Elizabeth Hurley visits Maasmechelen Village

Elizabeth Hurley has chosen Maasmechelen Village as the exclusive destination in Benelux for the Elizabeth Hurley Beach Hut “pop-up” boutique, her first stand-alone retail venture in  Benelux. This is in an initiative that marks her collaboration with the Chic Outlet Shopping® Villages for the third consecutive year.

To mark the launch of the new boutique in Belgium, Elizabeth Hurley will make a personal appearance at Maasmechelen Village on April 18th 2011.

Elizabeth will officially launch the Elizabeth Hurley Beach Boutique at Maasmechelen Village, at 11am, after which she will be on hand to personally serve customers and offer her tips and advice on this season’s essential beach chic. 

“I am a huge fan of the Chic Outlet Shopping® Villages,” said Elizabeth, speaking recently about the imminent opening of her Beach Huts at the exclusive shopping destinations. “I love shopping in Europe and have many happy memories of my visits to Belgium. I can’t wait to open my first boutique at Maasmechelen Village and I am really looking forward to the launch day to help customers choose their perfect beachwear as well as raise money for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation,” the designer explained.

On the day of the launch, April 18th, customers will be encouraged to purchase the Elizabeth Hurley Beach rose-scented pink candle (€35) as 25% of proceeds from purchases of these divine candles made on the day will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Shinsegae upscale outlet faces restrictions

By Choi He-suk - The Korea Herald

Shinsegae Corp.’s new premium outlet in Paju, north of Seoul, could face government restrictions after smaller retailers protested that it hurts their businesses.

The Small and Medium Business Administration launched an inquiry on Monday to determine the scale of damage sustained by small- and medium-sized discount outlets in the area since Shinsegae Chelsea opened on March 18.

The smaller stores claimed their number of customers has dropped significantly as the Shinsegae outlet had more than 600,000 visitors in the two weeks following its opening.

The state agency requested on March 14 that Shinsegae postpone the opening. But the company refused, prompting the SMBA to begin a process for compulsory arbitration.

After the investigation is concluded in early May, the agency will issue an order expected to restrict its operations.

If the firm fails to comply, it could face punishment of up to 50 million won ($46,000) in fines or less than one year’s imprisonment.

In May 2010, an association of fashion outlet merchants in Gyeonggi Province requested government mediation claiming that Shinsegae Chelsea’s opening could threaten their businesses.

After negotiations to exclude brands that overlap with stores in nearby outlets from Shinsegae Chelsea failed, the SMBA advised the outlet to postpone the opening on March 14 according to the Act on the Promotion of Collaborative Cooperation between Large Enterprises and Small-Medium Enterprises, which was ignored by Shinsegae Chelsea.

While the SMBA is looking to intervene, the operators of the outlet are claiming that as it is registered as a real estate rental business, it is not subject to the regulations.

The outlet, whose business registration was as a retail and wholesale of clothing and real estate rental firm, changed to real estate rental only on March 22.

The SMBA for its part is maintaining that the outlet is subject to its intervention as the outlet’s operations are affecting those of small and medium-sized businesses in the area.

Slovakia’s first Fashion Outlet Center

Slovakia - One Fashion Outlet is now on-course to be Slovakia’s first retail outlet centre and is due to open in March 2012. Realiz are working in Joint Venture with Rioja Developments on the construction of the much-anticipated Slovakian scheme, now underway. The scheme has a valid building permit, the ground has been broken and the center has just agreed a deal with Freeport to manage the scheme.

One Fashion Outlet is situated on the D1 Highway in Voderady outside of Bratislava, and is the creation of a group of retail and factory outlet experts. Working with outlet specialists Rioja Developments, the €75 million scheme has been designed with leading architect Holder Mathias, and leasing is managed by Rohleder Lumby and SJ International.

Iestyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Freeport comments, “After fast growth in the last three to four years, the retail market in Slovakia is now ripe for an outlet presence. There has been an influx of international brands into the major cities of the country, particularly Bratislava. One Fashion Outlet is the next logical step in the retail development of Central Eastern Europe.”

The completed project will cover an area of 200,000 sq metres, with over 100 retail and restaurant units. The development will take place over three separate phases, with phase one creating over 60 retail outlets.

SOURCE: Property Magazine International

Barberino Designer Outlet approved for expansion

Barberino Designer Outlet, one of five McArthurGlen Designer Outlets in Italy, has been given the go-ahead to start building works on the centre’s second phase by the municipality of Barberino del Mugello.

This expansion of the Designer Outlet village, located in the province of Florence and in the heart of Tuscany, will see the addition of 6,000 sq m of retail space and around 30-35 extra stores. This adds to the existing 21,000 sq m of retail space and 100 stores.

Barberino Designer Outlet is owned by Henderson Global Investors’ European Outlet Mall Fund (EOMF), with McArthurGlen as a co-investor in the centre as well as in the EOMF.

