Linkedin-in
Twitter Linkedin-in

QUICK
LINKS

Denise

Greenovate Awards of student innovation in Sustainability

by

Greenovate Awards celebrate 10 years of student innovation in Sustainability

The Greenovate Awards are back for 2025 with more prizes, new categories and an important milestone to celebrate – ten years of inspiring young people to design practical sustainability solutions for South Africa’s built environment.

Entries are open for the prestigious competition, founded in 2015 by Growthpoint Properties in partnership with the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA). Since its launch, Greenovate has grown into the country’s leading platform for student sustainability innovation, giving honours and final year students the chance to see their ideas tested against real industry challenges.

A decade of positive impact

 Greenovate was created to bridge the gap between academia and industry. At the time, students were graduating with strong technical skills but little exposure to sustainability in practice. Growthpoint and the GBCSA set out to change that, giving students access to mentorship, real projects and the opportunity to present their research to senior leaders in the property and engineering sectors.

Over the past ten years, Greenovate has done more than launch careers. It has become a recognised talent pipeline for the industry, introducing new thinking and fresh energy into the conversation about sustainability. More than R1 million in prize money has been awarded to students from over nine universities nationwide, across property, engineering and proptech streams.

Winning ideas have gone on to influence the market, with Growthpoint piloting projects such as a smart energy management system developed by student winner Julian Banks. Alumni including Wardah Peters have returned to the programme as mentors, showing how Greenovate has built a community of sustainability professionals and thought leaders.

Mentors and judges say the standard and quality of work has grown steadily. Students are bolder, more practical and increasingly fluent in ESG principles and real-world implementation. For many participants, Greenovate has been a turning point in their careers, giving them confidence to pursue roles in sustainability and the built environment.

What’s new for 2025

 To celebrate its tenth anniversary, Greenovate has added two new awards, each worth R10,000 and sponsored by Growthpoint.

The Sustainability in Action Award will go to the engineering project with the best potential to be implemented within Growthpoint’s portfolio or systems. Judges will be looking for relevance to Growthpoint’s sustainability objectives, ease of implementation and measurable impact on resource efficiency, emissions reduction or operational cost savings.

The Transformative Impact Award will recognise the property, quantity surveying or construction project that demonstrates the strongest alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and overall ESG performance. Criteria include clear links to SDG targets, contribution to ESG indicators and measurable impact on global sustainability priorities.

These new prizes add to an already significant prize pool. The top three projects in both property and engineering will receive R40,000, R20,500 and R14,000 respectively. The competition also offers the coveted IFC prize linked to EDGE Expert Accreditation, and top students benefit from GBCSA Accredited Professional candidate courses.

Platform for a more sustainable future

 Finalists present their projects to an expert panel of judges, and winners are announced at the Greenovate Awards gala dinner. Top teams are also invited to participate at the Innovation Stage at the annual GBCSA Convention – a career-defining opportunity to showcase their work to business leaders and influencers.

“Reaching the ten-year mark with Greenovate is a proud moment for Growthpoint. This initiative has grown into a genuine talent pipeline for the property industry, bringing fresh thinking into how we manage and develop sustainable buildings. What excites us most is seeing student ideas translate into solutions that can be implemented in our world today. By investing in young innovators, we are investing in the future of the built environment and the resilience of our sector,” says Engelbert Binedell, Chief Operating Officer of Growthpoint Properties.

“Greenovate was created to give students a voice in the sustainability conversation, and ten years later it has become a powerful platform for the next generation of leaders. Every year we see young people tackling complex challenges with creativity and rigour, and that gives us real confidence in the future of green building. The competition has not only shifted student perspectives, it has also influenced the industry by embedding sustainability into education, research and professional practice,” says Lisa Reynolds, Chief Executive Officer of the Green Building Council South Africa.

Greenovate has always been about more than prize money. It is about giving students the confidence and tools to see themselves as future leaders in the built environment, and about creating a platform where students, mentors and senior industry figures engage as equals in shaping a more sustainable future.

Entries for the 2025 Greenovate Awards close on 10 November 2025. The competition’s mentoring day is 26 November, and the judging and gala dinner take place on 27 November. The competition is open to honours and final year students in property studies, construction, quantity surveying and engineering.

