NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 18 – Text Book Centre (TBC) has opened its 15th branch at Rupa Mall in Eldoret, marking the retailer’s latest move to strengthen its national footprint and tap into growing demand for educational and creative supplies outside Nairobi.
Founded in 1964, TBC has grown from a single Kijabe Street outlet into a nationwide chain offering books, stationery, art supplies and technology products. The Eldoret branch becomes its first outlet in Uasin Gishu and adds to existing locations in Nairobi, Kisumu and Ruiru, alongside its e-commerce platform.
Speaking during the launch, TBC CEO Sachin Varma said the new branch reinforces the company’s push to make learning and creative resources more accessible across Kenya. “The opening of our Rupa Mall branch marks an exciting new chapter for Text Book Centre as we continue expanding across Kenya. Eldoret is a fast-growing hub of education and enterprise, and we’re proud to bring our trusted range of books, stationery, and creative tools closer to the people who power this region’s progress. Our goal remains the same — to make learning, creativity, and knowledge more accessible to every Kenyan, wherever they are.”
Uasin Gishu County Attorney Sylvester Metto welcomed the store’s entry, noting its potential contribution to the county’s education ecosystem. “We are delighted to welcome Text Book Centre to Uasin Gishu County. This new branch at Rupa Mall represents more than retail expansion — it is an investment in our learners, teachers, and creative community. Access to quality educational and creative resources is central to our vision of building a knowledge-driven county. We look forward to partnering with TBC to promote literacy, support our schools, and nurture the next generation of innovators and readers from right here in Eldoret.”
The new outlet features a modern retail layout offering books, stationery, art and craft materials, office supplies, tech accessories and gifts. TBC says the branch is designed to serve students, universities, professionals and families in the North Rift region.
The launch comes as Kenya’s education sector undergoes reforms ahead of the 2026 Grade 10 transition, with public spending on education reaching Sh702.7 billion in the 2024/25 financial year.
The retailer said the Eldoret branch reflects the evolution of bookstores into broader hubs for creativity and knowledge-sharing, supporting a community of readers, artists, learners and tech enthusiasts.