The centre was opened in 2006 by McArthurGlen, and purchased by Henderson’s EOMF in 2009. This new, second phase is planned to open in the third quarter of 2012, and will offer a total of 300 jobs, bringing the total workforce at the Designer Outlet to over 1,000.

Last year Barberino Designer Outlet received a record 3.3 million consumers, attracted by some of the best luxury, designer and high-street names in fashion, all offering prices of 30-70 per cent off, all year round.

Sales at the centre performed strongly last year, boosted by a record number of international travellers visiting the centre from outside Europe; with a staggering 99 per cent increase in the number of Russian shoppers and a 94 per cent increase in Chinese tourists compared with last year.

Currently, brands at the centre include such leading names as Bruno Magli, Calvin Klein Collection, Calvin Klein Jeans, D&G, Furla, Guess, Les Copains, Missoni, Pal Zileri, Pinko, Richmond, Roberto Cavalli and Timberland.

Barberino Designer Outlet is set in a stunning location in the valley of the river Sieve. The river runs through the village, with a series of footbridges connecting the stores on both sides. The centre also has a good range of restaurants, cafes and bars, a covered children’s play area and parking for 2,000 cars, with an additional 260 spaces made available with the opening of the second phase.

The shopping environment of this second phase will reflect the high standards of the first phase, with the architectural design inspired by the Renaissance villas of the Mugello region.

More than seven million people live within a 90-minute drive of the centre, with the Tuscany region being one of Europe’s key tourist destinations, attracting 11 million tourists a year. The Designer Outlet is 30 minutes’ drive north of Florence and one hour from Bologna, off the Bologna-Florence A1 motorway.

Gary Bond, McArthurGlen’s CEO Development, says: “We are seeing record numbers of consumers visiting our centres in Italy as well as across the rest of Europe, as shoppers look to stretch their money further and still buy those top brands that they love. Barberino Designer Outlet has gone from strength to strength since its opening in 2006 to become one of Tuscany’s, and Italy’s, leading designer outlets.”

David Williams, fund manager of the Henderson EOMF says: “Investment in retail properties is a major part of Henderson’s total GBP11.8 billion of property assets under management. EOMF provides investors access to some of the best designer outlet centres in Europe managed by leading designer outlet operator and developer McArthurGlen. Barberino is one of the most successful centres in our pan-European portfolio and the expansion is part of our investment strategy to continue to deliver strong performance for our investors.”

McArthurGlen operates five Designer Outlets in Italy. The other four are: Serravalle Designer Outlet (Milan), which is Europe’s biggest designer outlet with 180 stores, Castel Romano Designer Outlet (Rome), Veneto Designer Outlet (Venice) and La Reggia Designer Outlet (Naples), which opened in February 2010.

Currently, McArthurGlen is under way with the development of nearly 150,000 sq m of new retail space across Europe, with new centres opening in Athens, later this year, and in Neumünster, near Hamburg, in 2012, as well as the expansion of many of its centres across Europe, including its Designer Outlets at Castel Romano and Veneto, as well as Barberino.

SOURCE: PropertyFundsWorld

Official Chic Outlet Shopping apps for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad announced

LONDON, March 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Value Retail, operator of the Chic Outlet Shopping(R) Villages, has announced the launch of two official Chic Outlet Shopping(R) apps for iPhone, iPod touch and for the iPad, which will enable users to discover Europe's leading luxury outlet destinations through an easy-to-navigate, interactive digital experience.

The Collection of Chic Outlet Shopping(R) Villages are the latest word in smart shopping and welcome 26 million visitors to the nine luxury outlet destinations per year. The Collection is home to 900 luxury outlet boutiques of renowned international and niche European brands offering reductions of up to 60% on the recommended retail price, all year round, in addition to the tax free savings (up to 15%) available to non-EU residents. Coveted names include Agent Provocateur, Anya Hindmarch, Belstaff, Bimba & Lola, Calvin Klein, Desigual, Diane von Furstenberg, Missoni, Mulberry, Matthew Williamson, Smythson, Tumi, Temperley London and Vivienne Westwood, with some 50 brands currently selecting the Collection as home to their only outlet boutique worldwide.

Through the development of the new apps, the world of Chic Outlet Shopping(R) is put directly into the hands of consumers via an informative and user-friendly app experience with exclusive content and innovative features which include:

- Plan Your Visit to any one of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping(R) Villages from any location - worldwide.
- The online booking service for the Shopping Express coach service operating from the local city centre with direct transfer to each Village.
- Access to comprehensive interactive maps of each of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping(R) Villages: simply touch, pan and zoom maps to view the Villages in detail.
- Search facility and filters in the Brand Directory to locate any of the 900 luxury outlet boutiques by name or by category.
- Exclusive content developed by Chic Outlet Shopping(R) including video highlights on Chic TV and Editor's Corner featuring celebrity interviews and insider shopping tips.
- A facility to purchase Village Gift Cards, welcomed at all of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping(R) Villages.

