Big Box Co

The Big Box Co to enter UK market



South Africa-based retail property developer the Big Box Co is set to secure its first sites in the UK.


Founded in Durban, the retail property developer has instructed Savills to secure freehold or long leasehold sites between 60,000-100,000 sq ft in major cities.

The company aims to develop modular, small format stores run by entrepreneurs, who will receive funding, education and mentoring from the Big Box Co’s non-profit Lightbox Project.

It will also focus on brownfield land and historic buildings with potential for regeneration and consider joint-venture opportunities.

Murray Clarke, CEO at the Big Box Co, said: “We want to create a global ecosystem that helps entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses and in doing so generate social impact in their local communities. 

“Each Big Box site is unique to the area it serves, but what they have in common is a creative spirit that fosters interaction between our ‘boxpreneurs’ and the people who choose to shop and spend leisure time there.”

Sean Gillies, head of UK retail at Savills, added: “The face of retail is changing.

“It is clear that people of all ages, and perhaps millennials in particular, are drawn to experiences and a sense of connection. 

“The Big Box Co approach perfectly encapsulates this and we believe they will be immensely popular with UK consumers. 

“Our focus now is on working with national anchors and strategic partners to ensure meticulous site selection, cutting-edge design and a carefully curated tenant mix appropriate to each local area.”



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