This year, as Greenovate celebrates its tenth anniversary, the call is not only to participate but to be part of the next decade of ideas, innovation and impact.

Students can register and find more information at www.greenovatecompetition.co.za/register.

Emira champions biodiversity with eco pest control initiative

by

Emira champions biodiversity with non-toxic eco pest control initiative

At night, the city hums with unseen life. Thriving as they always have in spaces created by humans, rodents dart between buildings, feed on scraps and nest in walls. To fight them, people often reach for poisons: small black boxes baited with enticing blocks of chemical death. For decades, anticoagulant rodenticides, poisons that stop blood from clotting, have been the standard weapon against rodents. But the dangerous reach of poisons extends far beyond their targets. When natural predators consume poisoned rodents, they too can suffer internal bleeding, immune failure and death. These poisons have become progressively more harmful as rodents are increasingly genetically resistant to rodenticides. Each new generation of poison is crueller and more inhumane than the last. These toxins persist in ecosystems, reducing local predator populations and threatening biodiversity. Despite their dangers to non-target animals and humans such poisons remain widely available and poorly regulated in many countries.

Recognising this, the South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has banned certain rodenticides classified under Toxicity Categories 1A and 1B of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). These substances, linked to cancer, genetic mutations and reproductive harm, endanger human health, non-target wildlife such as owls, and the wider environment.

JSE-listed Emira Property Fund has responded with a nature-based alternative. In addition to making sure that pest management service providers comply fully with the new regulations at all its properties, it has ventured beyond compliance with an owl and bat box initiative, which provides a sustainable pest control solution that safeguards wildlife and human health. Boxes were installed across seven of Emira properties during September 2025, providing safe habitats for natural pest controllers and a powerful alternative to toxic pest management.

“The owl and bat box initiative forms part of our eco-pest management programme, a biodiversity priority for this financial year and a deliberate move towards safer, sustainable solutions for our properties and their surroundings,” says Ulana van Biljon, Chief Operating Officer at Emira.

Van Biljon emphasises the urgency of the initiative. “These poisons threaten not only human health, but also owls, other wildlife and the environment at large. For Emira, the message is simple: our commitment to the environment means investing in nature-based solutions that work to promote biodiversity.”

Nature as pest control: how the initiative works

 In partnership with EcoSolutions, Emira’s owl boxes offer nesting sites for Spotted Eagle Owls and Barn Owls. Each box type mimics natural nesting conditions, ensuring the birds’ safety and breeding success. These nocturnal hunters are formidable allies in rodent control. A single Barn Owl family can consume hundreds of rats and mice in a breeding season. On top of this, owls control rodents not only through predation but also through behavioural trait mediation, meaning their presence deters rodents and changes their behaviours.

Similarly, bats are highly effective at controlling flying insects. A single bat can consume up to its body weight in insects each night, including mosquitoes, midges and crop pests. What is more, echolocation is another way bats reduce insect populations in a specific area. Their echolocation becomes a predator warning signal to tympanic insects such as some moths and flying beetles, and many respond by avoiding the area. Bat boxes provide safe roosts that compensate for habitat loss and enhance natural insect control. Emira’s installations use purpose-designed boxes, each housing between 100 and 800 bats depending on the design.

“Owl boxes provide effective rodent control and aid conservation while bat boxes promote natural insect control and deterrence and both support conservation and are sustainable solutions,” adds van Biljon.

 The project also promotes ethical, humane bat exclusions in line with the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, as authorised by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Broader biodiversity commitment

 Emira’s new Owl and Bat Box Initiative forms part of the property group’s larger, well-established environmental strategy, which ranges from energy efficiencies to water savings and renewable solar energy. Importantly, the initiative supports Emira’s passionate biodiversity leadership, including greening projects, pollination promotion and indigenous planting, reinforcing Emira’s commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible property management.

In recent years it has planted Senecio Barbertonicus, also known as bush senecio, at its Gauteng properties. These drought-resistant plants are valued for their air-purifying qualities and oxygen-boosting benefits and feeding pollinators during the winter months. Emira also installed beehives at select properties in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, providing safe havens for these valuable little pollinators. It has also added carbon-offsetting spekboom plants to sites across South Africa. Emira also partners with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and Trees for Africa to plant fruit trees and shade trees.