The applications are compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad and are free to download from iTunes and Apple's App Store http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/chic-outlet-shopping-for-ipad/id418327868?mt=8

http://www.chicoutletshopping.com/

Chic Outlet Shopping(R) is a registered trademark of Value Retail PLC. The nine Villages are members of the Chic Outlet Shopping(R) Collection by Value Retail, the only company to specialise exclusively in the development of luxury outlet Villages across Europe.

Distributed by PR Newswire on behalf of Value Retail PLC

New designer outlet mall near Hamburg Germany

by Karen Foster - London South East

Henderson Global Investors said it has entered a joint venture with retail developer McArthurGlen to build a 120 million euro ($167 million) designer outlet mall near Hamburg, Germany.

The property investment group's 1.5 billion euro European Outlet Fund and McArtherGlen have agreed to build the Designer Outlet centre in Neumuenster. Construction is scheduled to start in May and the mall is set to open in autumn 2012.

Preleasing for phase one of the mall -- 100 retail units and a gross leasable area of 20,000 square meters -- is ahead of schedule, said Henderson, which opened phase two of its Designer Outlet Berlin with McArthurGlen last year.

Retail property in Germany, Europe's largest economy, is outshining that of its peers, driven by revitalised consumer spending, encouraging economic prospects for 2011, and affordable debt finance.

RioCan and Tanger to Build Canada's First Tanger Outlet Center in Greater Toronto

Company Release - 03/14/2011 09:00

TORONTO and GREENSBORO, N.C., March 14, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust ("RioCan") (TSX:REI.UN) and Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. ("Tanger") (NYSE:SKT), through their exclusive joint venture, announced today that they have entered into a purchase and sale agreement to acquire a 35 acre parcel of land to build the first Tanger Outlet Center in the Greater Toronto Area ("GTA"). The site for its first factory outlet will be Halton Hills, on Highway 401 at the James Snow Parkway interchange. The project is scheduled to start in the fourth quarter of 2011 and be ready for an April 2013 opening.

"Halton Hills is one of the fastest growing communities in Canada and the GTA, allowing our retailer partners access to the 5th largest retail market in North America," said Steven Tanger, President and CEO of Tanger Outlets. "Given our investment leadership and successful track record in Canada's largest urban markets, we are confident that opening our first Tanger Outlet Center in the GTA market of Halton Hills will create a shopping destination with unparalleled reach and popularity," added Edward Sonshine, President and CEO of RioCan.

The concept, design and merchandising of the Halton Hills centre will be similar to those within the highly successful Tanger portfolio of outlet centres in the U.S. Halton Hills is located in the northwestern section of the GTA and benefits from its proximity to Mississauga and Brampton, as well as having good access to metro Toronto. When fully complete, the project will be home to approximately 350,000 square feet of branded factory outlet retailers from the U.S. and Canada, offering consumers a unique opportunity to purchase merchandise directly from leading designer and brand name manufacturers at a substantial savings.

"In the U.S., the Tanger Outlets brand and shopping experience has generated strong followership and credibility with retailers and consumers. We believe we can duplicate the same loyalty and confidence here in Halton Hills and across Canada," said Tony Grossi, Senior Managing Director of the joint venture. The site is presently zoned to allow retail uses. "We look forward to working with the Town of Halton Hills to make this project a key regional retail landmark," added Grossi.

It is the intention of the joint venture to develop as many as 10 to 15 outlet centres in larger urban markets and tourist areas across Canada, over a five to seven year period.

UK’s largest M&S Outlet store opened at Cheshire Oak

by Barry Ellams, Ellesmere Port Pioneer 

THOUSANDS of shoppers have been flocking to see the UK’s biggest M&S Outlet store, which opened at Cheshire Oaks last week.

With 14,000sq ft of retail space, the old store – a long-standing feature at the centre – is expanded into the food court to make it the largest chain store in Cheshire Oaks.

Richard Fox, head of M&S Outlet, said: “We are delighted to be opening a new, larger store at Cheshire Oaks.

“The store is in a great location and will offer customers an extensive range of Marks & Spencer products at great prices, the majority of lines are up to 40% off the original main store selling prices.”

With three deliveries every week, Marks & Spencer Outlet at Cheshire Oaks features men and women’s fashion, as well as homeware items.

The Outlet offered shoppers a 10% discount on all purchases of more than £30 during the opening weekend to celebrate the launch.

Speaking to the Pioneer last week, Colin Wilding, UK country manager and Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet centre manager for McArthurGlen, said: “We’re very excited about the launch of the Marks & Spencer Outlet store, it’s a centre favourite which has been here for 12 years.

“McArthurGlen Cheshire Oaks is the first and largest designer outlet in the UK and it only fits that we should be home to the largest flagship outlet stores.”

Protests against McArthurGlen designer clothing outlet.

Businesspeople in the Eure have been protesting against plans for a McArthurGlen designer clothing outlet.

