Parents and learners in Tshwane are giving a collective cheer as Menlyn Park Shopping Centre rolls out an inventive and stress-busting initiative called “Beat the Wrap Race.” With the new school year officially in session, the centre has stepped in to tackle a notorious January headache: book wrapping. And the best part? It’s completely free!

Imagine transforming the annual chore of covering schoolbooks into a fun, community-focused event. That’s precisely what Menlyn Park has done by setting up two dedicated book-wrapping stations. Conveniently located near Starbucks and Timberland, as well as the Toys R Us entrance, these stations offer a stress-free solution to parents and learners juggling the demands of the back-to-school rush.

“Wrapping schoolbooks can be a daunting task for many families, especially with the added costs and time constraints,” says Nisha Kemraj, Centre Manager at Menlyn Park. “We wanted to make the experience not only easier but also more enjoyable. It’s about providing practical support while fostering a sense of community and contributing to a great cause.”

The process is simple and delightful. Families can bring their exercise books, textbooks, or any other schoolbooks to be expertly wrapped by a trained team. Shoppers get to pick from a variety of wrapping options, including vibrant colours, cheerful designs, and sturdy plastic covers. Stickers for labelling each book are also provided, ensuring that everything is organised and ready for the first day of class. And all of this happens during Menlyn Park’s regular trading hours, allowing families to get their books covered while they shop, dine, or unwind at one of the centre’s 400+ retailers.

But there’s more to this initiative than just convenience. In the spirit of giving back, Menlyn Park encourages visitors using the service to make a small donation. Proceeds will support the Louis Botha and Jakaranda Children’s Homes, two organisations that play a vital role in caring for vulnerable children.

“At Menlyn Park, we’re committed to building connections and giving back to our community,” adds Kemraj. “The donations collected through this initiative will make a meaningful impact on the lives of children who need it most.”

The “Beat the Wrap Race” stations are buzzing with energy as families drop off their books and then explore all that Menlyn Park has to offer. Whether it’s a quick coffee break, a leisurely shopping spree, or simply taking a moment to enjoy some downtime, the centre ensures that every visit is worthwhile.

For those looking to stay in the loop, Menlyn Park invites you to follow their social media channels @menlynsa or visit their website at www.menlynpark.co.za for the latest updates.

So why stress over book wrapping this year? Let Menlyn Park Shopping Centre take care of the hard part while you enjoy a hassle-free start to the school year. “Beat the Wrap Race” and start 2025 on a high note – one beautifully wrapped book at a time!

Main Image: Menlyn Park Shopping Center