Videos & Photos: Well-attended mall opening attracts thousands
The highly anticipated, world-class Springs Mall opened its doors on Thursday (March 16).
Starting around 9.30am, Patrick Flanagan, co-chairman of Flanagan & Gerard Property Development and Investment, as well as co-owner of the mall, introduced the Springs-based D’Arrigo family and commended them on their dream coming to life.
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The mall’s vision was inspired by the family and, when brought to life, created an influx of opportunities for Springs and its people.
The ribbon cutting, signifying the official opening of the mall, was done by Giacomo ‘Jack’ D’Arrigo (senior), along with Patrick, to loud applause from the audience.
• Read: UPDATE: Springs Mall management comments on robbery, assures residents that safety is top priority
Ward councillor Shadow Shabangu, who has supported the project throughout the building phases, was called on-stage and thanked for his “diligence, hard work and his hand in the development of the mall.”
A large number Springsites and visitors from other towns were at the mall early to welcome this new shopping sensation to town.
Gugu Shabangu, and her mother Busi, came all the way from Swaziland to see the opening of the Springs Mall and enjoy the 48 000sqm of fully-let retail space, which allows for an impressive array of shopping choices.
For the first time, Springs residents can enjoy more than 170 shops, restaurants and other services right on their doorstep.
• Also read: See exciting line-up of the new Springs Mall’s food court
Despite an attempted robbery taking place on the opening day, shoppers were not deterred.
The ribbon cutting, which took place shortly before the drama, was well-attended and large volumes of visitors continued to arrive throughout the day.
Mall management commended the Springs community’s reaction following the shooting and say it was an amazing ‘human experience’.
Paul Gerard of Flanagan & Gerard Property Development & Investment and co-owners of the mall, says the mall has created a superb new retail offering, one that was sorely lacking in the town and which stimulated the local economy.
“We look forward to being a valuable part of this great community which has encouraged and supported Springs Mall every step of the way,” he says.
The Springs Mall is a joint venture between Blue Crane Eco Mall (Pty) Ltd, Flanagan & Gerard Property Development & Investment, JSE-listed retail REIT Vukile Property Fund and Murinda Investments, which is part of the Guiricich Bros Group.
WATCH: Aftermath of shots fired at Springs Mall opening
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