China Square States 4 Reasons Behind Indefinite Closure Of Mall

The company further emphasized that its statement was simple and straightforward and should not be interpreted to have any other meanings.

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Feb 26, 2023 - 16:18
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China Square States 4 Reasons Behind Indefinite Closure Of Mall
Entrance to China Square mall. /FILE

China Square, a popular shopping destination located at Unicity Mall along Thika Road, has announced an indefinite closure of the facility.

In a statement dated Sunday, February 26, China Square Limited identified four key issues; public safety issues, shortage of tills, misleading statements and overrating by customers on the internet, which culminated in its closure until further notice.

Regarding public safety issues, the company indicated that it was unable to handle the high volume of traffic, which has raised a number of concerns for the public safety of all its customers.

“As a result, more security guards are being arranged on-site to ensure the safety of customers,” the company stated.

Also cited was the shortage of tills which has been leading to long queues and bad shopping experiences for customers. However, the company assured customers that it is doing its best to resolve these issues within the period it was closing its operations.

Furthermore, the company expressed concerns over misleading statements and overrating by customers on the internet.

“Some of the statements on the internet have been misleading people, and some customers have overrated our services which has created unrealistic expectations. We need to close down and give a cooling down period,” the company added.

The company further emphasized that its statement was simple and straightforward and should not be interpreted to have any other meanings.

“We take the safety and satisfaction of our customers seriously and are committed to resolving these issues as quickly as possible. We appreciate your understanding and support during this time. We are committed to providing you with the best service possible, and we hope to have the opportunity to serve you again soon,” the company went on.

Despite the concerns raised through the closure of China Square Limited among customers, with some expressing disappointment over the decision, the company promised to keep them updated on any developments, and customers have been advised to contact the company if they have any questions or concerns.

The mall, located next to Kenyatta University was said to be a hub for products and businesses, selling everything from electronics to clothing. China Square gained attention for creating a versatile shopping centre that some social media users claimed was challenging the dominance of Eastleigh, Kamukunji, and Dubois Road in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD).

The Gikomba, Nyamakima, Muthurwa, and Eastleigh Traders Associations, which Kuria mentioned in his tweet, are well-known organizations that represent traders in Nairobi's bustling markets. These markets are often seen as the lifeblood of Kenya's economy, providing affordable goods and services to millions of people as well as supporting livelihoods.

The Thika Road-based mall was a hive of activities as Kenyans flocked to its premises after the online buzz sparked across social media platforms. The online hype generated around the mall led to long queues which characterised the experience for the customers as Kenyans from different parts visited the mall, described as a one-stop shop for several products.

Products available in the mall, according to the experiences shared, include stationery, furniture, home decoration items, cleaning supplies, hardware store and electrical appliances. 

The hype however upset Trade Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria who hinted at plans to lease the space to local traders. He particularly demanded, in an offer directed towards Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Paul Wainaina, that the university in which the mall is hosted, buys out all spaces from the mall traders and reserves them for local traders.

Kuria, later on, changed his mind and revealed that he would assist the owner, Lei Cheng, to set up a manufacturing plant in Kenya.

“I will assist China Square Owner Mr Cheng to set up a manufacturing plant in Kenya and work on a distribution partnership with Gikomba, Nyamakima, Eastleigh, Kamukunji, Muthurwa and River Road Traders,” Kuria said.

A collage of Moses Kuria and China Square. /FILE