South Africa’s first Circle K convenience store now open in eastern Pretoria, is a precursor to a multi-store roll out in coming months and part of a bigger forecourt deal with Puma Energy which will give access to over one hundred sites across South Africa.

Located at the corner of Trumpeter’s Loop & De Villebois Mareuil Drive, The Wilds, the first Pretoria site is located at the busy Puma Energy facility in Moreleta Park, close to Menlyn, and footfall has already exceeded initial expectations.

Hamza Farooqui, CEO, Millat Group says: “Unlike other forecourt operations, where petrol often takes precedence over stores, we have inverted the model with the intention of our outlets becoming sought-after destinations in themselves. Apart from a welcoming ambiance and décor, we will offer a variety of freshly made (on-site), chef-inspired food as well as several new imported candy and confectionary brands.”

Local Circle K stores will also employ in-house baristas to offer a superior coffee programme.

Farooqui says filling station forecourts have become a major new driver of retail commerce and discerning consumers are not only looking for variety and quality, but also a better shopping experience in as short a time as possible.

To that end stores will provide comfortable clean seating areas as well as tastefully decorated, well-lit, clean washrooms.