Elizabeth : Ex-Civil Servant Who Retired At 38 To Build A Successful Gift Shop Business In Eldoret

Elizabeth Nguku is the founder of Warembo Gift Shop, a popular business in Eldoret town that has grown from a small retail store into a thriving enterprise serving customers from different parts of Kenya.

Her entrepreneurial journey began in 1996 when she made the bold decision to retire from government service at the age of 38 to pursue her business ambitions.

Nguku previously worked as a field extension officer in the Ministry of Agriculture. Upon retirement, she received KSh300,000 as her retirement package, which she intended to use to establish a clothing retail business.

Initially, she stocked footwear, baby clothes and inner garments. However, as the business grew, she noticed an unexpected trend among her customers. Many people were increasingly requesting items to be wrapped as gifts.

Recognising the growing demand, Nguku decided to change her business strategy and focus on selling gifts.

“We never knew that gifting was a business. We used to sell footwear, baby clothes, and inner garments but with time, we had many customers requesting various items to be wrapped as gifts,” she told Business Daily.

She subsequently invested in special gift boxes and gradually reduced her clothing and footwear stock to concentrate on the emerging opportunity.

Today, Warembo Gift Shop offers a wide range of products, including jewellery, artwork, carvings and other gift items sourced locally and internationally.

The business has expanded significantly, with two branches in Eldoret’s Central Business District. Nguku has also created employment opportunities for approximately eight workers, with her husband providing financial support when necessary.

The shop attracts customers from Baringo, Iten, Kakamega and Nandi, among other areas. While she initially served about 20 customers daily, the number has increased to approximately 150.

Her products range from KSh100 to KSh50,000, with sales peaking during holidays, Valentine’s Day and other special occasions.

Through experience, Nguku has learnt the importance of maintaining good relationships with customers and suppliers, paying suppliers promptly and avoiding extending credit to friends who may delay repayment.

She also advises aspiring entrepreneurs not to wait until retirement to start businesses, emphasising the importance of pursuing opportunities early in life.