a
monumental achievement
25 years of innovative service.
Tuskys officially awardedprestigious SuperBrandsaward
Tuskys BiasharaForum kicks off
Tuskys Internshipis launched
DRIVEN TO SUCCEED
Tuskys opens it’s 50th
retail store in Kenya
3 additional storesopened in Uganda
Tuskys expands toUganda. First storeKitintale, opens forbusiness.
Wareng CrossCountry launches
Magic Super Storesmerges with TuskerMattresses
Tusker Mattresses
opens its 3rd store
Hakati next to the
Bus Station Terminus
First self-service store,Magic super store in Rongai at NehruPandit Road.
25SILVER JUBILEE
YEARS
T U S K E R
Your Friendly Supermarket
Today if the founder, Mr. Joram
Kamau, was to wake up from
his rest he would most likely
be a happy man. The humble
business he started 25 years
ago from proceeds of sale of a
bull has blossomed to be one
of the biggest supermarket
brands in Kenya and fast
growing in Uganda.
OUR JOURNEY
9
location of the super-markets. This has been brought about by rapid urbanization and growth of the middle class which is dictating the theme for retails.
All the above devel-opments have been made possible by the chain’s valued stakeholders including customers, employees, suppliers and its partners who are and will continue to be held by high esteem by the management and board.
It is amazing how a small family shop started off by the founder Joram Kamau in early 1980s has blossomed into an enviable business empire in less than three decades.
Mr. Joram Kamau ran a small shop called Magic that used to trade in mattresses in Nakuru in the 1980s. He had cultivated a unique relationship with the founder of Nakuru Mattresses (today known as Nakumatt), who was doing brisk business across the street. They made an arrangement where the latter would supply Joram certain goods that were nearing expiry on generous credit terms, which he would then sell at very low prices.
Years later, as his business grew even larger, Joram would leave his first shop to his brother, which he transformed into Naivas, another fastest growing supermarket chain.
When the sons joined their father in business, they threw their energies into the expansion of the business to Nairobi through their subsidiary Tusker Mattresses, located near the OTC Bus Terminus in the 1990s. And this is the gem on which the chain has blossomed from.
UNIQUE LOCATIONSTusker Mattresses hit on a unique formula of locating the supermarket near bus stations and offering very low prices. It continues to use the same formula, expanding
into the residential estates and peri-urban areas defining its vision as being a “Successful Brand on Every Street and Corner”.
In mid 2000, Magic Super Stores were merged with Tusker Mattresses. Magic had two shops, one on Ronald Ngala Street in Nairobi and one on Pandit Nehru Road in Nakuru. Tusker had three shops in Nairobi, one along Mfangano Street, one next to OTC and one on Hakati Road. In the year of the merger, they opened two other shops in Nairobi — Express on Sheikh Karume Road and Pioneer on Moi Avenue. They soon opened the under-ground Imara Daima supermarket next to the busy Tom Mboya Post Office bus stop, a unit that has proved very popular with commuters.
From then, the Tuskys train took off with immense success, opening more branches, diversifying product offering and expanding to the region. This is despite the founder Joram Kamau passing on in 2002.
With the retail sector contributing over 30 per cent to GDP, Tuskys continues to be strategically positioned on the market to expand more and streamline the retail sector.
The future can only get better.
THE JOURNEYOUR HERITAGE
10
By Joanne Wanjala
Imagine a scenario where you rush to pick your favourite pilau from your favourite Tuskys Deli and the sight that beholds you
is that of prayer and supplication; the
kind that you only find in churches. You
find tills closed and the only activity is
prayer and thanksgiving.
This can be a shocking sight more so
if you are used to the everyday buzz
of activities at the supermarket as
customers jostle for space to make
their picks and the never-ending
sound of machines at the point of sale.
But did you know that Tuskys chain of
supermarkets close shops for several
hours once in a year just to give thanks
to the Lord for good tidings within the
year? Well, now you know.
The Supermarket has since 2010 set aside a day in the month of June every year dedicated to a prayer service and thanksgiving in all its 54 branches countrywide, the headquarter included.
This is usually a big day for staff who come together for a common purpose of giving gratitude to God for his mercies. This is because Tuskys believes that it is only through God’s will that it has made all these strides.
