ApexHi MD David Rice says the 34,500m2 Golden Walk, which is currently valued at R370-million, continues to break records with more than 10-million shoppers going through the mall in 2007 so far. “Retailers are achieving excellent trading densities and the bigger nationals have expressed the need to expand the mall.

“The shopping centre is being extended on two ends by 12,000m2. On the Pick ‘n Pay side, new fashion, furniture stores and fast food will be added, while the Standard Bank end will be extended to accommodate more banking facilities, furniture stores and service related stores,” he says.

Rice says Golden Walk primarily serves the commuter market, with shoppers travelling to and from work in the Germiston CBD or nearby. “The centre will, from April 2008, also serve as a transport hub with the relocation of a local taxi rank on site for approximately 70 taxis.

“By bringing the taxi facility on site, we will make it possible for shoppers to carry more items. In time, 10 small kiosks aimed at attracting the smaller local retailers will be developed to serve the taxi market. In addition, by upgrading the facilities such as the toilets and creating wider malls for customers to queue for banking, we hope to cater for the needs of the very loyal customer base,” he says.

Work commenced on the refurbishment in October 2007, and the developers broke ground on the extensions later that month. With another 12 months to go before the larger, new look centre opens its doors in October 2008, 75% of the additional space has already been pre-let.

To date, new store space is committed to Jet Mart, Mr Price for a mega store, a new Truworths Emporium, Ackermans, FNB, ABSA, Nandos Miladys, CNA, and several furniture retailers. Pick ‘n Pay will also undergo a major revamp.