About 200 protesters held up placards saying “No to a designer outlet village” outside the offices of the Communauté d’Agglomération des Portes des l’Eure, the local authority that wants to permit the scheme.

McArthurGlen, which specialises in selling designer clothes at bargain prices, says it would create about 1,000 jobs for the area.

However local opponents say the scheme, on wasteland along the A13 motorway, could destroy several thousand jobs in existing shops in nearby towns and villages.

The outlet is meant to open at Douains, near Vernon, in 2014, with 200 boutiques spread over 40,000 square metres.

McArthurGlen already has outlets in Troyes (Champagne-Ardenne) and Roubaix (Nord-Pas-de-Calais).

One opponent, Didier Bazin, told television station France 3: “It might not kill the town centres, but it will certainly weaken them. At Troyes, in the two years after McArthur Glen opened, 140 shops closed in the town centre and 300 closed in the department.”

However a spokesman for the firm said: “We’re not going to damage the town centre; we will develop a parallel shopping offer, the designer outlet village.

“We have 19 centres in Europe, and we see that, in Italy or Britain, we enrich the areas where we set up, both by providing jobs and attracting tourists.”

The department’s commercial affairs commission was set to give a final yes or no to the scheme as The Advertiser went to press.

SOURCE: Normandy Advertiser

DFO's future rests on court decision

BY NOEL TOWELL - The Canberra Times

The fate of Canberra's remaining big brand discount depot will be decided in a Melbourne courtroom next month.

The Supreme Court of Victoria will hear an application on April 13 to wind-up Direct Factory Outlets Canberra, the holding company of the Fyshwick factory outlet centre and appoint receivers to the ailing parent company.

DFO's rival for the city's bargain hunting dollar, Brand Depot at Canberra airport, finally closed its doors last week with one-third of its 75 discount shops vacant and four more of its stores slated for closure. at the weekend.

Last October, the DFO shopping centre empire was close to collapse with $1billion in debts, but managed to keep trading.

The centre's owners have since offloaded four of their DFO complexes in NSW and Victoria to the Colonial First State Property Trust but the latest Victorian legal challenge could mark the end of the line for the Fyshwick centre.

Texxcon, a company wholly owned by Victorian developer Contexx, has lodged an application in the Supreme Court of Victoria to have Direct Factory Outlets Canberra wound up and liquidators appointed.
Texxcon had previously lodged a demand for payment from DFO Canberra for $5.58million, stemming from an alleged breach of a loan agreement between Texxcon and Nominexx a company set up to manage joint venture funds between Contexx and its subsidiaries and DFO companies in November 2009.

DFO's owners have also taken legal action against Australian Competition Consumer Commission boss Graeme Samuel, alleging he is liable for losses sustained by them arising from personal guarantees provided in return for $46 million in loans to expand DFO.

DFO spokesman Geoff Porz and Contexx boss Noel Henderson declined to be interviewed for this article.

Eva Herzigova at the Convivio Boutique Launch

Eva Herzigova speaks to Chic Outlet Shopping® at the launch of the Convivio boutique at Fidenza Village, the Chic Outlet Shopping® Village near Milan. A treasure trove of new and vintage designer pieces, all donated by famous brands and personalities, it\’s a new home for the Convivio charity founded by Gianni Versace to support ANLAIDS. Here Eva shares with Chic Outlet Shopping® her memories of Gianni and what\’s in her secret shopping address book……



SOURCE: FreeDiva

Future outlet mall in Winnipeg

By: Murray McNeill - Winnipeg Free Press

 Winnipeg is one of the cities that will be getting a U.S.-style factory outlet mall, according to a spokesman for one of the income trusts that's bringing the retail concept to Canada.

"There's got to be one in Manitoba, and if there's going to be one in Manitoba it's got to be near Winnipeg," Edward Sonshine, president and CEO of Toronto-based RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust, said Tuesday.
Factory outlet malls, with their tantalizing combination of brand-name merchandise (usually prior-season goods) and deeply discounted prices, are huge retail draws in the United States.

North Carolina-based Tanger Factory Outlet Centres is partnering with RioCan to bring its outlet mall concept to Canada and its malls are typically about 350,000 square feet. That's similar in size to the new IKEA store that's scheduled to open in Winnipeg in 2012 or 2013. And because these malls usually feature dozens of brand-name outlets, one local retail leasing specialist said their drawing power is probably similar, as well.

"The (Winnipeg shoppers) will embrace it and it will be very big," said Ken Yee, senior executive vice-president of Cushman and Wakefield's Winnipeg office. "The outlets in the U.S. are always busy."

The closest factory outlet mall to Winnipeg is the Albertville Premium Outlets mall near Minneapolis, Minn., which boasts more than 100 discount retailers and more than 400,000 square feet of retail space. It's long been a favourite of Manitobans visiting that area.

Sonshine said RioCan and Tanger plan to open outlet malls in 10 to 15 Canadian cities over the next five to seven years.


