A Taste of Home in Paradise: NAAFI’s New Investment in Diego Garcia

Since 2024, NAAFI has proudly supported military personnel on the remote atoll of Diego Garcia, providing a carefully curated selection of UK products. Initially, NAAFI took over the temporary Brit Shop facility while plans for a new, permanent establishment were being finalised.

A Significant Investment for 2025

We’re now thrilled to announce a significant investment set to bring an even greater taste of home to those serving far from loved ones: a brand-new, state-of-the-art 236m² NAAFI facility!

Diego Garcia, a coral atoll in the heart of the Indian Ocean, presents a unique and often challenging environment. While its azure waters and swaying palm trees might evoke images of a tropical paradise, it serves as a critical support hub for regional operations. Thousands of  Military personnel transit through or are stationed on the island annually, often for extended periods, working tirelessly in support of global security.

Understanding the importance of morale and well-being in such a setting, NAAFI’s new facility is designed to be a true oasis. More than just a shop, this innovative space will serve as a genuine community hub, offering a blend of retail therapy and a welcoming social environment.

A Taste of Home and Community

Imagine stepping into a space that provides all the familiar NAAFI products our troops know and love – from snacks and toiletries to electronics and gifts. But that’s just the beginning.

The facility will also boast a vibrant coffee shop and bar, serving a wide range of hot and cold food options, hot drinks to kickstart the day, refreshing soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages for those well-deserved moments of relaxation. One of the most exciting features is the stunning balcony and decking area, offering a peaceful spot to relax in a truly unique setting.

Supporting the Military Community Beyond Retail

NAAFI’s presence on Diego Garcia extends beyond this facility. Through the NAAFI fund, we actively support the military community on the island. In 2024, for instance, we awarded £15,000 to BF BIOT in Diego Garcia for a Beach Bar refurbishment, providing personnel with their own dedicated space to relax and unwind.

Mike Collins, Head of Indo-Pacific & Middle East Operations for NAAFI, commented:

“Our significant investment in Diego Garcia underscores NAAFI’s enduring commitment to supporting the UK armed forces globally. This new facility will not only benefit everyone on the island but also marks a pivotal moment for NAAFI. With new facilities opening worldwide, we’re bringing the UK high street experience to troops wherever they are. No matter how remote their location, they’ll always be within reach of a taste of home, truly delivering on our promise.”

Throughout 2025, we will continue to expand our global investments, building new facilities and enhancing existing ones in locations such as Germany, Brunei, and the USA. Each of these projects is driven by our core mission: to provide our service personnel with the comforts and conveniences they deserve, no matter where their duty takes them.