Asset Issue 141 | October 2025 Attacq is powering a new era of logistics and precinct innovation
Attacq Exco : Janine Palm, Peter de Villiers, Raj Nana, David Oosthuizen, Jackie van Niekerk and Michael Clampett
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the Asset team
Contributors
Publisher Tony Korsten M 083 410 0144 tony@assetmag.co.za Editor Ana Lorton M 082 420 3957 ana7@worldonline.co.za Co-ordinator Hilda Korsten M 072 678 1679 hilda@assetmag.co.za Sales Gary Allen M 082 455 8180 gary@assetmag.co.za Rachel Feldman M 082 334 3466
Alistair Anderson
Ash Müller
Blake Wilkins
Lara Calteaux
Denise Mhlanga
Glenda Williams
Paul Simpson
Liad Hadar
Leon Kok
Raul Flores
Peter Levett
Rael Levitt
rachel@assetmag.co.za Design & Layout Jeanette Erasmus M 082 378 1611 jeanette.erasmus@lateraldynamics.co.za
Wayne Berger
Wynand Deyzel
'IN CONVERSATION' writing team
Ana Lorton
Claire Cole
Ray Mahlaka
Asset website www.assetpublishing.co.za Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and contributors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Asset Publishing (Pty) Ltd.
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PROMOTION
IN CONVERSATION
FEATURES
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No small step. Instead, a Giant Leap for thriving workplaces.
Power shift in SA’s listed property powerhouse R50bn Port of Gauteng to break ground in 2027 Paarl’s new growth engine: from wine farms to warehouses Stronger corporate governance will lift all boats Safety first with battery installations to reduce fire risk
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Word from the Publisher Newsstand
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Bendehuis : Heritage meets innovation in Atterbury’s Old East Precinct
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Feenstra Group eyes Eastern European expansion in a bold new move
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CLUB STORIES
Fortress generates 100 million kWh in solar power
As global logistics and urban development evolve, Attacq is transforming real estate, blending world-class precincts with future- ready infrastructure to drive the next phase of South Africa’s growth. CEO of Attacq Jackie van Niekerk has over 16 years’ experience across major property funds, and has helped Attacq pivot from being a traditional property company to a growing force in the precinct and logistics space. Her steady leadership style, marked by openness and authenticity, has been one of the driving forces behind Attacq’s success. COVER STORY
RETAIL CLUB: A different drum: rebranding RESIDENTIAL CLUB: South Africa’s estate economy LEGAL CLUB: Navigating real estate in deceased estates TECH CLUB: How blockchain is democratising real estate investment
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Standard Bank ’s Marlene Pillay on financing the future of property in SA and beyond
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Fourways Group : Designing comfort, delivering performance
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Designing identity: how Urban Spaces ’ vision shaped Cipla’s new head office
Quoin : The data-driven shift in commercial property
PIT STOP: Volvo’s new XC90 enters the SA market
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Igneous Concrete : Blending practicality and aesthetics
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‘We Are Change’: Inside MSM Property Fund ’s mission to democratise property investment.
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TAKE NOTE
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ON OUR RADAR: Expropriation without compensation is dangerous political theatre UNWRAPPED: the SAPOA Property Development Awards for Innovative Excellence 2025
Winner ‘Best Property Publication’ Award 2025
The invisible culprit holding back ‘smart’ infrastructure Shaping energy strategy in commercial real estate VIDEO VIEW: Ponte City – a challenge in more ways than one
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Broll Auctions and Sales ’ outstanding track- record and decades of deal-making expertise reinforces its leadership status in the market
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Exec Innovative Solutions . Know us. Like us. Trust us.
Winner ‘Best Property Publication’ award 2022
Winner ‘Best Property Publication’ award 2024
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SAPOA Awards A sset magazine received the 'Best Property Publication Award 2025' at SAPOA's Annual Convention held at the Sun City Superbowl in September. Our Publisher Tony Korsten received the award on behalf of the Asset team which he heads up. The magazine scooped the award in 2022 and 2024 as well. SAPOA’s Annual Convention was attended by leading figures from the property, media and investment sectors. This influential property industry gathering was sponsored by Fortress Real Estate Investments, Growthpoint Properties, Old Mutual Property, Pareto, Resilient REIT, the South African National Energy Development Institute (Sanedi) and Vukile Property Fund.
