An exclusive VIP cocktail function, arranged by the Primedia Unlimited owned Primedia Lifestyle Marketing Services, formed part of the 19 000m² centre’s official opening. Trevor Williams took on the role of MC and the event included speeches by all role players. The official opening ribbon was cut by King Zwelitini.

A community launch, planned and executed by Primedia Lifestyle Marketing Group Services, targeted the youth and featured a variety of local artists. Other highlights included the live afternoon broadcast by Gagasi FM directly from the centre, kiddies entertainment and a Play Station and arts and crafts zone.

“The Hammarsdale Junction’s official opening day drew foot traffic of over 33 000,” says Primedia Lifestyle Marketing Group Service’s Kirsten Barraclough. “In addition, total foot traffic during June was close on 178 000 but during July that figured jumped to an incredible 542 000.”

The centre - a shopping, dining and lifestyle destination – is a single-level shopping centre with more than 65 shops, wide walkways and world-class aesthetics. Its focus on convenience saw the inclusion of 570 free parking bays and an integrated taxi rank. It is easily accessible to shoppers from the neighbouring communities, and has easy access from the MR385.

The R200-million development is a joint venture between the ERIS Property Group and Vukile Property Fund, in conjunction with the Ingonyama Trust, Ethekwini Municipality and the National Treasury.

The centre forms part of the Mpumalanga New Town Centre development and is the first to open as part of further public investment in the form of a New Metro Police Station, a Government Customer Care Centre (to accommodate various government service departments), a Social Welfare Centre, Public Park with sport and recreational facilities and a proposed new railway station integrated with a nodal transport interchange.

“I just wanted to say a huge extra big thank you from me for your hard work, late nights and tireless efforts and seeing the launch through to a successful finish. As always you have not let me down and have proven your commitment and professionalism at all levels. Thank you for going beyond the imaginable in giving us an event fit for a King,” said JHI’s Senior portfolio manager, Rubecca Khan, when congratulating the Primedia Lifestyle Marketing Services team after the successful launch.

“I just want to place on record my appreciation for the commitment and resolve that you and your team demonstrated in ensuring that the opening ceremony went off smoothly and successfully,” added JHI’s Rob Moran, regional director – KwaZulu-Natal.

Kobus Ferreira, asset manager of Vukile Property Funded, added, “Many thanks for all the arrangements, hard work and long hours spent to make the function and launch a great success.”

For more information about Primedia Lifestyle Marketing Services, visit www.primedia-unlimited.co.za or www.primedialifestyle.co.za.