The launch event, celebrating a powerful transformation rooted in partnership, performance and place-making, was attended by the mall’s owners, local government officials, retailers and community leaders.
Since its R800 million acquisition in May 2024, the mall has undergone a R225 million redevelopment, affirming it as the dominant retail and lifestyle destination in Mthatha, a regional economic anchor and a source of local pride.
Investment that reflects and respects the community
Laurence Rapp, CEO of Vukile Property Fund, emphasises this investment is a long-term commitment to the region. “For Vukile, investment in a mall is an investment in its community. We see not only what’s on the surface, but the deeper potential. We are committed to unlocking potential by creating places that bring enjoyment, convenience, pride and economic momentum to people’s daily lives.”
That commitment is already paying dividends. What was a struggling asset 18 months ago has become a thriving regional hub through re-design, re-tenanting and new investment in operational infrastructure and customer experience.
Paul Gerard, Managing Director of Flanagan & Gerard Property Group, explains, “We’ve focused on refining every detail, from the back-of-house systems to the front-of-house feel. This investment is not only about what shoppers can enjoy today, but what they can expect from their mall in the future. Mall of Mthatha is here to stay, and to grow with Mthatha.”
This transformation is possible because of steadfast support of the city and the people of Mthatha. From the earliest stages of planning, local government has played a critical enabling role, while the community’s patience, feedback and ongoing patronage have helped shape the centre into what it is now — a retail destination that reflects the identity, aspirations and energy of Mthatha itself.
Cllr G.N. Nelani, Executive Mayor of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, says the investment is a testament to the power of local partnerships. “By collaborating with the private sector, we’re driving economic growth, creating jobs and improving the quality of life for our communities. Mall of Mthatha not only provides a hub for retail and entertainment but also serves as a catalyst for further development in our area.”
New brands and renewed energy
Mall of Mthatha now offers a shopping experience and retail mix that was previously unavailable anywhere else in the region. The co-owners have successfully repositioned the mall by introducing a blend of national anchors, fashion favourites and new-to-market brands.
Since acquisition, Mall of Mthatha has welcomed Pick n Pay Clothing, Dis-Chem, Burger King, Queenspark, Newscafé, Volpes and Home Choice, which together with the existing Woolworths and Checkers are all firsts for Mthatha, among numerous other retailers and alongside expansions and upgrades of popular existing stores.
Contemporary high shopfronts and the latest retail concepts create a fresh lighter, brighter, atmosphere in the mall.
New restaurants and entertainment concepts have re-energised the mall’s social heart, including fun family entertainment at Mthatha’s only Hardhats.
A more connected, welcoming experience
Enhanced vertical circulation – including two new escalators linking parking areas directly to the doors of Woolworths, Checkers and Shoprite anchors – has improved shopper flow.
The mall’s transformation also includes the addition of a new mezzanine level with service-based tenants, as well as modern, welcoming ablution facilities. The addition added some 700sqm to the malls gross lettable area, taking it to 60,762sqm.
Mall of Mthatha now also links more naturally with the adjacent hotel and casino.
Building belonging
Beyond bricks and mortar, it has built new partnerships with local organisations and schools, supported youth art and education initiatives, and the wider urban fabric of Mthatha.
Local art installations, created in partnership with a community art centre, now animate previously blank bulkheads above the restaurants.
A bold new installation spelling out “MTHATHA” in giant concrete letters has become a firm favourite with visitors, creating a strong identity and sense of place.
Turning potential into performance
Since the change in ownership, as the mall’s redevelopment progressed, vacancies have dropped from 20% to just 1.72%. Monthly foot traffic has grown 5% to over 6 million annual visitors.
Retail performance has surged in step. Annual turnover between September 2024 and August 2025 increased 25% year-on-year, with August 2025 alone up 32.4%.
Among the mall’s best-performing retail categories over the past year were homeware and interiors (+66%), restaurants (+40%), fast food (+36%), pharmacy and self-care (+12%) and men’s wear (+12%).
Investing in sustainability and the future
A new 2.3MW rooftop solar installation underscores the owners’ commitment to sustainability. With over 3,776 solar panels covering 11,422sqm and generating more than 3.2 million kWh annually, the system supports operational efficiency and reduces the mall’s environmental footprint.
These upgrades complement comprehensive back-of-house investments in lighting, HVAC, security, access control, and OHS systems, ensuring the mall operates efficiently and sustainably.
Creating lasting value
Babalwa Soga, Mall of Mthatha centre manager, concludes, “Today, Mall of Mthatha is a living example of retail done right: with respect for local context and community, and a vision for the future. We’re delighted to celebrate the mall’s transformation and deliver an engaging, enjoyable and easily accessible shopping experience that resonates with shoppers and retailers.”