Wednesday 6 August 2014

Global retailers look to South Africa


Recent research by CBRE has revealed global retailers as well as retail property investors are seizing advantage of South Africa's appeal as a competitive retail destination.

This is as it was reported that South Africa is presently ranked at 53 out of 61 countries in terms of international retailer presence - up 14% during 2013 – As reported by the director of research and marketing, Elaine Wilson at Broll Property Group, part of the CBRE affiliate network.

The increased ranking indicated growing interest from retailers around the world.

Johannesburg has the highest volume of global retailers and includes recent entrants such as City Chic, H&M, Lush and Lovisa.

Over the last year, Johannesburg has shifted from 146th to 145th of 189 global cities in terms of international retailer presence. Meanwhile, Cape Town has moved up three places to 153.

South African retail property also yields competitive results for investors.

A typical regional or super-regional shopping centre of South Africa has on average, a 2.2% vacancy in comparison to 6.5% and 12.4% in the US and UK respectively. The affordability of retail rents is promising of room to grow net incomes for retail property investors.

Hong Kong values $46,642 per square metre each year as the top retail destination in the world, as South Africa values around $314 per square metre each year.

In terms of Sub-Saharan African context, South African property gains stronger net rents than Kenya, Malawi or Namibia.

However, South Africa is not in line with Ghana, Madagascar and Mauritius’ high rents, although these markets are limited in retail space.

South Africa's retail space is also advantaged in annual net rent rises of 7% to 10% which are generally higher than other retail markets within the region. Similarly, operating cost rises run at 7% to 10% a year.

South Africa's property operating costs are somewhat high at $80 per square metre each year, but are mitigated by rises unusual in numerous other Sub-Saharan African property markets.

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