"You won't be the first (to get one)," Sonshine said, adding that will be Toronto and Calgary because RioCan already has building sites in those two cities. After that, the partners will likely target Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, Edmonton and then Winnipeg. "So you're probably three or four years away, at least," he said.
Sonshine said the retail tenants that have told Tanger they're interesting in opening factory outlet stores in Canada include Nike, Adidas, J. Crew, Pottery Barn, Polo by Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste and Kenneth Cole.

"Ninety per cent of them will be brands they (Winnipeg shoppers) will recognize," he said.
Factory outlet stores typically boast prices that are 30 to 40 per cent below retail.

Sonshine said the partners haven't given any thought to where they might want to build their new outlet mall. But Yee had a few ideas.

"They're probably going to need a large chunk of land, so they'll likely end up in the IKEA development," he said, referring to the 1.5-million-square-foot IKEA/Seasons of Tuxedo retail development that's in the site-preparation stage at Kenaston Boulevard and Sterling Lyon Parkway.

"And I wouldn't rule out the (Winnipeg) stadium site, either," he said, noting there are 10.5 hectares of land available there and they could go two storeys high.

A third possibility is the Bishop Grandin Crossing retail/industrial/office development that's in the early stages on a chunk of land that includes the former Manitoba Sugar Beet property in south Fort Garry, Yee said.

While the pending arrival of factory outlet malls is great news for Canadian shoppers, one retail analyst told the Globe and Mail on Monday it spells more trouble for domestic retailers who are already bracing for the arrival of other U.S. retail giants like Target Corp., which recently struck a $1.8-billion deal to acquire up to 200 Zellers stores from Hudson's Bay Co.

"It's going to provide a lot more competition for the likes of the Bay and stores in the traditional enclosed shopping centres," said Wendy Evans, of Evans & Co. Consultants.

Chic Outlet shopping App available for Iphone

Value Retail, operators of the Chic Outlet Shopping Villages, have announced the launch of the official Chic Outlet Shopping app, which will enable users to discover Europe’s leading luxury outlet destinations through an easy-to-navigate, interactive digital experience.

The Collection of Chic Outlet Shopping Villages are the latest word in smart shopping and welcome 25 million visitors to the nine luxury outlet destinations per year. The Collection is home to 900 luxury outlet boutiques of renowned international and niche European brands offering reductions of up to 60% on the recommended retail price, all year round, in addition to the tax free savings (up to 15%) available to non-EU residents.

Coveted names include Agent Provocateur, Anya Hindmarch, Belstaff, Bimba & Lola, Calvin Klein, Desigual, Diane von Furstenberg, Missoni, Mulberry, Matthew Williamson, Smythson, Tumi, Temperley London and Vivienne Westwood, with some 50 brands currently selecting the Collection as home to their only outlet boutique worldwide.

Through the development of the new app, the world of Chic Outlet Shopping is put directly into the hands of consumers via an informative and user-friendly app experience with exclusive content and innovative features which include:

· Plan Your Visit to any one of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping Villages from any location – worldwide.
· The online booking service for the Shopping Express coach service operating from the local city centre with direct transfer to each Village.
· Access to comprehensive interactive maps of each of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping Villages: simply touch, pan and zoom maps to view the Villages in detail.
· Search facility and filters in the Brand Directory to locate any of the 900 luxury outlet boutiques by name or by category.
· View exclusive content developed by Chic Outlet Shopping including video highlights on Chic TV and Editor’s Corner featuring celebrity interviews and insider shopping tips.
· Purchase pre- charged Gift Cards, redeemable at all of the nine Chic Outlet Shopping Villages.

The application is compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad and is free to download from iTunes and Apple’s App Store.

SOURCE: TRAVEL BLACKBOARD

Tanger Outlets and RioCan announce joint venture

RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust ("RioCan") (TSX:REI.UN) and Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. ("Tanger") (NYSE:SKT), announced today that they have entered into a letter of intent to form an exclusive joint venture for the acquisition, development and leasing of sites across Canada that are suitable for development or redevelopment as outlet shopping centres similar in concept and design to those within the existing Tanger U.S. portfolio. Any projects developed will be co-owned on a 50/50 basis and will be branded as Tanger Outlet Centers. Tanger has agreed to provide leasing and marketing services to the venture and RioCan will provide development and property management services. It is the intention of the joint venture to develop as many as 10 to 15 outlet centres in larger urban markets and tourist areas across Canada, over a five to seven year period. The typical size of a Tanger Outlet Center is approximately 350,000 square feet, but is dependent on tenant demand. Assuming these parameters are suitable and materialize in Canada, on a fully built out basis, the overall investment of the joint venture is anticipated to be as high as $1 billion.

Tanger is a recognized leading developer and manager of outlet shopping centers in the United States, each one known as a Tanger Outlet Center. Tanger has been a publicly held Real Estate Investment Trust since May, 1993. Tanger Outlet Centers are characterized by a tenant mix of leading designer and brand-name manufacturers. Each shopping center provides a unique opportunity for customers to purchase a variety of brand-name products for the entire family directly from the manufacturer at substantial savings.

