Transforming the cleaning landscape in Kenya

Kärcher opens regional distribution centre in Kenya

Kärcher recently announced an approximate Euro 3 million investment in the Kenyan market with the aim to develop the business into a full subsidiary, which includes a regional distribution centre at Freight Forwarders Solutions (FFS) in Tatu City, the 5,000acre mixed-use Special Economic Zone (SEZ) on Nairobi’s doorstep, positioning Kenya as a hub for East Africa.

“Our goal is to transform the cleaning landscape in Kenya by bringing advanced products and services to our customers,” says Christian May, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Sales officer at Kärcher. “By establishing Kenya as our regional hub, we are reducing lead times and enhancing responsiveness, ensuring prompt service and satisfaction for our clients.”

Stephen Jennings, Founder and CEO of Rendeavour, the owner and developer of Tatu City, adds, “Kärcher joins the ranks of many leading global brands at Tatu City SEZ. As Kenya’s first mixedused SEZ, Tatu City has already attracted USD 2.5 billion in investment from more than 78 businesses, from healthcare and food and beverage production to call centres, software engineering, and now cleaning solutions. These investments are creating thousands of much-needed jobs for Kenyans.”

Sebastian Groth, Ambassador of the Republic of Germany to Kenya, says, “Kärcher‘s investment in Kenya highlights the strong economic ties between Germany and Kenya. As a global leader in cleaning technology, Kärcher exemplifies German engineering excellence and innovation. We look forward to further collaboration and mutual growth between our two nations.”

Kärcher has established a presence in seven Carrefour outlets and partnered with various distributors to cater to different customer segments. Its flagship store, located in Upper Hill, Nairobi, serves as a brand store and service centre operated by Equipment and Logistics, which was recently presented with a 20-year partnership award. Business benefits at Tatu City SEZ include VAT zero-rating, import and stamp duty exemptions and 10 percent corporate tax for the first 10 years and 15 percent for 10 years thereafter. Tatu City is a 5,000-acre new city on Nairobi’s doorstep with homes, schools, businesses, a shopping district, medical clinic, nature areas and recreation for more than 250,000 residents and tens of thousands of day visitors.