Arimis, originally designed as a milking jelly, has evolved into a widely-used skincare product found prominently on the shelves of both rural and urban supermarkets.
Its rise to popularity has been organic, devoid of extensive advertising, and has garnered a diverse consumer base, appealing to both men and women alike. In July 2019, Mariga Thoithi, a communications expert, praised Arimis for its effortless integration into the market without intentional marketing efforts.
The origin of the name “Arimis” is rooted in the Ameru language, specifically derived from “arimi,” meaning farmers. The brainchild behind Arimis, Hanish Shah, conceived the idea after witnessing the challenges faced by small-scale farmers during the milking process.
First manufactured in 1983 in Meru County, Arimis expanded its reach to Nairobi in 1985 and eventually spread across the country. Over the past three decades, Arimis has become a trusted companion for Kenyan farmers, especially those involved in dairy farming.
Initially intended for agricultural use, Arimis caught the attention of Kenyans as a skincare solution due to its composition from raw materials believed to be safe for the skin. Its popularity remained unchallenged in the market until Menengai, a Nakuru-based edible oils manufacturer, introduced its own version.
Tri-Clover Industries, based on Mombasa Road, is responsible for manufacturing Arimis. Recently, the company addressed speculations about a potential rebranding on its official Facebook page, clarifying that circulated photos suggesting a change in appearance were merely a suggestion from an individual and not indicative of any company decision.
In essence, Arimis has undergone a remarkable transformation from a milking jelly intended for farmers to a widely accepted skincare product, earning its place on the shelves of major supermarkets across Kenya.
