Biz Lounge: New businesses emerge at Nakuru ASK phasing out the old
Modern photography and VR gaming featured in this year's Nakuru ASK show, a departure from the old photo booths.
Last week, the Nakuru Agricultural showcase took place. It brought together farmers, government officials, innovators, and exhibitors drawn from various sectors, including agriculture, finance, education, hospitality, and small businesses.
Held over five days under the theme "Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth," the event highlighted both progress and notable changes within the showcase over the years.
A significant observation was the shrinking presence of major exhibitors. Some have scaled down, while others have exited altogether, with several now opting to share exhibition spaces.
The rundown Kenya National Highway Authority stand at the Nakuru Showground now used as a parking spot.
For example, the Kenya Pipeline Company has not participated for over three years, while Kenya Power, which traditionally held one of the largest stands near the main pavilion, maintained its presence but with reduced visibility.
Some former exhibition areas are now in a state of neglect. The once-busy Kenya National Highway Authority (KENHA) stand is now dilapidated, with faded branding, and its frontage has turned into an informal parking space.
On the northern end, the Kenya Industrial Estates zone has become overgrown with grass, and the Catholic Diocese of Nakuru area now serves as a shortcut for students heading to the parking lot.
The latest major exhibitor to exit is the Agriculture Food Authority (AFA), a long-time participant.
AFA stand which has since been changed to a hotel at the Nakuru Agricultural showcase. Photo taken on 5th July 2025.
Their space has been partially converted into a hotel seating area, echoing a growing trend other exhibition spaces, such as the National Government Constituency Development Fund stand, have also been turned into hotel, remaining beyond the event.
Some exhibitors have opted to scale down rather than withdraw entirely. For instance, ICS, which had its own independent stand last year, was this year hosted under the Kenya Farmers Association stand
As large exhibitors fade out, small businesses are stepping in. Many have taken advantage of the unused spaces to set up shop and sell goods outside the closed stands.
There was also a noticeable evolution in entertainment and business at the show. Traditional photo booths, once decorated with posters of WWE stars and Bollywood actors, are being edged out by modern photography setups.
Softbox-equipped photographers attracted more attention, signaling a shift in consumer preferences.
Emerging technologies also made a debut. Virtual reality booths gave attendees a chance to experience immersive digital content, driven largely by curiosity from social media trends.
However, not all developments were positive.
Students standing at a pata potea stand at the Nakuru Agricultural showcase on 5th July 2025.
A concerning trend was the presence of pata potea gambling stands, where students were seen risking and losing their money some left visibly shaken after losing bets.
While the Nakuru Agricultural Showcase continues to serve as a vital platform for industry players and the public, the organizers need to rethink their model to make participation more affordable and encourage creativity and relevance in exhibits; otherwise, the showcase risks losing its shine.