“These initiatives matter because they protect ecosystems, support our communities and strengthen our positive environmental impacts.  Each small step on our biodiversity journey makes a difference an takes us all towards greater sustainability,” van Biljon concludes.

 

Redefine embarks on R70 million Park Meadows upgrade

by

Redefine Properties embarks on R70 million Park Meadows Shopping Centre upgrade to elevate shopper experience

 Redefine Properties is investing R70 million into the redevelopment of Park Meadows Shopping Centre in the East Rand, which will add more choice and make visits easier for the community. New retailers are joining the line-up and access improvements are under way, reinforcing Park Meadows as a convenient, everyday destination.

By enhancing convenience, refreshing facilities, and strengthening the tenant mix with the introduction of new anchor tenants, Redefine is ensuring that Park Meadows remains attractive to shoppers and tenants alike. This measured reinvestment forms part of Redefine’s broader strategy to actively manage and future-proof its convenience-led retail assets.

Expanding the retail mix

At the heart of the upgrades is the arrival of Woolworths Food, expanding the centre’s grocery offer with premium products and everyday essentials. This will be complemented by WCafé, Woolworths’ coffee and light meals concept, and WCellar, its dedicated wine and liquor format. Food Lover’s Market is also expanding to include a liquor section, giving customers more choice under one roof. Collectively, these additions bring fresh energy to the tenant mix and broaden the reasons to visit Park Meadows.

 Facilities upgrade for easier visits

Alongside the retail changes, Park Meadows is investing in improvements that support access, flow and the overall shopping environment. Works include a new entrance to ease movement in and out of the centre, speciality parking bays to better accommodate larger vehicles and a refreshed building façade that creates a more modern, welcoming look.

The upgrades are being delivered in carefully managed phases to minimise disruption so shoppers can continue to enjoy a seamless experience throughout.

“Park Meadows has been a cornerstone shopping destination for the East Rand community for many years,” says Leon Kok, Chief Operating Officer at Redefine. “This investment is about aligning the centre with how people want to shop today: conveniently and efficiently, with access to the right mix of retailers. By introducing anchors like Woolworths and expanding Food Lover’s Market, together with improvements to access and comfort, we are helping to keep Park Meadows relevant, resilient and a pleasure to visit.”

 Strengthening Redefine’s retail portfolio

The Park Meadows upgrade supports Redefine’s strategy to actively manage and enhance convenience-led retail assets in line with evolving consumer expectations. It also reflects wider trends in the retail sector, where centres that combine everyday essentials with premium experiences are best positioned to remain relevant and competitive. By investing in accessibility, quality and a balanced tenant mix, Redefine aims to sustain footfall and trading performance while creating value for shoppers and tenants.

 About Park Meadows

Situated in the heart of the East Rand, Park Meadows Shopping Centre brings together a balanced mix of national retailers and speciality stores that serve the daily needs of surrounding communities. With an accessible layout and a growing selection of food, grocery and lifestyle tenants, the centre remains a trusted choice for families and professionals.

 

Strong momentum in Equites’ prime logistics portfolio

by

Highlights for the six months include:

  • DPS of 69.04 cents, on-track for full year guidance of 5% – 7% growth
  • Distribution pay-out ratio of 100%
  • NAV per share up by 2.7% in the six months to R16.93
  • R700 million of disposals completed
  • Loan-to-value of 37.2%
  • R3.4 billion of cash and undrawn facilities
  • Preferred bidder for JSE-listed FMCG Group for the development of a c.90 000m2 facility in Riverfields
  • 27.0 MW of solar capacity, with three additional PPAs signed

 

Specialist logistics REIT, Equites Property Fund Limited, today announced strong financial results for the half year to 31 August 2025, underpinned by robust property performance. The Group highlighted DPS of 69.04 cents, up 3.8% and reaffirmed distribution guidance of 140.62 – 143.29 cents per share for FY26. The Group’s portfolio value increased from R27.7 billion in February 2025 to R28.3 billion in August 2025. This is primarily due to further acquisitions of R146 million, ongoing development expenditure of R327 million, and a substantial 4.0% like-for-like fair value uplift on the income-producing portfolio. This growth was offset by further property disposals during the period, amounting to R668 million.