Winner ‘Best Property Publication’ Award 2025
Winner ‘Best Property Publication’ award 2024
Winner ‘Best Property Publication’ award 2022
Tony Korsten, Publisher of Asset, receiving the Property Publication of the Year Award for 2025. Left to right: Itumeleng Mothibeli, MD of Vukile Property Fund and SAPOA President; Nomzamo Radebe, COO of SA Corporate Real Estate; Tony Korsten; Neil Gopal, CEO of SAPOA
Tony Korsten with Nick Wilson (News 24), Neale Petersen (Real Estate Investor magazine), Alistair Anderson (Property Flash) and Louis Eksteen (Twisted Toast)
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from the publisher
I t was with a huge sense of pride and deep gratitude that I recently went up on stage at the SAPOA Convention 2025 at Sun City to collect the award for Property Publication of the Year – our third award in four years. Asset will soon celebrate its 14th birthday and I can honestly the news, views and conversations generated by the property industry just get better and better. The current positive real estate upswing – referenced at SAPOA – reinforces this, so no prizes for guessing why I’m photographed for this month’s issue sitting where I’m sitting! The Asset team would like to congratulate Architect and Builder on being the runner-up for the award. It’s a stalwart of the property media landscape and a high-quality publication, worthy of being recognised. The winners of the 2025 Property Development Awards for Innovative Excellence were also announced at the convention and we’ve made them the focus of our UNWRAPPED feature in this edition. Yet another focus this month is the interior architecture and design sector. WOW! and WOW! again. The passion, the quality of work, the innovations, the creativity, the professionalism, the team spirit – it’s mindblowing. From Red Bull to Red Rocket to Cipla, our South African designers are right up there with the best. We spoke to three companies this month, and each one is doing remarkable work. This October issue is so full of relevant and interesting content that it feels unfair to single out stories but perhaps let me do this: • For BIG conversations: read all 8 interviews in our IN CONVERSATION section. No other property publication in SA gives a platform to these industry voices like we do. • For something CONTROVERSIAL: read our article on the remuneration of listed company CEOs. • For RELEVANCE: read why expropriation without
compensation is dangerous political theatre. • For a THRILL: watch the Ponte City video Is that tempting enough? Go read and enjoy!
Photographed at Petals Group in Cape Town
Publisher of Asset
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
AUDIO
READ TIME: 8min
How Attacq is powering a new era of logistics and precinct innovation
Interviewed and written by Ray Mahlaka
“Don't let the storm shake you.” In challenging times, Jackie van Niekerk, CEO of Attacq, has used this simple but powerful message, to motivate and uplift the Attacq team. It has set the tone for a leadership journey focused on resilience, and collaboration, which is shaping the next chapter of South African real estate.
A s global logistics and urban development evolve, Attacq is transforming real estate, blending world-class precincts with future-ready infrastructure to drive the next phase of South Africa’s growth. CEO of Attacq Jackie van Niekerk has over 16 years’ experience across major property funds, and has helped Attacq pivot from being a traditional property company to a growing force in the precinct and logistics space. Her steady leadership style, marked by openness
and authenticity, has been one of the driving forces behind Attacq’s success. “We view our properties as integrated precincts,” she says. “The client journey starts long before they reach our buildings – it starts on the highway, in the quality of the infrastructure, safety and the spaces we create.” This philosophy has shaped Waterfall City into one of South Africa’s premier mixed-use precincts – a living example of Attacq’s ‘beyond-the-building’ approach
Jackie van Niekerk : CEO of Attacq
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
portfolio, which includes completed retail, office, logistics and hotel properties, as well as developments under construction and leasehold land, has a carrying value of R21.6 billion as of 30 June 2025. At a portfolio level, Attacq’s properties maintain an impressive 92% occupancy rate, with the company continuing to
that combines community, business and infrastructure excellence. On a growth trajectory: strong portfolio, stronger discipline The strategic discipline that Jackie and her team enforce in the business has paid off handsomely. Today, Attacq’s real estate
Attacq’s real estate portfolio has a carrying value of R21.6 billion as of 30 June 2025.
Waterfall City Precinct
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
Attacq investors continue to be well- rewarded as the company delivers inflation-beating dividends.
Attacq investors continue to be well-rewarded as the company delivers inflation-beating dividends. Underscoring this is that Attacq expects distribution income per share to grow between 7% and 10% during its 2026 financial year. Asked how Attacq manages this level of growth, Jackie attributes it
attract top-tier clients at Waterfall City. These include Tiger Brands, Siemens Energy, Pragma, Novozymes and Bayer. Rental collections across its more than 1,000 clients remain at 100%. This is no small achievement given the continued challenges in South Africa’s economic environ- ment, where attracting and retaining clients remains highly competitive.
