
COUNTDOWN TO NEW EMPANGENI MALL BEGINS Prince Buthelezi Mall prepares to open its doors, bringing new fresh energy, choice and everyday convenience to northern KZN
The countdown has begun. Prince Buthelezi Mall will officially open its doors on Thursday, 30 April, marking an exciting new chapter for shopping in Empangeni. As anticipation builds, the new retail destination is set to welcome the community with an on-trend mix of stores, thoughtful design and a shopping experience shaped around ease and connection.
Spanning approximately 37 000 square metres, the mall will house approximately 100 stores, offering a wide selection across grocery, fashion, health, dining and everyday essentials. Shoppers can look forward to trusted big brand brands such as Boxer, Checkers Fresh X, Checkers Liquor, Clicks, Dis-Chem, Edgars, Foschini, Roots Butchery, Shoprite and Woolworths Food, many of which are first to open in the Empangeni and Richards Bay area.
Other popular brands such as Bargain Books and UFO, Billabong, Burger King, Crazy Plastics, Mugg & Bean, Milky Lane, Mr Price Home, Panarottis, Polo, SENQU, Sorbet, Sportsmans Warehouse and Xpresso Café, will feature in the mall, adding to the firsts for the area. Speciality stores, including Boardriders, Kingsley Beverages and Senza, will bring a distinctive edge to the retail mix, introducing unique finds for shoppers to discover.
The centre is also adding a whole new layer of convenience with no less than three drive-throughs: Burger King, Steers and McDonald’s, making it easier for visitors to grab a meal on the go.
The Social Quarter invites connection and pause
At the heart of the centre lies the food court, known as The Social Quarter. This welcoming space has been created for people to meet, dine and unwind, with a vibrant atmosphere shaped by abundant greenery, layered lighting and thoughtful design elements such as a waterfall and beautiful giant palm trees. Here, shoppers can enjoy food from popular outlets such as Debonairs, KFC, King Pie, McDonalds, Panarottis , Nandos, Pedros and Spur.

The Social Quarter space includes a dedicated children’s play area, a giant chess set, as well as workstations for those needing a place to catch up on work or study. A seating area with charging pods has been set up, allowing visitors to recharge or simply stay connected while they spend time in the centre. There will also be free Wi-Fi throughout the mall.
A shopping experience designed for real life
Prince Buthelezi Mall has been carefully planned to offer a seamless and comfortable experience from arrival to departure. Clear layouts, ample parking and a strong focus on safety and accessibility will ensure that visitors can move through the space with ease, whether running errands or spending a few hours browsing.
Accommodating ease of access, there are two entrances on the R102 and quick access from the N2 and R102 off-ramps. A taxi rank and public transport facilities have been provided. Additionally, in contrast to nearby centres, the modern bathrooms with luxury finishes are free for shoppers to use.
Opening weekend
The opening day, 30 April, is a much anticipated event on the Empangeni calendar and was intentionally chosen at the start of a long weekend so that visitors can take their time to enjoy the new centre. Live entertainment is planned, and many stores will be offering opening specials, additional to spot prizes and lucky draws throughout the opening weekend. Shoppers are encouraged to plan their visit and arrive ready to explore everything the new mall has to offer.
For regular updates, follow the Prince Buthelezi Mall on social media: https://www.instagram.com/prince_buthelezi_mall/ , https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569343646670 or the centre’s website https://princebuthelezimall.co.za/.



