A shopping centre is more than just bricks and mortar; it is a reflection of the evolution of consumers. Therefore, how a shopping centre's design reflects the values of its consumers plays an important role in its success.
By Danette Breitenbach 17 Apr 2014 07:58
The township is no longer a foreign land far away and its story is no longer one of the haves and have-nots. Townships are rocking and they have been for a while, but not everyone has cottoned on yet.
By Danette Breitenbach 16 Apr 2014 06:46
Although customers use their phones in stores for much, from managing shopping lists, browsing for recipes, price comparisons, additional product information and shopping on the go whenever they need to, they remain fickle and retailers need to prioritise mobile over more traditional forms of communication.
By Charles Stretch 15 Apr 2014 10:43
Africa is the story, actually the big story is Africa*. This was the message from Malcolm Horne, of Broll at the fourth South African Council of Shopping Centres (SACSC) annual research conference.
By Danette Breitenbach 11 Apr 2014 09:35
Easter is ideal for hatching a customer service revival across our retail and service sectors, as consumers unwrap little treats. Families have time to browse over holiday weekends; they are unhurried and receptive, creating an opportunity for shops and service providers to win customers.
By Aki Kalliatakis 10 Apr 2014 13:51
One of the key elements that gave rise to this year's supplychainforesight theme, 'The Rise and Fall of Customers and Companies', was that the need to improve customer service had been ranked as a top objective by respondents for the past three years.
By Kate Stubbs 9 Apr 2014 15:00
So many articles were written last year, making reference to the fact that loyalty doesn't pay. So many radio interviews, one of which I was part of, on Bruce Whitfield's Money Show, were questioning whether loyalty pays.
By Amanda Cromhout 9 Apr 2014 06:07
Sophisticated cyber 'gangs' are gaining traction, and they have not only the motivation, but the ability and techniques to carry out these attacks, which are happening more and more through a business' supply chain.
By Jayson O’Reilly 31 Mar 2014 11:58
In light of Cape Town as World Design Capital 2014, we thought we'd talk trends, the booming quality of local design, and the role ecommerce plays in South Africa, with fashion editor and trend forecaster Zakirah Rabaney of online fashion retailer, Zando.co.za.
By Jessica Taylor 27 Mar 2014 14:49
A look at the evolving business model for (mobile governance) m-governance projects and the use of mobile technology as a catalyst for inclusive development.
By Vijay Sai Pratap 27 Mar 2014 14:00
We've noticed in the retail environment that shoppers are really yearning for authentic experiences and there have been a few retailers already having success with it.
By Doug Mayne 26 Mar 2014 13:30
Launching a new business or taking an existing business online requires a new set of skills for companies used to a more traditional bricks-and-mortar retail environment.
By Brendon Williamson 25 Mar 2014 09:59
Feel like a getaway without the kids? Feel like getting married and need a romantic venue? Try Ambre... now Adults Only
By Rod Baker 23 Mar 2014 16:12
Here are six risk assessment questions you need to ask.
By Brendon Williamson 20 Mar 2014 11:15
Waiting in line to try on clothes can be a tiresome process and the least the customer expects is a friendly employee and a clean changeroom. Is that too much to ask?
By Kelly Summerfield 20 Mar 2014 08:00
Whether it is the fault of social media, or a failing to demonstrate true innovation in a rapidly changing market, customer satisfaction has become vitally important.
By Bruce von Maltitz 19 Mar 2014 15:10
A brand manager's dream: Produce a TV advert showcasing the benefits of a product whilst bringing a tear to the consumer's eye and galvanising them to rush out to purchase it.
By Dina Saffer-Myers 18 Mar 2014 15:51
The African Retail Development Index (ARDI) launched on 17 March 2014 in Johannesburg. Compiled by A.T. Kearney, which has undertaken a similar global retail Index for years, this is the first time an African Index has been compiled.
By Danette Breitenbach 18 Mar 2014 12:03
Too many businesses are getting customer service wrong. Bureaucratic business processes are making it incredibly difficult for employees to be flexible and accommodate unique customer needs.
By Su-Mari Du Bruyn 17 Mar 2014 14:00
When I first heard that Orient-Express had rebranded as Belmond my immediate reaction was what a crazy and misguided waste of brand equity. When I think Orient-Express, I think Agatha Christie, Lalique art decor crystal panels, and the elegance and romance of a bygone area.
By Brian Berkman 17 Mar 2014 12:36
South Africa's retailers will be under more pressure than ever this year to differentiate themselves in a cluttered and competitive environment. And this in a market where consumers are also under huge budget constraints.
By Pete Case, Issued by Gloo 12 Mar 2014 13:55
There are a number of specialists who all contribute to analysing and interpreting big data. We'd like to add a less obvious specialisation into the mix, namely animation and gaming.
By Glenn Gillis 7 Mar 2014 06:54
As the rand weakens and the pula strengthens, so consumers in Botswana find the gap in the cost of goods between South Africa and Botswana in Woolworths grows and not in their favour.
By Gwen Watkins 5 Mar 2014 16:02
The consequences of the shutdown were felt as far afield from the U.S. as here in South Africa, as was demonstrated by several of the reseller channels.
By Simon Campbell-Young 5 Mar 2014 14:30
Retailers moving into the online space for the first time face risks that do not exist in the bricks-and-mortar world and they need to ensure they are well protected.
By Brendon Williamson 4 Mar 2014 10:53
The Design Indaba 2014 Expo was once again a feast for the eyes and mind, while providing creatives from all walks of life the opportunity to showcase their crafts on an internationally-attended playing field.
By Shan Radcliffe 3 Mar 2014 13:38
Presently the Chinese trademark system has a reputation for being slow, expensive and complex. It is therefore anticipated that the third amendment to the trademark law of the People's Republic of China, which introduces significant changes, effective 1 May 2014, will be welcomed.
By Donvay Wegierski 26 Feb 2014 09:29
Understanding consumer rights is becoming an integral part of conducting business in South Africa. With an increased emphasis on potential harm to consumers by goods and services, suppliers around the world must become conscious of their obligations in law in various jurisdictions including South Africa.
By Neil Kirby 24 Feb 2014 10:08
Retailers need to understand and engage with their customers. Customers want relevant information sent to them and this translates into retailers sending them the right message at the right time.
By Danette Breitenbach 20 Feb 2014 11:39
The health risks associated with office work have been well documented in recent years.
By Alexa Garthwaite 20 Feb 2014 05:53