Waterfall Circle
This strong financial position gives Attacq the flexibility and confidence to focus capital allocation on key developments.
successfully refinanced R5.9bn in bank debt as part of its debt and cost reduction strategy, extending the average loan term to four years and pushing the next significant debt maturities to July 2027. This means that Attacq has more room to fund property developments from its cash resources. This strong financial position gives Attacq the flexibility and confidence to focus capital allocation on key developments.
to ‘discipline’. “We are disciplined in everything we do. We are disciplined in capital allocation, how we manage properties, and do deals,” she says. This value also extends to Attacq’s partnerships, where she prizes open, honest communication, and contributions that align with shared goals. On capital allocation, Attacq’s balance sheet is healthy. The team recently
Allandale building
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
WATERFALL CITY JUNCTION
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
still lag behind global markets,” she notes. However, she emphasises that Attacq’s strategy remains holistic: while logistics growth supports the country’s expanding e-commerce ecosystem, it ultimately complements the company’s broader goal of driving footfall and engagement across its retail precincts.
people will be pleasantly surprised by the quality we aim to bring to Joburg.” She attributes the growing momentum in logistics property development to the rise of online retail in South Africa – a sector still growing. “We’ve only just begun to tap into the potential of online sales in South Africa, which
hubs. The development comprises six phases scheduled for completion by 2028 and forms part of Attacq’s broader 1.2 million square metre logistics pipeline. “This is a significant infrastructure invest- ment,” Jackie emphasises. “It’s more than simply placing a few warehouses. From a distribution network perspective, it’s an excellent location. We are investing heavily in upgrading roads in the city and other infrastructure, improving landscaping, and addressing all logistics needs. I believe
Going big on the logistics sector At a time when negativity around the decline of Johannesburg’s infrastructure and municipal services is pervasive, Attacq is investing in logistics developments – betting big on South Africa’s industrial renaissance. Through its joint venture with Sanlam, Attacq is developing Waterfall City Junction – a 620,000m² project that will become one of Gauteng’s largest logistics
Waterfall City Logistics Hub – Midi Units
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
According to the South African Property Owners’ Association (SAPOA), logistics remains one of the country’s most resilient property segments, driven by the rise in e-commerce and supply chain reconfiguration. Demand for strategically located modern warehousing has surged by over 30% in the past three years, with logistics nodes like Waterfall City emerging as prime destinations. Attacq is positioning itself to capitalise on this shift, aiming to meet the expanding needs of the country’s burgeoning online retail market.
Her perspective is supported by a recent report from technology market research firm World Wide Worx, which found that despite a robust 35% growth in online sales in 2024 – reaching R96bn – this still accounted for only 8% of South Africa’s total retail sales.
Waterfall City Conference Centre and Hotel is planned as a 15,000m 2 premier destination for business and leisure travelers alike.
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
“What excites me the most are up-and- coming, South African entrepreneur retailers that are starting to fill up the spaces. We must celebrate them. We’re not celebrating enough homegrown fashion retailers like GALXBOY, Freedom of Movement, Burnt and Old School. They’re giving the big retailers a run for their money.” Attacq actively creates platforms for this growth. Initiatives like the ‘SOOK’ at Mall of Africa – a flexible pop-up retail space for smaller businesses and online retailers that require short-term leases – are designed to lower the barrier to entry.
Transformation and entrepreneurial growth For Jackie, transformation extends far beyond compliance. Attacq’s culture is rooted in empowerment, entrepreneurship and inclusion. She is particularly passionate about Attacq’s role in nurturing up-and- coming South African entrepreneurs, a key part of the company’s transformation and ESG strategy. Her eyes light up while discussing the local retail brands that have flourished at Attacq malls.
SOOK at Mall of Africa
Mall of Africa
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
Gateway East is an innovative 11,700m 2 collaboration hub featuring a 1,500m 2 ground- floor restaurant space, perfect for networking and social gatherings.
Aspire Waterfall City is a luxury 22-story residential tower with 217 units, located next to the Mall of Africa, offering premium amenities and a mixed-use lifestyle.
The Attacq culture that Jackie fosters centres on open feedback, honesty and accountability, beginning with herself. “As a leader, if I have made a mistake, I don’t hesitate to apologise. A true leader owns their mistakes and offers solutions to fix them.” This culture supports a progressive work-life balance. At Attacq, there is no micromanaging or clock-watching. Jackie empowers her team to manage their own tasks while balancing home life.
“GALXBOY started at SOOK,” she shares. “They navigated it exceptionally well. The retailer grew quickly and has now opened a standalone store. Such initiatives support entrepreneurs’ growth and job creation in South Africa.” This conscious effort to support up- and-coming entrepreneurs is woven into Attacq’s culture, ensuring their retail precincts remain fresh while driving meaningful economic inclusion.
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
strategic clarity, and a culture of integrity and collaboration. She stands, as she humbly puts it, “on the shoulders of giants,” referring to her predecessors at Attacq, who include Morné Wilken and Melt Hamman . However, Jackie is undoubtedly a giant in her own right, guiding the Attacq team, the company, and its developments toward a sustainable and optimistic future.
