The upgrade saw the space vacated by Game last year taken up by a 3,667m2 new look Checkers Supermarket.

Redefine Properties’ Cape development manager, Xander Rau, says the departure of Game created the opportunity to improve the space and inject new life into the centre.  “The upgrade involved moving Checkers from its former space into Game’s space, a move that has given the entire centre a new lease on life,” he says. 

The new Checkers store complies with the supermarket chain’s revamped stores and has a delicatessen, butchery, fishmonger, bakery, wine section, pharmacy and financial services section. “The store has created an appealing “food theatre” look to emphasise the freshness and quality of the food, which is aimed at drawing the customers into the store and boosting sales,” says Rau.

Rau says Checkers’ trade increased significantly since moving into its new space in November 2009. “As a result, Redefine undertook a feasibility study to establish the viability of incorporating an entertainment component and fast food drive-thru outlet at the centre,” says Rau.

The study confirmed the feasibility of these components and Redefine recently concluded a deal to incorporate a new Barnyard Theatre at the centre. “The Barnyard Theatre will be located in close proximity to the Checkers entrance. In addition, we are currently in negotiation with a fast-food group with regard to establishing an outlet at the centre,” says Rau.
He says the centre’s overall success is underlined by its excellent location on the western side of the city centre.

“It is ideally positioned to serve the affluent housing estates in the area and customers have voiced their relief at not having to negotiate the city centre traffic when out on routine shopping expeditions,” says Rau.