As 2021 draws to a close and we prepare to celebrate this time with our loved ones, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the year that was and the year that will be.
It is difficult to think about 2021 without considering the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on our lives, our families, our communities and our business. It has pushed us to challenge the way we think about our company, act responsively, and to be resolute in adapting to the pace of change that has kept us moving forward so steadily.
As one of my first memos to our fellow Attacq colleagues during the 3rd Covid wave, and within the week of the civil unrest in our country, I wrote; “In times of chaos like we’re currently experiencing, it’s very tempting to get drawn into fear, panic, and uncertainty, but I want to ensure you that as a team, we will get through all of this. Storms make trees take deeper roots.”
My message remains
Now is the time to stay grounded and to be the very best version of ourselves – for Attacq, for our families as well as our communities. We have endured many storms as a company and as a country, so please continue to deepen your roots.
We will undoubtedly continue to do so at Attacq.
We have demonstrated that our company values go beyond our corporate responsibility, our approach to how we do business and, how we give back to our communities to provide a sense of relief, growth and hope. I’m extremely proud to be part of this team and the performance of this business reflects the ongoing commitment of each team member within Attacq.
Taking stock
In spite of the headwinds, the business has delivered a solid performance we can be proud of. During our 2021 financial year, we were committed to being agile and responsive to the evolving operating environment. We ensured that we improved our capital structure, optimised our operations and will be embracing the various business disruption to continue to pioneer our business.
We continue to create value for our clients whilst pursuing growth opportunities aligned with our strategic focus that embraces business disruption. As such, our portfolio has seen robust collection rates of 95%, concluded leasing deals of about 41 939m2 and our residential roll-out continues with just over 507 units sold. Additionally, Waterfall City secured 39 195m2 of new client-led developments, excluding our ongoing healthy pipeline our teams are working on.
Our quality retail centres demonstrated resilience, reporting a weighted average of 4.4% growth in trading density as per our pre-close update (November 2021). It is encouraging to witness the trading levels returning to pre-covid levels and with further growth expectancy. During this year, we have welcomed Ted Baker, Clicks Made for Baby, new concept HiFi Corp, Nandos and De Jagers to name a few. These exciting clients encapsulate the desired retail-experience hub we aspire to have across our portfolio.
Attacq also continues to salute and thank, the local community and taxi owners who protected our malls during the civil unrest, the waiters and staff who continue to bear the brunt of numerous national lockdowns; the front-line workers who continue to put the needs of others ahead of their own and to the thousands of men and women who make our precincts and malls some of the most visited and celebrated in the country.
As the indomitable Dolly Parton once sang, storms make trees take deeper roots. As we enter the new year, I wish you all a restful and peaceful time with your loved ones.
Take care,