Building a legacy, one precinct at a time Looking forward, Jackie’s vision for Attacq is clear: to be unequivocally recognised as South Africa’s premier precinct landlord. “By 2030, we want to be widely known as a precinct landlord and not just a building landlord,” she emphasises. It’s a vision built not on sand, but on the deep roots of shared values,
Turn page to view Attacq's portfolio
Ellipse Waterfall City
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Cover Story: ATTACQ
Looking forward, Jackie’s vision for Attacq is clear: to be unequivocally recognised as South Africa’s premier precinct landlord. “By 2030, we want to be widely known as a precinct landlord and not just a building landlord,” she emphasises.
Click to view further images of Attacq's portfolio
The End
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where heritage meets innovation in Atterbury’s Old East Precinct Bendehuis
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READ TIME: 8min
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W hen Atterbury sets out to create a new development, it is never just about the buildings. It is about people, place and purpose. This philosophy comes to life in Bendehuis, the newest addition to Pretoria’s Old East
original cottage became the design inspiration and focal point of the new development. “The intention was never to overshadow the old house, but to celebrate it,” explains Slee, who is one of South Africa’s most acclaimed architects. “The small house was the starting point, the seed around which everything
A story rooted in heritage At the heart of Bendehuis lies a modest historic house, once a gathering point for young cyclists in the area, affectionately called their ‘clubhouse’ or ‘Bendehuis’. Rather than erasing the past, Atterbury and Lead Architect Johan Slee embraced it. The
Precinct, a project that embodies the company’s forward-thinking approach while honouring the roots of the site it occupies.
Johan Slee
The intention was never to overshadow the old house, but to celebrate it.
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Table and bronze fountain sculpture by Angus Taylor
BetterHome
the new within the memory of the old. “Our aim was to create working spaces that are comfortable, naturally ventilated, and sympathetic to the rhythm of
else grew. We echoed its terracotta Marseille roof tiles and Doric columns in a contemporary language, while keeping the building mass broken up so it wouldn’t dominate the village fabric.” Honouring heritage through architecture Slee’s career spans more than three decades and has earned him multiple awards from the South African Institute of Architects, including commendations for residential, cultural and commercial landmarks across the country. At Bendehuis, he broke down the building’s mass so it would not dominate the precinct’s scale. Large planes of brickwork, softened by terracotta breeze- block balconies, ensure natural light and ventilation while blending seamlessly with the surrounding village fabric. His material palette of brick, terracotta and concrete is both humble and timeless, anchoring
and narrative depth, weaving memory into the daily life of the precinct. The fountain has quickly become the symbolic heart of the development, a reminder that Bendehuis is not just bricks and mortar, but a place built on stories and relationships. A home for industry leaders Today, Bendehuis is home to three dynamic South African companies whose profiles mirror the project’s innovative character: BetterHome Group anchors the building, occupying 3,355m². As a premier home loan
kids who once gathered at the house and named it their ‘Bendehuis’.
the village,” Slee says. That vision has materialised in a building that elevates heritage by making it central to modern functionality. Bendehuis is a lesson in restraint, proportion and contextual respect. A fountain that remembers To further honour the spirit of the original Bendehuis, a striking bronze fountain by renowned sculptor Angus Taylor stands proudly in front of the old house. The fountain depicts children splashing joyfully in a pool, a direct nod to the group of
Taylor, celebrated for his bold use of scale, challenging materials, and visionary approach, has created landmark public and private commissions around the world. His installation here adds both artistry
Angus Taylor
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six chrome beneficiation plants are managed and operated on both the western and eastern limbs of the Bushveld igneous complex. Chrome Traders is a key chrome ore supplier to the largest ferro chrome producers globally. Ferro chrome is used in the production of stainless steel. pHformula has established two distinct spaces: a 136m² training facility and lecture hall, known as the ‘Art Club’, and a 249m² salon. Through pHformula Africa, the company offers advanced skin resurfacing training workshops conducted by highly qualified educators. Training focuses on understanding skin and its functions, empowering specialists with deep knowledge of pHformula’s non- invasive system. This dual role of innovator and educator highlights why the brand is now active in more than 65 countries worldwide. Together, these tenants bring finance, industry and science under one roof, supported by an environment designed for productivity, collaboration and well-being. Together, these tenants bring finance, industry and science under one roof, supported by an environment designed for productivity, collaboration and well-being.
