Exemplar is widely regarded as a market-leading retail REIT within the specialised “township & rural” niche that it operates. With a sole focus on the underserviced rural and township areas, Exemplar’s 22 retail assets (349,759sqm GLA) service between 10 and 15 million shoppers a month, offering investors access to a unique portfolio valued at R5,789b.

The company has achieved a distribution of 92,27 cents per share for the year ended 29 February 2020 against a forecast of 91,27 cents. In a market dominated by unfavourable macro-economic conditions, these results speak volumes about both the defensive nature of the Exemplar portfolio and the strength of the team managing it.

“As we brace ourselves for the uncertainty that lies ahead in the post COVID-19 environment, we are confident in our ability to read the landscape and rapidly adapt to any change in order to continue evolving for the needs of our customers and our country,” explains CEO of Exemplar, Jason McCormick.

“Our primary focus in the first half of FY2021 will be ensuring the sustainability of our existing portfolio and the tenants within it. We will continue to identify and implement effective strategies for the safety of our communities and the regeneration of both consumer confidence and the retail industry.”

The company follows a hands-on approach to asset management and believes that this approach has resulted in lower vacancy levels, higher tenant retention rates and a lower risk of negative rental reversions upon lease renewals.

Despite the uncertainty that COVID-19 presents, Exemplar continues to see significant upside potential and forecasts for further investment within its specific niche markets. The company is confident that it will continue to deliver long term growth for its shareholders, its communities and the nation, well into the future.