UK‑based fast‑food operator Chicken Cottage has unveiled its latest outlet at Shell Thome on Thika Road, marking its ninth store in Kenya.
The move underscores the brand’s aggressive expansion strategy along Nairobi’s busiest commuter corridors, where rising residential and commercial activity is reshaping eating habits.
The new outlet, located near Mountain Mall, is part of Express Kitchen’s wider plan to embed food outlets within service stations and high‑traffic zones. This approach reflects a shift in Kenya’s fast‑food market: prioritising accessibility and convenience over destination dining.
“Thika Road is one of the fastest‑growing areas in the city, with people constantly moving in and out,” said Express Kitchen Managing Director Ayan Ali. “We wanted to be where customers already are not somewhere they have to plan a special trip to reach.”
Fast Food Trends in Kenya
Kenya’s fast‑food sector has seen rapid growth in the past decade, driven by urbanisation, changing lifestyles, and a youthful population. Key trends include:
- Commuter convenience: Outlets along highways and service stations cater to busy professionals, students, and families seeking quick meals.
- Global brands entering Kenya: From Chicken Cottage to Papa John’s, international chains are tapping into Nairobi’s expanding middle class.
- Youth‑driven demand: Younger consumers are shaping the market, favouring affordable, fast, and social dining experiences.
- Regional expansion: Fast‑food operators are eyeing towns like Nakuru and Eldoret, signalling a shift beyond Nairobi into Kenya’s growing urban centres.
Jobs and Local Supply Chains
Express Kitchen’s expansion is expected to create between 75 and 100 new jobs in 2026, adding to its current workforce of over 200 employees. The company also emphasises local sourcing, with in‑store preparation and routine quality checks supported by Kenyan suppliers.
Beyond Nairobi, Express Kitchen is assessing opportunities in Nakuru and Eldoret, alongside longer‑term plans to enter Uganda and Tanzania, positioning itself as a regional player in East Africa’s fast‑food market.
Kenya’s fast‑food boom reflects broader lifestyle changes. With increased traffic congestion, longer working hours, and rising disposable incomes, consumers are opting for quick‑service restaurants that fit seamlessly into daily routines. Chains like Chicken Cottage are capitalising on this demand by embedding themselves in commuter routes and service hubs.
