Why Nairobi CBD Chips and Chicken Joints Are Still Thriving Without M-Pesa

A video shared by marketing and advertising consultant Joel Kariuki has stirred interest in why Nairobi CBD’s fast food joints, commonly known as “fish and chips” spots, continue to flourish without embracing digital payments like M-Pesa or offering delivery services.

Kariuki noted that these businesses have maintained traditional, cash-only models for decades and still manage to attract a loyal customer base. Despite Kenya’s widespread adoption of mobile money, these eateries remain successful due to four critical factors: understanding the market, strategic location, affordable pricing, and product consistency.

“Majority of us have been to these fish and chips places in town… They don’t even take digital cash payments like M-Pesa or credit cards. Yet when you go there and you don’t have cash, you leave, withdraw, and come back. What should we learn from these businesses? They have been there for decades,” said Kariuki in a TikTok video.

He emphasized that these businesses serve a universal demand — everyone eats chips, fried chicken, and soda — and their prices cater to a broad demographic. Customers know what to expect, and consistency builds trust and repeat visits.

Location also plays a significant role. These eateries are strategically positioned in high-traffic zones where office workers, students, and casual laborers need quick, cheap meals.

Kariuki, who spoke to TUKO.co.ke, said many new businesses fail because they lack adequate financing, don’t invest enough in marketing and promotions, or try to win over already loyal customers in saturated markets. “You need to have money to sustain the business for at least six months. Many people expect profits too early, but you must keep pumping in money,” he noted.

He also stressed the importance of customer experience: “If people come and are not treated well, they’ll leave.”

This lesson resonates with other entrepreneurs. For instance, Yvonne Kagondu, co-founder of ICP Hub Kenya, launched her Airbnb side hustle in 2022 with KSh 100,000. She shared her experiences on managing operations, handling mistakes, and sustaining growth, highlighting similar challenges of cash flow and customer service.

Joel Kariuki’s insights offer a practical guide for business owners — digital innovation is valuable, but core business principles like understanding your market, providing consistent service, and staying financially prepared are the real keys to longevity.

In other news:M-Pesa Empowers Kenyan Entrepreneurs with New Taasi Loans, Fuliza Biashara

Why Nairobi CBD Chips and Chicken Joints Are Still Thriving Without M-Pesa