With almost three years of renovations now proclaimed complete, Shoppers Mall took time to celebrate on Saturday as part of a Grand Re-opening event. Included were an assortment of kids activities and games, a free photo booth, free Glam Glow multi-masking at Shoppers Drug Mart and a meet and greet with Peppa Pig and her brother George.
Sobeys got into the act as well with live music at their Starbucks location, something this shopper could most definitely get used to!
Crowds turned out in particularly big numbers for a âspin-the-wheelâ promotion that gave mall visitors a chance to win a number of prizes. From my observation there may not have been a time during the afternoon event that the lineup was less than many dozens long. Similar lineups were seen for face painting and of course to meet Peppa.
Anyone thatâs followed this section in recent weeks will also be well aware that a new approximately 10x50 foot mural was in the works by artist Kristin Grant in the corridor that connects Sobeys and the rest of the mall. That mural in all of its vibrancy was unveiled today with Grant on hand taking time to chat with passers-by throughout the afternoon.
Below is how the artist describes the scene, which took a total of 18 days to create:
âA White Tail Deer, one of Manitobaâs beautiful animals, stands tall in the sunâs decorative rays, representing life and how we are all connected. Stalks of wheat blow in the wind, as Brandon is known as The Wheat City. The centre of the design features the Brandon Hills (The Blue Hills) overlooking a White Spruce forest, Manitobaâs provincial tree.
The Great Grey Owl, Manitobaâs provincial bird, perches on a branch of one of the Birch Trees, a symbol of wisdom. The Assiniboine River flows by, an important water resource to the community, as well as a natural habitat to many species. The sun sets and the moon shines, signifying the Earthâs natural rhythms and cycles.
The design was drawn in 3 sections, creating 3 unique scenes for viewers to enjoy and photograph. Attention to clean flowing lines and trendy modern colours were given to compliment the Shopperâs Mall fresh modern design. A mix of feminine details, with strong masculine lines and colours, creates a pleasing balance for all to enjoy. â
The mural is now viewable to anyone visiting the mall as part of the newly re-opened Sobeys connection.
Shoppers Mall operator Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust first announced in July 2016 a major re-merchandising strategy for their Brandon property. Since then new additions to the property have included Sobeys Extra, Shoppers Drug Mart, Dollarama, Goodlife Fitness, Swiss Chalet/Harveys, East Side Mario, Original Joeâs, Delta 9, and Tommy Gunâs Barbershop along with an expanded Ardene. The mall has also seen the additions of La Vie en Rose, Bell, Thai Express, Soft Moc Shoe Rack and an expanded Shoe Wearhouse.