Operational momentum was maintained, with six leases concluded across c.107 000m². The like-for-like portfolio rental growth was 5.1% and is expected to revert to 5.5% to 6% per annum once the impact of rental reversions during the period is in the base. By maintaining tight control over administrative costs and optimising the cost of debt, Equites aims to deliver consistent distribution growth sustainably ahead of SA CPI over the long term.

Equites CEO, Andrea Taverna-Turisan, said: “We are pleased with the strong momentum generated in our portfolio during the period. The overall quality of the portfolio has improved through the disposal of older, non-core assets and the addition of new, ESG-compliant properties. Equites’ portfolio fundamentals are also exceedingly robust, with a WALE of 14.1 years, a weighted average escalation by GLA of 6.1%, and 99.1% of rental income derived from A-grade tenants. The portfolio had a low vacancy of 1.5% at period-end, which has subsequently largely been let. These fundamentals all support a high degree of income certainty over a sustained period.”

 The Group’s LTV ratio was 37.2% as of 31 August 2025, and its all-in cost of debt in SA decreased by more than half a percentage point since year-end to 8.3%. Equites was able to capitalise on its lower LTV to repurchase shares amounting to R130 million. The shares were repurchased at a weighted average price of R13.82 per share, representing a 16% discount to reported NAV per share at the time.

R668 million of disposals during the period

Equites has commenced a staged disposal of its UK assets, given the maturity of the UK portfolio and the compelling opportunity to redeploy capital within SA. Once the disposals are concluded, the proceeds will be deployed into state-of-the-art, ESG-compliant logistics developments in key locations in SA, secured by long-term leases.

The Group concluded the sale of three income-producing assets in the six months. SA disposals comprised a specialised asset not considered core, located in Bellville, and an asset in Philippi. Equites also disposed of a land parcel in Saxdowne for R20 million. In the UK, the Group sold its DPD asset in Burgess Hill for £17.65 million, reflecting a 5.0% yield. With the exception of Philippi, these assets were classified as held-for-sale at Feb-25. Remaining disposals relate to the subsequent sale of companies forming part of the ENGL disposal.

While there is strong interest across the portfolio of assets earmarked for sale, management remains disciplined and will only conclude transactions at levels that are both fair and financially optimal for the Group.

Strong growth in the South African market

Demand for prime logistics assets in SA continues to surpass supply, driven by retailers upgrading their supply chains to stay competitive, third-party logistics providers expanding their fulfilment networks to meet surging e-commerce volumes, and FMCG operators investing in modern facilities to boost delivery efficiency. On the supply side, development remains constrained by a shortage of bulk land plots and persistently low vacancy rates. The resulting supply-demand imbalance has led to an approximately 7.3% year-on-year increase in nominal gross rentals for new logistics developments, indicating ongoing upward pressure on rentals, especially for well-located, A-grade facilities.

Market appetite has strengthened considerably, with Equites receiving inquiries totalling approximately 268 000m² for new developments as well as existing facilities over the last 18 months. Equites has commenced two new speculative developments in Meadowview and Riverfields to capitalise on the rising demand. The Meadowview facility is currently under offer, and a lease has already been finalised at Riverfields, prior to practical completion.

Following a competitive RFP process, Equites was appointed as the preferred bidder to develop a state-of-the-art c.90 000m² logistics facility for a JSE-listed FMCG Group at Riverfields in Gauteng. This landmark project underscores Equites’ ability to secure and deliver large-scale developments for blue-chip clients. The project will be undertaken in a strategic partnership with Tridevco (Pty) Ltd, a prominent landowner in the area. It will provide the partners with the opportunity to jointly unlock further land parcels in the area. Development activity during the first half of 2026 totalled R0.5 billion and is expected to increase significantly with the completion of this facility by June 2027.

With access to prime land, extensive development expertise, and strong ties to major retailers, 3PLs, and FMCG operators, the Group is well-positioned to address the current supply gap while expanding its portfolio of high-quality assets.

Strong debt profile

The Group has R14.2 billion in debt facilities with a weighted average debt maturity profile of 3.2 years and R3.4 billion in cash and undrawn facilities. The Group consistently reviews its capital structure, ensuring that prudent funding and liquidity risk management are balanced with the ability to capitalise on new opportunities as they arise. Equites expects to sell five income-generating assets, with a sixth asset expected to follow in early 2026. The remaining land in the UK is expected to be sold within the next 18 months, generating significant cash. Proceeds will be used to pay down UK debt, with surplus capital reinvested into SA at accretive yields. These actions are projected to lower the Group’s LTV ratio to around 25%, creating significant headroom for the Group to pursue substantial development over the next three years.

