Nedbank Corporate Investment Banking (CIB) is proud to announce the successful completion and launch of the Port Shepstone Mall. This landmark development redefines the shopping centre concept by integrating retail with public transport infrastructure.

Strategically located on Nelson Mandela Drive, this multi-level facility serves as both a retail destination and an intermodal transport hub connecting the town to the broader Eastern Cape region.

Nedbank CIB backs Port Shepstone Mall to drive inclusive growth

The mall significantly boosts the southern KZN retail and transport infrastructure with a total investment of R550 million, funded by Nedbank CIB Property Finance and client equity.

Aubrey Shabane, Divisional Executive for Property Finance at CIB, emphasises the resilience and importance of retail developments in non-metropolitan areas.

‘Despite a challenging economic landscape, shopping centres in rural, township, and small-town areas across KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) continue to thrive. Their proximity to consumers, essential-service offerings, and deep integration into the daily lives of local communities have sustained strong footfall and stable trading densities,’ says Shabane.

He adds that Nedbank CIB has consistently seen solid performance in this segment, reinforcing the value of convenience-based retail in the province’s property market.

‘It is for these reasons that we proudly financed the development of the Port Shepstone Mall, a project that reflects our commitment to community growth and inclusive development. Through tailored funding solutions and close partnerships with our clients, we continue to support infrastructure that uplifts rural, township, and small-town economies.’

Shopping mall development enhances connectivity in Port Shepstone

The Port Shepstone Mall was envisioned as a vibrant, inclusive space that caters to both locals and visitors in and around the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality. It was developed over 5 years by WPL Architects under the leadership of Chris Winterbach.

The development project was designed to formalise local transport, reduce congestion, and improve access to retail and transport services.

Shopping centre integrates public transport and retail

The mall’s unique design integrates retail outlets with a fully functional public transport hub, offering long- and short-range taxi services that link Port Shepstone to coastal routes and surrounding towns.

This integration ensures long-term sustainability by maintaining consistent foot traffic and accessibility. The central core of the mall connects all levels directly to the transport hub, making it easy for commuters and shoppers to navigate.

Port Shepstone Mall is wheelchair friendly and inclusive

Accessibility was a key consideration in the design of the mall. The facility is both wheelchair friendly and handicap friendly, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy a seamless shopping experience. Wide corridors, elevators, and accessible restrooms reflect the commitment to inclusivity and universal design.

Port Shepstone Mall drives economic growth

Since its opening on 24 October 2024 and official launch on 15 November 2024, the Port Shepstone Mall has become a catalyst for economic activity. Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, the CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), highlighted the mall’s role in solidifying Port Shepstone’s status as a key business and retail destination. The arrival of major retailers like Checkers FreshX underscores the mall’s impact on attracting further investment.

Beyond infrastructure, the development created over 1 100 jobs during its 16-month construction phase and is expected to sustain around 700 permanent jobs, supporting both economic and social development in the region.

Public transport and local transport integration improve safety and access

The Port Shepstone Mall stands out not only as a retail destination but also as a fully integrated public transport hub, designed to improve connectivity and safety across the region. Located on level zero, the intermodal facility features around 200 active taxi bays, a satellite SAPS office, and direct links to an adjacent bus rank and overflow taxi holding area. This infrastructure, which received approximately R70 million of the total R550 million investment, positions the mall as a vital transport gateway for Port Shepstone and the Eastern Cape.

Before the development of the mall, the Port Shepstone CBD faced outdated retail infrastructure, limited parking, and a lack of formalised transport facilities, resulting in congestion and poor accessibility. The new shopping centre has dramatically improved these conditions, offering over 400 rooftop parking bays accessible via Ryder Street, and integrating local transport services that ensure accessibility for a wide demographic.

The mall has essential amenities, such as a water purification system with a 100 000-litre storage tank and a 750 000-litre fire tank. The mall also features 24/7 security, providing a safe and inclusive environment.

Port Shepstone Mall delivers diverse retail offerings

The Port Shepstone Mall spans 4 levels with a gross retail area of approximately 23 890 m², making it the largest shopping centre in the region. Designed for convenience and accessibility, the mall features a central core with 2 lifts and 8 escalators, ensuring smooth navigation for all visitors.

The tenant mix includes over 65 retailers, anchored by household names, such as Shoprite, Boxer Cash and Carry, Clicks, Dis-Chem, and OBC Butcher. Popular brands like Debonairs Pizza, Specsavers, Milky Lane, and China Hyper add to the vibrant retail experience. Notably, Boxer celebrated the opening of its 500th store in the mall.