Shoppers paradise: The new must-visit retail spaces in Joburg

Joburg's retail scene is set to be enhanced with the opening of several new must-visit shopping destinations. South African fashion designer Gert Johan Coetzee has opened his first permanent store in Sandton, bringing an array of luxury fashion and beauty products under one roof. This 40 square meter boutique is situated in the renowned Winnie Mandela Precinct, formerly known as the William Nicol Precinct.

The store houses Coetzee's signature luxury handbags, accessories, ready-to-wear pieces, eveningwear, and cocktail dresses. Additionally, it marks the designer's foray into beauty products, with the launch of his six fragrance creations. These Eau de Parfums, crafted in Grasse, France, further enrich the Gert Johan Coetzee brand.

Meanwhile, Johannesburg's luxury retail landscape is also being fortified by the opening of Woolworths' first Food Emporium in Gauteng, located in Dainfern Square. This all-in-one retail establishment offers a diverse selection of everyday essentials, meal solutions, premium ingredients, and specialist food ranges. The store also features an expanded bakery, sushi counter, specialist cheese counter, fishmonger, butcher, elevated pantry, and florist, along with a What's Cooking Bar for recipe inspiration and product sampling.

Lastly, South African lifestyle brand Freedom of Movement has refreshed its flagship store in Sandton City. The revamped space coincides with the launch of its Spring 2026 collection, showcasing the brand's locally produced leather goods and comfortable men's wear, as well as women's wear. This Spring 2026 launch underscores the continued relevance of physical retail, even as consumers increasingly shift towards online shopping.