The glow on the faces of many new homeowners dulled a little last week as the MPC decided to up the repo rate, the interest rate rising along with it. Banks expect consumers to exercise increased caution, while a cycle of interest rate hikes could see bad debt levels rise. These fears don't seem to be slowing down the restaurant industry though, with Ocean Basket eyeing global expansion and Taste developing a palate for chicken. Burger King opened its new stores in Gauteng over the weekend, and I have it on good authority that the brand was as well received as up there as it was here in Cape Town (read: queues were longer than the SARS line on tax return d-day). Last, but not least, don't forget our latest Biz Trends for 2014! Here's to an interesting week!
Shan Radcliffe, Group Head - Retail (@Biz_Retail)
Image: © KaYann - Fotolia.com

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