The Group’s weighted average cost of debt in SA is 8.3% and 97% of debt maturing beyond one year is hedged. The Group has appreciably reduced the all-in cost of debt due to its continued strong performance in the debt capital market, enabling the replacement of maturing debt with significantly lower-cost new debt facilities.  The Group receives strong support from lending institutions, with roughly one-third of all debt sourced from more than 20 different non-bank financial institutions.

Equites’ sustainable development initiatives are now also growing alternative revenue streams

Sound environmental stewardship is a crucial aspect of the Group’s strategic positioning and remains at the core of its operations.

Equites’ strategy for solar PV systems aims to provide tenants with a comprehensive, maintenance-free solution through power purchase agreements (PPAs), which fulfil their energy needs while generating alternative revenue for the Group. The solar generation capacity of the portfolio increased to 27.0 MW, and the number of buildings with solar PV rose from 32 to 37. Six new solar PV systems with capacity of 1.2 MW will be completed during 2H26, and the Group is aiming to install an additional 5 MW over the next two to three years. Six PPAs concluded in the previous financial year contributed to revenue during 1H26, and a further three PPAs concluded during the current period will contribute to revenue during 2H26. The Group plans to increase wheeling capacity by engaging with municipalities, focusing on large-scale installations across entire roof spaces, and capitalising on rates of return well above typical property returns. This strategy will also help the Group meet its SBTi emissions targets and contribute to energy security in SA.

Green certified buildings comprise over 616 422m² of the portfolio, with an additional 243 640m² in the process of certification to meet the highest environmental standards. Equites has also launched several strategic initiatives to enhance water efficiency across its properties and has obtained municipal approval to install an integrated biological wastewater treatment plant, which will significantly decrease reliance on existing water infrastructure. As the first of its kind within the portfolio, this technology is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening water security and is projected to deliver both environmental and financial benefits over the medium to long term.

A robust outlook for the remainder of the financial year

The Board reaffirms its FY26 earnings guidance, targeting a range of 140.62 – 143.29 cents per share, which translates into an increase of between 5% – 7%, as compared to the previous year. This outlook is supported by the strong performance of the underlying portfolio, with SA delivering above-inflation like-for-like rental growth, positive rent reversions in the UK, and the continued tightening of debt costs during the period.

Taverna-Turisan, ended: “The Group remains confident in its ability to drive sustainable value creation for shareholders over time, underpinned by an impeccable property portfolio as well as structural tailwinds in the sector. The Group is well-capitalised and maintains a low exposure to prevailing market risks, positioning it favourably in the current economic landscape. Our track record of developing world-class facilities for our clients continues to unlock opportunities for the fund to grow.

SA REITs pause in September as sector readies for growth

by

SA REITs pause in September as sector readies for growth into 2026

Sector slips 0.3% despite stronger bonds and equities while dividend growth momentum continues

South African Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) recorded a marginal 0.3% decline in September, underperforming both equities (+6.6%) and bonds (+3.4%), according to the SA REIT Association’s September 2025 Chart Book. Despite this pause, the sector’s year-to-date return remains at 14%, broadly in line with the bond market, though well behind the equity market’s strong 31.7% advance.

“The subdued performance in September is notable given the sharp decline in long bond yields, a buoyant equity market and further signs that distributable earnings growth is accelerating into 2026,” says Ian Anderson, Head of Listed Property and Portfolio Manager at Merchant West Investments and compiler of the Chart Book.

He adds: “Dividends across the sector are growing by close to 10% year-on-year, yet investors remain cautious about whether this acceleration will be sustained. However, the evidence increasingly supports ongoing double-digit dividend growth into 2026.”

September by the numbers

  • SA REIT sector: -0.3% in September, +14% year-to-date
  • Equities: +6.6% in September, +31.7% year-to-date
  • Bonds: +3.4% in September, +14.0% year-to-date
  • Dividends: Sector-wide growth of close to 10% year-on-year
  • New equity raised in 2025: Just under R4 billion

Results momentum builds across the sector

September saw several key companies release results to end-June 2025.