pHFormula Salon
pHFormula Art Club
BetterHome
and property technology business, its diverse portfolio spans mortgage, insurance, marketplace and proptech investments. From BetterBond to Private Property and international expansions like HLPartnership in the UK, the group’s brands are shaping the homeownership journey locally and abroad. Chrome Traders occupies 523m² for its head office. Since its inception in 2005 Chrome Traders has grown into a significant producer and supplier of UG2 Chrome ore. Within the Chrome Traders Group
Chrome
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Celebrating South African creativity was central to their approach. Collaborations with local designers and artists brought authenticity and artistry to the interiors: • TheUrbanative ’s
Interiors with a South African soul To translate the architectural vision into interiors, Atterbury appointed REDDECO , who focused on tying heritage and
modernity into a cohesive, timeless design language. “With three distinct brands under one roof, the challenge was to create a unified interior experience without diluting their identities,” says Gysbert van Graan , owner and Head Designer of REDDECO. Neutral, natural palettes allow individuality while weaving a thread of continuity across spaces.
dramatic cluster of 50 pendants animates the BetterHome foyer. • Angus Taylor’s sculpted stone-and- timber reception server in Chrome Traders anchors the lobby with permanence and craftmanship.
Gysbert van Graan
• Bespoke furniture and installations from Pedersen + Lennard, Neil Grantham Studio, Peacock Design, Labarint Interiors, and Softs Factory add layers of local design ingenuity. Unexpected elements, from oversized photography in Chrome Traders’ offices to sculptural mirrors in pHformula’s space provide rhythm and individuality. Sustainability was also a guiding principle, with energy-efficient lighting and eco-conscious materials ensuring the building’s long-term performance.
Bendehuis interior (Vergaderhuis)
BetterHome
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Bendehuis is proof that when you honour what came before, you can build something truly future-fit.
A precinct that never stands still For Atterbury, Bendehuis is not a standalone achievement but part of a broader vision for the Old East Precinct. The precinct has evolved into a sought-after node in Pretoria, blending retail, lifestyle, medical, residential and office developments into a connected urban village. “Our precincts are designed to live, grow and evolve,” says Ruan van Rooyen , Development Manager at Atterbury. “Bendehuis is a great example of this philosophy. It respects the past while creating a modern workplace that will serve these businesses for years to come.” That long-term view is echoed by Atterbury’s leadership. “As developers, we see ourselves as custodians of place,” notes
The Atterbury way From the brick façade with its 15,000 terracotta screen blocks and Johan Slee’s sensitive architectural expression, to Angus Taylor’s fountain that captures youthful joy, Bendehuis is a masterclass in how heritage and innovation can coexist. It is this approach – forward-thinking yet rooted, bold yet respectful – that defines not only Bendehuis but Atterbury’s entire portfolio. With each new project, the company continues to elevate the Old East Precinct while contributing to the broader South African built environment in a way that is responsible, contextual and enduring. Bendehuis is more than just an office building. It is a living example of Atterbury’s ongoing commitment to shaping precincts that inspire, connect and endure.
Armond Boshoff , CEO of Atterbury. “Heritage is not a hurdle to progress, it’s the foundation for it. Bendehuis is proof that when you honour what came before, you can build something truly future-fit.”
Armond Boshoff
Ruan van Rooyen
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READ TIME: 5min
AUDIO
Fortress generates 100 million kWh in solar power
Fortress Real Estate Investments has reached a major sustainability milestone, having generated 100 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of renewable energy since the launch of its first rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installation in 2017.
Clairwood Logistics Park in KwaZulu-Natal
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Fortress operates 96 solar PV systems, including sites in Poland and Romania, with a total installed capacity of 35.49 MWac.
In addition to solar, back-up generators have been installed at 32 retail centres with a further three centres marked for installations by June 2026.
T his total output, which is equivalent to 100 gigawatt-hours (GWh), reflects Fortress’s commitment to sustainability, energy resilience and operational efficiency. For context, this volume of clean energy could power approximately 9,000 urban homes or 28,000 rural homes for an entire year. Since the programme began, 9,310 solar panels and 401 inverters have been installed. The area covered by these panels is 205,000m² – equivalent to 30 rugby fields – and represents almost one-third of Fortress’s total retail portfolio GLA. “This is a major accomplishment for Fortress,” says PC Potgieter , Head of Sustainability. “Our strategy is about more than solar installations. It’s about building an environmentally friendly,
efficient and cost-effective operational model that supports tenants and enhances shareholder value.” Growing renewable infrastructure As at 30 June 2025, Fortress operates 96 solar PV systems, including sites in Poland and Romania, with a total installed capacity of 35.49 MWac. By December 2025, Fortress aims to add a further 10 plants, taking the total number of installations to 106 with an installed capacity of 37.71 MWac. Renewable energy penetration is estimated to increase from 18% currently, to 24% by June 2026. “Solar remains the biggest element in our energy strategy,” adds Potgieter. “It’s not only a cost-saver but also a strategic buffer against grid instability and rising electricity tariffs.”
