Shoppers and workers at the new Constantia Emporium shared their first reactions to the new centre on the day of its opening.
The Constantia Emporium held an opening ceremony for the family members, neighbours and supporters of the Hadji Abdullah Solomon Trust on Saturday November 23 (“Family Trust opens centre,” Bulletin, November 21). The 15 000m2 shopping centre then opened its store doors to the public at 8am on Tuesday November 26.
Brian Galloway, of Diep River, said he was impressed with the Solomon family memorabilia on the staircase of the Constantia Emporium as he felt it would help people understand the history behind the development.
“It’s fantastic because it proves that anything can happen,” said Mr Galloway.
Reverand Floors van Rooi, of Heathfield, said the mall was a symbol for what people could achieve when given equal opportunities.
“The family were denied this opportunity for so many years. This centre will benefit the people who really need it,” he said.
Reverend Van Rooi said the centre had a modern look and feel about it that would attract a younger crowd in the neighbourhood.
Oliver Munzala, a trolley controller at Woolworths, said he was happy working at the centre because it was closer to his home.
A Wynberg resident, Mr Munzala said that he would now spend less money on transport.
“It’s the first day and we’re already seeing so many people coming in from the area. It’s very exciting.”