Java House Marks 12 Years in Uganda, Opens New Branch in Naguru

Java House Uganda has marked 12 years of operations in the country with the official opening of a new branch at Shell Naguru, expanding its local footprint to 10 outlets and signaling the brand’s continued confidence in the Ugandan market.

The Naguru restaurant, described as a flagship investment, strengthens Java House’s presence in one of Kampala’s key residential and commercial hubs. Company executives say the outlet reflects both strategic expansion and a long-term commitment to building lifestyle dining spaces that respond to evolving customer needs.

“Opening our Naguru branch as we celebrate 12 years in Uganda is a proud moment for us,” said Java House Chief Executive Officer Priscilla Gathungu. “It shows how far the brand has grown with Ugandan communities and reinforces our long-term commitment to this market. This is not just another outlet; it represents our continued investment in creating welcoming spaces where people can connect over quality coffee, great food, and memorable experiences.”

Operationally, the Naguru outlet is positioned to serve a diverse customer base throughout the day, from quick coffee stops to business meetings and relaxed dining. According to Java House, the branch sets elevated standards in design, service flow, and operational execution that will inform the wider network in Uganda.

“The Naguru restaurant is designed as a flagship outlet for us,” said Eusila Jepleting, Country Manager for Java House Uganda. “Because of its strategic location, we serve a very diverse customer mix across different times of day, which pushes us to operate at even higher service and operational standards. This branch sets the benchmark for our network in Uganda.”

As part of the anniversary celebrations, Java House has also introduced new products to its menu, including Java Ka Chai and the Java Gold Label Black Tea, broadening its beverage portfolio beyond coffee.

“Innovation remains central to our brand,” Gathungu said. “The introduction of our Java Gold Label Black Tea is part of expanding our beverage portfolio to serve customers with different tastes while maintaining the premium quality we are known for. We want to be a destination not only for coffee lovers but for everyone seeking a high-quality beverage and dining experience.”

In a significant strategic shift, the company is preparing to roll out Java House In-House Delivery, responding to changing urban lifestyles and rising demand for convenience, particularly among younger, tech-savvy consumers.

“Customer lifestyles are changing, and convenience is now a core expectation,” Gathungu noted. “Introducing Java House In-House Delivery ensures that the Java experience is no longer limited to our physical restaurants. This is about meeting customers where they are—at home, at the office, or on the move—without compromising on quality.”

Initially, customers will place delivery orders via direct phone calls or WhatsApp, managed through a centralised call centre, with an app and website planned for later phases. Average delivery times are expected to range between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on distance.

“We are coordinating kitchen preparation and rider dispatch carefully to ensure food arrives fresh and properly packaged,” Jepleting said. “Consistency is a top operational priority. Our promise to customers does not change based on the channel.”

The Naguru opening has also created dozens of direct jobs and supports additional indirect employment through local partners. The outlet will double as a training and talent development centre, offering skills development, leadership training, and career progression opportunities for staff.

Java House says local sourcing remains central to its operations, with about 95 percent of supplies—including fresh produce, dairy, and poultry—sourced from Ugandan suppliers.

“Working with local partners improves freshness, reliability, and quality control while also supporting the local economy,” Jepleting said. “These partnerships are essential for sustainable growth and long-term supply chain resilience.”

The company also highlighted its partnership with Vivo Energy, which hosts the new outlet at Shell Naguru.

“Vivo Energy has been a key strategic partner,” Jepleting added. “The quality and accessibility of the Shell Naguru location support both dine-in and delivery operations, directly enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.”

Founded in Nairobi in 1999, Java House has grown into one of East Africa’s leading coffee-led casual dining brands, with operations in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. With more than a decade in Uganda, the brand says it remains focused on deepening its connection with local communities through quality, innovation, and consistent customer experience.