Sometimes customers and suppliers
IT IS GOD FIRST AT TUSKYS
join in the prayers too. It is also a unique act of demonstrating a human face for the retail giant, and to show that Tuskys is not just about profits.
A number of activities thus take place during the 2-hour prayer and thanksgiving service where everything else waits. It is a big moment of prayer and supplication.
Tuskys also has 3 pastors on board who are dedicated to preaching in all branches.
PASTORAL SERVICES OUR HERITAGE
Pastor Juma Oloo, one of the three pastors who offer pastoral services at Tuskys.
11
KCB Foundation and Tuskys Supermarket recently entered into a strategic partnership agreement
that will see provision of internship opportunities to 1600 youths and contract farming opportunities for youths in agribusiness.
The partnership will work to benefit 13,000 youths across 22 counties in the identified value chains in agribusiness where KCB Foundation will provide asset financing and working capital to enable the young farmers meet the needs of demand and supply. This is through the Foundation’s recently launched multi-billion Tujiajiri program.
Tuskys will on the other hand provide market for the farm produce in its 54 stores, making it one of the most fulfilling contract farming initiatives. The identified agri-produce include poultry products, milk, sweet potatoes, vegetables, beef, and honey, among others.
Tujiajiri program was launched recently by KCB Foundation with the aim of empowering budding entrepreneurs to scale and upscale their business ventures.
The Foundation’s partnership with Tuskys, the second largest supermarket chain in the region, is seen as one of the most fulfilling initiatives launched by the private sector in the region.
Tuskys will on the other hand
provide market for the farm
produce in its 54 stores, making it
one of the most fulfilling contract
farming initiatives.
KCB FOUNDATION INKS DEAL WITH TUSKYS TO EMPOWER YOUTHS
KCB Group chairman Ngeny Biwott inks deal with Tuskys Chairman Dr. John Kago. Looking on is KCB Foundation Executive Director Jane
Mwangi and Tuskys CEO Dan Githua.
Some of the beneficiaries of the first cohort of the internship program.
INTERNSHIP PROGRAMMEPARTNERSHIPS THAT BIND
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SACCO PARTNERSHIPS PARTNERSHIPS THAT BIND
Leading retail supermarkets chain Tuskys and the Safaricom Sacco-Kenya’s fastest growing private
sector SACCO – have today signed a retail partnership agreement that will allow the telco’s employees and other sacco members to acquire discounted high value items on credit basis at the retailers 52 stores countrywide.
Under the partnership, Safaricom Sacco members will get a Local Purchase Order (LPO) from the Sacco offices and present the same to any Tuskys Supermarket after which the items will be released to them within 48 hours. The retailer will bill the Sacco once for all LPOs received within a month.
Speaking at the launch when the two organizations inked the deal, Tuskys CEO Dan Githua said the supermarket had taken a deliberate step to differentiate the on-credit shopping
experience for the Safaricom Sacco members at its stores following a longstanding relationship. “This is part of Tuskys supermarkets expansion strategy that focuses on deepening partnerships with our corporate partners to drive business growth. Our partnership with this leading Sacco will ensure that as many members as possible have access to easy credit based means with which to acquire high value items,” Mr. Githua said.
Safaricom Sacco CEO George Ochiri said the partnership was a welcome development for its members and would add to the options its members have in acquiring household items. “We have continuously sought partnerships that especially enrich the local shopping experience for our members. We are delighted to note that our members can now enjoy discounts, credit and deliveries while shopping at Tuskys,” he said.
TUSKYS PARTNERS WITH SAFARICOM SACCO TO ALLOW MEMBERS SHOP ON CREDIT
Safaricom Sacco, which was founded in 2001 to serve the common bond of Safaricom employees, has an asset base of Ksh3.3 Billion and presently caters for 9000 members. The Sacco is implementing a strategic plan targeting to grow its business fourfold by 2018.
Tuskys said its strategy in deepening partnerships with corporate partners was geared towards boosting sales volumes for household goods such as Sofa sets, assorted furniture, TVs, fridges and other electronics.
The retailer has a similar partnership with Ukombozi Sacco, the umbrella Sacco for Deliverance Churches in Kenya that has 7000 members countrywide.
Tuskys is pursuing similar partnerships with reputable licensed SACCOs and corporate partners across the country to enable more people access items of their choice conveniently.