Growthpoint surprised on the upside with distributable income up 3.1%. Despite disposing of 24 properties worth R2.3 billion and reducing its gross lettable area by over 5%, net property income in its core South African portfolio rose 5%. Management raised the dividend payout ratio to 85%, lifting the dividend 6.1%, well above market consensus. Guidance for FY26 remains conservative while dividends are still expected to grow 6% to 8%.

Fortress delivered a 7.1% dividend increase in FY25. Supported by improving property fundamentals, a robust development pipeline and lower interest rates, management forecasts further growth of 6% to 7.5% in FY26.

Hyprop reported strong operating performance in both South Africa and Eastern Europe. Its FY25 dividend rose 9.9%, with guidance for distributable income growth of 10% to 12% in FY26. The upbeat tone from management represents a shift from their cautious outlook of recent years.

Beyond the large caps, Attacq, Heriot, SA Corporate, Safari and Texton also released better-than-expected results, while Fairvest and Vukile issued positive trading updates. Dipula successfully raised R559 million through an accelerated bookbuild in early September, funding its acquisition of Protea Gardens Mall in Soweto alongside four additional smaller assets.

Investor sentiment shows signs of recovery

Investor confidence in the listed property sector continues to improve. Roughly R4 billion of new equity has already been raised in 2025. While this is still well below the R30 billion annual average raised between 2015 and 2017, it represents a significant rebound from the R8 billion of net new equity raised across the entire period between late 2019 and early 2025.

“This is increasingly a story of returning investor confidence,” indicates Anderson. “The ability to raise capital again at competitive levels, alongside sharply lower borrowing costs, provides the sector with the resources to return to external growth. Acquisitions, redevelopments and greenfield developments are once again feasible, with the potential to accelerate income and dividend growth.”

For example, Growthpoint Healthcare Property Holdings, managed by Growthpoint Investment Partners, the fund management business of Growthpoint, has recently announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the properties and operations of Auria Senior Living, a developer, owner and operator of senior living communities in South Africa.

The sector’s transformation over the past five years has been marked by defensive measures: Balance sheet management, recycling capital and optimising portfolios. With these foundations now stronger, listed property is positioned to deliver earnings growth above inflation and renewed capital appreciation.

Outlook: Poised for a new growth phase

Anderson notes that while short-term prices can move on sentiment, interest rates and liquidity, long-term capital growth ultimately depends on sustainable earnings and cash flow.

“South Africa’s REIT sector is entering a period of inflation-beating earnings growth, which is not yet fully reflected in most share prices. This creates an opportunity for investors who recognise the sector’s improving fundamentals.”

The positive outlook for the sector was echoed at the SAPOA Convention 2025 at Sun City on 2 October during the panel Listed property – the real economy’s barometer. Anderson opened the discussion with an overview on resilience and growth prospects in the sector. He was joined by Kundayi Munzara, Executive Director and Portfolio Manager at Sesfikile Capital, Pranita Daya, Equity Analyst and Assistant Portfolio Manager at Truffle Asset Management and Andrew Wooler, Chief Executive Officer of Burstone. Moderated by Peter Clark, Founder of REdimension Capital, the discussion highlighted fundamentals, discipline and the role of direct property as a true barometer of the economy. The panel confirmed that listed property is regaining relevance as a clear indicator of South Africa’s real economy.

The full September 2025 Chart Book is available for download on the SA REIT Association website.

SA REIT Conference 2026

The SA REIT Association’s biennial conference, proudly sponsored by Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking’s Property Finance division, will take place on 12 February 2026 at The Houghton Hotel, Johannesburg.

This flagship event will convene REIT executives, investors, asset managers, policymakers and market experts to engage on the most pressing forces shaping the future of listed real estate. Topics will include global market volatility, access to capital, innovation, local government risks and the policy environment. With a focus on sector credibility and long-term investor relevance, the agenda promises strategic insight and practical direction.

A highlight will be the keynote address by Peter Verwer, Executive Chairman of Futurefy, titled Global REIT Dynamics: Innovation, Influence and Opportunity. He will explore how REITs worldwide are adapting to investor demands, digital transformation, sustainability imperatives and links to infrastructure and nation building. His perspective comes at a pivotal moment, following the relaunch of the Global REIT Alliance in Stockholm in September 2025.

