South Africa’s Black Friday blowout

The retail frenzy of Black Friday has descended upon Sandton City Mall in South Africa, with shoppers flooding the premises in search of deals and discounts. CNBC Africa's Sally Sithole sat down with Dimitri Kokinos, the Asset and General Manager at the mall, to discuss how they prepared for the surge in foot traffic. Kokinos explained that they had a detailed plan in place, with additional cleaners, security personnel, and parking attendants deployed to ensure a smooth shopping experience for customers. Despite the bustling crowds, Kokinos noted that there was a positive atmosphere in the mall, with many shoppers displaying smiles and enthusiasm. The week leading up to Black Friday had already seen an increase in visitor numbers, adding to the festive spirit in the air. In terms of safety measures, Kokinos assured that they had ample security personnel and surveillance systems in place to monitor the situation and ensure customer well-being. He emphasized that customer comfort and safety were a top priority for the mall. As the day progressed, Kokinos highlighted the various discounts and promotions available at Sandton City Mall, including significant price cuts on a wide range of items. Additionally, he mentioned a special Christmas activation called 'Momo's Magical Adventure' and a promotional event at Nelson Mandela Square, encouraging shoppers to take advantage of the festive offerings. With the mall open until late and free parking provided, Sandton City Mall was poised to offer a lucrative shopping experience on Black Friday. The excitement and energy of the crowds reflected the success of the event, with both tenants and landlords alike reveling in the festive spirit.