Tuskys CEO Dan Githua (Left) with Safaricom Sacco CEO George Ochiri during the launch of the partnership.
13
CSR ACTIVITIESINVESTING IN COMMUNITIES
By Joanne Wanjala
Tuskys internship program remains a key success story in offering opportunities to youths. The chain officially launched the internship programme in October
2015 to address two major challenges: youth unemployment and the need to mould staff to suit the needs of the retail sector.
This is part of the Chain’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative that has so far transformed lives of over 700 interns, 90 per cent of which are now working in its 54 branches countrywide.
The launch of the ambitious programme was based on an assessment of these needs, which will see Tuskys recruiting and training 1,500 interns annually for the next five years.
This then means that by the end of the first five years, over 8,000 interns will have been trained.
The program targets the youth, who have limited opportunities, are in marginalized areas or lack resources to seek out the training and job opportunities offered by the program.
The programme has so far touched hundreds people in a way that the supermarket chain’s board and management could not have envisioned at the outset.
Unique application modelThe partnership with KCB Foundation for the second cohort of interns will see Tuskys train over 800 interns between this June and September.
The model for application is simple; It is pegged on a unique model that will see Tuskys customers with Loyalty cards log on to an online portal on the Tuskys website (www.tuskys.com ) and upload 2 CVs of their candidates of choice.
The new model of making applications will give equal opportunity to Tuskys’ over 1 million Loyalty customers across the country to be part of the process. It will also ensure that even those youths in far-flung areas get a chance to be trained and linked up to the market given that application is through an online portal.
TUSKYS EXTENDS INTERNSHIP APPLICATIONS TO LOYALTY CUSTOMERS
Some of the First Cohort of the Internship Program pose for a photo.
TUSKYS NEWS14
PICTORIALS THROUGH THE LENS
Tuskys and Safaricom Sacco teams during the launch of Safaricom Sacco partnership deal. The deal allows Safaricom Sacco members to access high value items on credit from all Tuskys branches countrywide.
Tuskys Chief Finance Officer Daniel Ndirangu (left) Security Manager Alpheuos Mutuku get ready for
this year’s Marter Heart Run at Nyayo Stadium where Tuskys was one of the sponsors of the event.
Tuskys Chairman Dr. John Kago (right ) shakes hands with Ms. Emilie Romon, netFWD Co-ordinator, Policy Dialogue Division development Centre(OCED)
after a consultative meeting on possible collaborations to boost Tuskys robust CSR Program. Looking on is Mr. Stanley Cheruiyot, the Public Engagement and
Liason Officer in the Office of the Deputy President.
The KAMP team pose for a photo with the Tuskys team after presenting compliance certificates and licence to Tuskys at its
Head office.
‘Live’ cooking: Tuskys team entice customers with fresh sizzling bites at the Mater Heart Run event held at Nyayo stadium.
TUSKYS NEWS 15
PICTORIALSTHROUGH THE LENS
“Taste the feeling!” ... Tuskys CEO Dan Githua presents a Tuskys Gift hamper to KCB Group Chairman Biwott moments after inking a partnership deal. Looking on is Tuskys Chairman Dr. Kago.
KCB Foundation team led by KCBGROUP Chairman Biwott share a photo moment with Tuskys team led by Chairman Dr. Kago and CEO Dan Githua.
Retail Trade Association of Kenya (RETRAK) CEO Wambui Mbarire follows proceedings during the reopening of Hakati
branch located near Nairobi’s bus station area.
Hakati branch reopened with pomp and colour and there was this... the cake. The branch had been closed for
renovation after a fire incident last year.
17
RETAIL SECTOR OVERVIEWSECTOR NEWS
By Peter Kiragu
KENYANS should expect to see more retailers setting foot in their neighborhoods and towns with the number of new malls being put up growing each day. With a rising middle class which has resulted into more spending power, the retail sector is expected to remain bullish for the next two years, according to various analysis of the market.
And we should also expect to see more international retailers setting shop in Kenya as they seek to take advantage of this rising middle class and opportunities presented by some
RETAIL SECTOR TO REMAIN VIBRANT FOR THE NEXT TWO YEARS
high-end malls coming up across all the main towns and cities.
