Trading at the Mall of the North has also gone from strength to strength. “We have achieved double-digit turnover growth every year since our opening,” reported De Ridder.
From May to December 2011, during the Mall of the North’s first calendar year, the shopping centre achieved just below R1 billion in turnover. In 2015, this figure had doubled to nearly R2 billion.
“Our retailers play a very big role in the success we have achieved so far,” added De Ridder. “We are happy to say that most of our original tenants are still with us and we feel privileged to be able to celebrate this birthday with them.”
The Mall of the North has, however, made some retail improvements over the past five years, to ensure its offering remains in step with the latest trends.
De Ridder believes adding tenants like Cotton On, Foschini Kids, and Soda Bloc have proved a major attraction within the province, contributing significantly to improving the mall and the first-class shopping experience it provides.
A major attraction for both visitors and residents within the province, the Mall of the North has become a crucial part of the local economy as one of the biggest ratepayers in Polokwane. It has also created at least 2000 jobs.
From its very inception, the Mall of the North has been actively committed to supporting its surrounding communities and being a good citizen.
“In the relatively short time the mall has existed, we have striven to make a big difference in the lives of our shoppers. From giveaways and competitions to supporting charities through events and donations, the Mall of the North is committed to giving back to the community in ways that have positive and meaningful impacts,” said De Ridder.
The mall has brought relief to those in difficult circumstance with donations of wheelchairs, early Christmas presents, blankets, fun days, funds and volunteerism. It has supported worthy causes, a few of which include the SPCA, Nasorgcentrum, Tzaneen Care Group, Mable Choeu Crèche, and Cansa.
The Mall of the North has also presented a line-up of events to become the centre of family fun for the city and its surrounding areas.
“We recently hosted our second Mall of the North Marathon event, which is also a qualifying race for the Comrades Marathon. Another big event for us was our Bridal competition, where one lucky bride won a R150,000 wedding package, and VW Polo. The wedding was held in Polokwane, a big boost for local businesses,” said De Ridder.
So far this year alone, the Mall of the North has generated almost R70,000 for charity with its Second Honeymoon Competition, which gave its winners a romantic break in Mauritius.
“Most of all, on our fifth anniversary, we really appreciate the wonderful and loyal customers who welcomed us into their community and have continued to support us. They have made the Mall of the North the success story it is today,” De Ridder concluded.
Go to the Mall of the North on Facebook, or its website www.mallofthenorth.co.za to keep up with the latest news, events, and competitions.
