Sameer Africa has started constructing a “built-to-suit” state-of-the-art industrial warehouse within its Nairobi complex at a cost of of Sh260 million as part of the company's expansion strategy.

This custom-built facility, which boasts of latest technologies and innovation, is set to start operating in mid-2024 and is set to notably improve operational efficiency and productivity.

The warehouse features a 10 MVA installed electrical power, high-speed fiber connectivity, reliable utility water, and an in-house property management team dedicated to the facility.

“This facility has been meticulously crafted to align with our tenant's distinct needs, encompassing considerations of size, layout, features, and functionality,” said Sameer Africa Managing Director John Mugo.

Mugo intimated that the decision by Sameer to venture into industrial warehousing was necessitated by the growing demand for customized warehousing services across Kenya.

“Grade A warehousing, like the one under construction, is poised to empower businesses to achieve unprecedented operational efficiencies, enhancing profit margins, and facilitating scalable growth while curbing operational expenditure,” added Mugo.

Sameer Africa Chairman Erastus Mwongera said the company is committed to investing in industrial property development via greenfield projects and boosting existing properties.

“Our strategic growth blueprint underscores the revitalization of our property business, which has consistently proven to be a robust source of income and growth for the Group,” stated Mwongera.

The firm, which specializes in importation and sale of tyres and allied products, as well as investment property leasing, ventured into the industrial warehousing in January 2021.

The move followed the Board of Directors’ approval of a four-year Strategic Plan leveraging Sameer’s vast real estate portfolio and tyre industry expertise to boost its revenue sources.

Sameer Africa PLC, which is 72.15 per cent owned by Sameer Investments Limited, primarily operates in Kenya but also runs its tyre business in Tanzania, Uganda and Burundi.