Already French retail giant Carrefour, which is ranked the world’s second-largest supermarket chain after Wal-Mart, opened is first branch in Kenya in May at the Hub Karen, the latest affluent shopping mall which has created a market obsession in Nairobi attracting hundreds of curious shoppers seeking the new shopping experience. Earlier, last year, South Africa’s Massmart opened its Game store at the Garden City Mall, another high-end mall along the Thika Superhighway. Carrefour is in addition said to be eyeing another giant store at the upcoming Two Rivers Mall being put up the affluent Runda neighborhood.
“With increased urbanisation
and an ongoing rise in
disposable incomes, formal
retail activity – which is led
by large blue-chip domestic
companies in a number of
segments – should continue to
expand and diversify, especially
as more international brands
enter the marketplace,” the firm
says in its latest report.
The Fresh Department team at Hakati branch during its re-opening. The Deli concept has taken the retail sector by storm.
18
The local retail sector has been for many years dominated by family-owned retailers including Tusksys, Naivas, Nakumatt and Ukwali as well as the troubled Uchumi which is the only listed retailer but currently facing milliards of problems due to mismanagement. While Uchumi is closing down its branches outside Kenya, retailers like Tuskys are rushing to fill this gap by taking up more space at the regional markets.
According to a London-based consultancy firm Oxford Business Group, increasing urbanisation and rising levels of disposable income will continue fueling growth in Kenya’s retail sector in 2016 and beyond, as demand for quality outlets and a broader range of shopping options drives the construction of floor space.
Over the past five years, the average value of consumer spending has risen by as much as 67%, making Kenya the continent’s fastest-growing retail market.
“With increased urbanisation and an ongoing rise in disposable incomes, formal retail activity – which is led by large blue-chip domestic companies in a number of segments – should continue to expand and diversify, especially as more international brands enter the marketplace,” the firm says in its latest report.
The firm adds that the rise in formal retail activity can be seen most clearly by the expansion of dedicated property in major
urban areas, including the country’s 3.5 million person capital city. Last year alone saw a near tripling of Nairobi’s modern retail space, with close to 170,000 sq metres of new leasable area coming on-line.
Further, real estate research firm in a study titled Global Cities report anticipates that the Kenyan retail sector’s positive momentum will continue over the next two years. “In 2016 and 2017, a further [120,750 sq metres] of modern retail space will complete development in Nairobi,” the report says.
With devolution having taken shape and more money going to the counties, more malls are being put up in the regions further fuelling the retail sector in places like Nakuru, Kisumu, Mombasa and Eldoret.
“The ongoing development of satellite communities outside Nairobi should also help drive retail expansion in the coming years, as investors move to cater to the rising middle class and the overflow of residents from the capital,” notes Oxford Business Group in a report.
In comparison to other African markets, Kenya’s formal retail penetration rate – which ranges from 30% to 40%, according to analysts – is the second highest in sub-Saharan Africa. This places the country at roughly half the level of South Africa, where formal retail is estimated to stand at 60% of overall activity, but twice that of Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, according to the consultancy firm.
“The ongoing development of satellite
communities outside Nairobi should also help
drive retail expansion in the coming years, as
investors move to cater to the rising middle class
and the overflow of residents from the capital,”
notes Oxford Business Group in a report.
RETAIL SECTOR OVERVIEW SECTOR NEWS
Mama Hannah Wamaitha, the Late Mzee Joram Kamau’s wife, shares in the cake in one of the branch opening ceremonies.
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TUSKYS NEWS20
TUSKYS PARTNERS WITH DATA ORBIS TO AUTOMATE, INTEGRATE AND SHARE SCAN DATA
Tuskys has partnered with technology and services company DataOrbis to fully automate, integrate and analyse the data from its point-of-sales (POS) systems across its 52 Kenyan stores.
This first-of-its-kind partnership in Kenya, has empowered Tuskys employees and suppliers to gain quick and easy access to Tuskys scan data, right down to SKU level.
In the past the data from each Tuskys store had to be collected and manually integrated and analysed. The process was time consuming and sometimes resulted in inconsistent information. This made quick and accurate decision making a challenge for both employees and suppliers. The good news is that this is no longer the case!
BIG OPPORTUNITY: DATA AUTOMATIONIn its quest to ultimately improve operating efficiencies, Tuskys management team realised there was a massive benefit to making quicker business decisions. By automating the scan data process Tuskys understood that they could not only shorten the time it took to make decisions but also improve the quality of data they were using.
