Foreign retail chains eye Ujungpandang

JAKARTA (JP): Several foreign and local retail chains plan to open their outlets in Panakukkang Mall, Ujungpandang, South Sulawesi, a report said yesterday.

According to First Pacific Davies Indonesia (FPDI), retailers such as Wendy's Hamburger, Ku K Ru, Hartz Chicken Buffet, Texas Chicken, Melawai Optic, Century Health Care, and The 21 Studio Cineplex had confirmed their presence in the Panakukkang Mall.

Other retail chains such as Kentucky Fried Chicken, New York Chicken, Gramedia Bookstore, Disc Tara Megastore, Seis Optic, Fuji Image Plaza, Reebok, Union Bay, Lee Cooper, Lea Jeans and Great River Fashion have stated an interest in opening an outlet in the mall.

Panakukkang Mall was 85 percent leased out on its Marketing Launch Night which was held at Panakukkang Mas Country Club, Ujungpandang last week, according to FPDI, which handles the marketing of the mall.

"Many Jakarta retailers are looking for partners to expand their business in Ujungpandang," said FPDI director Martin Steens.

The mall is located in Panakukkang Mas, an elite residential area which is developing rapidly and looks set to become a satellite city with high buying power.

Ujungpandang Vice Mayor Syamsulrizal was quoted by FDPI as saying that he was looking forward to Panakukkang Mall's contribution to Ujungpandang's economic growth which averages 9.2 percent per year.

The mall, with investment totaling US$50 million, will consist of 2.5 levels and provide a parking lot for 1,000 vehicles. It is estimated to reach its breakeven point in eight years.

The first construction phase began last May and is scheduled for completion in September 1998. The mall will include an international food court, an entertainment center, cinema, supermarket, department store, restaurants, and indoor and outdoor promotions area.

Maryono, director of developer Asindo Group, said the second phase would include another 28,000 square meter shopping center.

The main focus of the Panakukkang Mall will be the Jakarta Diamond Supermarket and Department Store.

Mall Panakukkang is part of the Panakukkang business area now being developed as a business center in Ujungpandang. This new business center will comprise commercial buildings, hotel, recreation and entertainment facilities, driving range and an exhibition center. (08)