In a significant move to tap into the burgeoning night economy, Shell plans to convert 70% of its fueling stations in Kampala into 24-hour service points. This initiative is part of a broader collaboration with Vivo Energy, which has partnered with Java House for the past decade to transform Shell stations into one-stop shopping centers that integrate food, financial services, and pharmaceuticals. Ms. Joanita Mukasa Menya, managing director of Vivo Energy, emphasized the importance of this integration for enhancing consumer convenience and driving economic activity [2989e108].
The collaboration has already seen the opening of a new Java House restaurant at Shell Muyenga, marking the sixth outlet for the popular coffee chain in Uganda. This expansion reflects a growing recognition of the night economy's potential for economic growth, as highlighted by Dr. Fred Muhumuza, who noted that such ventures can significantly contribute to local economies [2989e108].
Java House Group CEO Priscilla Gathungu also pointed out the supportive environment for partnerships in Uganda, which has allowed the company to navigate challenges that arose during its initial expansion into the market a decade ago, including legal disputes. The strategic alliance with Shell is expected to not only enhance customer experience but also stimulate nighttime consumer spending in the region [2989e108].
As cities worldwide increasingly recognize the value of nighttime economies, Uganda's initiatives led by Shell and Java House could serve as a model for other businesses looking to engage with consumers beyond traditional hours, thereby fostering a vibrant and diverse economic landscape [2989e108].