From a strategic perspective automated scan data means the entire Tuskys team can now take advantage of more marketing opportunities as well as ensure they carry the stock that their customers really want.
WHY DATAORBIS“After extensive research into retail scan data solutions we decided to partner with DataOrbis as their powerful technology provides full visibility across all elements of the Tuskys business. This includes macro-level data, showing value and volume growth across different time periods, as well as store-level data, right down to the individual product,” said Tuskys CEO Dan Githua.
In addition to their extensive retail expertise, the decision to choose DataOrbis was based on the fact that their world-class technology enabled all of Tuskys scan data to be accessible from anywhere via a password-protected platform.
THE TECHNOLOGYIn order for Tuskys to gain the detailed level of insight required, it has given DataOrbis real-time access to all of their retail scan data per store. This data is automatically fed
into the DataOrbis Platform directly from the POS system.
From there it is integrated and analysed. The end result is
consistent, high quality data that can be used to make quick
and accurate business decisions.
BENEFIT TO SUPPLIERS
In addition to providing Tuskys employees with readily-
available, integrated information, the DataOrbis Platform
also enables Tuskys to easily share its scan data with its
suppliers.
“We recommend that all our suppliers purchase our scan
data. By doing so they’ll have access to valuable information
that’ll not only help with future-planning when it comes to
replenishing stock but also to hone their marketing activity
and in-market spend. By sharing our data via the DataOrbis
Platform we aim to improve and grow our existing supplier
relationships. Overall It’s a win-win situation for all parties,”
said Githua.
DataOrbis Managing Director Kate Davidson with Tuskys CEO Dan Githua after signing of the
agreement.
It’s your data.You should be able to access itanytime, anywhere.
Did you know that you can now access the data and analytics across all of your divisions and all of your stores? Thanks to Tuskys industry-leading partnership with DataOrbis we’ve made it easy for you to access your data no matter where you are. All you need to do is log onto a dedicated Tuskys Tableau portal.
Quick access to your data means better business decisions.
Log in and see for yourself.
Download Tableau Reader 9.2 http://www.tableau.com/products/reader
An email will be sent notifying you that your report is ready
Open Tableau Reader and view your data
Still unsure? Email Stephen Malua on [email protected] or contact him on 0717 678 474.
About DataOrbis
DataOrbis is a technology and services company that helps clients maximise and control the way they manage and exploit their data.
To find out more go to www.dataorbis.com
22
INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES NURTURING TALENT
Unilever is one of the leading consumer goods company worldwide. We work to create a brighter future every day with over 400 brands that help Kenyans look good, feel good, and get more out of life.
On any given day, millions of Kenyans use a Unilever product ranging from food, home and personal care, and have been doing so for over 80 years. Our brands are in every home in Kenya.
Delighting our consumers is at the heart of everything we do. We are continually innovating our brands, growing our product offering, and investing in our operations to ensure we provide great brands to our consumers.
Creating a brighter future everyday
Unilever Kenya LimitedWatermark Business Park, Ndege Road, Karen
P.O. Box 30062-00100 GPO, Nairobi, Kenyawww.unilever.co.ke
BUILDING SOCIETIES: TUSKYS INTRODUCES CSR IN ALL BRANCHESBy Anne Koori
Tuskys supermarket has introduced structured Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives
in all branches. This is in line with the Chain’s efforts to invest in communities and empower people’s lives.
With 54 branches located in different parts of the country, this will ensure that each branch uplifts lives within its locality.
In the past, CSR activities were undertaken by the brand randomly and were mainly based on need. A structured program will therefore give equal chances to all branches
to choose activities they want to engage in.
Tuskys runs an elaborate CSR program with initiatives mainly geared towards supporting communities in health, education, sports, environment, among others.
The internship program launched last year is for instance one success story that has given hundreds of youths opportunities to acquire skills and gain meaningful employment. Applications for the second cohort, who will be trained in partnership with the KCB Foundation, is ongoing.
Tuskys is also known for nurturing talents in sports. The annual Wareng Cross Country event launched in 2004 has nurtured thousands of young people, many of who have raised the Kenyan Flag in world athletic championships.
