Almost a third of European retailers view Africa as an important future destination in the next three to five years, reveals leading real estate advisor, CBRE.
South African consumers who can afford to buy luxury products expect an indulgent experience and personal attention from luxury retail stores.
In South Africa, 50% of shoppers see stopping for something to eat and drink as an important part of the experience when visiting a centre.
Rapid urbanisation, population growth and an undersupply of formal retail space continue to drive growth in the retail sector across Sub-Saharan Africa.
With a 25 bases points increase in interest rates, consumers can expect tough times ahead with overall retail sales growth to range between 2% to 2.75% for the remainder of 2015.
Although muted growth is expected for the sector, retailers targeting the value chain will continue to show growth slightly higher than sector averages.
Broll Property Group says exclusivity clauses hamper leasing opportunities that could potentially benefit property assets.
The 2013 festive season is likely to be a mixed bag for South African retailers as rising fuel, transport and utility costs continue to see consumers apply the brakes on spending.

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