Originally established in 2006 under the banner of the Real Estate Equity Securitization Alliance (REESA), the alliance has been revitalised under its new name to strengthen international collaboration, knowledge-sharing and industry advocacy. The SA REIT Association is a member of the Alliance.

Growthpoint’s Canopy overall winner at prestigious property awards

by

Growthpoint’s Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof development named overall winner at prestigious property awards

Growthpoint Properties (JSE:GRT) excelled at this year’s South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) Property Development Awards for Innovative Excellence, taking home three prestigious wins, including top honours. The recognition highlights Growthpoint’s leadership in shaping South Africa’s built environment through transformative, high-impact developments.

Two of Growthpoint’s recent projects were celebrated. Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof, situated in its distinctive Longkloof mixed-use development, won the Overall Best Development Award along with Best Mixed-Use Project. Thrive @ Crescent Studios in Johannesburg, won Best Student Accommodation Project.

Excellence in property development

The SAPOA Awards for Innovative Excellence recognise projects that redefine South Africa’s property landscape through design, sustainability, functionality, and positive social impact. Developments are judged across a range of categories, with winners representing the very best of the sector.

Growthpoint’s success at this year’s awards demonstrated the company’s ability to deliver projects that balance commercial value with broader contributions to their communities.

Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof: a landmark in mixed-use urban renewal

In Cape Town, Growthpoint’s Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof is a gem in the mixed-use historic Longkloof precinct on the edge of the CBD. Covering 16,500m², the project involved refurbishing five heritage buildings, selective demolitions and the addition of a new 154-key five-star hotel.

Working with dhk Architects, the development has transformed the once landlocked Longkloof site into a vibrant, mixed-use destination that integrates office, retail and hospitality. Public spaces, pedestrian walkways, retail outlets, cafés and Longkloof Square now enliven the Longkloof precinct’s street life and enhance connectivity to the city.

Growthpoint replaced surface parking with three levels of underground parking, freeing up space for urban activity and seamlessly linking the different uses in Longkloof. The project is a model of how heritage preservation and modern development can work in harmony to deliver urban renewal at scale.

The SAPOA judges recognised its complexity, design quality and catalytic impact on Cape Town’s city centre.

Thrive @ Crescent Studios: redefining student living

Located just a minute’s walk from the University of the Witwatersrand, Thrive @ Crescent Studios represents a new benchmark in student accommodation. The twelve-storey, purpose-built residence offers 871 beds across 351 well-designed apartments, providing studio, two- and three-bedroom options. Each unit features private kitchens and bathrooms, giving students apartment-style living with the comforts of independence.

Beyond its scale, the project is distinguished by the comprehensive lifestyle it offers. Students benefit from dedicated study zones on every floor, a fully equipped computer lab, and collaboration rooms to support academic focus and peer connection. Social and wellness amenities include a rooftop entertainment area, gym, laundry facilities, games room, braai areas and a multi-sport court.

The building’s thoughtfully designed interiors create a warm, modern environment where students can live, learn and grow. By integrating academic, social and lifestyle facilities, Thrive @ Crescent Studios delivers a holistic campus experience that is supportive and empowering.

A proud moment for Growthpoint

Estienne de Klerk, SA CEO of Growthpoint Properties, expressed his pride in the recognition. “Winning three awards at this year’s SAPOA Awards is a tremendous honour for Growthpoint. Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof and Thrive @ Crescent Studios both demonstrate our commitment to creating developments that add real value – not just for investors and tenants, but for the people and communities who use them every day.”

Reflecting on the Longkloof project’s dual awards, he added “The recognition of Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof as Overall Best Development is especially meaningful. The Longkloof mixed-use precinct was a complex undertaking that required balancing heritage preservation with bold urban renewal. The result is a development that invests in the heart of Cape Town, celebrates its history and creates a vibrant destination for the future.”

As South Africa’s leading real estate investment trust (REIT), Growthpoint has built a reputation for innovation, quality and sustainability. The company’s strong showing at the SAPOA Awards reaffirms its position as a leader in shaping the country’s-built environment.

De Klerk concluded “These awards inspire us to keep raising the bar in everything we do. We are committed to developing properties that respond to South Africa’s evolving needs and meet our strategic priorities, while contributing to more liveable, sustainable and inclusive cities.”