Tuskys is also known for nurturing talents in sports. The annual
Wareng Cross Country event launched in 2004 has nurtured
thousands of young people, many of who have raised the
Kenyan Flag in world athletic championships.
23
You know why we are not surprised that we are ranked among the best stores in the country?
We have one unique internal policy that we have been operating with for the last one year; it is about working smart.
REGULAR SALES MEETINGSWe have managed to empower each staff in his/her area of work to understand the retail business in numbers and not just the old version of “our departments sells a lot’’.
I normally hold a sales coordinator’s meeting every Monday and the main agenda is always to discuss performance per category and per department, using the commission’s report which analyses well the past year performance against the current year.
After the meeting, it’s the duty of each sales coordinator in each department to communicate the same message
of work management by performance to each staff, which I also follow down with a sample of staffs in each floor to know whether the message is driven well to them.
COMMISSIONS; A GREAT MOTIVATIONSince the inception of the staff reward scheme through commission, it has been a battle for performance by each staff and this has made it possible for us to achieve and become number one on two consecutive occasions.
The commission based performance has enabled our team to do the following since we pass the information well to them:
1. Eliminate stock outs by ensuring orders are done well and in detail.
2. Stirctly managing of the re-order level and sales projection while ordering has enabled us to have sufficient stocks.
3. Re-scheduling our replenishment times to very early in the morning
and late before we close to enable our customers shop without interruption and eventually buy more.
4. Intensifying levels of customer interactions through world class one on one service by our dedicated staffs.
5. Managing right/smart pricing and supporting all promotions through proper visibility (this is done by a group of 6 marketing staffs who report to the manager alone).
6. Reducing the wait period by suppliers at receiving through efficient verification of goods making more suppliers to deliver to our branch as number one.
7. Managing staff discipline—there is no time in this branch to sit and hold a disciplinary session with the staff— “you are either in good discipline or you are out’’.
With all this in place, you can only get one answer and that is “success, success, success!’’
‘IT IS ABOUT WORKING SMART,’ T-MALL BM JORAM WACHIRA
STARS CORNERCOMMISSIONS
T-Mall Fresh Department team pose with their branch Manager Joram Wachira.
24
By John Mogaka, BM, Pioneer
Pioneer branch has remained at the top in commission awards, thanks to a dedicated staff.
Discipline, hard-work and team work, is what describes us in our quest to deliver and exceed expectations.
The store’s strategic positioning, dedicated staff led by steadfast management in addition to a religious work schedule, makes the branch stand out.
Tuskys Pioneer, is situated at the roundabout of Haile Selassie and Moi Avenue at the busy Railways bus terminus. The branch has a total of 117 devoted employees.
SATISFACTORY CUSTOMER CAREThe branch management strives to provide a good and conducive environment to customers by ensuring that customers receive the best and satisfactory service this has been aided through unwavering support, from Directors and the operations team. With all these combined efforts we are indeed not surprised that we are where we are today.
CLEANLINESS KEYThe store is always kept neat and clean, products are well displayed on shelves with shop assistants strategically positioned to offer unrivalled service and assistance to our customers. Indeed, it is a
sight to behold. To achieve this, the branch Management have embraced discipline as fundamental virtue. This is after realization that in business there’s no better way of doing it other than through consistent discipline in all areas, together with a serious strategic approach which is objectively directed to suit the changing changing business needs.
CHALLENGES ARE OPPORTUNITIESLike any other stores, the daily operational challenges are insurmountable, each day brings up new challenges. But we look at these challenges as opportunities for growth. The store management has clearly laid out a mandate for every staff in the department in form of targets. We also have a shared vision as a branch that service delivery must be beyond expectation. All the management team are also expected to lead by example in their daily routine, which makes everybody feel appreciated and encouraged.
STAFF COMMISSIONSThe introduction of staff commissions has indeed done tremendous change to our staffs. I realized recently that all staffs don’t want to be moved to new departments most of them claim to have mastered their departments and could only wish to be given time to grow them. The staffs indeed have owned up their categories. This has greatly contributed in the reduction of stock out whereby line attendants
couldn’t wish to lose a sale over simple manageable procedures. For sure even our store coordinator’s work has been significantly reduced. In pioneer every line attendant is a manager of his line, a mantra they have all embraced. This line manager takes fully responsibility of his department including ordering and replenishing his section. This has made every staff to be on their feet as they look forward to reap great benefits thus boosting the performance of the branch.
