Mall of the North increases festive sales

Sumari de Ridder, GM of the mall notes, "Gift vouchers were a top shopper attraction. Both individual shoppers and companies drove December gift voucher sales. The versatility of a gift voucher that can buy items at any shop or restaurant in a mall with over 180 stores gives it tremendous appeal as a gift."

De Ridder notes that what these vouchers are being used for is also significant. "After the 2011 festive season, many gift vouchers were spent on household necessities at grocery stores. So far, after the 2012 festive season, we are seeing gift vouchers exchanged for luxuries such as home decor, CDs and DVDs."

As the largest shopping centre in Limpopo, the award-winning Mall of the North caters to a diverse market. Shoppers flocked to the mall throughout the season and customer numbers hit extraordinary peaks on Saturday 1, Friday and Saturday 14 and 15, Friday 21 and Monday 24 December.

Good access critical

However, Mall of the North's impressive festive season growth was not without its challenges.

Roadwork traffic congestion on the main road approaching the mall had become a serious concern. However, intervention from the mall's management resulted in the road's main intersection receiving priority. It was completed by mid-December.

"We also launched a strong communication campaign, telling shoppers of alternative routes to the centre and highlighting the future benefits of the improved roads. We made sure we let shoppers know when the intersection opened."

Access is essential to Mall of the North's trading success, especially with its convenient location as the final large shopping stop for tourists headed north, including those going across South Africa's borders. With everything from foreign exchange to camping gear, the mall sends tourists safely on their way, well supplied, fed and entertained.

"Having all the major retail anchors and brands under one roof in a modern, safe, clean, air-conditioned setting gives Mall of the North its competitive advantage."

On top of gift vouchers, festive best-sellers at this mall included perfume and other health and beauty items, music and DVDS. "Buying clothing was also a high priority for shoppers in December," she concludes.