Rand Steam Shopping Centre in Richmond, between Melville and Milpark, brings together everyday convenience with a touch of old-Johannesburg charm. Once Johannesburg's historic laundry complex – a blue heritage plaque marks the spot – today Rand Steam is a compact shopping and lifestyle destination. 

Whether you’re grabbing groceries, running errands, or hunting down something tasty, this neighbourhood favourite is a convenient stop near Wits University and the sprawling University of Johannesburg campuses.

Rand Steam is anchored by big brands like Pick n Pay, Pick n Pay Liquor, Pick n Pay Clothing, Woolworths Food, and Clicks, making it a one-stop spot for weekly essentials. Other stores range from boutique lifestyle offerings like Tapenade and Friends, Nap Living, and Rain Natural Skincare to places to pick up a bargain like Value Co. and The Crazy Store. Specialist retailers About Cats & Dogs, LOOKIN Eyecare Specialists, Cannafrica, and Sorbet have you covered for everything from pet care to personal wellness, while handy services such as PostNet, Manzi Water, Auto Wax, FixTech, Rain (5G, wifi, and telecommunications), and multiple ATMs round out the shopping complex. 

The centre’s dining courtyard is a relaxed spot to linger with the We Sell Flavourz mini food market – think pasta, pizza, burgers, curry, and even milk tart samoosas. You can take your pick from Curry Up, Thai Me Up, Pasta Worx, Slamwich, Monster Burger, and The Capri. If it’s great coffee (and a convenient plug point) you’re after, standalone spot Manaka Coffee is the go-to, perfect for a quick caffeine fix, a leisurely lunch, or a work session.

A HISTORY WORTH NOTING 
In the late 19th century, Rand Steam was a bustling laundry complex rooted in the work of Joburg’s early amawasha – Zulu men who washed miners’ clothes in the nearby streams. The site stood intact for over a century before being illegally demolished by developers, sparking an outcry.

Thanks to the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation, the area was saved from becoming a car dealership, and the reborn Rand Steam now proudly honours its past. Stonework, and low-rise buildings echo the look and feel of the original laundries, while a beautiful wall relief pays tribute to the amawasha.

Two original elements remain: the distinctive white filtration tower and a majestic century-old pepper tree, giving the quirky centre an extra sense of being somewhere out of the ordinary.

PLAN YOUR VISIT
Tucked on the corner of Barry Hertzog Drive and Napier Street in Richmond, Rand Steam Shopping Centre is easily accessible from the N1 and the M1 motorway. It is bordered by Melville, Auckland Park, and Parktown, and it is just down the road from the characterful 44 Stanley. If you're travelling by car, there is secure free parking available. 

For more ways to make the most of Rand Steam, check out our visitor’s guide.

TRADING HOURS
Pick n Pay: Mon – Fri, 08:00 – 20:00; Sat, 08:00 – 18:00; Sun, 08:00 – 17:00; public holidays, 09:00 – 16:00
Woolworths: Mon – Fri, 08:00 – 19:00; Sat, 08:00 – 18:00; Sun, 08:00 – 17:00; public holidays, 09:00 – 17:00
We Sell Flavourz Market: Mon – Sun, 08:00 – 21:00
Manaka Coffee: Mon – Sun; 06:30 – 18:00 (kitchen closes at 17:30)
Line shops: Mon – Fri, 09:00 – 18:00; Sat, 09:00 – 17:00; Sun and public holidays, 09:00 – 15:00 

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