While cost pressures such as fuel, electricity and municipal rates continue to impact on consumers, the South African retail sector in general has remained resilient as shoppers continue to seek value for money offerings, says Johan Engelbrecht, director retail management for JHI Properties.
“The trend towards discounted goods or those which offer the best value for money is increasingly evident, particularly as consumers demonstrate a willingness and growing ability to manage debt, which is positive – as is the fact that interest rates have held stable at historically low levels. And although discretionary spend is still under pressure, the retail categories of household goods, textiles, pharmaceutical and apparel remain well supported,” says Engelbrecht.