10 Profitable Businesses to Start in Zimmerman and Roysambu Estates
Are you a resident of the Zimmerman and Roysambu area and looking to start a successful business? This guide will help you choose the best business depending on your budget. The area is a great place to make money because it has a large population and many middle-income earners.
I have grouped these two estates because they are neighbors, and residents shop in both areas for their daily needs. They share supermarkets such as Quickmart, TRM Mall, and other shopping centers.
Below are some of the businesses that have been thriving near TRM Mall, along Thika Road, and on the road leading to Githurai 44.
1. Liquor Store (Wines and Spirits)
The area has many wine and spirits shops. During the evening hours, you can see large numbers of customers entering these shops to buy drinks. Many of the shops are located within the estates, while others are found along Mirema Drive.
The business is highly boosted by entertainment spots and clubs in the area, including Paris Lounge and SNL Lounge in Githurai 44.
2. Fast Food Business
Fast foods sold along roadsides and in restaurants move quickly and attract constant customers. A large number of students live in the area, including those studying at KCA University, PAC University, and other nearby colleges.
Many prefer buying fried chips, chicken, boiled eggs, sausages, and other quick meals, making the fast-food business highly profitable.
3. Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb)
During weekends, roads such as Lumumba Drive, Mirema Drive, and Kamiti Road often experience heavy traffic due to people heading to entertainment clubs. Many party until late at night and then book rooms to spend the night with friends or partners.
People who own short-term rental apartments earn good money from this business.
You can buy a house in Tsavo Apartments or, if you have enough capital, build apartments and convert them into Airbnb units. Charges typically range from KSh 5,000 to KSh 10,000 per night, depending on the size and amenities offered.
4. Nyama Choma and Mutura Business
The area has a large Kikuyu population, and many residents enjoy eating meat. By opening even a small eatery that sells boiled, roasted, or fried meat, you can attract many customers.
The numerous clubs and liquor stores have also boosted this business. Many people who consume alcohol often buy roasted meat afterward. If you walk around the area at night, you will notice many people gathered around Mutura joints.
5. Boda Boda Business
Motorcycle riders earn good money, with some making up to KSh 3,000 per day. Even women are successfully operating boda boda businesses in the area.
A ride from Khetias Supermarket to TRM Mall or Alfakher Lounge can cost around KSh 100 and takes only a few minutes while consuming little fuel. There is always a steady flow of customers.
Uber, Bolt, and Faras riders also benefit because restaurants such as KFC receive many food orders, keeping delivery riders busy throughout the day.
6. Selling Clothes and Shoes
There is a market for almost every type of clothing and footwear in Roysambu and Zimmerman. Whether you want to sell baby clothes, men’s fashion, ladies’ dresses, sports jerseys, or shoes, you can find customers.
Families constantly buy clothes for their children. Mirema Drive is one of the best places in Nairobi for football fans who gather to watch live EPL matches on weekends. Opening a sports jersey shop with customized branding can attract many customers.
Ladies’ fashion is also a thriving business. Along the road from Lumumba Drive Junction towards Mirema, there are many shops selling women’s dresses. Most traders buy these clothes wholesale from Eastleigh and sell them at an average price of KSh 1,000. Since many women enjoy dressing well, demand remains high.
7. Opening a Gym
Many people understand the importance of exercise for maintaining good health. Roysambu and Zimmerman have a large population of educated professionals who spend their evenings and weekends at gyms.
A gym can be a profitable business. After purchasing the required equipment and securing a suitable location, operating costs are relatively low because gym equipment is durable and lasts for many years.
Gym owners typically charge around KSh 4,000 per month per member. If you have 100 members, that could generate KSh 400,000 monthly.
DJs, artists, club-goers, and other residents also frequent gyms in the area. Examples include Easy Fit Gym along Lumumba Drive and Flash Fitness at Tessera Bistro.
8. Photography and Videography Services
There are many reasons to invest in a camera, build a brand, and start a photography or videography business in the area.
Many celebrities, influencers, and models live around Zimmerman and Roysambu. Social media users frequently upload photos and videos, creating demand for professional photography services.
Additionally, the numerous clubs and businesses in the area require quality content creators to produce photos and videos for marketing and promotion.
9. Green Grocery and Cereals Shop
People living in urban areas increasingly prefer healthy foods such as vegetables and fruits. Opening a clean and well-organized grocery shop can attract regular customers.
Selling cereals is also a good idea because many families regularly cook foods such as rice, beans, and githeri. The demand for these products remains consistent throughout the year.
Conclusion
These are just ten examples of businesses that can succeed in the Zimmerman and Roysambu area. There are many other opportunities as well, including barber shops, salons, butcheries, cyber cafes, and mobile money businesses.
With the area’s growing population, strong purchasing power, and strategic location along Thika Road, entrepreneurs have many opportunities to build successful and profitable businesses.