Flamwood Walk in the North West Province
In addition to solar, back-up generators have been installed at 32 retail centres with a further three centres marked for installations by June 2026. Smart utilities, smarter operations Fortress is also transforming utilities management through smart metering and in-house data platforms. Smart meters have been installed at 79% of the retail portfolio (30 centres) and another three centres are scheduled for installation by June 2026. These meters offer near real-time data on consumption and energy mix (grid, solar, diesel), enabling operational benchmarking and efficiency gains.
Fortress Logistics Park Stargard in Poland
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30 retail centres now feature backup tanks providing up to three days of water during outages.
Smart metering is managed entirely in-house, giving Fortress full control of data, faster decision-making, and tenant-friendly digital dashboards. Water resilience measures To complement its energy strategy, Fortress is investing heavily in water resilience: • 30 retail centres now feature backup tanks providing up to three days of water during outages. • 14 properties are supported by on-site borehole systems.
Weskus Mall, Vredenburg in the Western Cape
• Innovative water-saving technologies, including Propelair toilets, have been successfully piloted to reduce consumption at malls. These will now be rolled out at further selected assets. Potgieter highlights that “…the associated water saving which we estimate to be in the order of 135,000kl is enough to sustain 375 houses for a year.”
Offsite renewables: 10-year wheeling deal
Fortress’s renewable reach extends beyond its own rooftops. In 2024, the company signed a 10-year wheeling agreement with Discovery Green, effective from Q4 2026. This will supply clean energy to 14 Eskom-supplied Fortress properties, covering at least 70%
Evaton Mall in Gauteng
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We’re saving money, reducing risk, and improving our environmental footprint.
Fortress Logistics Park in Bydgoszcz, Poland
Results Presentation for the year ended 30 June 2025
Powering Growth
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A number of feasibilities are currently being conducted, and Fortress has commenced with three BESS installations.
(and up to 100%) of electricity demand not met by on-site solar systems. “This is a critical step in reaching our 2030 decarbonisation target of reducing our Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon footprint by 45% compared to our 2018 baseline,” says Potgieter. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) “We see stronger business cases for BESS solutions following recent reductions in battery costs and tariff increases. These business cases remain sensitive to load profiles and in-force tariff structures. Battery systems are preferred for refinement of returns based on time-of-use tariffs, rather than for back-up power, for which generators are favoured,” explains Potgieter. A number of feasibilities are currently being conducted, and Fortress has commenced with three BESS installations. What’s next With much of the infrastructure now in place, Fortress is shifting focus from installation to optimisation: “It’s not just about how much solar we’ve installed,” Potgieter concludes. “It’s about how effectively we manage the systems we’ve built. We’re saving money, reducing risk, and improving our environmental footprint. That’s good for our tenants, our communities, and ultimately, our shareholders.”
AbaQulusi Plaza, Vryheid in KwaZulu-Natal
204 Oxford, Illovo in Johannesburg
Venda Plaza, Thohoyandou in Limpopo
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READ TIME: 7min
AUDIO
Designing
comfort,
A t Fourways Group, we are proud to be South Africa’s leading distributor of Samsung and Alliance air conditioning solutions, as well as a trusted supplier of heat pump and appliance brands. With a 26-year legacy and a nationwide footprint of branches, we have built our reputation on delivering quality, reliability and innovation. Our strength lies not only in the brands we represent, but in the partnerships we foster. By working closely with dealers, contractors, architects and developers, we bring projects of every scale to life, ensuring that each installation is backed by expertise, technical support and a commitment to long-term performance. From retail spaces to educational institutions, wine farms to student accommodation, our work speaks to the trust our clients place in us and the solutions we deliver through Samsung and Alliance. Each project tells a story of innovation, problem-solving and long-term value. The future of climate control: Fourways Johannesburg Office The vision for Fourways Group’s Johannesburg office was clear: create more than a workplace. The goal was to design a fully operational showroom that reflects the possibilities of modern climate control. Fourways Group and its partners bring climate solutions to life with Samsung and Alliance across South Africa. delivering performance
Coffee bar at Fourways Group's Johannesburg office
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Inside, visitors experience the versatility of Samsung’s range first-hand, including the sleek 360 Cassette, WindFree™ cassettes, discreet ducted units, and commercial wall-mounts. These were paired with fresh air systems and smart controls that allow zoning, scheduling and real-time energy monitoring. The result is both a functional headquarters and a space where clients, contractors and consultants can experience Samsung systems in action before specifying them for their own projects.
Powered by Samsung’s advanced DVM S technology, the office demonstrates how efficiency, aesthetics and performance can coexist. Four compact outdoor modules were used to drive 24 indoor units and three outdoor air processing systems, demonstrating the scalability of Samsung’s solutions for diverse environments, including hotels, retail centres and gyms.
