Cradlestone Mall in Krugersdorp has won the esteemed South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) Innovative Excellence in Retail Property Development Award 2014.
The awards were announced at the 46th Annual SAPOA International Convention and Exhibition, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre last week.
Cradlestone Mall, which opened its doors in November 2013, is owned and developed by Sasol Pension Fund, Pivotal Property Fund and Retail Africa. It was designed by Bentel Associates International.
The 76,000sqm super-regional mall is in the heart of Mogale City in Johannesburg’s West Rand, with a fresh retail mix and wide choice in nearly 200 shops, restaurants and services.
Andries Schaap, General Manager Investment from Sasol Pension Fund, says: “We are delighted that Cradlestone Mall has earned such a prestigious tribute. So much has gone in to making Cradlestone Mall a success, starting with a real need for quality retail and the vision to develop a world-class mall inspired by the World Heritage Site of the Cradle of Humankind. Thousands of people have played a role in conceiving, developing and building Cradlestone Mall. They can all be immensely proud of their contribution to the mall and winning this sought-after award.”
Inspired by its setting, the landmark Cradle of Humankind was the starting point for the philosophy that underpins its design concept while, at the same time, adhering to proven retail flow and layout.
But, it isn’t only the architectural appeal that is considered in these awards. SAPOA notes recognition is based on a holistic approach which expects developments to be economically viable, to satisfy the needs of the investor and users, to be aesthetically appealing and enhance the locality in which they are situated.
Schaap adds: “Cradlestone Mall’s alluring shopping, unique fresh design, easy access, entertainment, leisure and total experience all come together to create a complete leading mall package.”
The shopper appeal of this award-winning mall lies not only in its design, but in a power-house line up of retailers led by of anchor tenants including Woolworths, Pick n Pay, Checkers, Game with FoodCo, Dion Wired and the Edcon Group, as well as Food Lovers Market, which will open this year.
Its positive reception has also attracted a selection of new stores which have opened in the mall since it was launched, including latest additions Lego, Baby Boom, Isabella’s Food and Cake shop, John Craig and Sunglass Hut. Plus, Dis-Chem and Virgin Active is also set to open at Cradlestone Mall before year-end.
Cara Grobler, General Manager of Cradlestone Mall, comments: “This SAPOA accolade is a meaningful and respected honour for the mall. Cradlestone Mall has enjoyed a positive and exciting beginning. We look forward to what the future holds, it promises to be very exciting indeed.”
