Sizzling support for Boardwalk retailers

4 Jun 2009

PORT ELIZABETH: While The Boardwalk's “Festival Retail” mix has proved more resilient than that in some of the more traditional shopping centres, the complex's management team is working closely with its tenants to help them trade through the current downturn.

“As we have seen from the GDP figures, the market is extremely tough at the moment, and everybody has to go the extra mile,” says Boardwalk retail manager Mandy O'Regan.

“It is clear that customer behaviour and spending patterns throughout the retail industry have changed. The Boardwalk is, however, weathering the storm better than many other centres in Port Elizabeth.

“Figures for the first four months of the year show that retail turnover at the complex is down by just over 1% - which is below the 2.9% drop in retail sales for the first quarter reported by Stats SA. Our foot count is also up by 1% year-on-year.

“We currently have just one shop available for rent.”

“Our festival mix is unique in that we can - and do - stage regular events to attract shoppers and diners to The Boardwalk. Having the two idols winners on the lakes for the Algoa FM Concert, for example, attracted over 13,000 fans.

“Being at the centre of the Spec-Savers Ironman and the Splash Festival is also a plus for the complex,” she says. The complex has attracted over 25-million visitors in the eight years since it opened.

The Boardwalk is also a favourite destination for tourists and cruise liner passengers.

Now the focus is on trading through the next few months until the economy recovers. “We are focusing on value. All our tenants will be doing something special to add value and warmth during the winter months through our Sizzling Hot promotion,” she says.

Adding to the atmosphere will be bonfires, free live entertainment and prizes.

The Boardwalk has 46 speciality shops, restaurants, take-aways and fast food outlets, as well as 21 crafters.