Our strength lies not only in the brands we represent, but in the partnerships we foster.
Fourways Group office
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At Paserene Wine Farm, the challenge was balancing high levels of glazing with limited ceiling void space.
Paserene Wine Farm
But once introduced to the Samsung 360 Round Cassette, the decision was immediate. Its circular design blended seamlessly with the building’s contemporary architecture, offering a solution that was both efficient and unobtrusive. To manage capacity requirements, two 28HP Samsung DVM Eco condensers were paired with four 14kW round flow cassettes. The systems were split into
two zones for redundancy and flexibility, with underground piping runs of nearly 50 metres. The installation
Paserene Wine Farm: design meets performance At Paserene Wine Farm, the challenge was balancing high levels of glazing with limited ceiling void space. Traditional ducting would not have been feasible, so Samsung cassette units were the natural choice. Initially, the architect was cautious about the impact of visible systems.
was completed in collaboration with the project architect, who specified the modern aesthetic requirements, and
the developer, who trusted Fourways and Samsung to deliver a discreet yet powerful solution.
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Mancosa, a higher education provider, faced an all-too-common challenge: an outdated cooling tower system that no longer met demand.
to replace the legacy setup across all five floors. The combination of 4-way and 1-way cassettes was ideal for open-plan layouts and partitioned offices, providing staff with individual temperature control in their workspaces. The impact was immediate. Energy bills dropped significantly, maintenance issues disappeared, and staff reported a far more comfortable environment.
Mancosa: modern comfort for education Mancosa, a higher education provider, faced an all-too-common challenge: an outdated cooling tower system that no longer met demand. Constant breakdowns, high repair costs and energy inefficiency left staff frustrated and the client searching for answers. In collaboration with L.M. Air Solutions, Samsung’s DVM system was recommended
Mancosa
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Construction & Building led the development with dedication and expertise. Airvent Airconditioning & Ventilation Cape managed the installation with precision to ensure optimal performance. Smith Architects contributed a design vision that balanced functionality with aesthetics. The building owner, Riccardo Scarpiline , provided the leadership needed to bring the concept to life. Fourways Group, as the distributor, supplied the Alliance equipment and ensured seamless delivery throughout the project. Together, these partners created an environment that balances comfort, efficiency and sustainability, setting a new standard for retail experiences in the region.
Nautica Mall: comfort that shapes retail experiences
In Langebaan, the Nautica Shopping Centre required a climate solution that would support its vision of creating a vibrant retail destination. The installation featured eight Alliance Air Curtain units and a central Alliance Rooftop Non-Inverter unit, designed to optimise customer comfort while reducing operating costs for tenants. The air curtains maintain consistent indoor temperatures while limiting energy loss at entrances, while the rooftop system provides reliable, centralised control. This project was made possible through strong collaboration. ESB
In Langebaan, the Nautica Shopping Centre required a climate solution that would support its vision of creating a vibrant retail destination.
Nautica Mall
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Together with Alliance Direct Heat Pumps and Solar Heat Exchangers, a hybrid system was installed to deliver consistent, efficient hot water.
were paired with two 15,000-litre solar accumulator tanks, offering a total heating capacity of 320kW. This approach ensures a constant 60°C supply, reduces grid demand, and
Brooklyn House
achieves up to 70% savings in water heating costs.
The success of Brooklyn House was built on close collaboration. Developer Mile Investments appointed the project with a clear commitment to sustainable outcomes, while WF-P Consulting Engineers delivered the wet services design that made the system feasible. Boogertman + Partners guided the architectural vision, ensuring the solution was seamlessly integrated into the development. Solar Heat Exchangers provided the accumulator technology, while Fourways Group supplied the Alliance systems and ensured reliable delivery. Brooklyn House now serves as a model of student accommodation, emphasising efficiency and resilience, thanks to the collective expertise of all partners involved. For 26 years, we’ve partnered with contractors, architects and developers to deliver climate solutions that balance performance, efficiency and design. At Fourways Group, our commitment is clear: to empower our partners with dependable solutions, informed expertise and long-term value – on every project.
Brooklyn House: smarter hot water solutions for student living In Pretoria, Brooklyn House student accommodation set out to raise the bar for sustainability in high-density living. With 297 students on site, the demand for hot water was significant, and traditional solutions would have placed a heavy strain on both budgets and energy supply. Together with Alliance Direct Heat Pumps and Solar Heat Exchangers, a hybrid system was installed to deliver consistent, efficient hot water. Four 80kW Alliance heat pumps
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The data-driven shift in commercial property:
How Quoin is transforming the commercial property data ecosystem
AUDIO
READ TIME: 6min
real-time Intelligence
T he pace of change in business today is staggering. Less than a year ago, many were still sceptical about the role of AI. Now, it’s hard to find a single professional who isn’t using some form of AI to do research or enhance decision-making. But AI alone isn’t the game-changer – it’s the quality, accuracy, and immediacy of the data that powers it. In the commercial property landscape, the fusion of AI and real-time data is reshaping how the industry operates. Data is no longer just a tool; it’s a strategic asset. And getting the basics right – ensuring data is accurate, current, and actionable – is critical. Through its flagship product, Ownerzone, Quoin has emerged as a leader in commercial property intelligence, redefining how asset managers and leasing teams access, interpret, and act on market data. With its matters more than ever
By Karen Miller : CEO of Quoin Technologies
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...reflect what’s happening now – not what happened last month or last quarter.
