New eateries a hit in Mdantsane
(East London) – The recent introduction of eatery brands to Mdantsane – some a first for the area – has seen a surge in trade for Mdantsane City shopping centre, where they are based, due to residents no longer having to travel far for business meetings or family outings.
The launch of two new eateries and the refurbishment of a third has opened up new options for busy Mdantsane commuters, according to an increase in foot traffic statistics from the shopping centre.
Mdantsane City general manager Dean Deary said the food services category had shown a 36% year-on-year growth since the opening of the new food outlets.
“The new food outlets have certainly filled a gap at the mall and really complement the existing offering in this category,” said Deary, adding that the line-up already included well-known brands such as KFC, Hungry Lion and Debonairs Pizza.
“Shoppers now have everything they want under one roof. They no longer have to travel to East London to enjoy their favourite meals. We are working hard to become a one-stop shopping centre that serves all our community’s needs.”
The first outlet to start trading was the ever-popular Wimpy restaurant – a first for the township as a whole. Since opening two months ago, it has enjoyed the support of families who get to share the most important meal of the day – breakfast – and also businessmen who can now sit down to a meal or business meeting, with free Wi-Fi ensuring that not a productive moment is lost.
According to owner and entrepreneur Sakhumzi Klassen, response to the opening has been phenomenal, especially with families over weekends.
“We are the first sit-down fast food franchise at the mall and people are loving it. The feedback has been fantastic,” he said.
The second addition to the mall came with the opening of Zebro’s, renowned for its tasty chicken, as well as the rebranded Fish & Chip Co, which offers a new menu with diverse appeal.
“The demand has been huge,” franchisee Xoliswa Tofi said.
“And not just among youngsters looking for fast-food satisfaction. The new menu at the Fish & Chip Co is attracting blue collar workers looking for healthier meal options.”
Source: Good News Lab