There was a dilemma yesterday as workers were left jobless after Uchumi Supermarkets Limited closed it Kisii Town branch as part of its restructuring programme.
A notice pinned to the branch premises wall read in part:
“Dear esteemed customer, we would like to inform you that this branch is now closed in order to focus on a leaner structure as dictated by our current business environment. Please do not hesitate to call us for any clarification."
“We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your unwavering patronage over the years,” the statement went on.
The notice shocked workers and customers milled around its shut doors unsure of their fate.
Most former employees were unwilling to talk to the media as they pondered their next move.
“We are unsure of whether we will be paid our dues since the management did not notify us of the impending closure,” a staff member who sought anonymity said.
Kisii branch customers and suppliers were also not spared as the closure’s reality hit home.
Boniface Kerongo, a resident of Kisii Town, said that the closure had adversely affected him as a loyal customer of the supermarket chain.