Several retail businesses have taken over former Shoprite outlets across major Nigerian cities, nearly one year after the supermarket chain's remaining stores shut down, while some locations remain inactive or show signs of deterioration.
The development highlights the changing landscape of Nigeria's retail sector as new operators move to occupy spaces previously dominated by one of the country's most recognised supermarket brands.
Shoprite, a South African retail giant, operated in Nigeria for nearly two decades before its parent company exited the market in 2021, citing high operating costs and changing business conditions.
Following its departure, the franchise was transferred to Ketron Investment Limited, a local investor group led by Persianas Investment. The business subsequently operated under Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited (RSNL).
However, by 2024 and 2025, several outlets had become largely inactive, with most of the surviving stores in Lagos, Ibadan, Ilorin, Abuja and Port Harcourt reportedly closing by September 2025.
In response to reports about the closures, RSNL said it had not completely shut down operations but was restructuring its business model to reflect Nigeria's economic realities.
The company explained that its previous model, which relied heavily on large stores, imported goods and high overhead costs, had become difficult to sustain amid inflation, exchange-rate volatility and liquidity challenges.
It also announced plans to reduce dependence on imported goods, stating that more than 80 per cent of its products were sourced locally.
Despite these assurances, findings from visits to some former Shoprite locations indicate that the spaces are increasingly being occupied by other businesses.
SPAR, Market Square Take Over Abuja Outlets
In Abuja, the former Shoprite outlet at Novare Central Mall in Wuse Zone 5 has been taken over by SPAR Market Nigeria, which has expanded its presence in the Federal Capital Territory with a new hypermarket.
Similarly, Market Square has occupied the former Shoprite space at Gateway Mall along Airport Road, near the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The developments reflect efforts by other retailers to fill the gaps left by major supermarket operators that have exited the market or reduced their operations.
New Businesses Occupy Former Shoprite Space in Lagos
In Ikeja, Lagos, various businesses have established themselves in locations previously associated with Shoprite.
The outlets now offer products and services ranging from clothing and footwear to restaurants and photography, attracting customers to the premises.
However, the situation is different at the former Shoprite location in Surulere, where some sections remain occupied by businesses but the premises appear less vibrant.
Observations at the site revealed poorly maintained tiles, inadequate lighting and signs of neglect, giving parts of the facility a rundown appearance.
Chinese Retailer Takes Over Ilorin, Ibadan Outlets
In Ilorin, Kwara State, the former Shoprite space has been taken over by Sinomart, a Chinese retail business that has commenced operations at the location.
The same retailer has also occupied the former Shoprite space at Ibadan Mall along Ring Road in Oyo State.
Other businesses within the shopping complexes continue to operate, with tenants occupying different sections and offering various goods and services.
A source familiar with activities at the Ilorin complex confirmed that Sinomart had rented the former Shoprite premises, adding that the company was unlikely to return to the location.
The source described Sinomart as a Chinese retail outlet selling a wide range of products, including groceries and other consumer goods.
Nigeria's Retail Market Undergoes Changes
The gradual takeover of former Shoprite locations underscores the changing dynamics of Nigeria's retail industry, where businesses are adapting to rising costs, economic uncertainty and shifting consumer purchasing power.
As new operators occupy the vacant spaces, the future of the remaining Shoprite-branded operations remains uncertain.
The developments also raise questions about the sustainability of large-format supermarkets in Nigeria's challenging economic environment and the opportunities available to local and foreign retailers seeking to expand their presence.
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