Major Western Cape shopping mall gets R350 million expansion
Somerset Mall has launched phase one of its R350 million expansion and revamp, a project which will add 26 new stores and 5,000m² in retail space.
While this development is set to transform the mall for shoppers, the mall has assured that construction will not disrupt shoppers, as there will be no closed entrances, disrupted parking or interruptions to the shopping experience.
As development continues behind the scenes, Somerset Mall is preparing for its most ambitious expansion to date. The mall said that this project reflects the area’s rapid growth and increasing demand from both retailers and consumers.
Located only 45 km from the Cape Town City Centre, Somerset West has benefited greatly from the Western Cape’s boom, as semigrants, wealthy foreigners and investors all flock to the province.
Commenting on Rainmaker’s property market report released in April 2024, Brenda Padayachee, Head of Market Research at Rainmaker Marketing, pointed to the area’s promising growth.
“By considering factors such as demographics, infrastructure, amenities and economic indicators, we have identified Somerset West and Stellenbosch as two high-potential growth areas,” Padayachee said.
The report revealed that the adult population within these towns were growing significantly, with 53 new families moving into the area monthly.
Phase 1 of Somerset Mall’s development is set to open on 20 November. The expansion will add over 5,000m² of new retail space and will welcome 26 new stores to complement the already diverse fashion offering.
The expansion represents the most significant investment in the mall’s recent history. It aims to not only increase capacity but to enhance Somerset Mall’s positioning as the leading retail destination in the region.
It introduces several landmark retail arrivals, including Safari Collection making its South African debut and Napapijri opening its first Western Cape location.
The Helderberg region will welcome its first Skechers, Anta, Lego, Bella Luna, New Balance, Burnt, Curve Gear, Nicci Boutique and JD Sports stores.
The expansion also features local retailers, featuring South African brands Bootleggers, Safari Collection, Burnt, Colourbox, Nicci Boutique, Curve Gear and Old School alongside established international names.
Economic impact and job creation
The scale of the expansion project reflects a significant capital investment by Hyprop Investments, the mall’s holding company.
During the construction phase, over 1,200 jobs have been created, including contractors, subcontractors and professional consultants.
Once the new retail space is operational, it is expected to sustain an additional 400 jobs in the long term.
“It’s not just about growth in m²,” said Nicholas Oliphant, General Manager at Somerset Mall. “We view this as a way to contribute meaningfully to local economic development. This project is centred around job creation, commercial inclusion and long-term sustainability.”
During the expansion, construction activities have been confined to the rear of the building, ensuring shoppers and tenants remain unaffected during the upgrade process.
Somerset Mall has successfully maintained foot traffic and tenant turnover throughout the project. Simultaneously, internal improvements are being rolled out across existing space.
New floor tiling is currently being installed, and bathroom renovations incorporating green technology features, including waterless urinals and Propel-Air toilets, are underway.
The mall has also added a Rubicon Supercharger Charge Station and opened a newly built car wash.
In July 2026, phase two will introduce Freedom Interactive Park, adding a unique entertainment dimension to the tenant mix. This recreational concept will combine technology and social connection in a high-traffic area.
“We’re not reinventing Somerset Mall; we are refining it,” said Wayne Abegglen, Portfolio Executive for the Western Cape division of Hyprop.
“We are enhancing the experience, broadening our offering and ensuring that what we build now will still feel right ten years from now.”
Somerset West Mall expansion
Inside Somerset West Mall
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