Businesses open and businesses close, but nowadays it seems more are closing down.
Not being a huge TV fan, I don’t have DSTV, but I do enjoy watching a good movie every now and then and was a customer at Dial-A-Video in Glenvista Shopping Centre.
It came as a huge surprise when I popped in last week to choose a DVD and was told by the ladies who have worked there for years that the shop was closing down. Apparently the lease was due to expire and the shop owner didn’t want to take out the ‘new’ required three-year lease. It had become quite a social place to meet and greet other regular customers and often we’d give each other our thoughts on movies we’d seen. As other customers came in to see what was actually happening, most of us had received an SMS informing us about the closure. It was really sad as everyone said their goodbyes to the staff members. The end of an era!
There are also other empty business premises in the same centre. Is it due to the economic climate, where customers don’t have as much money as they did and don’t eat out as often or shop in general unless for necessities?
Another business which has just closed its doors is Blacksteer in Panorama Shopping Centre. I wasn’t a regular customer, but I’m sure they’ll be missed by those who were.
Other shopping centres have empty stores waiting to be filled too. I do know from speaking to a friend of mine that the rents in centres are extremely expensive and to make a profit, after rent, they have to be tops at what they do. We can only hope times will get better.
Bouquets of the Week
To Dr Combrink at Netcare Mulbarton Hospital, who was on duty on Thursday morning, March 2, a huge thanks for being so caring to my friend, who is here on holiday from England. Dr Combrink showed compassion and care and made my friend feel safe in her hands. Thank you.
* Wally Moiter from Ridgeway Ext 5 said he had a fantastic experience when he went to renew his driver’s licence at Xavier Junction Testing Centre, 5 Rente Street, Ormonde. “On Tuesday, February 28, I went along to renew my driver’s licence. I was expecting long queues and thought I’d be there for a long time. Much to my delight, I was in and out within half an hour. The staff were friendly, efficient and helpful. It was such a pleasant experience and I was actually shocked at how wonderful it all was.” Phone 011 496 1960.
That’s it for this week. Shop till you drop – if you can afford it!
Julie
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