Owned by Capital Property Fund, the complex brings convenience and value shopping together under one roof.

The centre, which is managed by JHI Real Estate Ltd, has been completely renovated and the convenience aspect is now complete. New tenants have been brought into the mix while existing tenants have upgraded and expanded. "The mix is almost complete with the exception of a few bigger operators on the value side", comments Susan Harnden, specialist retail consultant for JHI Real Estate.

She adds that within the few weeks of the convenience side coming on-stream, there are reports of retailers already trading above expectation. National convenience retailers include Shoprite Checkers, which has been completely renovated in line with the new-look store roll-out, Pep Stores, OK Furniture and Pie City.

Draw-card local trader, Dirks Meat Market has expanded to 710 sqm, more than double its original size, to become Dirks Foods. According to Dirk Meintjes the inclusion of specialised cheeses, seafood and homemade products has been well received. "Turnover has increased by 38% since our store completion on the 1 April 2004, " said Meintjies.

Similarly, Dock Hardware took advantage of Southway Mall’s conversion by reverting back to a Mica store and expanding from 400sqm to 600sqm. "Being on Edwin Swales Drive, the Mall is easily accessible for residents in the area as well as those from Glenwood, Umbilo, Bluff and the Highway area", says Carole Syers. "The new look, convenient layout and good tenant mix will attract customers from even further a field".

A stand-alone drive-thru KFC is currently under construction, scheduled to open in September.

Other tenants on the convenience side include MTN Computicket, Southway Liquors, Southway Video, Billy’s Biltong, Southway Fax & Copy, Hot Gossip, Mahomed Jewellers and Watchmakers, Clean Scene, Southway Optometrist, Neil’s Cellular, Candisnax, X’Cess Boutique and Gain Shoes, while value concept retailers comprise the like of Adam’s Cycles and Tile Afrika. Service tenants include Bellair Management Services (BMS), Services International, The Post Office, FNB, ABSA and Standard Bank ATMs.

The official launch of the centre is planned for the 10^th July.

ends