Construction may be underway, but Somerset Mall hasn’t skipped a beat. As cranes move discreetly behind the scenes, shoppers continue to enjoy business as usual — no blocked entrances, no messy detours, and no disruption. This seamless approach is fitting for a retail icon that’s redefining what expansion means: growing smarter, not just bigger.
Opening on 20 November 2025, the first phase of Somerset Mall’s expansion will introduce over 5,000 m² of new retail space and 26 new stores, marking the most significant investment in the mall’s modern history. Designed to enhance experience rather than overwhelm, the project strengthens Somerset Mall’s role as the leading retail destination in the Helderberg region.
Retail Firsts for South Africa and the Western Cape
Phase One will bring a wave of new arrivals, including several national and regional firsts. Safari Collection makes its South African debut, while Napapijri opens its first Western Cape location. Local shoppers can also look forward to the region’s first Skechers, Anta, Lego, Bella Luna, New Balance, Burnt, Curve Gear, Nicci Boutique, and JD Sports stores.
The expansion celebrates local talent alongside global brands, showcasing South African favourites such as Bootleggers, Burnt, Colourbox, and Old School alongside international names. This curated balance between local and global captures the evolving identity of the modern South African shopper — one who is connected, quality-driven, and community-minded.
Economic Impact: Jobs, Skills, and Sustainable Growth
The expansion is more than a design statement; it’s a major economic injection for the region. Backed by Hyprop Investments, the development has already created over 1,200 jobs during construction, spanning contractors, subcontractors, and professional consultants. Once operational, it is expected to sustain an additional 400 long-term jobs.
“It’s not just about growth in square metres,” says Nicholas Oliphant, General Manager at Somerset Mall. “We view this as a way to contribute meaningfully to local economic development. This project is centred on job creation, commercial inclusion, and long-term sustainability.”
Experience Elevated — Without Disruption
Despite the scale of the works, the shopper experience remains uninterrupted. Construction is confined to the mall’s rear perimeter, while foot traffic, parking, and tenant operations continue as usual. In fact, improvements are already visible: new floor tiling, refurbished restrooms featuring green technology like waterless urinals and Propel-Air toilets, and enhanced convenience offerings, including a Rubicon Supercharger station and a new car wash facility.
These updates reflect Somerset Mall’s commitment to sustainability and service — an evolution driven by innovation, not inconvenience.
Looking Ahead: Freedom Interactive Park
Phase Two, slated for July 2026, will introduce Freedom Interactive Park, a bold step into the future of leisure retail. The concept will merge technology, entertainment, and social connection within a high-traffic environment — a space designed to engage families, friends, and digital natives alike.
“We’re not reinventing Somerset Mall,” says Wayne Abegglen, Portfolio Executive Western Cape at Hyprop. “We’re refining it. We’re broadening our offering and building for the next decade — ensuring what we create today will still feel right ten years from now.”
A New Era for Helderberg Retail
The Somerset Mall expansion marks more than a milestone in scale; it’s a blueprint for purpose-led development. By balancing local inclusion with global retail energy, sustainability with style, and growth with grace, the mall is setting the standard for what next-generation retail in South Africa can be.
Come November 2025, Somerset Mall won’t just be bigger — it’ll be brighter, bolder, and built for the future.