RioCan is Canada's largest real estate investment trust exclusively focused on retail real estate. RioCan owns and manages community-oriented neighborhood shopping centres anchored by supermarkets, together with a rapidly expanding mix of new format centres.

"In response to the increasing demand by U.S. tenants to expand into Canada, RioCan is pleased to partner with Tanger to develop Canada's first portfolio of U.S. style outlet centres. This venture will fill a void in the Canadian retail marketplace and will provide consumers with a distinctive outlet shopping experience closer to home," said Edward Sonshine, Q.C. President and CEO of RioCan. "This property type will be unique in Canada and will provide a niche retail segment for RioCan to further enhance its position as Canada's leading retail landlord."

"The opportunity to partner with a growth-oriented company such as RioCan to expand our North American border was one not to be missed," stated Steven B. Tanger, President and CEO of Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. "With RioCan's expertise and stellar reputation in the Canadian marketplace, coupled with the synergies in our strategies and approach to development and growth, we believe that this venture will be successful. Tanger's top retail partners are looking for growth in the Canadian market and it is our intent to provide them with the outlet shopping center sites to meet their needs."

About RioCan
RioCan is Canada's largest real estate investment trust with a total capitalization of approximately $10.1 billion as at December 31, 2010. It owns and manages Canada's largest portfolio of shopping centres with ownership interests in a portfolio of 296 retail properties, including 10 under development, containing an aggregate of over 66 million square feet. RioCan owns an 80% interest in 31 grocery anchored and new format retail centres in the United States through various joint venture arrangements. In addition, RioCan owns a 14% equity interest in Cedar Shopping Centers, Inc., a real estate investment trust focused on supermarket-anchored shopping centres and drug store-anchored convenience centres located predominantly in the Northeastern United States. For further information, please refer to RioCan's website at http://www.riocan.com/.

About Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc.
Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. (NYSE:SKT) is a publicly traded REIT headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina that operates and owns, or has ownership interests in, a portfolio of 33 upscale outlet shopping centers in 22 states coast-to-coast, totaling approximately 10.2 million square feet, leased to over 2,100 stores that are operated by more than 375 different brand name companies. More than 160 million shoppers visit Tanger Outlet Centers annually. For more information on Tanger Outlet Centers, call 1-800-4-TANGER or visit our website at http://www.tangeroutlet.com/.

Mark Libell

McArthurGlen Outlets have record breaking sales to end the year.

The Outlet group reports 18% y-o-y sales increase as shoppers spend Christmas 'cash' gifts

During the 26th December to 2nd January shopping period the McArthurGlen Group – Europe’s largest designer outlet group, opening the first designer outlet in 1995 – reported record trading in its 15 year history, as total sales soared 18% Y-O-Y with like-for-like sales increasing 20% over the same period’ and footfall increased 6% Y-O-Y across all seven UK designer outlets.

The designer outlet group, with around 700 stores in 1.7 million square foot of retail space in the UK welcoming nearly 30 million shoppers a year, attributed this increase to the rise in consumers receiving Christmas cash gifts and vouchers as a result of the pre-Christmas transport disruptions, which meant that families had to look for alternative gift ideas.

Additionally, booming sales were a result of shoppers across the UK adopting a ‘bargain hungry’ mentality ahead of the looming VAT rise and the big promotions across the high street.

Henrik Madsen Managing Director of UK and Northern Europe at McArthurGlen said, “While the snow made pre-Christmas shopping difficult for some, our UK designer outlets reported a post Christmas rush, with sales reaching an all time high on Tuesday 28th December at 10% ahead of the previous record day.

"Boxing Day was also strong despite it falling on a Sunday, with all outlets reporting a total sales increase of 9% compared to 2009. We work hand in hand with our designer brands to create a really impressive mix of products, which attract those savvy shoppers, looking for designer bargains, particularly during this crucial ‘Twixmas’ period. ”

Designer accessory and beauty brands reported a sales growth in excess of 50% yesr-on-year.

In 2010 the McArthurGlen Group announced plans to open more than 100,000 sq m of new retail space as demand for outlet retailing grows. The roll out will start with the opening of the McArthurGlen Athens Designer Outlet in 2011, followed by the launch in 2012 of a Designer Outlet in Neumünster, near Hamburg, Germany’s second largest city.

Currently the McArthurGlen Group operates more than 500,000 sq m of retail space across Europe, with designer outlet centres in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and the UK. Included in the portfolio is Europe’s largest designer outlet village, Serravalle Designer Outlet near Milan, with 180 stores and 37,400 sq m of gross leasable area.

SOURCE: The Retail Bulletin

Big Twixmas sales at Ashford Designer Outlet

The outlet centre at Ashford has defied high street gloom by posting record "Twixmas" sales.

