2011 African Congress of Shopping Centres 'adapts, adjusts, advances'

The event is hosted by The SA Council of Shopping Centres (SACSC) and endorsed by the International Council of Shopping Centres (ICSC). Long-time supporter of various retail industry initiatives, including last year's SACSC RDDA (Retail Design and Developments Awards), Nedbank Corporate Property Finance is now demonstrating its support by becoming the key sponsor for the congress.

"We're delighted to be associated with this annual industry highlight which provides excellent value and benefits for those operating in retail. The theme of this year's congress is especially relevant as the retail property sector remains under pressure. While CBD, township and rural retail remains strong, there has been an increase in vacancies among the smaller stores and formal retail remains fragile. However, our research reveals that retailers are preparing for an upswing in the economic cycle, which we anticipate to start early next year," says Frank Berkeley, managing executive of Nedbank Corporate Property Finance.

"Congress delegates can look forward to a programme that is responsive to the challenges, highlights and successes that have defined the industry in the last 12 months," says SACSC congress chairman, Hildegarde Riphagen.

For more information, email moc.acirfai@refnoc or visit www.sacsc.co.za