This gives Quoin access to the most current and comprehensive datasets in the industry. Unlike traditional data providers that rely on outdated
spreadsheets, static surveys, or a narrow pool of contributors, Quoin’s reports are built on real-time listing activity, offering unmatched accuracy and immediacy. And this same data is made available to brokers through Brokerzone, creating a powerful feedback loop. As landlords update their stock on Ownerzone, brokers see those changes instantly on Brokerzone – ensuring that the entire leasing ecosystem is working from the same live source of truth. A dynamic ecosystem: landlords, brokers and data in sync This real-time data flow between Ownerzone and Brokerzone is more than just a technical integration; it's a dynamic ecosystem. Landlords manage their stock in Ownerzone, brokers access that stock in Brokerzone, and Quoin aggregates and analyses the data to deliver market intelligence back to Landlords. It’s a closed loop of visibility, transparency and action. Everyone, from the landlord to the broker to the asset manager, is working from the same live dataset. This alignment reduces friction, eliminates duplication and accelerates decision-making across the board.
Direct from the source: real-time data collection What sets Quoin apart is the directness of its data sourcing. Rather than relying on third-party aggregators or lagging, manual market inputs, Quoin receives data straight from landlords, ensuring both reliability and timeliness. This is achieved through two primary channels: • API Feeds: These integrations, managed solely by landlord leasing teams, provide instant updates the moment a vacancy becomes available or is let. The power of such a feed lies in its immediacy. As soon as a leasing event occurs, the data is reflected across the system. There’s no lag, no manual reconciliation, and no risk of outdated information. • Vacancy Schedules: For landlords not yet using Quoin’s software or where API feeds are not available, vacancy schedules are submitted directly to Quoin. These are processed using smart AI tools and then validated, structured, and enhanced by Quoin’s internal data teams to ensure consistency and accuracy.
powerful suite of Market Data Reports and Client Reports, Quoin delivers real-time, actionable insights that empower decision- makers to stay ahead of the curve.
At the core of Quoin’s offering is a simple but transformative idea: data should reflect what’s happening now – not what happened last month or last quarter. A data advantage built on Ownerzone
Quoin’s data ecosystem is uniquely powered by Ownerzone, the most extensive commercial property listing platform in the market. This platform is not just a repository of listings. It’s a live, constantly evolving feed of leasing activity, directly updated by landlords and their leasing teams.
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Recognising the need for more interactive and intuitive reporting, Quoin has integrated its data environment with Microsoft Power BI.
identify underperforming assets, optimise pricing strategies and make informed investment decisions – all with the confidence that comes from real-time data. Power BI dashboards: data that comes to life Recognising the need for more interactive and intuitive reporting, Quoin has integrated its data environment with Microsoft Power BI – bringing a new level of intelligence and accessibility to its reports.
aggregates, and analyses data across the entire commercial property landscape. This allows clients to see not just how their assets are performing, but how they stack up against the market. Are they outperforming in key nodes? Are their asking rentals aligned with market trends?
With Power BI dashboards, clients gain: • A live, visual overview of their portfolio performance • Vacancy and rental metrics mapped against market benchmarks • Node- and city-specific breakdowns for granular analysis • Real-time filters for instant drill-down by asset class, building, and even listing level This isn’t just a new interface – it’s a new way of working. The dashboards are
Are there emerging
risks in specific regions? Quoin’s market reports provide deep, contextual insights, including: • Total number of vacancies across the market • Gross Lettable Area (GLA) of vacant space by sector, node or city • Opportunity costs by region or asset type • Average rentals and variance across comparable stock • Vacancy and absorption trends over time These insights are invaluable for strategic planning. They help asset and leasing managers
The result is a dynamic, always-current view of the market. Landlords no longer need to wait for monthly updates or sift through fragmented email reports. Instead, they can log into their dashboard and see what’s current – in real time. Benchmarking that goes beyond the portfolio One of the most powerful features of Quoin’s reporting suite is its ability to benchmark performance across the broader market. Because Quoin’s dataset spans far beyond a single client’s portfolio, it anonymises,
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