Shoppers flocked to McArthurGlen's Ashford Designer Outlet between Christmas and the New Year - dubbed Twixmas - lifting year-on-year sales by 21 per cent. Like-for-like turnover was up 27 per cent, with footfall rising by three per cent.

Bosses put the increase down to a rise in the number of shoppers receiving Christmas cash gifts and vouchers as a result of the pre-Christmas transport disruptions.

This meant families had to look for alternative gift ideas. Customers also wanted to beat the 2.5 per cent Vat rise on January 4.

Centre manager David Maddison said leading brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Ted Baker, Gap, Next and Marks & Spencer all enjoyed exceptional sales.

"Sunday December 26, Monday 27 and Tuesday 28 were peak sales days across the centre, with stores employing additional staff to ensure visitors shopping experience went smoothly."

Henrik Madsen, managing director of UK and Northern Europe at McArthurGlen, added: "While the snow made pre-Christmas shopping difficult for some, our UK designer outlets reported a post Christmas rush, with sales reaching an all time high on Tuesday December 28 at 10 per cent ahead of the previous record day.

"Boxing Day was also strong despite it falling on a Sunday, with all outlets reporting a total sales increase of nine per cent compared to 2009."

SOURCE: KentOnline

Bronze Statue in Ibaraki Prefecture near Ami Premium Outlets

Daibutsu literally means “a large statue of Buddha,” but no one would expect it to be this big!!!

This is “Ushiku Daibutsu” in Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture. It is 120 meters tall and the tallest bronze statue in the world.

Inside of the Buddha, there are five floors, where the visitors can appreciates small Buddha statues and transcribe a sutra.

In the same town, there is an outlet mall called “Ami Premium Outlets,” and because the statue is so big, you can see the head and the torso from there.

SOURCE: japanstyle.info 

Welsh retailers expect brisk sales before VAT increase

Retailers in Wales say they hope the impending VAT rise will bring bargain hunters into stores to snap up "big ticket" items.

The post-Christmas sales season began saw queues from 0230 GMT in Wrexham and about 150,000 visitors to St David's shopping centre in Cardiff.

Value Added Tax (VAT) will go up from 17.5% to 20% on 4 January, adding some £10 to items already priced at £500.

Retailers hope for strong sales after bad weather before Christmas.

Retailers said they hoped the extra VAT would prompt those who were planning to buy larger items to make the purchase in the next few days.

David Hughes-Lewis, chairman of Cardiff Retail Partnership, who runs an independent jewellery store, said: "Anyone thinking of buying an expensive piece of merchandise should try and buy it this week.

"I'm hoping that anyone shopping for a big ticket item will buy in the next few days."

Steven Madeley, director of the St David's shopping centre in Cardiff, said: "If people weren't thinking about the VAT rise before Christmas, they definitely are now and we are seeing more high value items being bought before the rise comes into effect."

The centre said 150,000 people passed through its doors when sales began on Boxing Day, making it as busy as one of its busier weekdays before Christmas.

Retailers reported sales had picked up directly before Christmas after bad weather had previously deterred some shoppers.

Cath Letton, marketing manager at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet at Bridgend, said takings in the week before Christmas were 3% up on last year and footfall was up 4% on last year, with nearly 79,000 visitors.
Both Ms Letton and Mr Madeley said they expected trading to be busy on Tuesday, the second Christmas bank holiday.

McArthurGlen is opening until 2000 GMT, two hours later than its usual bank holiday opening time.
Sales that began on Boxing Day had to be held within Sunday trading hours, limiting stores to opening for no more than six hours.

Some 500 people queued from 0230 GMT on Bank Holiday Monday outside the Next store at Eagles Meadow shopping centre, Wrexham.

SOURCE: BBC

Top 10 outlet centers around Tokyo.

Top Ten outlet Malls within a day trip of Tokyo

For those of you who love to shop and bargain, a great way to experience Japan is by visiting some of the outlet malls in and around Tokyo. They can make great date spots or be a fun way for the family to spend a day as there are usually facilities for kids too. 

1. La Fete Tama Minami Osawa
Styled in to be a little like Provence in South France (little bit of a stretch) this spacious mall is a nice place to spend a day shopping and sampling the restaurants and cafes. There is also a toho movie theater nearby. Has the usual mix of sports, outdoor, fashion, lifestyle goods, pets, furniture etc. The spacious enviroment and greenery of Minami Osawa make this a relaxing day out. 

2. Grandberrry mall
Grenberry mall is quite large and although it is an outlet mall, it also includes all manner of shops, from pet stores and hairdressers, to lifestyle and fashion shops. This mall is divided into four zones; a family and family life themed zone, a fresh foods zone, an outlet mall zone, and a communication and entertainment zone. 

3. Lala Port
Lala Port has continued to grow through successive additions since its inception in 1981. It is now home to more than 540 stores, including many brand name stores, fashion houses, movie theater etc. It is one of the largest shopping malls in Japan and is located just on the border of Tokyo in Chiba, Funabashi. 

4. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
Fashion is the main focus for this outlet mall, although there is a little of something for everyone. There is an imax theater, bowling alley and there are plenty of restaurants to enjoy. In the vicinity there is also a ski field and a couple of Onsens to enjoy (Hoshino Onsen is recommended). 

5. Premium Outlet Mall at Gotenba
This outlet mall is one of the more expansive shopping malls around and has views of Mt Fuji on a clear day. There is every manner of foreign and domestic fashion brand as well as lifestyle stores and some 20 fooderies. There is a large ferris wheel and a play area for the kids. This is a popular mall and can get very crowded on public holidays and at bargain times. 

6. Mitsui Outlet Park Iruma
This large Outlet mall has over 200 shops, 180 of them outlet stores. The main focus is on fashion. There is everything from kids fashion, outdoor and sports fashion, to accessories and fashion magazines. 44 shops opened their first Japan outlet store here, so there is definitely value in taking a look.The food court has 11 shops. There are six restaurants and three cafes to choose from and you can even take your pet. There are also facilities for babies and you can rent a baby cart if you wish. 

7. Outlet Park Makuhari
This outlet mall has over 90 stores, mainly fashion-focused. The mall is a fairly open planned two-storey complex and is easy to get around. There are more than 30 restaurants. 

8. Outlet Mall Rism
This was the first outlet mall in Japan so is a little older than others on this list. However, with about 40 stores, it is a relaxed place to shop for an afternoon. 

9. Outlet Park Yokohama Bayside
Outlet shopping mall near one of Asia’s largest marinas. This is a lovely spot by the sea packed with shops all selling at 30 to 70% off. Yokohama is a nice spot to shop as it is more open and expansive than Tokyo. Enjoy the big open skies of Yokohama and the lovely sea breeze while you shop or hang out at one of the myriad of open air cafes. There is everything from brand name clothes, outdoor goods, shoes, casual wear, to household goods and restaurants 

10. Sano Premium Outlets
 There are about 180 domestic and overseas brands in buildings styled on U.S. east coast architecture. This store has an open and green feel to it with Mt. Mikamo behind it to the east.
It is about 40 minutes by car or 90 minutes from Shinjuku’s south exit (JR Highway bus terminal).

SOURCE: Outlet store info 

OUTLET GIANT TO OPEN MORE THAN 100,000 SQ M OF RETAIL SPACE

(Virtual Press Office) -McArthurGlen Group, the original designer outlet group hosting 2,000 designer stores, reports that despite the challenging economy, sales and footfall in their 19 centres across eight European markets have increased by 16% and 10% respectively year-on-year, bucking the high street trends.

With the McArthurglen Group owning 18% of the market share in outlet retailing across Europe, a key driver for this sales growth has been the opening of more than 40,000 sq m of retail space across Europe in 2010. A further sales driver is consumer demand for money off designer brands. As shoppers tighten their purse strings the McArthurglen Group’s 35-70% off offer is becoming more popular.

The McArthurglen Group announces plans to open more than 100,000 sq m of new retail space as demand for outlet retailing grows. The roll out will start with the opening of the McArthurGlen Athens Designer Outlet in 2011, followed by the launch in 2012 of a designer outlet in Neumünster, near Hamburg, Germany’s second largest city.

The Neumünster designer outlet, with leasing well underway, is the McArthurGlen Group’s second scheme in Germany (Designer Outlet Berlin opened in 2009) and is located in a key tourist area, off the main motorway between Scandinavia and southern Germany. A second phase offering 6,000 sq m of retail space will open in 2013.

In addition, the McArthurGlen Group will open its refurbished McArthurGlen Luxembourg Designer Outlet, a joint development with Henderson Global Investors, in 2011. In addition, extensions to five existing schemes at La Reggia (Naples), Veneto (Venice), Roermond (Düsseldorf), Parndorf (Vienna) and Barberino (Florence), and the conversion of the food court at its Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet (Chester, UK) will be unveiled. The following year, 2012, will see extensions at Castel Romano (Rome) and Swindon (UK).

Julia Calabrese, CEO, McArthurGlen UK Ltd, says, “In comparison with some of the difficulties experienced on the high street in footfall and sales we have actually seen positive sales and footfall growth. We are optimistic for 2011 and even with the pending VAT rises across the UK for example, we are confident trading should not be affected. Consumers can save up to 70% on leading designer brands and fashion labels compared with the rise of 2.5% in VAT.”

The McArthurglen Group, established by commercial and retail development entrepreneur Joey Kaempfer in 1995, expands its portfolio in order to offer brands a unique platform to showcase their excess stock, in a controlled environment which compliments rather than devalues their brand identity. Working with 750 brands including Armani, Bulgari, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Dolce&Gabbana, Hugo Boss, Marks & Spencer, Nike, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Tommy Hilfiger and Zegna.

Currently the McArthurGlen Group operates more than 500,000 sq m of retail space, with designer outlet centres in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and the UK.