In 1993, local newspapers in the Helderberg region carried momentous news. AECI to build shopping giant, the headlines
read. Building operations commenced on the 58-hectare sitesituated at the intersection of the N2 and the R44 linking Strand, Somerset West and Stellenbosch. Phase 1 of the R150 million project was anchored by one food major, two fashion majors
and a 1000-seat cinema complex. 90 upmarket line stores completed the mix and Somerset Mall opened to public acclaim.