PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Attention
04 March 2025
Port Shepstone’s Economic Growth Continues with Checkers FreshX Development
Port Shepstone’s retail and infrastructure landscape has been transformed over the past year with the successful opening of the Port Shepstone Mall and the Intermodal Transport Facility. Now, the town is set for another milestone with the upcoming launch of Checkers FreshX in Bisset Street, developed by the Keal Group. This highly anticipated retail addition is expected to further enhance the shopping experience and contribute to the local economy.
The Port Shepstone Mall, which opened last year, has already established itself as a premier retail and lifestyle hub, attracting a steady stream of shoppers and businesses. Similarly, the Intermodal Transport Facility has improved connectivity, making commuting more efficient for residents and visitors. These developments have significantly boosted the town’s economic activity and cemented its role as a key commercial centre on the KZN South Coast.
Building on this momentum, the Checkers development is bringing the first FreshX store to Port Shepstone, along with a Checkers Liquor Store, Checkers Pet Science and additional retailers. Construction is well underway, with Top Dog Construction handling the fit-out phase. The store is set to open its doors by June 2025, offering a world-class shopping experience with premium products, in-store eateries, and Checkers’ 60/60 delivery service.
“We are incredibly excited to introduce the first Checkers store in Port Shepstone,” said a Mark Keal from the Keal Group. “It’s surprising that a town of this size has not had one before, but that’s about to change. The closest Checkers store is in Shelley Beach and finally that is all about to change with a state-of-the-art Checkers on our door step serving the local community and beyond. The exact opening date will be communicated to the public in the next few weeks, watch the space.
The project is also set to provide over 100 new jobs, benefiting both construction workers and retail employees upon opening.
Dr. Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), emphasized the importance of such investments:
“These developments highlight the ongoing economic growth in Port Shepstone and the South Coast. The opening of the mall and transport hub has already had a positive impact and the addition of Checkers will further solidify the town as a key shopping and business destination. As SCTIE, we fully support initiatives that drive job creation and enhance the retail experience for our residents and visitors.”
With the Checkers store set to launch in mid-2025, Port Shepstone’s evolution continues, ensuring the town remains a prime location for retail, investment and economic opportunities.
To find out more about these and more investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email info@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form.
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/ENDS
About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)
SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za.
Issued and disseminated by:
South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)
For more information please contact:
Vanessa Gounden
Marketing Coordinator
Cell: 039 682 7944
Email: vanessa@sctie.co.za
