Partitioned Shops Redefine Bulawayo’s Retail Scene

The demand for smaller, partitioned retail spaces in Bulawayo’s Central Business District (CBD) is transforming the city’s commercial landscape. A flood of applications for such conversions underscores this dramatic shift.

Over the past three months, the Bulawayo City Council received an astounding 552 applications for partitioned shops. This trend signifies a clear departure from the dominance of traditional department stores.

Iconic establishments like Meikles Department Store, Woolworths, and Haddon and Sly have been reimagined into partitioned retail spaces, adapting to the market’s changing preferences for smaller units.

One particularly notable application proposed 280 lettable units in a single building. However, despite the ambitious plans, the site is reportedly still being used for residential purposes.

A council report dated November 15, 2024, noted that the application had been advertised, with no objections received. Yet, no tangible development of these units has occurred to date.

During deliberations, Councillor Mxolisi Mahlangu recommended deferring applications for such units pending thorough site visits. This proposal emphasized the need for detailed evaluations before approvals.

Councillor Ashton Mhlanga supported the motion, stressing that regularization fees should apply only after businesses begin operations without prior council approval. Oversight remains a key focus for councillors.

Council’s director of town planning, Mr. Wisdom Siziba, clarified that earlier applications were assessed under the previous policy. New submissions after November 2024 will follow the updated guidelines.

The rise of partitioned shops is fueling economic opportunities within the construction sector. Renovation projects and material supplies have become integral to this urban retail transformation.

However, this shift impacts traditional office spaces in the CBD. Many businesses are relocating to suburban office parks, reducing the demand for large commercial offices in the city center.

Earlier this year, Edgars Stores Limited closed its iconic Sales House branch, citing operational challenges such as illegal forex dealers and street vendors. The building now houses 51 smaller outlets.

Most partitioned shop applications have been approved, with applicants paying monthly levies and one-time regularization fees of up to US$1,000. The city council continues balancing urban planning objectives with business needs.

As Bulawayo’s retail scene evolves, partitioned shops reflect a broader trend of affordable, flexible spaces driving urban economic activity. The city’s retail future is being redefined one partition at a time.