South Africa is making phenomenal economic strides toward becoming a major commercial player, and Johannesburg is at the center of this potential. Today, the area is experiencing steady progress as local officials are promoting a business-friendly environment that’s more conducive to commerce. New laws have made it easier to access utilities and transfer property ownership. Plus, there are ongoing efforts to reduce the time, processes, and costs involved in launching and registering a new business.
Fortunately, the changes made so far are generating remarkably successful outcomes. Representatives from The World Bank hope this is a sign of what lies ahead for the potentially lucrative Johannesburg business sector. For now, the changes have put Johannesburg on par with other emerging economies.
Opening a headquarters in Johannesburg with WeWork
As the economic climate improves, Johannesburg grows more enticing to business leaders. Yet the task of finding and opening your own office space in Johannesburg is rarely straightforward: A difficult imbalance of supply and demand has led to abandoned commercial real estate projects in some areas and a lack of office space with extreme competition in others.
Workspace solutions like those offered through WeWork help solve this. Choosing a dedicated desk or private office at WeWork’s shared workspaces—like WeWork The Link in Rosebank—gives you all the perks of office space and community, without the stress of long-term leases or steep up-front costs.
Alternatively, you can opt for your own building through WeWork’s enterprise solutions. In this scenario, WeWork builds and runs your headquarters using designs and solutions aimed at boosting productivity, collaboration, and drawing clients and prospective employees. Through Enterprise agreements, you’re also given access to WeWork’s global network, making it easy to extend your reach and impact in Johannesburg as soon as you settle in.
Here are five neighborhoods to consider when opening a headquarters in Johannesburg.
Midrand
Midrand rests at the halfway point between Rand and Pretoria. In this charming neighborhood, there are many attractions and activities, such at The Mall of Africa, the largest mall on the continent. Midrand has become one of the region’s top tourism centers. Also, it’s the base of operations for major textile and automobile enterprises.
Over the last 10 years, the now contemporary neighborhood has undergone a transformation. The growth aligns with the economic development in Johannesburg. Surrounded by professionals in finance, entertainment, and other services industries, your team will be in good company in Midrand.
Sandton
Sandton is one of the most established business districts in Johannesburg. The borough is a lively, energetic commercial center. As you traverse down the streets of Sandton, you’ll notice a diverse mix of tourists, residents, and businesspeople. It’s a popular area where people live, work, and play.
The area is known for its opulence and luxury. In fact, it’s one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Johannesburg. Now, it’s also the financial center of South Africa and a top business focal point.
Melville
For those who embrace novelty, Melville is the trendiest neighborhood in Johannesburg, and it’s known for its bohemian vibe. There’s always been a buzz in Melville, but a recent increase of top-notch eateries has reestablished the area as a gourmet magnet. As a result, Melville is a common destination for residents and travelers.
Melville is interspersed with remarkable geographical features. In the area, you can take a brisk walk through Johannesburg Botanical Gardens or settle in for a leisurely picnic.
Lonehill
Lonehill is one of the newest suburbs of Johannesburg. The area was established in the nineties with a strong influx of young urban professionals. The area hosts a beautiful nature reserve settled in the heart of the metropolitan area. The knoll in the reserve offers visitors the only nearby escape from the flatlands of the neighborhood.
For now, Lonehill is a relatively undiscovered Johannesburg gem. It’s prepared for rapid growth, however, as the area is already rich with shopping, restaurants, and other attractions.
Waverley
Situated just above Highlands North, Waverley is a quaint residential suburb of Johannesburg. The area is perfect for professionals who crave breathing room when they’re not on the job. Its wide, tree-lined streets feature plenty of greenery and the type of fresh air that comes with the presence of foliage. Overall, the open layout and fertile landscape make Waverley more than welcoming.
For sports fans, Waverley is only minutes away from frequent cricket matches at Bidvest Wanderers Stadium. The facility hosts prominent local and international matches.
Nearby, visitors and residents flock to the Balfour Mall for outlet and boutique shopping, as well as lively dining and buzzing happy-hour spots. Just a few miles away, you’ll also find adventure at the Johannesburg Zoo.
These are just a few of the up-and-coming neighborhoods in Johannesburg, and, with so many choices, you’re bound to find a winning home for your office headquarters. Whether it’s at The Link or in your very own private space, WeWork makes it easy to put down roots in this vibrant, promising, metropolis.
