Hold onto your hard hat. FX Africa has opened a branch in the newly refurbished and upgraded East Rand Mall as part of a growing strategy to expand into outlying areas of Gauteng.

Its first foray into eastern Gauteng comes after branch openings at The Glen in southern Johannesburg and Fourways in the northern suburbs last year. The branch is situated near the entrance of a brand new wing of the mall, a good position according to branch operator, Candice Goossens.

“It’s a very good thing. Normally people walk into the banking mall and see the range of forex providers and shop around. But we can capture the customers as they walk in from the parking lot.”

Situated a mere 7km from Africa’s busiest airport, the East Rand Mall is a popular destination for tourists in transit. “Your tourist base is quite high here. We’re conveniently situated for tourists with four or five hours to spare, but who don’t want to spend their time sitting at the airport.”

Goossens says travellers about to embark on their journeys also often stop over at the mall before they leave. “It’s more convenient for some to get their forex here, and the rates can be cheaper than the airport,” she says.

Goossens is an East Rand local, having lived in the area her whole life, and says it’s good to be back home. “I’m very happy to be here,” she says, but adds that she misses the buzz at the Sandton offices, where she was based previously. “I love to chat to people.”

For the moment though, Goossens will have to fly solo at the branch. “Once it gets busier, I’m sure we will hire another person,” she says. “Business is already picking up.”

Goossens is especially excited about the new role that colleague Leoni du Preez will undertake as salesperson for The Glen, East Rand Mall and Fourways. “Now that we have a dedicated salesperson, more business will come to the branches,” she says.

Managing Director Darren Jenkins-Ferrett says FX Africa’s first foray into the East Rand is important. “We’re excited about our prospects in east Gauteng, with its growing middle class and obvious tourism potential.”