In addition, to get competitive performance from all staff, the branch management has introduced a rotational culture whereby new staffs are given an opportunity to choose for themselves the department they feel they can work effectively with passion and for sure in some cases, I have noted very encouraging performance which in overall has boosted our branch performance. All these is meant to gauge the strengths of each individual and properly allocate them to relevant departments.
We are optimistic that the branch’s performance will remain on top as the team has now mastered the rules of the game which entails hard work, satisfactory service and discipline.
Finally, pioneer store is not special in any way nor does it have special staffs, just like any other store you are also candidates for scaling high. See you at the top!
STARS CORNER COMMISSIONS
AT PIONEER, IT IS ABOUT DISCIPLINE AND HARD WORK
25
By Eva Ndirangu
When it comes to music, it requires one to have a lot of dedication and devotion. Meet Ibrahim Kamau also known as C-lah. He is a shop attendant at Tuskys OTC and also an upcoming gospel musician.
C-lah realized he had a talent since
childhood and he immediately started
shaping it. “Everybody liked my
entertainment whenever I would sing
in school and in the church”, says C-lah.
When C-lah joined Tuskys, he had
already established his music career.
Though he did not have money for
production, he never gave up on
music. He was however forced to use
his first salary to produce his 6 tracks
album. The Album has both Swahili
and vernacular songs.
For him to get time for the studio, the
upcoming artist plans for his day. I
report to work at 6.30am and leave at
3.30pm. I also make use of my off days
in studio. C-lah tells us.
According to him, his mother has
always been his pillar of strength and
along time mentor. “My mum would
challenge me to sing a certain song
and then she would rate me according
to my performance, “says the versatile
musician.
Like many artists, the Tumetoka
Mbali singer, feels elated whenever
a persons calls him because he has
been transformed by his music. C-lah
plans to do music beyond limits under
his initiative, Gospel Music Away From
Home. Through the initiative, he plans
to reach to every soul out there and
make them know and understand the
word of God.
C-lah advises the youth to keep the
Faith in the Lord and have patience
because with patience he has never
lost.
STARS CORNERTUSKYS GOT TALENT
MEET C-LAH, THE SHOP ATTENDANT WITH PASSION FOR GOSPEL MUSIC
26
STARS CORNER
ON THE TUSKYS ‘RUNWAY’By Joanne Wanjala
Yes. Tuskys has got talent. It all started with a simple call for by
the marketing department for Tuskys employees to submit photos if they were confident that they have got all it takes
to be models. Reason? To have ‘home-grown’ talent amongst employees pose as models in all Tuskys
advertisement and marketing activities.
Little did the William Mwaura, an employee of Tuskys in the Purchasing Department, know that his stars could shine this brighter. He has so far posed and appeared in several Tuskys adverts. He is elated.
TUSKYS NEWS had a chit-chat with him about how he is handling this glory and here are excerpts from the interview:
1. How does it feel to be a top model for such a big brand like Tuskys?It is the greatest feeling that I have ever experienced. And a great honour if you know what I mean.
2. Have you ever been a model elsewhere?Yes. This is not the first time. I’ve been modelling previously but not for Tuskys though. Tuskys is a big brand and being in such a position is giving me greater mileage to pursue this.
3. Has it always been your dream?Yes. I have always admired the art of modelling at an early age. Now I have come to believe in Kenyan star and Oscar’s Award Winner’s Lupita Nyong’o that all dreams are valid. That it is just a matter of time. For me, there is no looking back.
4. How are you handling the publicity that has come with this?It has not been easy especially being the first time that I am modelling for a big brand. The numerous calls from colleagues, friends and associates was at first overwhelming but I am managing it. My feet are firmly on the ground.
5. Is it something that you would like to pursue in future?I am being cautious about it and looking at it from all angles. But as I said, this is the best platform.
6. How are you balancing it with your work at Tuskys as Purchasing Assistant?My department is really demanding. I deal with all sorts of suppliers on a daily basis. But it is all about good planning and prioritizing issues.
7. Parting shot?It is a great honour and I really thanks Tuskys for giving me the opportunity to be their brand ambassador.
