Global retail brand SPAR has opened its first SPAR Express store in Kigali, marking a new step in the expansion of modern convenience retail in Rwanda.
The store is located at the RUBiS Energy Niboye filling station and is designed to serve both passing motorists and nearby residents.
It offers a range of products including fresh produce, fast food, groceries and premium wines, providing customers with quick access to everyday essentials in a single stop.
Speaking at the opening, RUBiS Group Managing Director Olivier Marc Sabrié said the new outlet reflects the company’s long-term vision for developing integrated service hubs across East Africa.
He explained that such locations are built around the needs of people starting with the car, combining fuel with retail and other essential services.
Sabrié noted that while vehicles are currently fueled by fossil fuels, future energy sources may include electricity or other alternatives.
However, he emphasized that service stations will remain relevant because motorists will continue to require services such as car washing and tire changes, ensuring the sustainability of these locations over time.
SPAR is an international retail chain known for its supermarkets and convenience stores operating in numerous countries worldwide. In Rwanda, the license to operate the SPAR brand was granted to SAWA Citi.
The company opened the country’s first SPAR supermarket in Nyarutarama last year.
The new outlet at Niboye is the first SPAR Express store in Rwanda and highlights growing confidence in the local retail market.
The launch is expected to pave the way for further expansion of the SPAR Express format as demand for convenient, high-quality retail services continues to grow.
