North Coast tourism spend on upward curve

This year’s festive season saw a vibrant tourism boom which significantly benefitted the local economy.

Accommodation occupancy averaged 80% and in some cases reached 100%.

Enterprise iLembe investment promotion and marketing manager, Cheryl Peters, said while statistics were still being analysed, indications were positive.

She said despite the weather not being ideal at times, holidaymakers flocked to malls for retail therapy and explored local spas and restaurants.

iLembe Chamber of Commerce CEO Cobus Oelofse said Chamber members gave the festive season a big thumbs up.

While the hospitality and retail sectors especially experienced a very good Christmas trading period, increased turnovers were reported across all categories.

“The weather played its part but the North Coast’s hospitality variety ensured visitors remained entertained. The Chamber is of the opinion that the season enhanced the North Coast’s reputation as a preferred holiday destination,” said Oelofse.

He stressed that visible and effective by-law enforcement by KDM’s Community Safety section, the police, CPF structures, UIP, neighbourhood watches and other role players contributed significantly to quality beach experiences.

Lifestyle Centre reported a significant increase in foot traffic from December 15, escalating daily until New Year.

The retail and food offerings at the centre experienced good sales.

The centre’s various outlets such as The Market, Eat Street and The Studios were bustling with energy.

“An incredible amount of creative planning and hard work by the Lifestyle team and all the tenants contributed to an awesome vibe and experience during the festive season,” said Lifestyle Centre owner, Bruce Rencken.

Ballito Junction recorded close to 1.4 million customers in December, with foot count steadily growing on a weekly basis.

The week before Christmas presented a massive trading opportunity, with the highest foot count on December 23 with more than 67 000 customers streaming through the doors.

“We are thrilled to be the go-to destination for both world-renowned international brands and our cherished local favourites. The launch of the phase 1 redevelopment on November 30, and a mix of legacy with the new tenants and a vibrant piazza all came together to create an unrivalled shopping environment. With the mall fully equipped with generators, this ensured uninterrupted shopping,” said Ballito Junction CEO, Geraldine Jorgensen.

Natasha Pretorius of Parsons Holiday Lettings reported a successful season with all 40 of their units fully booked until Monday, showing a positive post-Covid trend.

Dayle Edward of Ballito Accommodation shared similar sentiments, being fully booked from December 23.

Hampshire Hotel manager Athenkosi Hela noted a busy season but observed a shift in holiday duration with people spending less time on holiday compared to previous years.

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