TUSKYS GOT TALENT
WILLIAM MWAURA, THE MODEL WHO HAS CAUSED POSTIVES
WAVES WITHIN AND WITHOUT WITH HIS MODELLING PROWESS
27
STARS CORNER
Never in corporate history has there been much emphasis placed on Customer Experience
than right now. The 21st Century has revolutionized the customer service space and there is now an endless drive by organizations to continuously meet and exceed customer expectations. The customer experience matters, and great experiences do drive increased spend and loyalty. Giving customers what they want doesn’t have to be expensive, it needs to be relevant. Retailers who are successful often implement differentiated experiences to simplify the lives of their customers and make them feel valued. The key is to find out what your customers want and deliver.
CUSTOMER CENTRICTuskys being a major player in the retail industry in this country has not been left behind. We are not only determined to become a customer-centric retailer, but also be known for excellent customer service and responsiveness.
We understand that customers’ needs are changing very quickly and to keep this up Tuskys is coming up with practical, on the go methods to remain efficient and innovative. Backed by a strong leadership from our CEO and a vibrant customer care team right in the branches, we have set out to do the following for our esteemed customers:
Create a platform within the branches where customers are
TAKING THE RETAIL CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE TO THE NEXT LEVEL
able to send feedback in real time on their shopping experience.
Professionalize customer care desk complete with Tuskys uniform and nametags for easier identification.
Introduce a company customer service charter that delivers a promise to all our customers on what they should expect the minute they step into any of our stores.
Monthly customer experience surveys in order to understand customer needs and plan accordingly to incorporate the feedback into our future projects.
A revamped loyalty card system that rewards our customers.
MOTIVATED STAFFApart from these initiatives at the end of it all, the most important component of customer experience is Staff. Having a motivated, customer-centered employee base is paramount to having an organization align itself to offer unrivalled customer experience. Friendly and helpful staff
in the branches is vital to creating world-class experience for shoppers. The more staff understand each customer before they walk in the door, the greater chance they have of delivering a personalized, satisfactory buying experience that will keep them coming back for more. And it’s the front-line associates—the faces of the brand—who are vital to creating these experiences. The role of today’s front-line associate must therefore evolve, from one of an information provider and facilitator of transactions, to a facilitator of engagement and a trusted advisor. Hiring, training and retaining staff who can deliver that enhanced experience are obviously important factors, but there is much more to be done.
EMPOWERED CUSTOMER Today’s empowered customer is a savvy and social animal. Retailers must deliver a differentiated experience at every turn, and they must connect the bricks-and-mortar experience with the online world to develop a relationship characterized by trust and customer delight. In many ways, it’s a throwback to a time when local shopkeepers knew each and every customer who visited their store. They knew their likes and dislikes. They knew what they needed, when they needed it. After a good experience with you, your customers can become your best marketers. Think of it this way: if you’re not delivering a stellar experience to each and every customer—especially your best ones—you could lose them to a competitor who is.
COLLINS AGAI, TUSKYS CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
THE CUSTOMER
TUSKYS NEWS28
HUMOUR
A patient complains to a famous psychologist: “Professor, I’ve been having terrible obsessions for years, and no one has ever been able to help me.”
“Who’s been treating you until now?
“Dr. Wanjohi”
“I see. He’s an idiot. I’m curious to know what he advised you to do.”
“To come and see you.”
Asked about the kind of job he wanted, an applicant at our tax management company stated, “I seek full authority but limited responsibility.”
“Why did you leave your last job?”
“It was something my boss said.”
“What did he say?”
“‘You’re fired!’”
The patient shook his doctor’s hand in gratitude and said, “Since we are the best of friends, I would not insult you by offering payment. But I would like you to know that I have mentioned you in my will.”
“That is very kind of you,” said the doctor emotionally, and then added, “Can I see that prescription I just gave you? I’d like to make a little change...”
HUMOUR PUZZLES
Put the 3-letter words on the left hand side into the correct spaces to make 8-letter words.
OUREVE
HOWOWEACE
F L E S S
J N A L S
C R I N G
R R E N D
S E R E D
MINI WORD SUDOKU
Place the letters from the 6-letter word ANSWER in the grid so that each column, each row, and each of the six 2×3 sub-grids contains all of the 6 letters from the word.
W S
N E W
S
E
R S N
E A
