You'd think that here as well. However the recent one is only someone that moved shop. The others are Toyota, Makro and a service station. Of these only the last two I know are new and they were erected in the last 5 years, before the real exodus started. Everyone was very enthusiastic 15 years ago but since then development has slowed down drastically and they're struggling to keep the mall occupied.
I would not say that Malls reflect the actual business of the country, In my view point there are way to many malls in this country. I have never been to a country that has so many shopping malls as we have. Near where I live there are 6 major malls in a 15 minute driving time with a scattering of about 10 smaller shopping centres. all of them with the same shops.
I have been saying for years that something has to give and I would not be surprised if a couple of malls start going dead, especially with the South African people becoming more and more savvy with purchasing online.
People are sick of malls and I for one avoid them when I can. I think you are going to see mall shops closing down more frequently.