R650m GrandWest Mall breaks ground as Cape Town's next retail landmark takes shape

• R650 million GrandWest Mall to open in June 2027 with over 70% of space already leased.
• Checkers FreshX, SuperSpar, Dis-Chem, Clicks and major fashion brands anchor the development.
• Local procurement and community employment form a key pillar of the project.

R650m GrandWest Mall breaks ground as Cape Town's next retail landmark takes shape

Cape Town's retail landscape is set for a major transformation following the official sod-turning ceremony marking the start of construction on the R650 million GrandWest Mall development.

The 22,000m² single-level convenience shopping centre, a joint venture between Flanagan & Gerard Property Group (90%) and GrandWest, a subsidiary of Sun International (10%), is being developed within South Africa's premier entertainment precinct and is scheduled to open in June 2027.

The milestone follows the transfer of the land into the joint venture announced in May and signals the start of a project that will bring retail, dining and leisure together in one integrated destination.

‍Strong leasing momentum and major anchor tenants

‍GrandWest Mall enters construction with significant commercial momentum already in place. More than 70% of the gross lettable area has been secured, with a further 20% currently under offer.

Anchor tenants include:

• A 3,000m² Checkers FreshX
• A 2,500m² SuperSpar
• Dis-Chem
• Clicks
• Brands from the Mr Price Group
• Truworths Group
• Pepkor

The new mall has been designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing casino, hotel and entertainment complex, ensuring that GrandWest remains one of Cape Town's leading lifestyle destinations.

Confidence in Cape Town's growth story

‍Speaking at the sod-turning ceremony, James Vos, Mayoral Member for Economic Growth for the City of Cape Town, said the investment demonstrates confidence in the city's future.

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"The R650 million GrandWest Mall development reflects confidence in Cape Town's economy and growth outlook. Developments like this highlight the role of private sector investment in driving growth, creating jobs and strengthening the retail and commercial economy."

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Vos said the City's Ease of Doing Business Programme, together with Cape Town Air Access, which now supports more than 230 international flights a week during peak season, continues to attract investment and tourism.

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"Investments like GrandWest Mall motivate me to keep improving the conditions for investment and growth in our city."

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Local procurement and community employment

‍Supporting local businesses and creating jobs are central to the development strategy.

Flanagan & Gerard and GrandWest have committed to prioritising Western Cape-based subcontractors, suppliers and tradespeople throughout the construction period.

The approach aims to strengthen regional supply chains while ensuring the development reflects the character and capabilities of the local community.

Western Cape-based Isipani Construction, whose roots date back to 1960, has been appointed main contractor following a competitive procurement process. Construction commenced in May after preliminary works were completed.

Importantly, GrandWest's casino, hotel and entertainment facilities will remain fully operational throughout the construction period.

Design inspired by the Western Cape

‍The mall has been designed by retail specialist MDS Architecture under the leadership of partner Pierre Lahaye.

According to Lahaye, the design draws inspiration from both the existing GrandWest precinct and the natural beauty and wine heritage of the Western Cape.

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"We challenged ourselves to combine elements associated with the Western Cape with those found in the existing casino complex. The design embodies contemporary Cape Town experiences, drawing inspiration from nature and the region's renowned wineries to create a retail environment that speaks directly to the region's identity."

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The curved single-level layout follows the Fibonacci sequence and incorporates subtle references to ocean waves, shells and sailing craft. Lighting features evoke lobster cages and other coastal elements, while the absence of long sightlines encourages visitors to explore the centre.

Three entrances and major courts create natural orientation points throughout the mall.

Dining, lifestyle and entertainment in one destination

‍Particular attention has been given to integrating the new mall with the existing entertainment precinct.

Restaurants including Panarottis, Ocean Basket and RocoMamas will occupy the dining interface adjoining the casino, with outdoor terraces offering views towards Table Mountain.

Ulrik Bengtsson, Group Chief Executive Officer of Sun International, said the investment is about future-proofing GrandWest.

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"For Sun International, this investment is about keeping GrandWest relevant, vibrant and responsive to how people live, shop and spend their time today. It extends the GrandWest precinct, bringing retail, dining, entertainment and leisure together in a more connected and convenient way."

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The centre court has been designed as a flexible event space for promotions, pop-up retailers and community gatherings, while external areas can accommodate markets and events.

Boutique finishes and attention to detail

‍Natural timber, exposed concrete and metal sheeting inspired by the Western Cape's contemporary wine estates create a warm and authentic atmosphere throughout the mall.

Attention to detail extends to boutique hotel-inspired ablution facilities, charging stations, seating and landscaping, ensuring a premium customer experience throughout the development.

A landmark the Western Cape can be proud of

‍Paul Gerard, Managing Director of Flanagan & Gerard Property Group, said the development represents years of planning and collaboration.

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"Breaking ground on GrandWest Mall is a moment we have worked toward with great commitment and care. The quality of the team assembled, from our joint venture partner and contractor through to our architect and tenants, will deliver a development the Western Cape community will be proud of. We look forward to welcoming shoppers in June 2027."

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A new chapter for Cape Town retail

‍With strong tenant demand, a distinctive design inspired by the Western Cape and a commitment to local economic development, GrandWest Mall represents far more than another shopping centre.

It is a strategic investment in Cape Town's future, one that blends retail, dining, entertainment and community into a single destination while reinforcing confidence in one of South Africa's fastest-growing metropolitan economies.

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