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Are there any signs that the South African property sector will benefit
from the influx of World Cup visitors?
“I have to admit that to date I have seen very little evidence of
this,” said Tony Clarke, MD of Rawson Properties “I am inclined
to feel that those who promoted the potential spin-offs so bullishly were,
in fact, not that well informed. However, it does seem clear that the
long term effects of this event will be felt for some time.”
He had hoped, said Clarke, that interaction with top level businesses,
for example in the banks’ private boxes at several of the new stadia,
would lead to worthwhile discussions and new deals - but so far this has
not happened.
“We have met with several delightful top ranking visitors who have
become good friends but who have so far shown very little interest in
the business potential that awaits entrepreneurs here,” said Clarke.
“They are very much in holiday mode and as yet there seems no likelihood
of this situation changing.”
Despite this, said Clarke, he does believe that South Africa, and the
Cape in particular, are having a big impact on visitors, many of whom
will return. This, he said, had been confirmed by some of those with whom
he had talked.
“FIFA have already said that their TV viewing numbers will be higher
than ever before in the history of soccer and many of my staff have testified
that visitors are finding the open and friendly welcome from South Africans
refreshing - especially after the rather sour reception and exorbitantly
high costs to which some were subjected at the German World Cup.”
Clarke, who will attend several World Cup games, had high praise for
the 1 000 South African Police Reservists who were bussed in at short
notice to take over the management of the Green Point Stadium after the
contracted security guards ‘let the side down so disgracefully’.
“The police conduct on that occasion was so helpful and exemplary
that every one of them deserves a medal. That type of behaviour is exactly
what is needed to stimulate confidence and investment in South Africa
- and this is the message we need to get through to every single South
African who comes into contact with a visitor from across our borders.”
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Newsletter:
25 May 2012 2012 to 1 June 2012 - Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa
