Twenty-five years of memories. New experiences to discover. And a birthday celebration giving back to the community. Gateway Theatre of Shopping is marking its 25th anniversary with exciting new arrivals, R40,000 in prizes and a special experience for 25 young dreamers supported by Reach For A Dream.
Since opening its doors on 27 September 2001, the KwaZulu-Natal landmark has grown into a major shopping and entertainment destination. Now, as it celebrates a quarter century, Gateway is looking ahead while recognising the people who have helped shape its journey.
The centre has expanded from approximately 118,000m² to around 176,000m². Its store count has also grown from around 117 to more than 380.
Today, Gateway welcomes over 24 million visits annually and provides employment for more than 5,000 people.
Yet this birthday is about more than numbers. For Gateway, the milestone is an opportunity to thank its customers while introducing fresh reasons to visit, explore and enjoy the centre.
“Gateway has changed considerably over 25 years because our customers, and the way they spend their time, has changed too,” says Ayesha Sewbaran, Marketing Manager at Gateway.
“This birthday is an opportunity to thank the people who have supported us while continuing to give them new reasons to visit, discover and enjoy Gateway.”
New Stores, Fresh Flavours and More Ways to Play
Gateway is welcoming a new line-up of stores and experiences as it enters its next chapter.
Among the arrivals is Aura, a premium coffee concept bringing together a robotic barista, organic African and South American coffees, luxury desserts and wellness treats.
Golf enthusiasts can look forward to Fairways, a dedicated golf lifestyle concept. Meanwhile, Shooters will introduce competitive socialising, combining games, food, drinks and events in one experience.
The retail offering is also growing. A bespoke Liverpool store and a new flagship Foschini store are among the latest additions.
Together, these arrivals reflect Gateway’s continued evolution beyond traditional shopping. The centre is bringing retail, dining, entertainment and experiences together in one convenient destination.
For visitors, that means more opportunities to discover something different, whether they are stopping for coffee, exploring new stores or planning time with friends.
A Birthday With a Bigger Purpose
While new experiences are part of the celebrations, one of the most meaningful moments came through a Charity Car Run organised in partnership with Auto-emotive and Reach For A Dream.
The event gave 25 young dreamers the opportunity to choose their favourite supercar for a thrill ride around Gateway.
The experience continued with a morning of family fun and birthday cake, creating a special celebration for the young participants and their families.
By including Reach For A Dream in its anniversary activities, Gateway brought a community-focused element to the milestone. The celebration was not only about looking back at the centre’s growth, but also about creating memorable experiences for others.
R40,000 in Birthday Prizes Up for Grabs
Gateway is also inviting shoppers to join the birthday celebrations through a competition featuring four experiences valued at R10,000 each.
The prizes will cover four categories: fashion, beauty, entertainment and fine dining. Four winners will each have the opportunity to enjoy Gateway in their own way.
The campaign runs from 25 September to 22 October 2026, giving shoppers a limited window to take part.
“Reaching 25 years is a milestone we wanted to share,” says Sewbaran.
“Whether that means discovering something new, winning an incredible experience or helping create a memorable morning for 25 very special Dreamers, this celebration is about the community that has grown with us.”
25 Years of Growth — and a New Chapter Ahead
Gateway’s journey since 2001 reflects significant growth in both its physical footprint and its offering to visitors.
From approximately 118,000m² and around 117 stores at opening, the centre has grown to around 176,000m² and more than 380 stores. It now welcomes over 24 million visits each year and employs more than 5,000 people.
But its 25th anniversary is also a moment to look forward.
With new retail concepts, food and beverage offerings, entertainment experiences and community initiatives, Gateway is continuing to develop the mix of experiences it offers its visitors.
The anniversary brings those elements together: a celebration of the past, new discoveries for shoppers and an opportunity to create meaningful moments with the wider community.
Gateway’s 25th birthday campaign runs until 22 October 2026.
For competition entry details, terms and conditions, and more information about the celebrations, visit www.gatewayworld.co.za or follow Gateway on Instagram at @gatewayumhlanga.
